York Camping: The Best Campsites Near York 2024

A short drive from Leeds, the historic city of York is home to the famous York Minster and acts as a gateway to camping excursions in northeast England. Explore a mix of moors, forests, and North Sea coast, and then pitch a tent at one of many York campsites and touring caravan parks. Visit the Howardian Hills, where glacial and limestone landscapes offer unique geological beauty. Or attend outdoor education initiatives and expansive trail systems at Nidderdale Area of Outstanding National Beauty before setting up camp at a dark sky discovery site. Family adventures through farmland and pasture are also popular at North York Moors National Park. No matter where you go by day, campers will find places to pitch on family-run working farms, glamping sites, motorhome-friendly campsites, and cottages throughout the North Yorkshire countryside.

Where to go

Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Explore rolling landscapes and cosy woodlands during a visit to Howardian Hills AONB. Learn about the area’s history on trails along iron age earthworks, medieval castles, and traditional farm buildings. The trail system also winds along limestone geology and glacial overflows, as well as a section of River Derwent. Stay nearby in private cottages and camping pods for easy access to the AONB, and enjoy amenities like potable water, showers, and picnic tables in some locations.

Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Learn about farming, gardening, and wildlife while exploring the Yorkshire moorlands in Nidderdale AONB. A variety of programmes, from free tree-planting to wildlife spotting, help campers make the most of this protected natural area. Find everything from walking and horseback riding to climbing and caving. Then, stay the night and stargaze at one of four dark sky discovery sites. Tent camping parks are available, as well as motorhome campsites, glampsites, and yurts that offer a range of amenities like electric hookups and wifi.

North York Moors National Park

The aptly named North York Moors National Park showcases Yorkshire’s famous moors. See the park on walking paths within an extensive footpath system, or try fell running on hilly trails to view North Sea coastline views. When you need a break from the action, dive into history by exploring ice age tools, iron age forts and bunkers, and construction from the Cold War. Then, find campsites a short walk from Robin’s Bay Beach for sea views, try farm camping, or choose from a variety of glamping campsites in the area featuring railway carriages, treehouses, and camping pods.

When to go

York’s warmest season is from June to September, which makes it the most popular time for camping and outdoor activity. July and August are typically the hottest months with highs around 22°C, while April and September tend to be the driest months. December and January average lows of 1°C and may see snow. It’s advisable to pack rain gear and a few layers to accommodate the region’s variable climate year-round.