Camping in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

·

Nature flourishes amid the marshes and fenlands of the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, home to more than 9,000 wetland species. Explore the patchwork fens by bike, take a boat cruise along the waterways, or follow the boardwalks through the grassy meadows and reedbeds. Look out for birds, butterflies, and dragonflies around the water’s edge, or admire the reserve’s free-roaming herds of Highland cattle and Konik ponies. There’s no camping in the reserve itself, but campsites dot the surrounding fenlands. There’s also a wild camping site—reachable only on foot or by bike— just south of the reserve.

94% (998) 3,526 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

Four Winds Camping, Canoeing & SUP

1. Four Winds Camping, Canoeing & SUP

97%
(295)
March, Cambridgeshire, England · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, friendly riverside campsite in Cambridgeshire – with campfires allowed
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cuckoo Farm Campsite

2. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%
(203)
Rutland, England · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Riverside Farm experience camp fire

3. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
England · 60 units · Tents, Glamping
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hill Cottage Woodland Glamping

4. Hill Cottage Woodland Glamping

England · 3 units
Nestled in a secluded wooded glade, Hill Cottage Holidays offers an off grid glamping experience where you don't have to compromise on comfort. Our glampsite is designed for eco-conscious travellers, wellness seekers, and adventure lovers. With exclusive woodland access, organic garden-to-table produce and holistic therapies on site, our glampsite provides a perfect balance of comfort, sustainability, and nature. We are a deliberately small-scale rural site where just a handful of beautiful bell tents have been tucked away in a wooded glade within a private nature reserve. The focus here is on immersing yourself in your surroundings and escaping from the every day. Here you can be as off grid as you like and you can even book the whole site for your exclusive use if you prefer to holiday with your friends and family. Handcrafted interiors featuring natural fibre bedding, rustic furnishings, and wood-burning stoves. Modern waterless toiles and hot showers—eco-friendly without compromising comfort - each tent has its own assigned toilet/shower, so no sharing. Welcome baskets available with seasonal homegrown organic fruit, vegetables, and freshly laid eggs. The surrounding area has plenty of things to do – from castle visits to beach days. Or simply relax on site, lounging leisurely in a hammock, birdwatching, or listening to the sounds of the woods. You won’t need to stress about packing – our tents are kitted out with all sorts of eco-friendly things including plush bedding, proper beds and woodburning stoves. Shared facilities include a kitchenette in a converted horsebox, firepit/barbecue area, games and activities for children. Whether you are a couple seeking a romantic break, a family wanting to get back to nature, or a group wanting to holiday together Hill Cottage Holidays is the place for you. If you have any queries, give us a call and we'll be happy to assist, or visit our website for more details.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
Daisy May’s Farm

5. Daisy May’s Farm

87%
(178)
Bishop's Stortford, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Rosehip Woods Campsite

6. Rosehip Woods Campsite

100%
(6)
England · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Rosehip Wood Campsite is a nature rich, off-grid wild campsite set in a peaceful woodland. Camp in secluded clearings surrounded by trees and bushes and be sheltered from the wind or hot sun when necessary. You can spend your evenings staring into a crackling campfire as fire pits are provided and firewood can be purchased on site. This site is completely enclosed by fences so kids can roam free-range-style, make dens using branches and explore the 'secret cedar hideaway'. There is a field with a football goal for recreational activities and adjoining footpaths for road free walks. It is tucked away on the outskirts of the pretty Norfolk village of West Dereham. This beautiful rewilding project offers the unspoilt simplicity and tranquillity of wild camping within the grassy clearings of a quiet mixed woodland and balanced with just enough facilities to make camping fun and comfortable including fresh water and compost toilets. All Rosehip Wood’s pitches are family friendly and allow BBQs and campfires. Your hosts invite you to wander along mown paths, through grassy clearings and wildflowers. The woodland has been planted with lots of nuts and fruits for both wildlife and humans to enjoy. As the sun sets, unwind, and enjoy starlit skies unspoilt by light pollution against the distant calls and barks of local wildlife. The site has no lighting so don’t forget your torch if you plan on an evening amble. Downham Market is around 4 ½ miles away offering supermarkets, a market, food and drink in the town’s historic pubs and a range of restaurants. It also has a train station from which your hosts will be happy to pick you up if you are coming camping without a car. If you need an extra tent this can be rented at an extra cost. Walkers and cyclists will find maps and information available on site pointing you in the direction of local routes over farmland, lanes, long
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
The Meadow @ Waples Mill

