Eskdale Campsite

A tranquil base in the heart of the Lakes, for a holiday walking and exploring the region’s crags, woods and waterfalls.

Type of accommodation

Tents, Campervans, Motorhomes, Pods

Number of places / pitches

110

Seasons

1 Mar 2023 - 31 Dec 2023

Minimum stay

2 nights

Dogs welcome per pitch

2

This charming and incredibly pretty campsite set in 8 acres of meadow grassland in the Eskdale Valley sits at the foot of England's steepest road - the Hardknott Pass - although we advise taking an easier route to start your holiday that avoids the switchbacks and the jaw-dropping gradient. We highly recommend ignoring your sat nav when travelling to Eskdale.

Pitch your tent in one of the three flat meadow areas on offer, whether that's tucked away near the tumbling beck and play area (with easy access onto the path that heads to the pub), or set up in the main tree-lined field. You can cross the beck over the little foot bridge to the no car meadow. All the pitches are dual-use for campervans and tents, with options for electric hook up, so cars can mostly be parked next to your pitch. Or forget the tent and book a pod, which you'll find nestled in a little wooded area with a small play space nearby. Whichever spot you choose you'll love the campsite shop, and modern facility block that includes showers, toilets, washing up areas, drying and laundry rooms and information room.

From the campsite follow the river along past St Catherine's Church where you can make your way across on stepping stones, cool off on a warm day in the glorious rock pools, or carry on up to Stanley Ghyll Force, a 60 foot high waterfall in a deep gorge. For fans of more adrenaline-fuelled adventure, head up to Harter Fell, a quiet and truly beautiful spot with panoramic views of Scafell Pike and the southern fells, which you could also tackle if you're feeling energetic. A short stroll from camp will take you to the village of Boot with its choice of three pubs, perfect for thirsty walkers. And if you're all walked out, then the famous Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway offers you the chance to sit back and take in the views as you take a well-earned ride on a steam train to the coast.

You'll find local stores at Eskdale Green, Gosforth and Egremont. With a range of bridleways, trails and fell routes to explore, you can ditch the car for a few days while you test your legs on foot or by bike. When you've walked and cycled everywhere, the western Lakes area is also home to Hardknott Roman Fort and Muncaster Castle, perfect for a day of sightseeing. Once you've toured all the Lake has to offer, then head to the beaches at Seascale and Drigg, Silecroft or St Bees for taking in the sea air (and building sandcastles). 

• Toilets, available
• Showers, available
• Electric hook-up, available
• Washing-up area, available
• Laundry, available
• Shop, available
• Chemical disposal, available
• Wifi, available

Eskdale Campsite map (1.23 MB) 

Travel warning: The site is located at the foot of the infamous Hardknott Pass - the steepest road in England with a gradient of 1 in 3, tight switchbacks and tight passing places, so please take care that your sat nav does not unwittingly lead you this way. Easier access is via the west over the easier passes of Birker or Corney Fell, or follow the coast on the main roads.

The Hardknott pass is NOT suitable for trailers or motorhomes. In winter it can be treacherous with ice and snow.

Dogs: Well behaved dogs that do not disturb other campers are welcome on site (maximum of two per pitch), but please notify us at the time of booking. To reduce any disturbance to other campers, dogs must be always on leads and cleared up after immediately. 

Group bookings: Please complete the group bookings enquiry form you'll find towards the bottom of this page.