Escape the city: amazing campsites near London for families to explore

Want to connect with nature, without travelling too far from home? These family-friendly campsites within a stone’s throw from central offer the chance to have a decent break without the exhausting journey.

So dust off your camping chairs and book the perfect getaway this spring…

Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park

Where is it? Edmonton, North London, some 12 miles from central London

Nestled within the expansive Lee Valley Regional Park, this campsite offers the perfect mix of countryside tranquillity and urban convenience. The well-maintained facilities include toilet blocks, showers, and laundry. Families can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including biking and hiking along a network of cycling and walking paths, while there’s also a play area and 18-hole golf course on site. Watersports enthusiasts won’t want to miss the thrills and spills on offer in Lee Valley White Water Park just a short hop away.

Apps Court Farm

Where is it? Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, about 18 miles from central London

Set along the banks of the Thames, Apps Court Farm boasts a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book – but despite the fabulous location, it’s very reasonably priced. The 80-acre campsite offers 100 pitches for tents, motorhomes, and campervans only five minutes from Hampton Court Palace. You’ll need membership if you want to fish in the two large lakes but you’re spoiled for choice with other activities nearby, including riverboat cruises or exploring the abundance of great pubs.

Abbey Wood Club Campsite

Where is it? Abbey Wood, south-east London, some 11 miles from central London

Escape to this surprisingly quiet leafy haven for a tree-dappled stay only 20 minutes from central London on the new Elizabeth Line. Nearby Greenwich has loads to offer or you can embark on a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective. The site features well-maintained pitches for tents and spotless facilities, plus barbecues are welcome; the playground is being revamped but will be back with bells on for late 2025. Dogs are welcome and there are loads of local walks and rides… a real peaceful gem.

Aldenham Country Park

Where is it? Elstree, Hertfordshire, about 15 miles from central London

Set within 100 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, Aldenham Country Park offers a serene escape just a short drive from your front door. You can sleep under the stars in the gorgeous wooded grounds and pitch your tent wherever takes your fancy or, for a touch of luxury, bell tents are available to hire for up to five people. Children will love exploring the 100 Aker Wood inspired by Winnie the Pooh's tales, featuring familiar houses from the stories. The on-site cafes serve all-day breakfasts and homemade cakes – what more could you want?

Home Farm Camping and Caravan Site

Where is it? Radnage, Buckinghamshire, about 30 miles from central London

Deep in the picturesque Chiltern Hills lies the long-established Home Farm Camping and Caravan Site, a relaxed countryside retreat within easy reach of London. Families can make the most of the spacious pitches surrounded by rolling hills and lush woodlands, providing loads of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, or you can splash out on a lovely bell tent that comes with a candle chandelier and even an ice bucket for your fizz! The pretty nearby village boasts charming local pubs and shops, making this a real rural treat.

Be ready for anything with Jackery

Have the power to make your camping trip even more adventurous this spring. Jackery have been making portable power stations for almost a decade – and they've just launched the lightest and most compact 2kWh LFP power station available on the market. The new Explorer 2000 v2 2040Wh/2200W combines premium quality, advanced safety features, and industry-leading innovation so you can explore further.

Designed with modern adventurers in mind, you can also team the Explorer 2000 v2 with 200W solar panels so you'll never run out of power again. See the full range and some great early bird deals before February 20 at https://www.amazon.co.uk/jackery.