Lake Camping in Surrey Hills AONB

Country walks and suburban market towns provide the ideal escape for Londoners in the Surrey Hills, just over an hour by train from the capital. Verdant downlands and woodlands blanket the landscapes of this AONB, where you can hike up to hilltop viewpoints, cycle along tree-lined trails, or enjoy horseback riding across open commons. Camping almost always comes with a great view, and the scenery is ever-changing. Visit in spring when wildflowers dust the valleys, or summer when the heathlands bloom with purple heather. Spring through autumn is best for camping, but the Hills’ towns and trails are easily accessible year-round.

74% (72)

Top-rated campgrounds near Surrey Hills AONB

Country walks and suburban market towns provide the ideal escape for Londoners in the Surrey Hills, just over an hour by train from the capital. Verdant downlands and woodlands blanket the landscapes of this AONB, where you can hike up to hilltop viewpoints, cycle along tree-lined trails, or enjoy horseback riding across open commons. Camping almost always comes with a great view, and the scenery is ever-changing. Visit in spring when wildflowers dust the valleys, or summer when the heathlands bloom with purple heather. Spring through autumn is best for camping, but the Hills’ towns and trails are easily accessible year-round.

74% (72)

Top-rated campgrounds near Surrey Hills AONB

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

2. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%

(25)

43 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.

3. Wonderland Festival Retreat

100%

(6)

2 units · Glamping · Henfield, England

Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub

4. Farm stay belltent with activities

9 units · Tents · England

large belltent with double beds and other beds furnishing , outdoor kitchen close by with everything needed to cook bbq , firepits gazebos table chairs lights etc . just bring bedding , charcoal , wood and your clothes and towels! Everything else provided with activities fishing , swimming paddling boats paddle boards goldings beach by the crystal clear chalk stream , 60 acre rare breeds farm and grade 1 listed country estate to explore. Zipwire woodland area collect eggs chickens , hammocks play areas craft mini goat walks farm tour meet feed our friendly donkeys , mini cows piglets lambs etc Outdoor kitchen with everything needed , shelters

5. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England

Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.

6. Farm sleep cabin

1 unit · Glamping · England

Wonderful elevated views over the stunning grade 1 listed country estate from your tiny house bedroom.

7. Goldings farm yurt with activities

1 unit · Glamping · CA

yurt belltent with double bed and additional beds within the picturesque grade 1 listed country estate and farm . Farm experience with farmer morag . feed pet our friendly donkeys , mini baby goats , piglets sheep etc. Collect eggs form our hens , zipwire woodland area , hammocks swings on 600 year old oak tree. sand play area , swim paddle ,boats , paddle boards etc on our crystal clear chalk stream. craft activities in hols .Full communal outdoor kitchen with everything needed for you to cook, electric point , gas hobs , fridge freezer , cookware , washing facilities , cooker, tea coffee kettles , . includes bbqs , firepits , covered seating areas table chairs . bedding , unique interior design , proper double bed, extra beds lighting , Wonderful 60 acre farm to explore with unique animals freely roaming .Just bring your pjs, food , charcoal , firewood . This is a real working farm and extraordinary country estate minutes from the historic Hertford town centre. 40 mins to central london , close to hertfordshire zoo , harry potter attraction , and many other facilities.

8. Belltent farm stay + activities

1 unit · Glamping · England

yurt belltent within the stunning grade 1 listed 60 acre working farm. Situated next to our crystal clear chalk stream with loads of activities included . The yurts are individually styled with proper double bed and extra beds, lighting and . Bedding access to our Yurt kitchen with everything needed for cooking , bbqs firepits plates , gas hobs kettles , electric point , fridge freezer, oven , sink , etc. Just bring your clothing , swimmers and towels if you want to use our streams , rivers, boats, paddle boards , flairs etc . We provide fishing instruction and catch nets to almost guarantee catch. Zipwire in our woodland area with hammocks , swings on the 700 year old Goldings oak tree, collect eggs from our friendly chickens ducks . Farm experience , with farmer morag where you cuddle , feed , our friendly mini baby goats , piglets , lambs , cows , horses and of course the famous Gary and elvis our adorable donkeys. Craft available , and our brand new Goldings Mini Beach , sand area next to the beautiful crystal clear chalk stream . No extra charges for any activities . Food truck on site . Explore our ancient woodland , meadows and rivers . Mins from Historic hertford town centre with its many bars restaurants , museum , art galleries , unique shops music venues . 10 mins walk to hertford north train station , 40 mins to central london . hertfordshire zoo , harry potter and many other attractions near .

9. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace.

Camper favorites in and near Surrey Hills AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Farm stay belltent with activities

9 units · Tents · England

large belltent with double beds and other beds furnishing , outdoor kitchen close by with everything needed to cook bbq , firepits gazebos table chairs lights etc . just bring bedding , charcoal , wood and your clothes and towels! Everything else provided with activities fishing , swimming paddling boats paddle boards goldings beach by the crystal clear chalk stream , 60 acre rare breeds farm and grade 1 listed country estate to explore. Zipwire woodland area collect eggs chickens , hammocks play areas craft mini goat walks farm tour meet feed our friendly donkeys , mini cows piglets lambs etc Outdoor kitchen with everything needed , shelters

Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England

Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.

Farm sleep cabin

1 unit · Glamping · England

Wonderful elevated views over the stunning grade 1 listed country estate from your tiny house bedroom.

Goldings farm yurt with activities

1 unit · Glamping · CA

yurt belltent with double bed and additional beds within the picturesque grade 1 listed country estate and farm . Farm experience with farmer morag . feed pet our friendly donkeys , mini baby goats , piglets sheep etc. Collect eggs form our hens , zipwire woodland area , hammocks swings on 600 year old oak tree. sand play area , swim paddle ,boats , paddle boards etc on our crystal clear chalk stream. craft activities in hols .Full communal outdoor kitchen with everything needed for you to cook, electric point , gas hobs , fridge freezer , cookware , washing facilities , cooker, tea coffee kettles , . includes bbqs , firepits , covered seating areas table chairs . bedding , unique interior design , proper double bed, extra beds lighting , Wonderful 60 acre farm to explore with unique animals freely roaming .Just bring your pjs, food , charcoal , firewood . This is a real working farm and extraordinary country estate minutes from the historic Hertford town centre. 40 mins to central london , close to hertfordshire zoo , harry potter attraction , and many other facilities.

Belltent farm stay + activities

1 unit · Glamping · England

yurt belltent within the stunning grade 1 listed 60 acre working farm. Situated next to our crystal clear chalk stream with loads of activities included . The yurts are individually styled with proper double bed and extra beds, lighting and . Bedding access to our Yurt kitchen with everything needed for cooking , bbqs firepits plates , gas hobs kettles , electric point , fridge freezer, oven , sink , etc. Just bring your clothing , swimmers and towels if you want to use our streams , rivers, boats, paddle boards , flairs etc . We provide fishing instruction and catch nets to almost guarantee catch. Zipwire in our woodland area with hammocks , swings on the 700 year old Goldings oak tree, collect eggs from our friendly chickens ducks . Farm experience , with farmer morag where you cuddle , feed , our friendly mini baby goats , piglets , lambs , cows , horses and of course the famous Gary and elvis our adorable donkeys. Craft available , and our brand new Goldings Mini Beach , sand area next to the beautiful crystal clear chalk stream . No extra charges for any activities . Food truck on site . Explore our ancient woodland , meadows and rivers . Mins from Historic hertford town centre with its many bars restaurants , museum , art galleries , unique shops music venues . 10 mins walk to hertford north train station , 40 mins to central london . hertfordshire zoo , harry potter and many other attractions near .

Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

D

David

November 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.

