14 Best Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK for 2026
Discover 14 of the best autumn camping destinations in the UK for 2026, with beautiful places to camp in September, October and November.
Last Updated on 18 September 2026
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Autumn might not be the first season that comes to mind when you think about camping in Britain, but it’s one of my favourites. Campsites are quieter, landscapes are changing colour, and there’s something lovely about waking up to those crisp autumn mornings before heading out for a day exploring.
The trick is knowing where to go.
Some campsites begin closing once the summer holidays finish, while the shorter daylight hours, unpredictable weather and cooler temperatures mean choosing the right destination becomes much more important than it is during the summer.
I’ve put together 14 of the best autumn camping destinations in the UK, covering England, Wales, and Scotland. Whether you want spectacular autumn walks, peaceful woodland camping, dramatic national parks, or somewhere near the coast, there should be somewhere here for your next trip.
I’ve also included advice on camping in October in the UK and what to expect if you’re considering camping in November in the UK.
If you’re wondering where to go camping in autumn, let’s get started.
Let’s read on to find out more!
Note: In this guide, I haven’t mentioned Northern Ireland as we haven’t camped there yet. When we do, I’ll update with suggestions for you to check out.
Quick Guide to the Best Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK
| Destination | Best For | When I’d Go | Highlights |
| New Forest | Families and wildlife | September-October | Woodland, ponies, and cycling |
| Lake District | Walking and scenery | September-October | Lakes, mountains, and autumn colours |
| Peak District | Walking and weekends | September-October | Accessible trails and villages |
| Forest of Dean | Woodland adventures | September-October | Forest trails and family activities |
| North York Moors | Peace and countryside | September-October | Moorland and dark skies |
| Yorkshire Dales | Walking | September-October | Waterfalls and limestone scenery |
| Snowdonia | Adventure | September-October | Mountains and lakes |
| Pembrokeshire | Coast | September-October | Coastal walks and beaches |
| Brecon Beacons | Walking and stargazing | September-October | Mountains and dark skies |
| Cornwall | Milder autumn trips | September-October | Beaches and coastal scenery |
| Devon | Families | September-October | Coast and countryside |
| Dartmoor | Wildlife | September-October | Moorland and walking |
| Loch Lomond & The Trossachs | Scottish scenery | September | Lochs, mountains, and forests |
| Cairngorms | Experienced autumn campers | September-early October | Mountains, wildlife, and forests |
Planning an autumn family camping trip?
Once you’ve chosen where you’re going, the next challenge is getting everyone packed and organised. My Family Camping Planner contains 50+ pages of reusable planning tools, including a Family Master Camping Checklist, individual child packing lists, food planner and pre-departure checklist to help take some of the stress out of getting ready.
Why Go Camping in the UK in Autumn?
I love summer camping, but autumn has a different atmosphere.
Popular areas that can feel busy during July and August are quieter, while forests, hills, and the countryside turn shades of red, orange, and gold.
It’s also a brilliant season for walking.
The daytime cooler temperatures make longer walks more comfortable, especially if you’ve spent summer trying to persuade hot and tired children to walk another mile.
Of course, visiting autumn camping destinations in the UK require a little more preparation.
Nights start getting colder, rain is always a possibility, and the shorter daylight hours mean we need to be more organised about when we arrive at our campsite and when we head out for the day.
You’ll also want decent waterproofs, insulated sleeping mats, and warm sleeping bags later in the season.
But with the right preparation, autumn can be a fantastic time to extend your camping season.
Here are my 14 favourite autumn camping destinations in the UK to consider.
14 Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK
1. New Forest, Hampshire
The New Forest is one of my favourite places for a family outdoor adventure and easily earns its place among the best places to camp in autumn.
The combination of woodland, heathland, and wildlife makes it beautiful once the leaves begin changing colour.
One of the things my children love most is spotting the free-roaming New Forest ponies, although remember that they’re livestock and should always be given plenty of space.
There are miles of walking and cycling routes to explore, making it easy to plan family-friendly activities without needing to spend lots of money.
