Horton in Ribblesdale Camping: Best Campsites Near Horton in Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire

A small village set within Yorkshire Dales National Park, Horton in Ribblesdale provides immediate access to some of England’s most gorgeous scenery and thrilling activities. This north Yorkshire town is nestled into the base of Pen-y-ghent—one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks. It’s no surprise that downhill mountain biking trails and scenic hiking trails with sweeping views are found all over the town. Plus, campers can stay at a plethora of accommodations right in the park from private stone cottage rentals to off-the-grid farm campsites that serve motorhomes. For a different view, take a short drive to the waterways in nearby Lake District National Park and search for shooting stars in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Then set up at a lakeside glamping pod or on grassy pitches amidst the trees.

Where to go

Yorkshire Dales National Park

It won’t take campers who are visiting Horton in Ribblesdale any time at all to arrive in Yorkshire Dales National Park—the town sits right in the park. From hilltop views of Pen-y-ghent to Gaping Gill and 2,500 more underground caves to picturesque waterfalls like Cautley Spout—stunning sights and outdoor activities abound here. There are dozens of camping accommodations including private stone cottage rentals, rustic bunkhouses, and heated glamping pods with creature comforts like wifi and fully-equipped kitchens. Looking for a slightly more rustic experience? Try a private farm campsite or campervan pitch that offer full hookups and washroom facilities.

Lake District National Park

The refreshing waters of Wastwater in Lake District National Park are calling all campers. With 16 lakes to choose from, there are many options for swimming, boating, and fishing. After a day on the water, hike around Scafell Pike and book a site at a caravan park that offers full electric hookups and hardstanding pitches. Or find a grassy pitch for tents with picnic tables and laundry facilities. Opt for a little more luxury with a wooden camping pod rental featuring secluded outdoor space and a BBQ.

Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Less than an hour south of Horton in Ribblesdale, the Forest of Bowland AONB serves up excellent walking and cycling trails, wildlife watching, and dark skies for stargazing. Go off-the-grid while still feeling pampered with a lakefront canvas lodge vacation rental with a well-appointed kitchen, private outdoor shower, and hot tub. Other campsites within the area range from pet-friendly glamping pods with king-size beds and TVs to rustic campsites with grassy pitches for tents to public holiday parks that welcome caravans.

When to go

The weather in Horton in Ribblesdale is mild year-round. The shoulder months like April, May, and September are prime choices for quieter campsites and less populated trails. Spring also brings colourful wildflowers in the countryside and migrating bird species that nestle into the forests. While temperatures never fall below freezing in winter, the wet season, which runs from October through January, is still chilly. Cabin camping, caravan camping, and glamping in heated yurts are popular options during this season.