A

Alex

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Morag went above and beyond to make myself, my partner and my pals comfortable although only there for a night we had an unforgettable evening and morag most definitely aided in that- thank you so much ❤️

d

daniel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping

A wonderful host, a stunning view, birds everywhere, my first view of a kingfisher in my 56 years of life, every comfort and a lovely lake just in front with a whole assortment of ducks. Just wonderful.

A

Amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Lovely place, rustic and very back to nature. My son loved the whole experience! The little river is a winner and him and his friend had the best time on it the boats and paddle boards. Such a lovely relaxing and peaceful place for us adults aswell! Morag was so friendly and approachable and very laid back.

M

Matt

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Excellent weekend stay. Fantastic location for stunning walks around the area. Vineyards, pubs etc all within walking distance.

A

Alicja

August 2025

2 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

The Nut Plat retreat is great. We had a lovely time at the Bomford. Perfect relaxing break. Duncan is very nice and helpful. Bed is comfortable, shower is hot, there is everything you need. The Rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch, but unfortunately it was fully booked on Thursday, so it is worth to book a table in advance . Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Follow Duncan's instructions and you will get it very hot in less than two hours. Fire pit and all the trees around are lush. Even though you have neighbours around 100 meters away, it feels very private. Would definitely go back.

S

Shila

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We loved camping in the bell tents. The views were amazing. We loved that the sheep and donkey roam around the campsite area. The kids activities were a lovely touch and my son enjoyed taking the goat for a walk. We will be back some day!

C

Chris

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Having the farm animals in the same field as us, and them being as relaxed around us as we were around them, was magical. There are full on working farms and at the other end of the spectrum are children’s petting farms - this is neither, it’s living together naturally. We brought our own tent and were told to pitch up anywhere we liked and can make our own fire to cook in etc, and forage for wood in the forest, back to nature stuff. We collected eggs every morning from the chickens and cooked them on the fire - the children were amazed and adored it.

g

grace

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Thanks so much Morag for another magical stay- second time staying with you but first with our children and it was a great success. A lot has changed since our first stay last year with the addition of a new yurt kitchen complete with all the essentials needed, new zip wire, woodland play area and sandpit. The farm has absolutely everything- beautiful surroundings, camping along the river with ample space for the kids to run and play. We made use of all the facilities, there are boats on site so we took these along the river, the children fed the chickens and collected eggs in the morning, they also thoroughly enjoyed walking the goats and spending time with all the other animals on the farm. So overall a great success and we will without a doubt be booking again very soon so once again huge THANK YOU....keep up the good work :)

A

Anna

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping

Stunning location! The view was fantastic and there was some lovely walking routes around to local landmarks and pubs. The hut was great, plenty of storage and well equipped with everything you need.

L

Lore

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping

Amazing shepherds hut with outstanding views of the surrounding area and lake. The hut itself was immaculately clean and has all you need within. Mark and Geraldine are really lovely! So helpful and kind. We will definitely be returning!

S

Sonia

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We just returned from a magical weekend at this charming family-friendly campsite, and I can’t recommend it enough! If you're looking for a peaceful spot where kids can truly connect with nature, this is the place. The highlight for our little ones was definitely the farm animals. They loved feeding the goats, watching the chickens peck around, and saying good morning to the friendly donkeys each day. It added such a sweet, wholesome touch to the whole experience. The stream that runs through the site was another huge win. The water is shallow and safe enough for kids to splash, wade, and build little dams for hours. It felt like stepping back into a simpler time, where screens were forgotten and imagination took over. The campsite itself is clean, well-maintained. Usually you get charged for renting a fire pit but here that’s included! Plenty of space to run and play, but still quiet and relaxing for the adults. The small on-site shop with quick meals definitely saved our late night arrival. All in all, this site offers a perfect mix of rustic charm and comfort. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows around the firepit or helping your toddler feed a lamb, it’s the kind of place that leaves you with lasting memories. We’ll definitely be back

R

Ruaidhri

August 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

We had a lovely time at the Bomford. Perfect for anyone who wants a relaxing break.

