The Yorkshire Dales, with its breathtaking landscapes and charming villages, offers some of the best campsites in the UK. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers flock to this stunning region to experience its rugged beauty and serene countryside. The campsites Yorkshire Dales has to offer provide an ideal base for exploring the area’s scenic walks, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys.
For those planning a camping trip in 2025, this article highlights 10 must-visit campsites in the Yorkshire Dales. From family-friendly spots to glamping options with hot tubs, there’s something for every type of camper. Whether you’re looking for a site near a pub or a secluded retreat, these top-rated campsites cater to various preferences and needs. Get ready to discover the perfect outdoor getaway in one of England’s most captivating national parks.
Catgill Farm Camping and Glamping
Location and Accessibility
Catgill Farm is ideally situated in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, offering breathtaking views across the Wharfe Valley. The campsite is approximately 1 mile from Bolton Abbey Priory and ruins, making it an excellent base for exploring the area’s natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant 15-minute walk across the fields to reach the Devonshire Arms, a popular country pub with outdoor seating and stunning river views.
Campsite Facilities
This family-run campsite provides a range of accommodations, including spacious pitches for tents and VW-style campervans, as well as luxury glamping options. The site features modern shower facilities with hot water, dedicated disabled and family rooms and communal fridges and freezers. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Catgill Farm offers uniquely styled pods and bell tents, each equipped with private hot tubs and fire pits with pizza ovens.
Nearby Attractions
Guests at Catgill Farm have easy access to numerous attractions. The picturesque village of Bolton Abbey is just a 5-minute walk away, offering a village shop, cafes, and a hidden beach. Within walking distance, visitors can explore Hesketh Farm Park, a working sheep and beef farm where families can feed and interact with various animals. The campsite’s location also serves as an ideal starting point for multiple walking routes, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside.
The Dalesbridge
Campsite Features
The Dalesbridge offers a perfect family-friendly camping destination in the Yorkshire Dales. The site boasts well-maintained Electric Hook-Up (EHU) pitches and hardstanding spaces, providing a reliable power source for campers. Clean and modern toilet and shower blocks, along with a dedicated washing-up area, ensure comfort during the stay. The on-site shop stocks essentials, while the fully licensed bar, open on weekends and daily during peak seasons, provides a relaxing spot to unwind. One of the highlights is the delicious wood-fired sourdough pizzas, freshly prepared to satisfy culinary cravings.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation options at The Dalesbridge. The campsite features spacious grass pitches for tents and over 50 electric hook-up pitches for those seeking more comfort. For a unique experience, guests can opt for one of the four glamping pods, which come equipped with beds, bedding, a fridge, microwave, toaster and kettle. The site also offers eight walkers’ cabins, providing a basic alternative to camping with en-suite facilities, heating and kitchen areas. These cabins are ideal for hikers, adventurers, and large groups, accommodating up to 40 people when fully utilized.
Activities in the Area
The Dalesbridge serves as an excellent base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Forest of Bowland. Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on the famous Three Peaks Challenge, tackling Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside. The picturesque Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, featuring spectacular cascades and lush woodlands, is a must-visit attraction nearby. For those interested in underground wonders, Ingleborough Cave and White Scar Cave offer fascinating subterranean experiences. The campsite’s prime location also provides easy access to charming villages like Settle and Clapham, perfect for day trips and exploring local culture.
Howgill Lodge
Scenic Views
Howgill Lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Wharfe Valley, showcasing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The campsite is cleverly terraced into the hillside, providing level pitches with uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding countryside. Each pitch comes with its own picnic table, allowing guests to enjoy meals while taking in the stunning scenery.
On-site Amenities
The campsite boasts modern facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Visitors have access to hot showers, laundry facilities, and washing-up sinks. A small on-site shop stocks essential items, and the coffee shop serves fresh coffee and croissants in the morning. Fire pits are available for hire, perfect for toasting marshmallows and creating a cozy atmosphere in the evenings.
Family-friendly Features
Howgill Lodge is an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable camping experience in the Yorkshire Dales. The site offers ample space for children to play, including a large woodland area for exploration and a football field for outdoor activities. Families can also say hello to the resident alpacas, which graze next to the camping field. With its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to local attractions, Howgill Lodge provides a perfect base for creating lasting family memories in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside.
Thornbrook Barn
Luxury Glamping Options
Thornbrook Barn offers a unique glamping experience in the Yorkshire Dales. The site features three luxury open-plan glamping lodges, each equipped with its own hot tub. These adult-only accommodations provide a perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Each lodge boasts a spacious kitchen/lounge area, an en-suite shower room, and a terrace with stunning views. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a king-size bed with all bedding, towels and bathrobes included.
