Snowdonia National Park or Eryri is what many consider to be the gem of Wales. Encompassing a vast area of ecosystems and wilderness from the sea at Cardigan Bay to the top of Snowdon, this National Park has it all. Mix in the unique culture of this part of Wales and you have a must visit destination. We think the best way to experience Snowdonia is by spending a night or two camping in your tent or caravan to truly get to know this unique place.
There are tons of camping opportunities in Snowdonia, and we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the various options and choose the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure.
This includes the best Snowdonia campgrounds, holiday parks, and wild camping information so you can easily decide where to stay and focus on having a great adventure in Wales’ most iconic landscape!
In this Post
The Basics
Before you set out on your Snowdonia camping trip, there are a few keys things you’ll want to keep in mind. This includes when to camp, what to bring, and what to expect from a trip to Wales
The following sections provide all that information, and more. This is the essential information before you head out!
When to camp in Snowdonia
Snowdonia is primarily a summer destination, although it is possible to plan a camping trip year-round. The majority of caravan and campgrounds close during the winter months, but there are a select few that offer pitches throughout the year.
The summer months of July and August are of course the most popular time for a trip to Snowdonia as you can expect the warmest days and somewhat settled weather. Of course, those benefits combined with the school holidays tend to bring out the crowds, and campgrounds will be at their most full.
If you have no constraints, consider a camping trip in September or October as the family holiday crowd will be back home and you’ll still find pleasant weather to pair with far fewer visitors. Of course for those wild camping, as long as you are prepared for the conditions you’ll be able to camp in Snowdonia any day of the year!
What to Bring
We’re sure you’ll already have the essentials like a great tent, sleeping bags, and camp chairs, but below are some of our favorite items for camping in Snowdonia National Park:
- Map: A good map is essential to exploring the area, and learning more about your surroundings. We recommend this map covering all of Snowdonia.
- Camping Stove – This classic piece of gear is perfect for cooking up deluxe campsite dinners.
- Cooler – Keeping food and drinks cool is essential when camping.
Snowdonia Camping
Snowdonia National Park encompasses a vast area of over 800 square miles with over 26,000 people making their home within the park’s boundaries. As such, there are a seemingly endless number of campgrounds to choose from for your trip here and we’ve distilled the top 10 below along with a complete list in the following section.
Whether you’re looking to pitch your tent at the base of Snowdon, Wales’ highest point, near tranquil Cardigan Bay, or the Conwy Valley we’ve got your covered.
In addition, we’ve also covered wild camping in Snowdonia for those in search of adventure
Finally, the map below gives a sense of each of the caravan park and campgrounds locations. Note, we do not include any specific wild camping locations, as those are best determined based on the specific conditions you encounter on your trip.
The 10 BEST Snowdonia Campgrounds
Ok, let’s make this easy on you. There are tons of campgrounds in Snowdonia to choose from and you want to know the best of the best. We’ve distilled it down into our top 10 campgrounds throughout Snowdonia below so you can get on with planning the rest of your trip.!
Snowdon Base Camp
Camping Options: Tent pitches, Caravan camping during quieter periods
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Snowdon Base Camp, located as you might have guess at the base of Mount Snowdon is a classic tent camping spot with stunning views of it’s namesake mountain. Situated on the shores of Cwellyn Lake and part of the larger Cwellyn Arms Hotel this is a great option for those seeking a quiet and serene campground.
Although you won’t be close to the popular route Llanberis Path to the top of Snowdon, you will be well located to access the less crowded Rhyd Ddu Path when staying at Snowdon Base Camp.
Amenities here include a 24/7 shower block complete with electric charging points, heated floors, and thoughtful vanities. In addition you’ll find laundry facilities and some creatively designed fire pits that can be pulled to your campsite via sled!
If you’re coming in your camper or caravan Snowdon Base Camp will only be a good fit during the off-season. They are only permitted on Sunday – Thursday evenings during the peak season (Bank Holidays excluded) and during the winter months.
All things considered, Snowdon Base Camp is one of our top picks for its tranquil camping vibe and stunning views!
Rynys Farm Camping Site
Camping Options: Caravan & Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Yurts, Shepherd’s Hut, Holiday Caravans for let
Reservations: Recommended.
The Rynys Farm Camping Site is a lovely, family-run, campground located on the eastern edge of Snowdonia just a few miles from the village of Betws-y-Coed. Well regarded for its incredibly clean facilities and stunning views, this a is a great option for families or anyone looking for a campsite away from the hubbub around Snowdon.
Amenities at Rynys Farm are basic but perfectly adequate and include a toilet block in a converted farm building as well as electric hookups and dishwashing facilities. Camper vans are easily accommodated here as well and have access to hookups. If glamping is more your style there is also a converted shepherd’s hut and two yurts available.
Nearby you’ll find the stunning Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd waterfall which is well worth a visit when camping here.
Advance reservations are highly recommended for those in a camper vans and can be made by phone or email.
