When we think of the North York Moors National Park, we think of timeless villages, sweeping moorland, picturesque coastlines, and the beauty of Mother Nature. One of the best ways to experience it and get in touch with your wild side is to camp. Pitching your tent or caravan, sleeping out under the stars, having BBQs, and keeping cosy around a fire, camping is a fun and peaceful way to experience this wonderful part of the world. Sound right up your street? Well, to help you, we have put together this guide on five of the best North York Moors campsites so you can plan a memorable trip to Yorkshire.
We explore campsites that are suitable for all tastes, whether you want a traditional experience in your tent, stay in your trusty and cosy caravan, or want a touch of luxury and go glamping, our list has something for everyone.
So, Here are Some of our Favourite North York Moors Campsites
Explore our selection of campsites with all the facilities you need, set in beautiful locations, and near the best things to do in the North York Moors National Park.
1. Rosedale Abbey Caravan Park, Rosedale Abbey
First on our list of North York Moors campsites is set in the picturesque village of Rosedale Abbey. This family-run site provides an excellent variety of self-catering accommodation for all tastes, from those wanting to pitch a tent, those who like the comfort of their caravan or motorhome, or those who want that bit of luxury in their life.
It is the perfect location if you are looking for peace and quiet, great walking routes, and to experience the wonderful natural beauty of the moors. It is also close to some must-see spots in the North York Moors National Park, including:
- Bank Top Kilns
- Ana Cross
- Mallyan Spout Waterfall
- Wheeldale Roman Road
- Hanging Stones
As the park is situated in the heart of the village, you can take a stroll around this quaint little place. There are two excellent pubs, The White Horse Inn and the Coach House Inn, so you can enjoy a relaxing pint after your day of adventure. There are also two tearooms, Abbey Tearoom and the Graze on the Green, where you can get cake, sandwiches, and pastries.
As well as being set in an excellent location, the campsite has all the facilities you need for an enjoyable stay. Highlights include shower blocks with underfloor heating and free hot water, a freezer, an on-site shop, WiFi, and Calor gas. Bringing your favourite pooch or the kids along (or both)? Well, dogs are more than welcome, and there is a designated dog walking area so they can get their steps in. For kids, there is a large play area to run around and burn some energy. It really is the perfect site for all the family!
2. Lawnsgate Farm, Lealholm
Lawnsgate Farm is located within walking distance from the beautiful village of Lealholm. During your stay here, you’ll get a real sense of rural life as it’s a traditional working moorland farm complete with wonderful views of the Esk Valley. Many of the farm buildings date all the way back to the 17th century. The farm is home to plenty of animals including cows, sheep, pigs, hens, ducks, and geese.
The site is run by Aidan, Ella, Nina, and their three dogs – Pip the Springer Spaniel, Lil the Sproodle, and Maddy the Labrador. They will all give you a warm welcome, and it means the campsite is very dog-friendly. Aidan and Ella have lived in Lealholm all their lives, so are the perfect hosts and guides for your stay in the area.
On the campsite, you will enjoy incredible views of the valley with plenty of space for tents and caravans as well as hard-standing ground for campervans. Aidan and Ella say the USP for the site is the incredible sunsets they get at the farm. The site also has excellent facilities. There are toilets, showers, and an outdoor sink for washing up.
You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase the farm’s produce. They sell bacon, eggs, sausages, lamb burgers, so you can have a morning fry-up or a BBQ during your stay.
If you are feeling a bit fancy and want to enjoy nature while having some home comforts, they do have plenty of glamping options. They have two cosy Victorian cabins, a Gypsy caravan, a Yurt, and two ‘Landpods’. These are ideal for families or a romantic getaway for a couple.
Fancy a Bit of Llama Trekking?
We’ve saved the best bit till last. They also offer one of the funnest things to do in the North York Moors – Llama trekking. There are two treks to choose from. A shorter one that lasts approximately 1.5 hours, where you’ll have a walk around the fields meeting a host of farm animals along the way. The longer route is around 4 hours and is a breathtaking ramble across the wild moors.
3. Lordstones Camping, Chop Gate
Next on our list of North York Moors campsites is located in the beautiful Lordstones Country Park. As well as providing incredible views of the moors, they offer everything you need for the perfect camping experience on your next Yorkshire adventure. Whether you want traditional camping or the more luxurious option of glamping, they have you covered.