Proximity to Yorkshire Dales National Park
Situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Thornbrook Barn serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty. The campsite is just 11 miles from the bustling town of Settle and offers easy access to various attractions within a 20-mile radius. Its location on a small family-run sheep farm provides a tranquil rural setting, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Local Hiking Trails
Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of options near Thornbrook Barn. The famous Three Peaks Walk, covering Whernside (736m), Ingleborough (723m) and Pen-y-ghent (694m), is accessible from the site. For those seeking less strenuous options, the Kingsdale valley offers scenic walks with views of limestone scenery, pots, and caves. Visitors can also explore the Pennine Bridleway-Yorkshire Dales section, accessible from nearby Clapham.
Low Greenside Farm Campsite
Peaceful Atmosphere
Low Greenside Farm Campsite offers a tranquil retreat in the Yorkshire Dales. This family-run campsite, situated at the foot of the Howgill Fells, provides a peaceful and relaxing environment for visitors. The site boasts spacious grass pitches, each offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Campers can enjoy the serene setting, with ample space between pitches ensuring privacy and a quiet atmosphere. The campsite’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful ambiance is evident in its policy of quiet hours between 10:30 pm and 8:30 am, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a restful camping experience.
Campfire Policies
One of the highlights of Low Greenside Farm Campsite is its campfire-friendly policy. Each pitch comes with its own fire pit, allowing guests to enjoy the traditional camping experience. The campsite provides good value bags of dry, seasoned logs for £10, with kindling supplied free of charge. For those interested in campfire cooking, grilling grids are available to borrow for a small deposit. The site encourages responsible fire use and asks visitors not to bring their own fire pits or timber offcuts for safety reasons. As night falls, campers can gather around their fires, toasting marshmallows and stargazing in the dark skies above.
Surrounding Landscape
The campsite is nestled in a picturesque location, offering easy access to the beautiful Westmorland Dales. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside through a network of footpaths and open access areas. The nearby Howgill Fells provide excellent opportunities for hiking, with Green Bell offering panoramic views of the area. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Bowber Head Nature Reserve, home to rare northern upland hay meadows. The campsite’s guide, “Nine Great Walks from Low Greenside,” helps guests make the most of their stay by suggesting various hill and valley walks directly from the site.
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Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park
Family-run Business
Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park is a peaceful, family-run site nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The owners take great pride in maintaining a relaxing atmosphere, ensuring the campsite never feels overcrowded. This commitment to tranquility has earned them recognition, as they were the overall runner-up for the Top Dog Award in the 2023 Camping and Glamping Awards.
Pitch types Available
The campsite offers a variety of pitch options to suit different needs. Visitors can choose from 100 non-electric grass tent pitches, 35 electric grass touring pitches and 20 fully serviced hardstanding touring pitches. Each fully serviced pitch comes equipped with a 10amp electric hookup, freshwater tap, TV connection, and gray waste disposal. For those seeking a more comfortable stay, camping pods are also available.
Scenic Countryside Views
Orcaber Farm boasts spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, visible right from your tent or caravan. The site’s location near Settle provides easy access to popular attractions like the Yorkshire Three Peaks and the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With numerous walking and cycling trails in the vicinity, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales.
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Riverside Caravan Park
On-site Fishing Opportunities
Riverside Caravan Park offers excellent fishing opportunities for enthusiasts. The park straddles the banks of the River Wenning, providing fishing rights for approximately one mile on both sides. Permits are available from reception for various durations, with prices starting at £9 for adults. The river is stocked annually with Brown Trout and sees a good run of salmon and sea trout from late July. For those preferring still water, a well-stocked lake at the far end of the park offers 12 equally spaced pegs for a peaceful fishing experience.
Dog-friendly Policies
The park welcomes well-behaved pets, making it an ideal choice for family-friendly campsites in the Yorkshire Dales. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times while on the property and are not allowed in certain areas such as toilet and shower facilities. A small exercise field is available for dogs, ensuring they can enjoy their stay as much as their owners.
Proximity to Yorkshire Dales
Situated within 45 minutes of the Yorkshire Dales, Riverside Caravan Park serves as an excellent base for exploring this stunning national park. Its location offers easy access to numerous attractions, allowing visitors to experience the best of the Yorkshire Dales while enjoying the comfort of a well-equipped campsite.
