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London might not be the first place that springs to mind for pitching a tent, but there are surprisingly lovely options tucked within easy reach of the city. Campsites in London offer a mix of leafy retreats, family-friendly facilities and easy transport links. Travellers can escape the bustle without losing access to the capital’s culture and conveniences. Expect small, well-kept sites where town meets country — ideal for short breaks, budget stays or a weekend under the stars after a day in the museums and markets.
For those who enjoy practical comfort with an outdoorsy twist, campsites in London provide a pleasant balance. Many sites offer electric hook-ups, clean washrooms and simple shops, so basic needs are covered. Some sit beside rivers or ancient woodland, so mornings feel quietly rural despite proximity to the city. Staying here makes it simple to combine fresh air with urban days out — a smart choice for people looking to unwind without straying too far from London’s transport network.
Best campsites in London
When choosing which campsites in London to consider, look for places that match the kind of trip planned. Families often favour sites with play areas and short walks. Couples might prefer quieter, scenic pitches near rivers or green belts. Groups may need large, grassy spaces and easy vehicle access. Practical details matter too: booking rules, arrival times and whether pets are welcome. Each option brings something different, so thinking about priorities helps visitors pick the most suitable spot for a comfortable stay.
Beyond the word “campsite”, there are many camping sites and outdoor retreats in and around London that suit different tastes. Some are rustic and small; others are neatly managed with modern facilities and extra services. A handful lie within easy cycling distance of towns, while others sit on the edge of protected countryside for longer rambles. Winter visits can still be rewarding — with cosy tents, brisk walks and local pubs nearby, there are plenty of things to do in winter while staying close to the capital.
1- Abbey Wood Club Campsite
Tucked away in southeast London, Abbey Wood Club Campsite offers a rare mix of peaceful nature and easy access to the city. Surrounded by mature trees and leafy pathways, the site feels like a countryside retreat despite being just a short train ride from central London. The pitches are spacious and well-kept, designed to accommodate caravans, motorhomes, and tents alike. With its elevated setting, visitors can even enjoy glimpses of the London skyline through the trees, adding a unique charm to this green haven.
One of the most appealing aspects of Abbey Wood Campsite is its calm, family-friendly atmosphere. The site includes excellent amenities such as modern shower blocks, laundry facilities, and electric hook-ups. There’s also a small shop for everyday essentials, making it convenient for longer stays. Children can safely explore the wooded areas, while adults appreciate the tranquillity and sense of space. The site’s layout ensures privacy and quiet, even during busy seasons.
Transport connections make Abbey Wood stand out among campsites in London. The nearby Abbey Wood Station links directly to central London via the Elizabeth Line, allowing guests to explore the city’s landmarks without needing to drive. This blend of accessibility and serenity makes it ideal for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. After a day in the city, returning to this peaceful setting feels like a retreat into nature.
Beyond its facilities, the site’s natural surroundings create a true escape from urban life. Birdsong replaces traffic noise, and walking trails invite guests to unwind. The campsite is also close to parks and nature reserves, perfect for leisurely walks or picnics. Abbey Wood Club Campsite balances the best of both worlds: urban convenience and the calm of the countryside, offering a unique experience among London’s camping spots.
Web: https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/club-sites/england/south-east-england/london/abbey-wood-club-campsite/
2- Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park, Edmonton
Nestled within the vast Lee Valley Regional Park, this campsite combines outdoor adventure with city convenience. Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park, Edmonton, is one of the most popular spots for campers who love both greenery and easy travel links. The site is ideal for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, providing well-maintained pitches surrounded by open fields and woodland edges. Despite its natural setting, visitors can reach central London in under an hour, making it perfect for weekend getaways.
Facilities here are designed for comfort and practicality. There are heated washrooms, laundry areas, and a well-stocked shop that caters to all basic needs. Families appreciate the friendly atmosphere and safe environment, while groups often use the site as a base for exploring the park’s outdoor attractions. The nearby Lee Valley Athletics Centre and White Water Centre offer exciting activities for visitors who want more than just relaxation.
What makes this campsite special is its connection to nature and recreation. Guests can hire bikes, follow riverside trails, or enjoy birdwatching across the park. With so much space to explore, it feels worlds away from city life. The site’s peacefulness contrasts beautifully with its proximity to London’s bustle, allowing campers to experience the best of both. Evenings bring a calm ambience, with wide-open skies perfect for stargazing.
