Lake camping near Northampton
This East Midlands city comes with access to surrounding natural and cultural spots.
- Northampton
Popular camping styles for Northampton
Under £50
Dog-friendly getaways
12 top lakeside campsites near Northampton
Lake camping near Northampton guide
Overview
The East Midlands city of Northampton offers some pretty rural campsites on its outskirts, beyond the urban centre. While the centre of town is quite spacious with many attractive historic buildings (architecture enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the 78 Derngate house museum by modernist Charles Rennie Mackintosh), campsites near the River Nene, which runs south of the city, are the highlight for nature lovers. Campers have a range of choices in the surrounding area, from scout camps and glamping pods to well-equipped caravan parks.
Where to go
Pitsford Water
Just north of Northampton, this reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, sailing, and birdwatching. While there is no campsite at Pitsford Water itself, suitable day-time camping can be found for campers in motorhomes who can stop to enjoy the setting en route to an overnight campsite. Explore the meadows, grassland, and woodlands while still being close to Northampton city.
Fotheringhay Castle
Northeast of Northampton, on the outskirts of the neighbouring city of Peterborough, is a ruined 12th-century castle site. It’s near the village of Fortheringhay, offering an almost-wild-camping experience. A couple of safari-style tents are available on farmland, as are limited caravan sites, but campers must bring most of their own supplies, including water for showering. Campers can paddleboard, kayak, or swim at the River Nene.
Milton Keynes
Less than 30 minutes’ drive south of Northampton, Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire is renowned for its grid-like plan and greenery. Here, campers don’t need to go beyond town to find somewhere to stay, as campsites, cabins, and farm stays all sit within Milton Keynes. With 15 lakes and 11 miles of canals, the area is a great spot for campers who enjoy boating and other water sports.
When to go
The best time to camp in and around Northampton is in the warmer months, between May and September, when camping in a tent or unheated vehicle is most comfortable. The East Midlands experience mild summers with long days, plus cold winters with occasional snow, when many caravan parks and other camping facilities close for the season. If you want to brave the cold, cabins and more permanent structures may be available.
