The Lake District is one of the UK’s most stunning locations for wild camping. With its rugged fells, crystal-clear lakes, and remote valleys, it provides an unparalleled escape for nature lovers and adventurers. While wild camping is technically not allowed in England without the landowner’s permission (except on Dartmoor), the Lake District is often tolerated for those seeking solitude, as long as they camp responsibly and follow the leave-no-trace principles.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover some of the best wild camping spots in the Lake District and provide you with essential tips to ensure your adventure is safe, legal, and respectful of the environment.
I generally refrain from advocating for specific wild camping locations in the Lake District, as the growing popularity of certain spots can lead to overcrowding and, ultimately, the degradation of the area. For this reason, rather than recommending a particular camp spot, I encourage exploring the area i suggest for where wild camping is possible. One key piece of advice is to avoid setting up camp directly at tarn edges, as this often obscures the surrounding views. Instead, consider camping at higher elevations to fully appreciate the panoramic vistas the landscape has to offer.
Above all, it's essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Never pitch your tent if others are already camped in the area, and always ensure you leave the environment as you found it, preserving the beauty of these wild spaces for future generations.
Is Wild Camping Legal in the Lake District?
While wild camping is not officially permitted across England’s national parks—including the Lake District—there are exceptions to the rule. Wild camping is generally tolerated in remote areas as long as campers follow key guidelines:
Camp Above the Highest Fell Wall: Stay away from farmland and heavily trafficked trails.
Stay for One Night Only: Limit your stay to 24 hours and move on the next day.
Avoid Open Fires: Use a stove instead to reduce impact on the landscape.
Leave No Trace: Always take all your rubbish with you. (See my Leave No Trace blog for more info.)
Minimise Impact: Arrive late and leave early to avoid disturbing others.
If a landowner or park ranger asks you to move, do so politely and without argument.
More Wild Camping Blog Posts:
Best Wild Camping Spots in the Lake District
1. Sprinkling Tarn and Seathwaite Fell
Best for: Stunning views and solitude
Location: Above Seathwaite, near Scafell Pike
Parking: Seathwaite Farm
Best for Sunrise: In summer months, when the sun rises more northerly, you have some big mountains behind, so they will block out the sun
Best for Sunset: Summer months as above.
Sprinkling Tarn is a popular wild camping spot known for its remote location and panoramic views. Sitting at 600m above sea level, it offers incredible sunrise views over the surrounding fells, especially if you’re planning to summit Scafell Pike at dawn.
Why camp here?
Close proximity to Scafell Pike for a memorable sunrise summit.
Freshwater is available from the tarn for filtration.
Plenty of flat, tent-friendly spots.
Downside:
It is popular all day during the summer months, so arrive later in the day for more peace.
2. Angle Tarn & Angle Tarn Pikes
Best for: A peaceful lakeside retreat
Location: Near Patterdale, Eastern Fells
Parking: Patterdale
Best for Sunrise: Around April, the sun will rise and set precisely east and west, making it the perfect time to see the sunrise behind Angle Tarn.
Best for Sunset: In April, the sun will set directly west over the Helvellyn range of mountains, perfect if you are just above the tarn to the west.
Angle Tarn, nestled amongst rolling fells, is one of the most beautiful wild camping spots in the Lake District. It offers a serene lakeside setting with plenty of flat ground for tents and breathtaking scenery.
Why camp here?
Amazing reflections of the tarn at sunrise and sunset.
Easy access is available from Patterdale via Boredale Hause.
Secluded camping spots, away from other campers.
Deer frequently pass through the area.
Downside:
Can be exposed to strong winds; check the weather forecast before setting up camp.
3. Stoney Cove Pike and Caudale Moor
Best for: A rewarding summit experience with stunning panoramic views
Location: Near Hartsop, Eastern Fells
Parking: Kirkstone Inn
Best for Sunrise: Similar to Seathwaite Fell, the summer months mean you will get both sunrise and sunset in front of you If you camp on Caudale Moor. At the summit of Stoney Cove, you should get 360 views,
Best for Sunset: As above.
