15 Best UK Destinations for Lakeside Camping

Discover a plethora of beautiful destinations for lakeside camping in the UK. Our guide on where to go camping by the lake will offer you a choice of 15 sites with stunning views and access to numerous outdoor activities and hikes. From hidden treasures to tourist hotspots – there’s something for everyone.

Pitch up about 120m from the water, take in the views of the shores of Lake Windermere and explore the southern lakes. Based in the heart of the Lake District, this campsite is a short distance away from the towns of Bowness and Windermere, where you can head for a coffee and then off on a countryside walk.

Camp on the Western shores of Coniston Water in the Lake District, a family friendly site that is suitable for both tents and motorhomes. Are you a fan of sailing or canoeing, or looking for a new adventure? Simply grab your boat and set off straight from the shore of Coniston Water at this quaint campsite. And if you’re looking for a night off, there’s a “glamping” site just next door!

This Penrith campsite is located right on the shores of Ullswater Lake. Use their excellent facilities and see remarkable views straight from your tent, or hire out a tipi or lakeside pod if you fancy a different lake camping experience. An ideal base for mountain biking, hire some equipment and head off on an adventure round Ullswater or the local village of Pooley Bridge – where you can find shops, cafes and inns serving traditional food and ales.

Are you looking to explore the northern lakes? This camping site at Derwentwater is right by the shore, giving you front-row views of the water. A prime location based in the north of the Lake District, this site offers breath-taking views and is the perfect base for any camping holiday. Dive right into a range of water-based activities or head to the farmer’s market in Keswick – open on Thursdays and Saturdays.

This site is huddled between Derwentwater and Skiddaw in the north of the Lake District – in fact, it’s right next door to the Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club Site! With various trails to explore nearby, this location is perfect for any budding explorer. There are various places for families to explore on-foot and by boat, including the local town of Keswick and the Borrowdale Valley.

Located around 300m from the west shore of Lake Windermere in the Lake District, this campsite is the perfect place to pitch your tent. Suitable for those with tents, motorhomes and campervans, or you can unwind in between adventures in a “glamping” pod. On some evenings, there is wood-fired pizza available on-site and two country pubs within a 2-mile radius.

On the hunt for Nessie? As one of the few places around Loch Ness that has direct access to the shoreline, this lake camping site offers stunning panoramic views and the opportunity to experience one of Scotland’s most famous lochs from its quieter south shore. If you’re away with the kids during school holidays, you can take part in numerous activities nearby – including kayaking, archery, and den building, as well as beautiful wildlife and heritage walks.

Located on the picturesque Isle of Skye on the west coast of Scotland, this campsite looks out onto the shores of Loch Greshornish. Experience nature in its truest form with front-row views of Highland cattle and sheep, with freshly-laid eggs available to buy from the shop on-site. You can even head out on a seal spotting boat trip from Dunvegan Castle, which can be found on the west coast of the isle.

This Northern Irish campsite is around 300m from the waterfront, with additional access to beautiful mountains and countryside. Situated in County Down, this campsite is home to a fresh-air gym with a park next door for other outdoor activities, or you can take a hike up Strangford Stone for breath-taking views.

Head to this site in Bala, North Wales, and pitch your tent around 150m from the lake. Located in Snowdonia National Park, it’s the ideal base for camping by the lake – with multiple outdoor activities, like sailing, walking, and kayaking on your doorstep. Just over an hour’s drive away is the famous Mount Snowdon, the perfect challenge for any adventurer – whether you’re looking for somewhere to put up your tent or park your caravan.

Adjacent to Llangorse Lake in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park and Black Mountains, this site is approximately 250m from the water. Camp next to the largest natural lake in South Wales and surround yourself with stunning scenery and wildlife. Head to the local pubs in Llangorse for food and drink or challenge yourself in the indoor climbing centre.

This self-sustained, family-run campsite in Heathfield, Sussex has their own private lake. With room for only 5 or 6 pitches, this secluded site is the best lakeside camping destination for those who aren’t afraid to get down to basics and reacquaint themselves with the great outdoors. Each of the two pitching areas has its own fire-pit, compost toilet and access to a shower tent. Hire a bike and take a guided cycling tour to explore the hidden secrets of East Sussex or head out with the tour leader who will base your trip on your personal interests.

This site on Loch Lomond, Glasgow is the ideal place for tranquil campers and walkers. Wake up with the West Highland Way footpath right on your doorstep and soak up the breathtaking views. Take part in a guided hike with the Loch Lomond Shores Visitor Centre or head out onto the loch in a canoe. This campsite is also perfect for those who are looking for lakeside leisure camping.

Seeking an outdoor adventure? Located in Little Tarrington, Hereford, situated next to The Millpond (a small fishing lake), is this multi-award-winning lakeside camping site. Explore the pedestrianised streets of Hereford, take the dog for a walk whilst soaking in the views or try your hand at coarse fishing – there is something for everyone at this idyllic rural campsite. The perfect location for a lake camping experience.

The perfect setting for a short break camping by the lake, this site in Warwickshire is only around 125m from the water, where you can see many breeds of birds and mammals. Located not far from the buzzing city of Birmingham, there’s plenty to do on a trip to this campsite. Just opposite the site entrance is the Outdoor Education Centre where you can take part in various activities, from abseiling and climbing, to canoeing and rafting.

No matter where you’re heading, you’ll need the right gear. Start planning your lakeside camping trip today and pick up all the essentials from Regatta Great Outdoors, including tents, outdoor accessories and kids’ outdoor clothing. Whether the rain is pouring, or the sun is shining, there is something for you in our collections of men’s coats and women’s jackets.