Autumn is also a lovely time for walking through the forest. Fallen leaves, quieter paths, and changing colours give the landscape a different feel from summer.
Places to stay: We’ve camped at the Holmsley Caravan and Camping Site, which is a great spot to avoid the summer crowds, and we like the fact that it’s situated on a former airfield with direct access to walking paths
Best for: Families, cycling, wildlife, and woodland walks
Best time: September to October
2. Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District is beautiful at any time of year, but autumn brings something special to the landscape.
Woodland around the lakes begins changing colour while the fells provide a spectacular backdrop, making it one of my favourite autumn camping destinations in the UK for walkers.
There are routes for almost every ability, from gentle lakeside strolls to much more challenging mountain days.
Families can explore places such as Derwentwater, Grizedale Forest, and Tarn Hows without necessarily tackling the highest peaks.
The weather can change quickly, though, especially later in autumn, so waterproof clothing and sensible footwear are essential.
If you’re camping in colder weather, make sure your sleeping system is suitable for the expected overnight temperatures rather than relying on equipment designed for summer.
Places to stay: We’ve been going back to Gill Head Farm in Keswick every October for five years now, and it never gets old. We love the fact that it’s a working farm and has some stunning views
Best for: Walking, landscapes, and outdoor adventures
Best time: September to mid-October
3. Peak District, Derbyshire
The Peak District is an excellent option if you want beautiful countryside without travelling to some of Britain’s more remote areas.
It’s home to some fantastic countryside campsites, pretty villages, and walking routes ranging from easy family trails to longer hikes.
Places such as Dovedale are attractive in autumn, while areas around Castleton, Bakewell, and Edale give you plenty of options for exploring.
It’s also a good choice for a shorter weekend camping trip because there are so many things to do within a relatively compact area, making it one of the best autumn camping destinations in the UK.
Places to stay: Newfold Farm in Edale is a great spot to camp, putting you right at the start of the Pennine Way. This is a popular location, which we discovered one autumn, so you should book ahead if you want to grab a spot
Best for: Weekend trips, walking, and countryside
Best time: September to October
4. Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
If autumn means forests to you, the Forest of Dean is difficult to beat.
The ancient woodland becomes a mixture of gold, orange, and red as autumn progresses, making this one of the most atmospheric autumn camping destinations in the UK.
Walking and cycling are obvious choices, but there’s plenty for families to do beyond simply admiring the trees.
Forest trails, wildlife spotting, and nearby attractions make it easy to build a weekend around outdoor family-friendly activities.
This is another excellent destination if your idea of the perfect autumn trip involves woodland camping surrounded by trees.
Places to stay: The Forest of Dean Camping is one place we love visiting. We love that it’s dog-friendly and has access to walks and cycle paths in a beautiful part of the country
Best for: Families, cycling, and forests
Best time: Late September to October
5. North York Moors, Yorkshire
For wide-open landscapes and fewer crowds, consider the North York Moors.
Autumn brings changing colours to the valleys and woodland while the moors themselves provide miles of walking.
It’s also an International Dark Sky Reserve, so clear autumn evenings can provide fantastic stargazing opportunities.
Just remember how quickly temperatures can fall after sunset. Those beautiful crisp autumn mornings often follow considerably colder nights.
Places to stay: Southview Farm is a fantastic spot with amazing views of the Cleveland Hills outside your tent. Thanks to its location, you have amazing walks and bike rides on your doorstep or your can head to Saltburn-by-the-Sea for some sea air
Best for: Quiet escapes, walking, and stargazing
Best time: September to October
6. Yorkshire Dales
Waterfalls, limestone landscapes, valleys, and traditional villages make the Yorkshire Dales another excellent autumn destination.
There are countless opportunities for autumn walks, ranging from short family routes to longer days in the hills. Whenever we visit, there is always something for us to do and explore. I love seeing the rolling hills and the endless greenery.
Aysgarth Falls is impressive after rainfall, while places such as Malham give you access to some of the area’s best-known scenery.
As with many of Britain’s national parks, autumn weather can change quickly, so pack for conditions rather than relying solely on the forecast you checked before leaving home.