The campsite in the park is located in mature woodland, offering privacy and an outstanding backdrop of the moors. They have facilities such as purpose-built toilets and showers with underfloor heating and pot washing facilities. There is the Lordstones Shop, where you’ll be able to buy camping essentials and local produce such as hand-reared beef, ‘Beltie Burgers’, and rare breed sausages. There is also a cafe where you can grab a quick coffee, enjoy a cake, or stay for lunch and choose from a menu using ingredients from local suppliers and farmers.
If you want a few of your home comforts, then you’ll love their bespoke and handmade luxury camping pods. The pods are set in their own secluded and peaceful ‘Pod village’, surrounded by wildlife, ponds, and countryside views. In the pods, you get a wood-burning stove, perfect for those colder nights, a BBQ, outdoor decking and seating area, and a kitchenette area.
So, if you want a unique camping experience in the stunning North York Moors National Park that has that touch of luxury, the Lordstones Country Park is for you.
For ideas about things to do in the North York Moors when you are on your trip, then explore our guide – 5 Memorable Things to Do in the North York Moors National Park
4. Folly Hall Farm, Tranmire
We love a hidden gem here at The Yorkshireman and our next place on our list of North York Moors campsites is definitely one. If you want amazing countryside views, peace and tranquillity, and the feeling you’re off the beaten track, then Folly Hall Farm is a great choice for you.
The campsite hosts tents, caravans, and motorhomes and is perfect for you whether you are a lone traveller, in a couple, or bringing the family. It is located in the Esk Valley, not far from the popular seaside town of Whitby. If you want to imagine the setting, think of the classic TV show Heartbeat, as much of the filming was done here. It is the perfect location to explore the Yorkshire Coast and the North York Moors.
The farm has been run by Sally Marty-Johns and her family since 2015. Sally has vast hospitality experience, working in both London and countryside hotels, but has returned to her local roots and uses her experience to provide you with a wonderful camping experience full of adventure.
On the campsite you will find everything you need for your stay including:
- Showers
- Toilets
- Dishwashing Facilities
- Fridge-freezer
- Electric Hook-ups (6amp)
So, whether you are using it as a base to explore the wild and dramatic North York Moors or fancy a trip to the wonderful Yorkshire Coast, Folly Hall Farm is the perfect camping experience for you to discover this incredible part of the world.
5. Golden Square Caravan and Camping Park, Helmsley
Last on our list of North York Moors campsites is set in the gorgeous Helmsley in the south-east corner of the National Park. The Golden Square Caravan and Camping Park is an absolute gem of a site for your next adventure.
Everything in the campsite is aimed at ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Three different levels make up the site, so even at peak times, it still feels spacious. The bushes, trees, and hedges have been carefully planted around the camping site to give campers privacy screening for their pitch.
Bringing the kids? Well, it’s ideal for families with lots for the little ones to do to keep them entertained. There are indoor and outdoor play areas, a football field, and crazy golf. Bringing the pooch? Good news is it is a dog-friendly site! There is an exercise field so your dog can run free as well as woodland for a nice sheltered walk.
Another great reason to stop at Golden Square is that you are near some of the best things to do in the North York Moors National Park. These include:
- Helmsley Castle
- Flamingo Land
- The Flower Belt
- Rievaulx Abbey
- North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway
They also offer award-winning facilities. The luxury, heated toilet blocks won the regional award for ‘Loo of the Year’ due to their high standards and cleanliness. There are also showers, baths, baby changing facilities, and hair dryers. There is also an on-site shop selling home-baked bread, cooked meats, drinks, books, sweets, milk, and newspapers. If you forget anything, you’ll likely find it in the shop.
Looking for Things to Do in the North York Moors?
Now you’ve hopefully found your perfect North York Moors campsite for your next adventure, it’s time to look for things to do. The area is jam-packed with activities for all ages and tastes. Whether you want a relaxing break full of walks and nice pubs, or a more action-filled trip with cycling or hiking, there is something for you.
To explore things to do in the North York Moors, discover our archives where you will find guides on activities, places to eat, best pubs, and upcoming events.
Read More: 5 Memorable Things to Do in the North York Moors National Park