Accessibility is another highlight that sets it apart from other campsites in London. The site offers easy links to public transport, including buses and trains to Tottenham and Stratford. There’s also secure parking for those arriving by car. Whether staying for a short visit or an extended break, Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park, Edmonton, delivers a well-balanced mix of nature, comfort, and convenience — ideal for anyone seeking a London camping experience with plenty of outdoor charm.
Web: https://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/edmonton-campsite
3- Scout Adventures Gilwell Park
Located on the edge of Epping Forest, Scout Adventures Gilwell Park is a historic and adventurous camping destination. Known as the home of the Scout Movement, this site offers a blend of tradition, education, and outdoor fun. The grounds are vast, filled with open meadows, woodland trails, and training spaces. It’s an inspiring place where families, schools, and youth groups come to connect with nature and embrace the spirit of outdoor living.
The campsite provides a range of accommodation options beyond traditional tents. Visitors can choose from lodges, cabins, and glamping pods, all set in scenic woodland surroundings. Each area is well-maintained, with modern wash facilities and accessible amenities. The sense of community is strong here, making it a welcoming choice for both small and large groups. Even for those not involved in Scouting, the site’s facilities and natural beauty make it a memorable camping spot.
Activities are at the heart of the Gilwell Park experience. Guests can enjoy archery, climbing, and high ropes, as well as team-building games designed to encourage adventure and learning. The staff are experienced and supportive, ensuring a safe environment for all ages. For those who prefer a slower pace, the forest walks and wildlife spotting offer peaceful alternatives. The mix of adventure and tranquillity gives the site a unique balance.
Set just a short journey from Chingford Station, the park’s location offers easy access to London’s urban attractions. After a day of exploring museums or landmarks, campers can return to this serene woodland retreat. The contrast between the capital’s energy and Gilwell Park’s calm setting makes it one of the most distinctive campsites in London. It’s a place where adventure meets history, and nature offers a refreshing escape.
Web: https://www.scoutadventures.org.uk/
4- Bounds Green Scout Park Campsite and Activity Centre
Set in a leafy corner of North London, Bounds Green Scout Park Campsite and Activity Centre offers a refreshing outdoor escape within the city. Surrounded by mature trees and open green spaces, this campsite provides a peaceful atmosphere for both youth groups and families. It’s one of those hidden gems where visitors can reconnect with nature without travelling far. The site is well-kept, with wide camping fields suitable for tents and small groups, creating an inviting space for outdoor adventures.
Facilities at Bounds Green Scout Park are designed to make group camping simple and enjoyable. The site includes hot showers, modern toilet blocks, and a well-equipped kitchen area for shared use. Indoor halls are available for meetings or rainy-day activities, and there’s even a campfire circle for evening gatherings. The combination of practicality and charm makes it ideal for school trips, Scout camps, or family weekends.
Adventure plays a key role in the campsite’s appeal. The activity centre offers a wide range of outdoor challenges, such as climbing, archery, and orienteering, encouraging teamwork and exploration. Guests can take part in guided activities or simply enjoy the open space for games and relaxation. The park’s layout is safe and secure, giving visitors freedom to explore at their own pace. It’s a setting where memories are made, surrounded by fresh air and laughter.
Situated close to Bounds Green Underground Station, the campsite’s accessibility makes it stand out among campsites in London. Travellers can reach central London within minutes, yet still return to the tranquillity of a green, open area. The balance between location and serenity makes it a favourite for those seeking a camping experience that’s close to city attractions but still immersed in nature.
Web: https://londonscouts.org.uk/venues/
5- Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone
Nestled on the edge of Epping Forest, Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone offers the perfect combination of countryside peace and urban convenience. It’s a beautifully maintained site where campers can enjoy the outdoors without losing connection to the city. The pitches are spacious, catering to tents, caravans, and motorhomes, all surrounded by lush greenery. The atmosphere is calm and relaxed, ideal for both families and solo travellers.
This campsite provides a great selection of facilities for a comfortable stay. There are clean washrooms, hot showers, and laundry services, along with electric hook-ups for caravans. Guests can also find a small shop on-site for essentials and snacks. The site staff are friendly and helpful, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a smooth camping experience. With plenty of open areas, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, and stargazing.
One of its greatest advantages is the direct access to nature trails and cycle paths. From here, campers can explore the Lee Valley Regional Park or take a leisurely walk into Epping Forest. The area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot birds and deer. Those who enjoy active holidays will love kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits available nearby. The natural setting provides a real break from city noise.