Places to stay: Falls Park in the Yorkshire Dales is a great spot, especially if you fancy tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks or want to discover waterfall trails
Best for: Walking, waterfalls, and countryside
Best time: September to October
7. Snowdonia, Wales
Snowdonia is one of the most dramatic autumn camping destinations in the UK.
Mountains, lakes, forests, and valleys make it an incredible place to explore, and autumn can bring beautiful colour to lower-level woodland.
You don’t need to climb Yr Wyddfa, or Snowdon, to enjoy it either. There are plenty of lower-level routes and attractions suitable for families.
The mountainous terrain does mean conditions can change rapidly. If you’re heading there later in the season, choose routes appropriate for your experience and the weather. Whenever we visit Snowdonia, I always feel as though I’m in a land where giants live.
Places to stay: The Cae Du Campsite is a lovely spot to camp. If you’re heading up Snowdon, you can access Snowdon’s Watkin Path, a more challenging route, after a five-minute drive
Best for: Mountain scenery, adventure, and walking
Best time: September to early October
Tip: If you’re taking the Pyg Track or the Miners’ Track up Snowdon, get to the Pen Y Pass car park (at the bottom of Snowdon) early and pre-book your parking tickets, as this car park gets busy.
8. Pembrokeshire, Wales
If you prefer sea views to mountains, Pembrokeshire offers some of Britain’s most beautiful coastal campsites and walking opportunities.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path provides spectacular scenery, while quieter beaches can feel different once the peak summer crowds have disappeared.
September is appealing because you get the quieter atmosphere of autumn without jumping into the coldest part of the camping season.
Places to stay: Pencarnan Farm Caravan and Camping Site is a family-run farm and campsite along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, overlooking Porthsele beach. Here you can enjoy stunning views of the St George’s Channel connecting the Irish and Celtic seas
Best for: Beaches, coastal walking, and families
Best time: September to early October
9. Brecon Beacons, Wales
The Brecon Beacons combines mountains, waterfalls, countryside, and some fantastic walking.
Autumn is attractive when woodland begins changing colour, and the area offers everything from short walks to challenging mountain routes.
It’s also an International Dark Sky Reserve, which makes it another great option for evenings spent looking up rather than at a screen.
For families, waterfall walks and lower-level trails provide plenty of ways to explore without attempting the highest peaks.
Places to stay: Pwllyn Farm Camping in the Brecon Beacons is another gem for autumn camping destinations in the UK. It’s small and simple, but if you’re going to hike up Brecon, you can reach walks up the Pen Y Fan within a 15-minute drive
Best for: Walking, waterfalls, and stargazing
Best time: September to October
10. Cornwall
Cornwall isn’t just a summer destination; it’s also one of my favourite places to visit at any opportunity, which is why it’s on my list of autumn camping destinations in the UK.
September and early autumn can be a wonderful time to visit once the biggest summer crowds have gone.
For campers searching for where to camp in October, Cornwall is worth investigating because its southerly and coastal location can offer relatively mild conditions compared with destinations farther north, although UK weather is never guaranteed.
You’ll find plenty of coastal campsites, beaches, and sections of the South West Coast Path to explore.
However, campsite opening dates vary considerably once peak season finishes, so always check before planning your trip.
Places to stay: The family-run Tremorvu Campsite near Helston in Cornwall offers a wildlife habitat and plenty of space for children to play
Best for: Coast, beaches, and potentially milder autumn weather
Best time: September to October
11. Devon
Another firm favourite of mine is Devon. I have fond memories of visiting various places in Devon when I was younger and is somewhere I love taking my children. Devon gives you the choice of coast, countryside, and moorland.
That variety makes it one of the most versatile autumn camping destinations in the UK, especially for families.
You could spend one day exploring the coast and another walking through countryside or visiting family attractions if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Places to stay: Consider checking out Westland Farm near Barnstaple in Devon. This is another working farm located 10 miles from Exmoor National Park, and is a firm favourite of ours
Best for: Families, coast, and varied activities
Best time: September to October
12. Dartmoor, Devon
On the southern tip of Devon is Dartmoor, offering a very different experience.
