Beach campsites near Coniston with fishing

Set in the Lake District, England’s largest national park, Coniston invites campers to discover awe-inspiring landscapes and quaint villages with rich cultural heritage. Campers can soak in the region that once inspired Lake Poets like William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Find a variety of camping opportunities in Lake District National Park, from “leave no trace” wild camping and caravan sites to luxurious lakeside glamping pods by Windermere or Coniston Water. Hike and cycle over 1,864 miles of meandering trails through the countryside, alongside pristine lakes, and up moor-covered fell summits. Then ascend Old Man of Coniston or Scafell Pike for expansive views of the rolling country hills.

Where to go

Coniston Water

Minutes from the village of Coniston itself, Coniston Water is a sprawling ribbon lake, stretching nearly nine kilometres in length. Family-friendly campsites around Coniston Water are suitable for tents and caravans alike, offering comfortable amenities like toilets and showers. Wild camping is permitted in some spots near the lake as well. Campers can enjoy water-based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, as well as boat hires to admire the scenic beauty of the region. Northwest of the lake, Old Man of Coniston is a popular fell for hiking, with a peak elevation of over 2,625 feet.

Wastwater

For a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling green mountaintops, Wastwater is it. In the western part of Lake District National Park, this lake is the deepest in the park at about 260 feet. Bask in the majestic views of the Wasdale Screes on the southeastern side of the lake, or climb to the top of nearby Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England reaching nearly 3,280 feet above sea level. Then stay at a private tent pitch or caravan site in villages like Wasdale Head, Ravenglass, and Santon Bridge.

Windermere

The largest lake in England by length, area, and volume is Windermere, a popular destination for nature lovers seeking a retreat to the English countryside. Belle Isle is the largest of the 18 islands in the lake, which also include Lady Holme, Bee Holme, and Lilies of the Valley. Boating is a favourite pastime here, with Sir Henry Segrave breaking the world water speed record in this lake in 1930. Today, the speed limit for powered craft on Lake Windermere is 10 knots. Glamping pods dot the shoreline, as well as other camping spots with stunning mountain views. For a family-friendly day, take the kids to the World of Beatrix Potter, where iconic stories are brought to three-dimensional life.

When to go

Coniston sees a fair bit of rainfall throughout the year, but temperatures are generally mild from May to September—a comfortable time for hiking, biking, and other water activities around the Lake District. Summer months may also provide clearer days for vast views of mountains and lush green countryside. For campers looking for a quieter experience, consider early spring or late fall.