Welcome to the Lake District
Home to England's largest mountain, its deepest lake and now a famous World Heritage Site, camping in the Lake District is the perfect holiday for activity seekers looking to explore.
The Lake District has 885 square miles of dramatic mountains, woodland, lakes and vast open spaces and it welcomes nearly 16 million visitors every year. Numerous picturesque villages dotted around provide your modern comforts, along with other attractions and some stunning views as backdrops.
Why you should use our Lake District campsites:
- Stunning gardens and grounds
- 24-hour access to hostel facilities
- Perfect for activity breaks
- Beautiful views
YHA hostels with camping in the Lake District
YHA Borrowdale
Set in large grounds on the banks of the River Derwent and surrounded by high Lakeland fells, YHA Borrowdale is popular with campers throughout the summer months. There is room for up to 25 campers to sleep comfortably, ideal for anyone with their sights set on a stress-free high-level activity holiday.
Campers have access to all hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen, cafe-bar, restaurant, drying room and laundry from 7am until 11pm. Parking is available in the main car park, just next to the camping field, which means you won't be trudging around for miles with your camping gear.
YHA Buttermere
Set in secluded wooded grounds, overlooking the lake and surrounded by some of the highest mountains in England, the YHA Buttermere campsite is a fabulous base for a holiday in the Lake District. Situated on four wooden platforms, this type of camping is ideally suited to a backpacking type of tent.
Campers have access to all hostel facilities with 24-hour access provided via a door code when reception is closed. Parking is available in the main car park, just next to the camping grounds so it's not too far to go with your camping gear.
YHA Coniston Holly How
Camping is available at YHA Coniston Holly How in a picturesque, wooded walled garden which has 30 different tree species, including the Lake District's tallest Monkey Puzzle tree which is 150 years old. This Lake District campsite has spectacular 360 degree mountain views. Whether you’re a water sports, sailing or cycling enthusiast, make the YHA Coniston Holly How campsite your base for a splendid holiday.
There is an outside toilet available for campers at night time, and campers have full use of hostel facilities. There is also parking onsite so no need to struggling carrying all your camping equipment.
YHA Eskdale
Situated on the edge of the Lake District's most stunning wilderness area, but with a choice of good pubs within walking distance, the YHA Eskdale campsite has the best of both worlds. YHA Eskdale has a small camping space with two private pitches available beside a lovely, running stream and then two more over the bridge. This is wild camping - but with great facilities!
Camping guests have daytime access to all hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen and showers. Car parking is also available in the hostel car park, around 30m from the camping pitches.
YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe
YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe's camping grounds make for a convenient base for an all-action activity holiday but away from all the hustle and bustle. There is camping space for 12 people in a private corner at the front of the hostel with amazing views of the local Lake District area.
All camping guests are welcome to use the hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen and toilets and showers, 24-hours a day. There is free parking 200 metres from hostel and a drop off point closer to the entrance.
YHA Hawkshead
The YHA Hawkshead campsite is positioned in the Victorian kitchen garden, a picturesque spot that is perfect for groups or individual travellers. Enclosed by woodland with a stream running alongside the site, it's a great spot to pitch your tent. The campsite can accommodate up to 10 family sized tents and a couple of small one-man tents.
Campers have full access to indoor showers and toilets which are just 100 metres from the camping field. There is also full access to a self-catering kitchen a similar distance away.
YHA Helvellyn
Situated 963ft up one of the UK’s largest mountains, the YHA Helvellyn campsite is quite the base for those looking to enjoy an all action holiday, or peace and quiet. There is space for five people with stunning views over the Patterdale valley and the Helvellyn mountain range.
Campers are welcome to use all hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen and toilets and showers.
YHA Patterdale
YHA Patterdale offers wild camping with the luxury of all hostel facilities just a few steps away. The field has glorious views south towards Kirkstone Pass. There is camping room for up to 10 family-sized tents and several one-man tents.
Campers have access to all hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen, indoor showers and toilets and there's also a fire pit which campers can have full use of. Parking is available just next to the camping field, which means you won't be trekking around for long with your camping supplies.
YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse
Surrounded by mountains and accessible only on foot or by mountain bike, Britain’s highest hostel and camping ground is perfect for walkers, adventurous groups and lovers of remote places. In a mountainous location, this camping ground offers a taste of wild camping, but with the benefit of having access to the hostel facilities.
Campers have access to all hostel facilities including the self-catering kitchen, bathrooms and the cosy lounge. Due to the location, the camping grounds and hostel are only accessible by foot, making for a real adventure.
YHA Windermere
Come and sleep under the stars and wake up to the best view in the Lake District here at YHA Windermere. This Lake District campsite is situated in a field with spectacular views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. Alternatively, there is limited space at the edge of the gorgeous wooded grounds for those looking for a more secluded experience.
All hostel facilities are open to all campers with 24-hour access via a door code. There is also ample parking available for campers.
Things to do in the Lake District
Museums
The Lake District is not just about beautiful surroundings. It has long been home to a variety of rural industries, and many museums in the area explore the creation of everything from stone to even pencils.
Aira Force Waterfalls
Take in the impressive mountain scenery and gaze at the super 65ft waterfall that inspired many of Wordsworth's great works.
Brockhole Visitor Centre
Take in the charming views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere and taste the best of local food and ale. Brockhole Visitors Centre is the ultimate start to make your Lakeland escape memorable.
Coniston Boating Centre
Hire either a rowing boat, canoe or motor boat to explore the shimmering Coniston waters and gaze at the stunning surroundings. A great day out for everyone.