H

Hannah

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We had such a lovely time, a wonderful pitch by the river. My children had a wonderful time playing there and seeing all the animals. Morag was a lovely host and we would love to come back again

S

Silka

July 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

We loved our stay at Nut Plat Retreat. Duncan was a lovely, welcoming host. We enjoyed watching the bats and listening to the owls from the hot tub in the evenings. Variety of walks nearby, and the river to dip your feet in.

K

Kris

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Beautiful view!! Farm animals living free on the campsite, a little river for the kids to play in (even a little boat and sups to play with), in a very nice setting. Our kids didn't want to leave ;)

Colin

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

A perfect short break with really friendly, host, other campers and well cared for animals to pet. Kids loved messy about on the river and the classic camp fire.

A

Alexandra

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping

Carp's hut is absolutely stunning , located in a beautiful and hidden area, offering you the privacy you need to disconnect from the city and connect to the nature. We loved watching the birds , and feeding the ducks and geese . The stunning fishing lake has been a plus and we have enjoyed every moment on the balcony. The host have offered us a welcome pack and have made us feel very welcomed. Thank you Mark and Geraldine for having us , will definitely return at some point.

Keana

June 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Riverside Farm experience camp fire

This place is pure magic, couldn’t have asked for anything more. The location is stunning, based in a valley with views of meadows and grand trees as far as the eye can see. You would think you were deep in the countryside. The stream was crystal clear and crisp, we floated down on the kindly provided paddle boards which the kids loved. Not to mention the very friendly animals who wander freely around the site, it was beautiful seeing animals free in their natural environment. The piglets were extremely friendly and my daughter had so much fun playing with them. There is so much to do, in the woodland area my daughter had fun playing in the sandpit, swinging in the hammocks and zooming along the zip wire. We had a gorgeous fire in the pit provided, grilled our fish and enjoyed the starry night. In the morning we collected eggs from the lovely chickens - the freshest eggs I’ve ever had! And to top it all off, Morag is the loveliest person, such a genuine down to earth soul. We will definitely be back!

B

Ben

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Very nice off grid experience. Facilities are good but it’s more of a rustic experience than luxury. We had a lovely weekend. Nice walks to the vineyard (1 hour) who have a nice outside area to try wines and the cheeseboard is decent. The rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch and the food is really good. Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Really friendly host. Would definitely go back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lake camping in Surrey Hills AONB guide

Where to go

Central Surrey Hills

The market town of Dorking is the gateway to the central Surrey Hills, where you’ll find some of the AONB’s most enchanting spots. Hike between historic landmarks at Box Hill, discover little-known sites like the Silent Pool and Tillingbourne Waterfall, or stop by a local winery or brewery for a tasting. To the south, the Greensand Hills climb up to Leith Hill, the highest viewpoint in southeast England.

West Surrey Hills

West of Guildford, rolling hills stretch down to the Devil’s Punchbowl, one of the Surrey Hills most photographed viewpoints. Nearby, Frensham Great Pond is a bird-watching hotspot with boat cruises in the summer. After a day’s hiking in the hills, head to Haslemere, Farnham, or Godalming to browse the artisan shops and enjoy dinner at a traditional English pub.

East Surrey Hills

The peaceful farmlands and rural villages of the eastern Surrey hills offer a chance to escape the crowds. Stop by Reigate to explore the castle ruins and picnic in the park, admire the landscaped gardens of Gatton Park, or hike part of the 108-mile Greensand Way. Wine lovers will also find one of Surrey’s most popular wineries here, Godstone Vineyards, where you can sip sparkling wines with a view over the vineyards.

Along the North Downs Way

The 153-mile North Downs National Trail is the ultimate challenge for hikers visiting southeast England. Winding its way through the Surrey Hills into the Kent Downs AONB, you’ll hike through wildflower meadows and woodland valleys, pass medieval castles and stately homes, and enjoy spectacular views of the White Cliffs of Dover. Picturesque Kent villages, country pubs, and campsites are dotted along the way.