Log Cabins near Chelmsford, Essex

Chelmsford packs a surprising punch for cabin camping. You’ll find over a dozen cabins tucked into woodland clearings and set beside quiet lakes, all within easy reach of the city. Average stays cost around £90 per night, with some options dipping as low as £55. Hot-tubs, showers, and campfires allowed come as standard at many sites, so you can end a day of hiking, swimming, or fishing in comfort. The local standouts? Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire (53 reviews) draws regulars for its peaceful setting and tidy facilities. The Nut Plat Retreat (31 reviews) gets repeat visitors for its secluded, woodland feel. Closer to home, Chigborough Farm (27 reviews) offers easy lake access and a laid-back vibe. Book early if you want the best picks—these fill up quickly once the weather turns. Pack a torch, sturdy boots, and a taste for the outdoors. You’ll sleep well here.

99% (100) • 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Chelmsford

Chelmsford packs a surprising punch for cabin camping. You’ll find over a dozen cabins tucked into woodland clearings and set beside quiet lakes, all within easy reach of the city. Average stays cost around £90 per night, with some options dipping as low as £55. Hot-tubs, showers, and campfires allowed come as standard at many sites, so you can end a day of hiking, swimming, or fishing in comfort. The local standouts? Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire (53 reviews) draws regulars for its peaceful setting and tidy facilities. The Nut Plat Retreat (31 reviews) gets repeat visitors for its secluded, woodland feel. Closer to home, Chigborough Farm (27 reviews) offers easy lake access and a laid-back vibe. Book early if you want the best picks—these fill up quickly once the weather turns. Pack a torch, sturdy boots, and a taste for the outdoors. You’ll sleep well here.

99% (100) • 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Chelmsford

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

55km from Chelmsford · 3 units · Glamping

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. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

114km from Chelmsford · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads

3. Buzzard Holt Hosting

100%

(7)

106km from Chelmsford · 13 units · Glamping

Glamping with a mini outdoor spa on the edge of Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire

4. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

92km from Chelmsford · 16 units · Tents, Glamping

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.

5. Sleep Wild

100%

(20)

132km from Chelmsford · 2 units · Glamping

Curvy cabins with hot tubs on an expansive farm in the Oxfordshire countryside

6. Cotswolds Glamping

100%

(6)

139km from Chelmsford · 4 units · Glamping

Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.

7. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

95km from Chelmsford · 1 unit · Glamping

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

8. Heygates Lodging

100%

(21)

129km from Chelmsford · 2 units · Glamping

A place to unwind in the heart of the countryside. Canalside walks are on your doorstep and nature is never far away - birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards are plentiful, and you may be lucky enough to see otters in the canal. There's a variety of pubs and restaurants within a short drive, and the market towns of Rugby and Market Harborough area about 20 minutes away. Unwind in the hot tub, enjoy local beers and ciders or pick from our expertly curated wine list. Our Lodges have their own fire pits and BBQs, and all fuel is provided. Each lodge has its own hammock, and a designated private fishing peg at a turning point in the canal, meaning that you'll be largely undisturbed by passing boats.

9. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%

(122)

106km from Chelmsford · 36 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.

10. Dogwood Glamping

90%

(42)

89km from Chelmsford · 4 units · Glamping

The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats

11. Hickling Campsite

99%

(118)

134km from Chelmsford · 31 units · Tents, Glamping

Tent camping and glamping within walking distance of Norfolk's largest broad and less than 10 minutes' drive from the beach

12. Elham Treehouse

100%

(26)

77km from Chelmsford · 2 units · Glamping

Rustic glamping in the Kent countryside between Folkestone and Canterbury

13. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

91km from Chelmsford · 17 units · Tents, Glamping

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

14. Wonderland Festival Retreat

100%

(6)

105km from Chelmsford · 2 units · Glamping

Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub

15. Allington Lock Campsite

100%

(3)

49km from Chelmsford · 10 units · Tents, Glamping

Set beside a peaceful river, this family-friendly campsite offers a simple, nature-filled getaway. Pitch your own tent on one of our 8 non-electric grass pitches, or make yourself at home in one of our two cosy Scandinavian-style softwood cabins, each sleeping up to 4. Please note: guests staying in cabins will need to bring their own bed linen. Onsite facilities include: Riverside setting for a tranquil stay Hot showers and toilets Covered eating area with BBQs Cabins with electricity (for charging devices only) Parking for 1 car per booking (£5 per night) Dogs welcome Onsite CCTV and security barriers

16. Constable Park

100%

(20)

47km from Chelmsford · 17 units · Tents, Glamping

A holiday and leisure park ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with premium glamping options

17. Brightwell Country Park

100%

(14)

65km from Chelmsford · 1 unit · Glamping

Bell tents and an accessible cabin, with activities right from your door

18. The Hide At Manton Bay

100%

(3)

128km from Chelmsford · 18 units · Tents, Glamping

A unique hideaway surrounded by trees, apple orchards and vineyard. Sit out on your own private deck and enjoy truly magnificent views over Rutland Water. Spend your evenings star gazing, grilling on the BBQ or visiting one of our fabulous local pubs. Each of our Lotus Belle tents has it’s own private garden with fire-pit, hammock and swing chair. Serene festoon lighting creates a magical feel. Spend the colder evenings sipping cocktails in our wood-fired hot tubs when staying in one of our stunning Shepherd Huts.