7. The Meadow @ Waples Mill

95%
(41)
Dunmow, England · 12 units
Spacious grass pitches in the green Essex countryside A 15-minute drive to Chelmsford; 40 minutes to Audley End Tractor rides on site; firepits provided for campfires. Rural walks, How about proper farm activities like tractor rides (ask site staff for details)? The place to find all this is The Meadow at Waples Mill, an Essex farm site between Chelmsford and Dunmow (and about 15 minutes’ drive from both). This family-friendly site is handy for walks on the Essex Way and other local footpaths, and tractor and trailer rides around the farm are organised on alternate days to give guests a glimpse into agricultural life. Activities complete for the day, it's time to chill out, and that should be easy here – all pitches have access to toilets and hot showers in a trailer close by, and firepits are provided so you can have a safe campfire (with wood available to buy on site and a great farm shop 10 minutes’ drive away for fireside snacks). Pitches themselves are large (please note only one tent per pitch is allowed), well kept and well spaced within a meadow that backs onto the River Roding. Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of places to take them for a walk nearby. London folk looking for a quick escape to the countryside, this is a place to bear in mind – it’s only about an hour and quarter by road from the city.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

8. Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

97%
(144)
Ely, England · 7 units · Tents, Glamping
Cosy year-round glamping and seasonal camping in a fenland meadow with views of Ely cathedral
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Whitlingham Broad Campsite

9. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%
(164)
Norfolk, England · 69 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Belvedere Camping

10. Belvedere Camping

England · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Escape the Noise. Reconnect with Nature. Welcome to the Back to Basics Campsite – Lidlington, Bedfordshire Looking for a true countryside escape? Our Back to Basics Campsite in the charming village of Lidlington offers exactly what it says on the tin: no frills, no fuss – just the peace and simplicity of real outdoor living. ✅ Spacious, unspoiled pitches ✅ Breathtaking views of the Bedfordshire countryside ✅ Campfires allowed – gather round and unwind ✅ Ideal for walkers, cyclists, dogs & quiet retreats ✅ Eco-friendly ethos – leave no trace, take only memories 📍 Easy access from Milton Keynes, Bedford & surrounding areas 🚶‍♀️ Close to the Greensand Ridge & Forest Centre trails 🛒 Village shop & pub just a short walk away 🎒 Bring your tent, your sense of adventure, and not much else.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Barn Owl Camping

11. Barn Owl Camping

97%
(18)
Suffolk, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Dog-friendly camping and shepherd’s huts in rural Suffolk
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Snettisham Meadows

12. Snettisham Meadows

96%
(24)
Snettisham, England · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Set on a traditional family-run farm in rural Norfolk, Snettisham Meadows is on the outskirts of the pretty village of Snettisham and short drive away from North Norfolk's beautiful white sandy beaches. Animal-mad campers, form an orderly queue please, as this 329-acre farm has several attractions up its sleeve for you, including meet-and-greets with pigs and ponies, lamb feeding in spring and deer safaris. There’s also a dog paddock for rent so four-legged companions can have a frisk around, and an area on the camping field is reserved for guests with dogs. Campfires and barbecues are permitted and you can borrow firepits from the site owners. Logs are also available to buy. The site is only 10 minutes’ walk from a village pub if you fancy a change of scenery. After a fun-filled day exploring this lovely part of Norfolk, come back to your pitch and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and some serious stargazing. Facilities include washing-up sinks, a small shop at reception for essential supplies and tourist information, USB phone charging and a freezer for ice packs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Freedom Farm Camping

13. Freedom Farm Camping

98%
(20)
Newmarket, England · 25 units
Eco permanent pasture farm with 12 mile views across the countryside in West Suffolk near Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge. Say goodbye to the road whilst camping privately and securely in 70 acres of paddocks edged with post and rail fencing. Footpaths accessed directly from the site to explore further afield. We produce most of our own food and have a herd of Dexter grass fed beef cows grazing. Beef and vegetables available for sale depending on the season and availability. Camping hammocks also welcome in the wood. We also have equestrian facilities including a manege and it is possible to bring a horse by arrangement in summer. We have a guide available for hacking locally and a resident BS qualified instructor. Please contact for details.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Bircham Windmill