Despite its peaceful location, the site remains conveniently close to London. Waltham Abbey and Chingford Station are just a short drive away, linking visitors to the capital in under an hour. This blend of countryside charm and city proximity makes Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone, one of the most versatile campsites in London. It’s a place where relaxation, adventure, and accessibility come together seamlessly.
Web: https://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/lee-valley-campsite-sewardstone
6- Moat Mount Outdoors Centre
Hidden within the green belt of north London, Moat Mount Outdoors Centre offers a refreshing escape for campers seeking space and adventure. The site is set within 110 acres of rolling parkland and woodland, giving visitors the sense of being far from the city while remaining within easy reach of central London. It’s part of the Barnet countryside, making it ideal for school trips, outdoor learning, or weekend getaways surrounded by nature.
The campsite is well-equipped to handle groups of all sizes. There are open fields for tents, wooded areas for a more secluded camping experience, and on-site lodges for those who prefer indoor accommodation. Facilities include modern toilets, showers, and a large communal kitchen area. For groups, there’s a main hall for indoor activities, making it a versatile choice for all weather conditions. The site layout encourages a sense of community and teamwork.
Adventure activities are the heart of the Moat Mount experience. Visitors can take part in orienteering, archery, and hiking, while educational programmes teach survival skills and environmental awareness. The nearby Dollis Brook and Totteridge Valley offer excellent walking trails for those who want to explore further. This focus on outdoor learning makes it a favourite among schools and youth organisations, but it’s equally enjoyable for families who love open-air experiences.
Located close to Mill Hill and Edgware, Moat Mount Outdoors Centre combines accessibility with the beauty of the countryside. Public transport and road links make it easy to reach, while the tranquil surroundings offer a break from everyday life. The mix of nature, recreation, and convenience makes it one of the most unique campsites in London — a place where visitors can truly connect with the outdoors without leaving the capital.
Web: https://www.barnet.gov.uk/directories/directme/moat-mount-outdoor-centre
7- Abbey Wood Experience Freedom Glamping
Set in the same peaceful woodland as its camping counterpart, Abbey Wood Experience Freedom Glamping brings comfort and style to outdoor stays in London. Managed by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, it offers a modern twist on traditional camping. The site feels secluded, surrounded by tall trees and birdsong, yet it’s just a short train ride from central London. This balance of tranquillity and accessibility makes it a standout glamping destination.
Accommodation options are designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can choose from stylish glamping pods, yurts, and cabins equipped with heating, beds, and private seating areas. Each unit combines natural materials with cosy interiors, providing a homely atmosphere that’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travellers. There are also communal facilities nearby, including modern showers, toilets, and kitchen spaces for added ease.
What makes this site special is its focus on effortless relaxation. Visitors can unwind on private decks, enjoy evening barbecues, or simply watch wildlife from their doorstep. The woodland setting offers shade in summer and calm in every season, creating a true sense of escape. Unlike traditional campsites, guests don’t have to pitch tents or bring heavy gear — everything is ready upon arrival, making it a stress-free experience.
Located close to Abbey Wood Station, the glamping site connects directly to the Elizabeth Line for quick trips into London’s centre. Guests can spend the day exploring museums or markets and return to peace among the trees. Abbey Wood Experience Freedom Glamping perfectly captures the blend of nature and comfort that defines modern outdoor travel, offering one of the most relaxed and convenient glamping experiences in the capital.
Web: https://www.experiencefreedom.co.uk/locations/regions/south-east/london/abbey-wood/
8- Lovat Parks
Blending eco-friendly values with luxurious comfort, Lovat Parks brings a modern and sustainable touch to camping near London. Its locations are known for spacious pitches, peaceful surroundings, and an emphasis on preserving natural landscapes. Within easy reach of the capital, the sites offer a countryside atmosphere without the long journey. Campers can enjoy crisp air, open skies, and carefully maintained grounds that reflect Lovat Parks’ dedication to green living.
Each Lovat Parks location offers a unique character but shares a focus on quality and comfort. Visitors can choose between traditional pitches for tents and caravans or opt for stylish glamping lodges. The facilities include heated washrooms, accessible amenities, and family-friendly spaces designed for relaxation. Every detail, from recycling points to native planting, supports the brand’s commitment to sustainability. This mindful approach makes it popular with eco-conscious travellers.
What sets Lovat Parks apart is its sense of community and care for the environment. Many sites host yoga sessions, outdoor activities, and local food markets, helping guests connect with the area and its people. The parks are pet-friendly, too, with walking trails that welcome dogs and families alike. Peace and comfort are guaranteed, while the focus on responsible tourism adds depth to the camping experience.