19. Springfield Farm Campsite

100%

(1)

112km from Chelmsford · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A family-friendly site with farm animals in the Lincolnshire Fens

20. Remote Cabin w/ Unspoiled Views

86%

(7)

73km from Chelmsford · 1 unit · Glamping

Escape to a truly ROMANTIC off-grid getaway, offering an awe-inspiring SUNSET view that will leave you breathless. Experience absolute serenity as the twinkling stars illuminate the night sky, creating a mesmerizing ambiance with the warmth of a crackling wood fireplace. Nestled within the Kent Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just 6 miles from Canterbury, our secluded retreat provides pure tranquility. In The Guardian's list of the Top 10 Best UK Off-Grid Retreats (Dog Friendly)

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Relax in Wild Luxury in our Quirkiest Cabin, with a Hot Tub on standby...

c

charley

2 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Cotswolds Glamping

wow don't know where to start Sammy was so amazing it felt like home. gorgeous pwople. made us feel very welcome outstanding. wish didn't have to leave. hot tub was so amazing even in the cold Xmas nights. gorgeous. Sammy and Joanna have got everything to a t. just out standing and his brother was so great too.

e

erin

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

A

Abigail

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Allington Lock Campsite

While the facilities are basic they are perfect as a base for exploring a truly picturesque part of Kent. We had an amazing time and really loved being able to bring our puppy along for the holiday!

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

L

Liam

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Allington Lock Campsite

Easy check-in, lovely area, nice guy, comfy cabin.

T

Teddy

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Brightwell Country Park

Great place to glamp, would love to go back and would certainly recommend.

L

Louise

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Elham Treehouse

We had a truly wonderful stay in the Granary! Mark is the loveliest host we have ever met. Everything felt so genuine and welcoming. The cabin had everything we could possibly need, and the bed was extremely comfortable. Even though I am heavily pregnant, climbing up was no problem at all as the ladder is very sturdy 🌝 We loved our cosy evenings by the fire and sunny breakfasts in the little garden, enjoying Mark’s delicious homemade bread and jam. The setting is green, peaceful, and full of good vibes with friendly little robins, cats and dogs keeping us company. We also enjoyed lovely walks in the area, a visit to the nearby village, and a tasty meal at the local pub. It was exactly the perfect getaway we were hoping for. Thank you so much, Mark, for your generosity and warm hospitality!

G

Geoffroy

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Elham Treehouse

We stayed for a couple of nights and had an amazing time, the cabin was really nice and comfy, Mark was very welcoming, and we felt at home straight away. Fully recommend!

E

Ellie-Jane

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

Absolutely amazing ! Welcoming and had everything and more! Been multiple times and plan on going back next summer!

A

Abbie

August 2025

2 nights at Sleep Wild

Sleep wild was such an amazing and calming experience. It has everything you need and the attention to detail makes it such a cute a cosy place to unwind. The host Ku was lovely and very helpful as well as the scenery being so beautiful. The perfect place to relax.

M

Mia

August 2025

3 nights at Heygates Lodging

Had an amazing stay with Graham and Allison! They were such gracious hosts and have created a little slice of heven on their land. The lodge is so cute and well furnished, we wished for nothing. A perfect romantic destination. We will definitely be back to stay again!

A

Alexandra

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cotswolds Glamping

This place is fantastic. Beautiful location. Super, well designed glamping accommodation. Sam couldn't have been more helpful and friendly. Felt very well taken care of. We were upgraded to the Hayloft which was like being in Little House on the Prairie! Awesome.

A

Anita

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Absolutely amazing retreat! We stayed at Finlays cabin, sadly for only couple of nights. Really lovely, peaceful, private wooden cabin. The owner just let us be! Reccomend to anybody who wants to get escape from daily life.

S

Simon

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cotswolds Glamping

We had a fantastic weekend stay at the Glamping site. We stayed in The Hayloft which was a truly unique experience and one we absolutely loved! The views across the countryside were awesome and the hot tub to end the night in made it truly special aswell. The host made us both feel very welcome. Would highly recommend!

J

Jasmine

July 2025

2 nights at Buzzard Holt Hosting

I stayed in Otter’s Holt which was a cute Shepard’s Hut in the country side. Really cosy, had a fridge, mini oven, utensils, outdoor toilets and showers and also booked a slot at the communal spa. Would definitely recommend, great value for money and in a good location close to the local town as well as countryside!

D

Donna

June 2025

With pets

3 nights at Sleep Wild

Amazing location making it the perfect place to recharge & reset. The pod offered everything we needed for our few days away. Lovely evening stroll to the local village pub offering great food and service with a smile. Will be recommending to everyone we know. Thanks for making us feel so welcome xx

J

James

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Buzzard Holt Hosting

Quiet, back to nature location which will only get better as the site matures. Lots of private space for the Shepherds Retreat with a BBQ and firepit.

P

Piotr

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sleep Wild

We loved camping at Cornflower! It's a great location, views are amazing and the hut charming and cozy providing a peaceful escape. The surrounding environment was beautiful allowing for a truly relaxing break and reconnect with nature. I highly recommend those huts for anyobe looking for a tranquil getaway!

C

Charley

May 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Had a brilliant time! Would highly recommend to a couple wanting to get away from it all. We loved our stay and will definitely go back

S

Seth

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Remote Cabin w/ Unspoiled Views

Great place to stay, easy to get to from London, very quiet and private feeling. Lovely accomodation, comfortable bed. Had a fantastic weekend.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

There are plenty of excellent campsites near Chelmsford if you know where to look and, as always, only the very best make the cut for our Hipcamp shortlist.