Stoney Cove Pike, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, offers one of the best summit experiences for hikers and wild campers. The mountain provides sweeping views over the surrounding valleys, lakes, and distant peaks, making it a fantastic spot for those seeking adventure and tranquillity.
Why camp here?
Breathtaking summit views over the Lake District, including Ullswater and High Street.
Secluded camping spots on the approach to the summit are perfect for those looking to get away from it all.
Diverse terrain, with the trail offering both scenic valley views and rocky mountain terrain.
Wildlife sightings—keep an eye out for red deer and other local wildlife in the area.
Downside:
Rugged terrain and steep inclines can make the ascent challenging, so be prepared for a physical hike.
Windy conditions can be common at the summit, so make sure to check the forecast before camping at the top.
4. Lingmoor Fell
Best for: Easy access and stunning sunset/sunrise views
Location: Near Blea Tarn, Langdale Valley
Parking: Blea Tarn (This may have changed to no overnight parking - National Trust. If so, climb up from the Langdale Valley; there is plenty of parking)
Best for Sunrise: In the summer months, the sun rises and sets towards the Langdale Pikes, giving you the best views.
Best for Sunset: As above
Lingmoor Fell is an underrated wild camping spot with breathtaking views over the Langdale Pikes. It offers a quick and easy hike from Langdale and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Why camp here?
Easy access from The Langdales.
Incredible sunset/sunrise views over Great Langdale Valley.
Downside:
No nearby water sources—ensure you carry enough water.
5. Loughrigg Fell
Best for: An easy-access wild camping experience overlooking Grasmere
Location: Rydal Water
Parking: Rydal water - The central car park is expensive overnight!
Best for Sunrise: In the summer months, you don't need to go to the summit to watch both sunrise and sunset over Grasmere, so it is perfect for a beginner's wild camp.
Best for Sunset:
Loughrigg Fell, nestled between Grasmere and Ambleside, provides a fantastic wild camping spot. With stunning views of surrounding lakes and peaks, it’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
Why camp here?
Spectacular views over Grasmere.
Great beginner's wild camp in the summer.
It is a prime location for early morning hikes.
Downside:
Expensive overnight parking
Essential Wild Camping Tips for the Lake District
1. Check the Weather
The Lake District is famous for its unpredictable weather. Be prepared for high winds, rain, and sudden temperature changes. Always check the weather forecast before you head out to ensure your safety.
2. Pack Light, But Smart
Essential gear includes a lightweight tent or bivvy, a warm sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, and a stove. Don’t forget to bring dry bags to keep your gear dry in wet conditions. For a complete packing list, check out my Wild Camping Gear list here.
3. Find a Good Spot
Look for high, remote ground away from villages and farmland. This will ensure your wild camping experience remains discreet and respectful of the landscape. For more tips on choosing the perfect spot, see my full blog post here.
4. Water & Food
Bring enough water or use a filter to purify tarn water. A lightweight stove is essential for preparing meals in the wild.
5. Leave No Trace
Always take your rubbish with you and leave the environment as you found it. For more information, see my Leave No Trace guide here.
6. Arrive Late, Leave Early
Minimise your impact by setting up camp near sunset and leaving early in the morning to avoid disturbing others.
Final Thoughts for Wild Camping in The Lake District
Wild camping in the Lake District is a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re camping by a tranquil tarn, perched on a dramatic fell, or watching the sunrise from a mountain peak, the Lake District offers some of the UK’s most beautiful wilderness spots. By camping responsibly, we can ensure that these pristine areas remain untouched for future adventurers.
Have you experienced wild camping in the Lake District?
Share your favourite spots and tips in the comments below!
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Are you new to wild camping? Check out The Beginner’s Guide to Wild Camping for everything you need to get started.
Have any questions or thoughts? Feel free to get in touch with me here—I’d love to hear from you.
If you haven’t already, consider downloading the Ordnance Survey App. It lets you import GPX routes directly and mirrors the paper maps you should always carry as a backup. I use this app to plan all my hikes, and it’s an essential tool for navigating the great outdoors.
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