If your dream vacation includes camping in a beautiful, quiet place, the national parks of UK should be added on your camping destinations list. There are numerous national parks you can choose from based on your preferences: you can try mountain landscapes, rustic farmlands or beautiful lake scenery, but before deciding which camp view you prefer, read our camping in the national parks of UK guide.
Camping In The National Parks Of UK – Information
The most amazing thing about camping in the national parks of UK is that the options are basically endless. Tourists can choose from farmers’ fields where they only have access to cold water and a toilet to large campsites that offer all the comfort in the world. It’s up to you if you want your experience to be wild or luxurious.
Another important aspect to consider before embarking on a camping adventure is the type of camping site you are looking for. Some sites are only for tents while others welcome vans and caravans too. Prices differ based on the facilities of the site.
Each national park is unique and so are the camping sites so another important advice is to make a list of the things you need during your camping vacation and also a list of things you want to explore.
Out in the countryside of some national parks there are camping barns, basically barn buildings, with sleeping bags and water supplies. For example, The Lake District has 14 camping barns that can be used by those who don’t want to camp in a tent. There are also numerous hostels that offer low cost accommodation for hikers and bikers who need a warm place for the night.
Some national parks in the UK welcome wild camping as long as campers are responsible and clean the camping site before leaving. If you love wild camping, make sure you check if the national park you want to visit offers this type of camping and check the rules and regulations to be sure you know what to expect and what is expected from you.
Also, since we are on the subject of rules and regulations, you need to know that some national parks do not allow campfires since the risk of starting a fire is very high including in winter months. In others, people are advised to not get close to the wildlife and livestock so be sure you do some research before planning your camping activities.
Camping In The National Parks of UK – Tips
After giving you some basic information about camping in the national parks of UK, we decided to offer you a guide that will make planning your camping escape easier.
First thing you have to remember is that Britain can be pretty cold during night so don’t forget to pack some warm clothes in your bag. Also, make sure your sleeping bag can keep you warm during cold nights.
If you plan to go camping in the national parks during summer, make sure you call first since some campsites can be pretty crowded.
Always clean the campsite before leaving, this is a mandatory request in most camping locations, especially those situated in national parks, but is also an important aspect we couldn’t left out.
As we already mentioned, campfires are not allowed in certain camping sites so you should consider buying a camping stove if you do not own one.
Buying local food and drinks to support the local community is another thing you should consider when camping in the national parks. It is not required, but it is a nice gesture you can make for those who are working very hard to promote the national parks and keep the local tourism alive.
Wild camping comes with another set of rules. In some places it is recommended to arrive late at the campsite and to leave early to avoid disturbing the wildlife, for some places you need a permit, there are also some “toilet” rules you need to respect and general wild camping rules like: moving the tent after a couple of nights to not damage the vegetation, avoid disturbing wildlife by not camping beside a river or lake and camping in small groups to keep the noise level down.