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Street Head Caravan Park
Quiet and serene environment
Street Head Caravan Park offers a peaceful retreat in the Yorkshire Dales. This family-run site, owned by the Coopers for over 50 years, provides a tranquil atmosphere for visitors seeking relaxation. The park is ideal for couples and families looking for a quiet base after a day of exploration. With stunning views from every pitch, campers can unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Location within Yorkshire Dales National Park
Situated in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Street Head Caravan Park serves as a perfect base for exploring the region. The campsite is located in the beautiful Bishopdale valley, connecting Wensleydale with Upper Wharfedale. Its central position allows easy access to popular attractions and scenic walks directly from the site.
Nearby Attractions
The park’s location offers convenient access to numerous attractions. Aysgarth Falls is just 2 miles away, while the market towns of Leyburn and Hawes can be reached within 15 minutes by car. Visitors can explore nearby sites such as Bolton Castle, the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, and the unique Forbidden Corner in Coverdale. The area also boasts an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways, perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
Wharfe Camp Kettlewell
Adult-only Policy
Wharfe Camp Kettlewell offers a peaceful retreat for adults seeking tranquility in the Yorkshire Dales. This quiet campsite enforces a strict adults-only policy, ensuring a serene atmosphere for couples and solo campers. The site does not permit groups or visitors, maintaining its commitment to a peaceful environment.
Proximity to Kettlewell Village
Located just a five-minute walk from Kettlewell village, the campsite provides easy access to local amenities. Visitors can enjoy charming pubs, an ice cream shop, and a deli in the nearby village. This convenient location allows campers to explore the quaint surroundings while still enjoying the tranquility of the campsite.
Camping and Glamping Options
Wharfe Camp offers various accommodation options. The site features five spacious grass pitches for tents and one hardstanding pitch for small campervans. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, two cozy glamping pods are available, equipped with modern amenities and outdoor seating areas.
Stablefell Campsite
Panoramic Views
Stablefell Campsite offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Campers can enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding fells and countryside from every pitch. The site’s location provides an immersive countryside experience, with miles of country roads separating it from major settlements.
Tent and Tipi Options
The campsite caters to various camping preferences. Visitors can choose from spacious grass pitches for tent camping or opt for the site’s tipis, which accommodate up to four people. Each pitch comes with a fire pit, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfire experiences under the stars.
Proximity to Lake Semerwater
Located just two miles from Lake Semerwater, Stablefell Campsite provides easy access to water activities. Guests can enjoy canoeing, sailing, and fishing at the lake, which is only a five-minute drive away. The surrounding area offers numerous countryside walks directly accessible from the site, making it an ideal base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
Try the Dales Way walk.
Enjoy Yorkshire Dales Campsites in 2025
The Yorkshire Dales offer a diverse range of campsites to suit every outdoor enthusiast’s preferences. From family-friendly locations with stunning views to adult-only retreats providing peace and tranquility, there’s something for everyone. These campsites serve as perfect bases to explore the breathtaking landscapes, engage in outdoor activities, and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of this picturesque region.
Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent, park a caravan, or indulge in luxurious glamping, the Yorkshire Dales has an option to meet your needs. With easy access to charming villages, scenic walks and local attractions, these campsites provide an ideal setting to create lasting memories. So pack your gear, embrace the great outdoors, and get ready to experience the magic of camping in one of England’s most captivating national parks.
FAQs
What are some of the most picturesque locations in the Yorkshire Dales?
Some of the best views in the Yorkshire Dales can be enjoyed at various locations including Scales Moor, which is a 28-minute drive from Absoluxe, Ribblehead Viaduct, located 23 minutes away, Aysgarth Falls, a 54-minute drive, Scaleber Force, 31 minutes away, and Malham Cove, which is a 42-minute drive from Absoluxe.
When is the peak season to visit the Yorkshire Dales?
The summer months, from June to August, are when the Yorkshire Dales see the highest number of visitors, particularly on weekends. It’s advisable to book your accommodations early during this period.
Which village in the Yorkshire Dales epitomizes rural charm?
Grassington, nestled in Wharfedale, is considered an idyllic village in the Yorkshire Dales. It features quaint cobbled streets and traditional stone cottages, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and limestone cliffs.
Is it allowed to camp anywhere in the Yorkshire Dales?
Wild camping is not allowed in the Yorkshire Dales without the landowner’s prior permission. The National Park Authority does not have the authority to permit camping on private lands and does not allow camping on the limited land it owns.
Next, read about Robin Hood’s Bay.
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