14. Bircham Windmill

97%
(136)
Norfolk, England · 17 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Flat grassy tent pitches beneath a magnificent working windmill, all accompanied by Norfolk's best bakery
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Secluded Woodland Camp

15. Secluded Woodland Camp

96%
(12)
Ware, England · 26 units · Tents, Glamping
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

16. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%
(30)
King's Lynn, England · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Lions Row

17. Lions Row

Woodbridge, England · 18 units · Tents, Motorhomes
If it’s a ‘proper’ Suffolk wild-camping adventure you’re after, have a look at Lions Row, a spacious back‑to‑basics site on a working farm just outside Ufford. It’s completely surrounded by countryside, but only a handy five minutes’ drive (or a 35 walk) from the pubs, takeaways and shops in Wickham Market. You can park at the pitches, which are mown into the long grass. It’s a clever spot for families as it’s a mile from the nearest road, making it quiet and safe for kids to roam freely without any danger from traffic. As this is wild camping, facilities are minimal: drinking water, a simple washing-up sink, compost loos and basic gas-heated outdoor showers are your lot. However, you’ll wake up to birdsong every morning and go to sleep by starlight on clear nights; just remember to bring torches and batteries for after-dark wanderings. The views are peaceful and rural, and the field is bordered by deciduous woodland – great for exercising any four-legged pals – criss-crossed with footpaths leading to country pubs (there are four within half an hour’s walk). It’s also close to heritage attractions such as Sutton Hoo (10 minutes’ drive). If you would like to book multiple pitches for a big group, do get in touch directly if easier. We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

18. Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

90%
(20)
Sudbury, England · 39 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Bridge Woods

19. Bridge Woods

100%
(8)
England · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Small Farm with riverside. Very safe and quiet. Dog's more than welcome. The land is fully fenced off for dogs to roam freely if wanted. There is a pond for them to cool down in the summer. There are toilets and a washing machine. There is also a place to do some washing up if needed. The campsite is located 5 minute walk away from a bus stop that can take you into Cambridge. We can provide a shuttle if needed.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
Cosy Camping Suffolk

20. Cosy Camping Suffolk

100%
(15)
Bucklesham, England · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Glamping in the Suffolk countryside, not far from seaside Felixstowe
Campfires
Showers
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve camping guide

When to go

Summer is peak season at Wicken Fen, and the boardwalks can get crowded, especially on weekends and school holidays. Some of the best wildlife-watching opportunities are in springtime, while increased rainfall through autumn and winter makes the wild landscapes appear even more dramatic. The reserve is open year-round, but boat tours and bike rentals are only available from Easter through October.

Know before you go

  • Wicken Fen is located in Cambridgeshire, about a 40-minute drive from Cambridge. 
  • There’s no public transport to the park, but trains run to Ely, a 20-minute taxi ride away. 
  • The reserve has restrooms, a café, and a visitor centre. Bike rental is available, but advance booking is recommended. 
  • There is an entrance fee to visit the reserve, as well as a parking fee. 
  • The boardwalks are accessible for wheelchairs, but advance booking is recommended as access can be tricky at busy times.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best wildlife-watching opportunities are in springtime, while increased rainfall through autumn and winter makes the wild landscapes appear even more dramatic. Summer is peak season at Wicken Fen, and the boardwalks can get crowded, especially on weekends and school holidays. The reserve is open year-round, but boat tours and bike rentals are only available from Easter through October. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is located in Cambridgeshire, about a 40-minute drive from Cambridge.

The reserve has restrooms, a café, and a visitor centre. Bike rental is available, but advance booking is recommended. There is an entrance fee to visit the reserve, as well as a parking fee. The boardwalks are accessible for wheelchairs, but advance booking is recommended as access can be tricky at busy times. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is located in Cambridgeshire, about a 40-minute drive from Cambridge.

There’s no camping in the reserve itself, but campsites dot the surrounding fenlands. There’s also a wild camping site—reachable only on foot or by bike— just south of the reserve. You can also explore different options for camping near Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve on Hipcamp.

Explore the patchwork fens by bike, take a boat cruise along the waterways, or follow the boardwalks through the grassy meadows and reedbeds. Look out for birds, butterflies, and dragonflies around the water’s edge, or admire the reserve’s free-roaming herds of Highland cattle and Konik ponies. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is located in Cambridgeshire, about a 40-minute drive from Cambridge.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve holidays