Conveniently close to the capital, Lovat Parks gives Londoners a serene retreat without leaving the region. Its blend of nature, comfort, and environmental responsibility redefines what camping can be. Guests leave refreshed, inspired, and more connected to the natural world — a true reflection of what modern outdoor living should feel like among campsites in London and its surroundings.
Web: https://lovatparks.com/
9- South London Scout Centre
Located in Dulwich, the South London Scout Centre offers a green oasis in one of the city’s most vibrant areas. This historic site has long been a hub for Scouting and outdoor education, welcoming visitors who want to experience nature within London’s limits. The grounds are filled with open spaces, mature trees, and peaceful corners that create a sense of calm in the middle of the city.
The campsite offers flexible accommodation for groups of all sizes. Large fields are available for tents, while cabins and indoor halls provide shelter for bigger gatherings. Facilities include clean toilets, showers, and cooking areas, designed to meet the needs of both youth groups and independent campers. Everything is well-organised and maintained, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.
The activity centre adds a strong sense of adventure to the site. Visitors can take part in climbing, archery, team games, and orienteering. The centre also runs workshops and training events focused on outdoor skills and leadership. For those who prefer a quieter pace, the surrounding area of Dulwich offers walking paths, local parks, and a friendly community feel. It’s a place where city living and outdoor exploration blend effortlessly.
Easy access to public transport makes this one of the most convenient campsites in London. Campers can explore central attractions by day and return to tranquillity by evening. The South London Scout Centre captures the essence of community camping — fun, educational, and close to nature — proving that outdoor adventure can thrive even in the heart of the capital.
Web: https://southlondonscouts.org.uk/fort-where-it-all-happens
10- Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Situated in the Hertfordshire countryside just outside London, Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a favourite for those seeking peace without being too far from the city. Surrounded by mature woodland and historic parkland, it offers a scenic and well-kept environment for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The setting feels rural yet remains easily accessible, making it ideal for both short breaks and longer stays.
The site’s facilities cater to all types of campers. Guests have access to modern washrooms, hot showers, and electric hook-ups. There’s also a dedicated area for dog walking, ensuring that pets feel as welcome as their owners. The pitches are spacious and well-positioned, allowing for privacy and quiet. Families appreciate the calm atmosphere and friendly staff who maintain the grounds to a high standard.
The surrounding area adds to the site’s charm. Located near Waltham Cross, visitors can explore Theobalds Park Estate or head to nearby Lee Valley for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. The landscape is rich in greenery and history, offering a peaceful contrast to city life. Evenings at the site are calm, with the sound of rustling leaves replacing the noise of traffic.
Despite its rural feel, Theobalds Park remains one of the most accessible campsites in London’s orbit. The M25 and train links make travelling simple, allowing guests to combine countryside relaxation with day trips into the capital. Its balance of convenience, comfort, and natural beauty makes it a standout choice for those looking to camp near London while enjoying the benefits of open space and fresh air.
Web: https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/hertfordshire/waltham-cross/theobalds-park-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/
Faq’s
What facilities do most campsites in London offer?
Most campsites in London provide essential facilities such as clean showers, toilets, and washing areas. Many also offer electric hook-ups, laundry rooms, and shared kitchens for convenience. Some sites have small shops for supplies or cafés for a quick bite. Family-friendly options often include play areas and picnic spaces, making stays more comfortable for all ages.
Can I camp in London without a car?
Yes, it’s perfectly possible to stay at campsites in London without a car. Many sites are well-connected by public transport, including buses and underground lines. Cyclists and backpackers are also welcome at most locations. Just make sure to check how close the site is to a station before booking to avoid long walks with luggage.
Are campsites in London open all year round?
Not all London camping sites operate year-round. While some stay open throughout the seasons, others close during the colder months, typically between October and March. It’s always a good idea to check availability in advance. Winter-friendly sites often have heated facilities or cabins for a more comfortable experience.
Can I have a barbecue or campfire while camping in London?
Rules about barbecues and campfires vary depending on the campsite. Many places allow small, controlled barbecues as long as they’re raised off the ground to protect the grass. However, open fires are often restricted due to safety and local regulations. Always follow the site’s specific rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
Are pets allowed at campsites around London?
Many camping grounds in and around London are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your dog along for the adventure. Owners are usually expected to keep pets on a lead and clean up after them. Some sites even have dedicated walking areas or nearby trails. It’s best to confirm pet policies when booking to avoid surprises.