5 of the best campsites in the Yorkshire Dales

Summer is here, and the campers among you are itching to embark on a trip. Ah, for the rustle of canvas, the quaver of the zip, the sound of breakfast sizzling over a campfire. We can almost taste it!

The UK is full of great places to camp – from Pembrokeshire to the Lake District, from Cornwall to the Scottish Isles. There's gorgeous countryside, there are opportunities for outdoor activities and there are many different styles of campsites.

The Yorkshire Dales is no exception. How could it be? It's a simply beautiful part of the world – all rolling hills and dales, patchwork fields and an impressive array of plant life and wildlife.

There are many, many campsites in the Yorkshire Dales, so we've aimed for variety in this guide. You'll find campsites suitable for kids, hikers, hot tub lovers, motorhome drivers, anglers and more.

So, whether you're backpacking, coming by car or looking for a tent made up and waiting for you, get ready for an adventure under canvas. Here are five of the best campsites the Yorkshire Dales has to offer. (We're just sorry we can't include them all!)

Best for families: Studfold Caravan, Camping and Glamping Park

Near the small village of Lofthouse in North Yorkshire, Studfold Caravan, Camping and Glamping Park is a treat for families.

First of all, the pitches are spacious, whether you bring a tent, caravan or motorhome or use one of the site's camping pods. This means plenty of room for the little ones to stretch their legs!

There's also the Studford Adventure Trail – a unique and interactive fairy trail loved by young and old alike. Plus, the modern amenities mean that mornings and bedtimes are less likely to be times for a tantrum.

The site looks out over the rolling hills and drystone walls of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Find out more and book on the Studfold Caravan, Camping and Glamping Park website .

Best for glampers: Catgill Farm Glamping

Once upon a time, camping meant rain leaking through torn canvas tents draped over thin, bending poles (or was that just our childhood camping trips?) Today, glamping is on the rise, combining outdoor scenery with indoor luxury.

Catgill Farm Glamping is located near Bolton Abbey, as well as miles of hiking and cycling trails. If it's luxury you're after, you should investigate their pods, bell tents and private hot tubs. The views are something else!

But if you want to savour the views while keeping it traditional, there are also more basic – but no less spacious – camping pitches to be booked. 


Learn more and book a pitch on the Catgill Farm Glamping website .

Best for hikers: Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park

Every summer, the Yorkshire Dales is filled with hikers, keen to ascend the Three Peaks and make trails across the Dales.

Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park, located next to the Forest of Bowland, is a great base from which to explore these Yorkshire treasures. It offers grass and hardstanding pitches and advertises itself as peaceful and family-friendly.

Learn more about Orcaber Farm Caravan and Camping Park and check availability here .

Best for anglers: Kettlewell Camping

Heading to the Yorkshire Dales for a spot of fishing? Then you'll want a campsite close to a fin-filled river.

Kettlewell Camping provides just that. It's located on the edge of the village of Kettlewell, through which the River Wharfe runs. This is known in the area for its healthy stocks of brown trout, grayling and other types of fish.

Oh, and if you head to Kettlewell in August, you can see the annual scarecrow festival. It's wacky stuff!

The campsite itself is family-run and offers gorgeous views across the Upper Wharfedale valley. The site accommodates tents, trailer tents and small camper vans, but not motorhomes.

There's also a private field with its own facilities and six electric hookups.

Find out more and check availability here .

Best for motorhomes: overnight parking at Stump Cross Caverns

Located between Pateley Bridge and Grassington, Stump Cross Caverns offers affordable overnight parking for motorhomes and camper vans.

In the morning, come to our cosy Time Cafe for a hearty breakfast and some stunning views of the Dales. You can even come for a trip around the caverns .

These aren't any old caverns, either. Discovered in 1860 by two local lead miners, Stump Cross Caverns is a winding network of chambers filled with remarkable rock formations. These date back some 500,000 years . Wow!


Before you choose to park your motorhome here, please note that you should bring your own power supply, toilet and washing facilities. Check in is by 6 PM and out by 10 AM. We look forward to meeting you there and giving you a warm Yorkshire welcome!

Tips for first-time campers

The success of your first camping trip will depend a lot on planning. The more you plan, the more you can adapt to your environment (and the weather!) Here are five tips to get you started:

1. Pack carefully.  You'll need appropriate outdoor gear, clothing and equipment.
2. Plan your meals  – the simpler the better.
3. Choose your campsite with care.
4. Leave no trace.  Take litter home with you, along with everything you brought.
5. Stay warm and dry.

Frequently asked questions