Open moorland, granite tors, wooded valleys, and dramatic skies make it a fantastic destination if you’re looking for somewhere that feels a little wilder.
There are plenty of walking opportunities, but conditions can change quickly and exposed areas can feel colder when the wind picks up.
Choose an established campsite that suits your needs and check the latest local rules before travelling.
Places to stay: Gidleigh Wood offers easy access to Dartmoor and the Two Moors Way, which was perfect for me one year when I did the Two Moors Way. There’s also plenty of cycling and moorland to explore
Best for: Walking, scenery, and outdoor adventure
Best time: September to early October
13. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland
Scotland provides some spectacular autumn scenery, and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a great place to experience it.
Lochs, forests, and mountains provide endless opportunities for walking and exploring.
September would be my preference for tent camping here. As autumn progresses, temperatures drop and conditions can become more challenging.
If you’re new to camping in colder weather, I’d choose an earlier autumn trip rather than pushing your camping season too far into the year.
Places to stay: Cobleland Campsite near Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park in Stirlingshire is another winner. Situated by the River Forth, there’s plenty to do, such as fishing, walking, cycling, and even watersports. During our stay, we enjoyed going into the nearby Loch Ard Forest, where our kids could burn off some extra energy
Best for: Scottish scenery, walking, and forests
Best time: September
14. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Also making it on our list of autumn camping destinations in the UK is the Cairngorms. Although offering spectacular scenery, they’re also one of the more serious options on this list.
Forests, mountains, lochs, and wildlife make the area unforgettable, especially as the landscape changes through autumn.
However, altitude and northern location mean temperatures can drop a lot. Weather conditions should be taken seriously.
For experienced campers with suitable equipment, September and very early autumn can be beautiful.
For families new to autumn camping, I’d choose one of the less exposed autumn camping destinations in the UK first.
Places to stay: Cairngorms Glamping is a quiet and scenic camping location, providing amazing views right outside your tent. It’s pretty rugged, but there’s a small playing area for children and some farm animals to see. I love it here, and remember one October morning waking up to frost on the tent, giving us a fresh start to the day
Best for: Experienced campers, wildlife, and mountain scenery
Best time: September to early October
How to Choose an Autumn Campsite in the UK
Choosing the destination is only part of the planning.
Not all autumn campsites in the UK remain open throughout the season, so always check the campsite’s own opening dates before travelling.
This becomes important as you move through October and into November.
I’d look for:
- Toilets and hot showers
- Sheltered pitches
- Electric hook-up if you use it
- Good drainage
- Somewhere to dry wet clothes
- Family facilities if you’re travelling with children
- Nearby shops or supplies
- Indoor attractions within a reasonable driving distance as a wet-weather backup
I’d also look carefully at the pitch itself.
A sheltered pitch can feel very different from an exposed one on a windy October night.
And don’t forget what time you’ll arrive. The shorter daylight hours mean pitching a large family tent after work can quickly turn into setting it up in the dark.
Where Are the Best Places to Camp in October in the UK?
If you’re researching camping in October in the UK, I’d prioritise destinations where campsites remain open later in the season and where there are plenty of things to do if the weather turns.
Cornwall, Devon, the New Forest, the Peak District, and the Forest of Dean would all be on my shortlist.
When deciding where to camp in October, don’t choose purely on scenery.
Look at campsite facilities, how exposed the location is, average overnight conditions, and what you’ll do if you wake up to heavy rain.
October can provide some of the most beautiful autumn colours of the year, but it also requires more preparation than September.
Can You Go Camping in the UK in November?
Yes, but November camping requires more thought.
If you’re researching camping in November in the UK, I’d choose the campsite before choosing the destination.
That’s because many seasonal sites will already have closed.
Search for campsites open in November, then consider how suitable each one is for the weather conditions you’re likely to encounter.
If you’re wondering where to go camping in November, southern and less exposed locations may be more appealing than mountainous destinations, but conditions can vary anywhere in Britain.
You’ll also need to be comfortable camping in colder weather.
