Lakeside campsites offer calm water, wildlife and some of the most peaceful pitches in the country. This guide explains what to look for, then shares the lakeside sites reviewed first-hand.
Few things beat a morning coffee looking out over the water. Lakeside sites tend to feel calm and spacious, and many have fishing, walks and wildlife right on site.
However, they suit different people. Some are quiet, adults-only retreats. Others have watersports and plenty to do. So it helps to know which kind of break you want.
Everything here suits caravans, motorhomes and campervans. Prefer the sea? See the coastal campsites instead.
Pitches right by the water are often the highlight. As a result, they get booked first, so reserve early.
Many lakeside sites have fishing lakes. In England, you’ll usually need a rod fishing licence too, even on private lakes.
Some sites offer paddleboarding or kayaking. Meanwhile, others keep the water quiet for anglers and wildlife.
Lakeside sites are often calm and adults-friendly. Even so, check the site rules if you’re bringing children.
Look for paths around the water. Above all, early mornings and evenings are the best times to spot wildlife.
Open water can be cold and deep. So keep a close eye on children and dogs near the edge.
Caravan Adventuring personally visits every campsite in its official reviews. Of those, these are the ones by the water.
A premium touring base near Melton Mowbray, surrounded by attractive lakes. In fact, it’s one of the top-scoring sites on Caravan Adventuring.
Directly on the shores of Derwentwater. It’s ideal for walkers, families and watersports. Also see the Lake District guide.
An adults-only site in the Fens, with fishing lakes around the park. Better still, some pitches look out across the water.
The lakeside pitches are the clear highlight. In addition, there’s watersports and fishing, so there’s plenty to do on site.
Several fishing lakes on site, within easy reach of the Kent coast. As a result, it particularly suits anglers.
For lakeside touring, the Lake District is hard to beat. It has England’s best-known lakes, from Windermere and Ullswater to Derwentwater, Wastwater and Buttermere. Plus, there’s the much-loved Tarn Hows.
However, it needs a little planning with a caravan. Some of the smaller passes and valley roads are narrow, steep or awkward. In particular, the road into Wasdale needs care when towing. So plan your route before you set off.
It also gets very busy. Book ahead, especially for bank holidays and school holidays.
For a lakeside base, the Keswick Club Site sits right on Derwentwater. Then read the full Lake District guide for each lake in turn.
Want peace and quiet by the water? Then an adults-only site could be perfect. Fields End Water in the Fens is adults-only, with fishing lakes around the park. Eye Kettleby Lakes also features on the Adults-Only Campsites page, thanks to its lake views.
For more quiet sites, see the full list of adults-only campsites. Alternatively, Tranquil Parks is a group of luxury adults-only touring parks.
Lots of lakeside sites are built around fishing. As a result, you can often cast a line a few steps from your pitch.
Fields End Water, Bosworth Lakeside and Sandwich Lakes all have fishing. Sandwich Lakes particularly suits anglers.
Before you book, ask the site a few questions. That way, you’ll get the view and the peace you’re hoping for.
For more help, read how to choose a pitch.
A shaded, green site on an island in the Seine. In addition, Paris is easy to reach by train.
Beside the Lower River Bann in County Antrim. This one is a Community Review, written by a visitor who stayed.
Usually, yes. In England, anyone aged 13 or over needs a rod fishing licence, even on private lakes. Some sites also charge for a day ticket.
Many are, especially those with watersports and walks. However, open water needs close supervision. See the family-friendly campsites for more.
Often, yes. But some sites keep dogs away from fishing areas. So check the rules, and see the best dog-friendly caravan sites.
Many are, especially fishing and adults-only sites. However, sites with watersports can be lively in summer. So check what the lake is used for before you book.
Spring and early autumn are lovely, with calmer sites and wildlife. Summer is busier. For colder trips, see Winter Caravanning.
Only where the site allows it. Many fishing lakes don’t permit swimming. Open water can also be cold and deep, so always check the site rules first.
For many tourers, yes. The view is often the best part of the stay. Even so, book early, as they’re the first to go.
Looking for a peaceful pitch by the water? Ellie can suggest sites that match what you need.
Save campsites, plan upcoming stays and meet other tourers in the Community. Joining is free and takes under a minute.