Make sure your tent is suitable for the conditions, use an insulated sleeping mat, and bring appropriately rated warm sleeping bags.
November wouldn’t be my first recommendation for someone trying autumn camping for the first time. Start with September or early October, learn what works for you and your family, and extend your season gradually.
What Should You Pack for Autumn Camping?
Packing for a stay at one of the autumn camping destinations in the UK in this list is different from packing for a warm July weekend.
The biggest priorities are staying warm and dry.
I’d bring:
- A suitable three-season tent
- Appropriately rated sleeping bags
- Insulated sleeping mats
- Waterproof jackets and trousers
- Warm layers
- Spare socks
- Hats and gloves
- Wellies or waterproof walking footwear
- Head torches
- Extra lighting for the tent
- Camping stove and cookset
- Warm drinks
- Camping kettle
- Towels
- Dry bags or waterproof storage
- Spare clothing for children
The combination of cooler temperatures, rain, and early darkness means I’d rather bring a few extra layers than discover halfway through the weekend that we don’t have enough.
For a more detailed list, see my Autumn Camping Checklist and Best Autumn Camping Gear guides.
Make Planning Your Autumn Camping Trip Easier
Choosing between these autumn camping destinations in the UK is the exciting bit.
Packing for everyone isn’t always quite as enjoyable.
After years of family camping, I’ve learnt how easy it is to forget something when you’re trying to remember clothes, sleeping gear, cooking equipment, food, toiletries, and everything the children need at the same time.
That’s why I created my Family Camping Planner.
The 50+ page planner includes seven reusable printables, including:
Family Master Camping Checklist
Individual Child Packing List
Family Camping Food Planner
Pre-Departure Checklist
Camp Setup Checklist
Camping Trip Planner
Camping Notes & Memories pages
Instead of trying to keep the entire trip in your head, you can work through it one step at a time.
FAQs About Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK
Final Thoughts on the Best Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK
You don’t have to put the tent away as soon as summer ends.
In many ways, autumn gives you a completely different camping experience: quieter locations, changing landscapes, beautiful autumn walks, and those wonderful crisp autumn mornings that make getting out of a warm sleeping bag both difficult and worthwhile.
There are so many autumn camping destinations in the UK to explore. The New Forest, the Lake District, the Forest of Dean, Cornwall, and the Peak District are among my favourite autumn camping destinations in the UK, but there are fantastic options across England, Wales, and Scotland.
If you’re new to autumn camping, I’d start in September or early October. Choose a campsite with good facilities, take plenty of warm and waterproof gear, and don’t underestimate the shorter daylight hours.
Once you’ve experienced a quiet campsite surrounded by autumn colour, you might find yourself extending your camping season every year.
And if you’re still wondering where to go camping in autumn, pick the destination that excites you most, check the campsite is open, pack for the weather, and give it a go.
Happy camping!
For more outdoor inspiration, check out our related guides:
- How to Start Family Camping: The Best Guide for 2026
- Spring Camping With Kids: The Complete Family Guide for 2026
- Family Camping in Summer: The Ultimate UK Guide in 2026
Happy camping!
Have you found this autumn camping destinations in the UK guide useful? What’s your favourite autumn camping memory? Is there anywhere else we should add to our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Rebecca is a journalist/content writer with over 15 years of experience focusing on topics ranging from cryptocurrency, outdoor sports, family adventures, and the environment. She has a strong background in camping, hiking, snowboarding, and trail running gained through years of personal experience. She holds a BA in Journalism and News Media and an MA in Environmental Journalism. She has been featured in Bitcoin Magazine, Forbes, The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI), REI, The Next Web, and The New Scientist. She is passionate about exploring more of the UK with her family and their Working Cocker Spaniel and enjoys helping readers find out the ways they can explore what’s around them together to create lasting memories.
Thank you for this helpful guide on the best autumn camping destinations in the UK! I appreciate that you covered locations in England, Wales, and Scotland!
You’re very welcome. I hope you found it useful : ) Is there a particular location in the UK that you enjoy visiting that I can add in my next update?