Tyn Cornel Camping
Camping Options: Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Glamping Pods
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
If rafting down the River Tryweryn is high on your North Wales and Snowdonia list then pitching your tent at Tyn Cornel Camping is the place to stay. Located just down the road from the National Whitewater Centre, this well run campground can accommodate tents and camper vans and also has glamping pods available for let.
Even if river activities aren’t your thing this is still an excellent location close to the market town of Bala as well as many walks in the surrounding hills.
The facilities at Tyn Cornel are top notch and include free WiFi, hot showers, laundry facilities, and basic shop selling all the essentials. For camper pitches you’ll also have access to a 16 amp electrical hookup and all the sites are on hard standing pitches.
As with most campgrounds in Snowdonia, you’ll want to make an advance reservation during the summer months which can be easily completed on their website.
Merthyr Farm Campsite
Camping Options: Camper pitches, Tent pitches
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to enquire.
The Merthyr Farm campsite has been in operation on Snowdonia’s western edge for over 40 years and is a favorite for its welcoming owners and tremendous views. Set just inland from Harlech Beach this simple campground has stunning views out over Cardigan Bay and is a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal attractions in this part of Snowdonia.
Equipped for both tents and caravans the campground is set on a working farm giving visitors a sense of the Welsh life and a connection to the local land. You also won’t want to miss a visit to the Harlech Castle, which is just down the road from the campsite.
The showers are kept exceptionally clean and offer more privacy than what you would find at a typical campground. In addition there are laundry facilities and charging points for guests to use.
15 of the camper pitches have electric hookups and there is plenty of space to pitch your tent ensuring a bit of privacy. Reservations are a must, so be sure to enquire before turning up.
Fferm Cedris Farm
Camping Options: Camper pitches, Tent pitches
Reservations: Not essential, but recommended
Tucked away in the southern extent of Snowdonia National Park you’ll find the Fferm Cedris Farm Campsite. A basic campground that has room for campers as well as tents, Fferm Cedris Farm excels at providing an off the beaten path experience. The owner is happy to provide advice on nearby walks, things to do, and must see sights in the region.
Electricity is available for camper vans while there is plenty of space for tents to set up in the expansive fields. Camp fires are permitted on the provided slabs.
Amenities are basic but include showers, a dish washing area, and charging points.
We recommend a stay at Fferm Cedris Farm for those looking to experience a quiet side of Snowdonia.
Graig Wen
Camping Options: Caravan & Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Glamping, Holiday Cottages for let
Reservations: Essential. Click here to reserve.
Graig Wen is one of the highest rated campsites in all of Snowdonia for good reason. With pitches overlooking the beautiful Mawddach Estuary as well as easy access to the cycle path of the same name, thoughtful amenities, and a splendid location, it’s hard to find a better place to spend the night in this region of Snowdonia.
Nearby Barmouth has good beaches as well as plenty of activities on offer as well as plenty of shops and restaurants should you be interested in venturing out from your campsite.
As for the camping itself, Graig Wen can accommodate six camper vans with electric hookups and has expansive fields for tent campers. You’ll get a bit of a wild camping (no cars permitted) vibe at some of the pitches that are located adjacent to the estuary but rest assured you’ll still have full access to the facilities!
Speaking of which you’ll have access to all of the essentials here (showers, toilet, etc.) but what really sets Graig Wen apart are the fresh croissants and coffee available in the mornings and local craft beer for after your walk.
Gwern Gof Isaf Campsite
Camping Options: Camper pitches, Tent pitches
Reservations: Essential.
The Gwern Gof Isaf Campsite is a historic and popular campground located in Snowdonia’s mountainous northern stretches. Set with the incredible background of the iconic Welsh mountain of Tryfan, Gwern Gof Isaf is the perfect base camp for adventuring in the rugged and unspoilt mountains of Snowdonia.
The campsite is set on a traditional farm and has been in continuous family operation for over 8 generations, making this a special place to experience the culture and environment of northern Wales.
The actual camping here is on the basic side with several fields for tent pitches as well as parking for camper vans. Although there are a few electric hookups, don’t count on them as they tend to get used up quite quickly. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on your perspective) caravans are not permitted at Gwern Gof Isaf campsite.
Camping amenities here include all the basics such as a clean shower block, indoor washing up area, and laundry facilities. Fire wood is available for purchase as it midge spray to help keep the nasty insects away!
All in all, Gwern Gof Isaf provides a classic camping experience and represents the best of what a trip to Snowdonia can be.
Pen Y Bont Touring Park
Camping Options: Caravan & Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Glamping
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Set on the shores of Bala Lake ( Llyn Tegid) and just a five minute walk from the village of the same name you’ll find the Pen Y Bont Touring Park. This 6-acre campground has tons of room to spread out and can accommodate a variety of camping setups. This includes space for camper vans, caravans, as well as plenty of tent camping pitches.
Caravaners love the site for its full electric hookups and hardstanding pitches, while tent campers can enjoy the quiet tent-camping field with easy access to Bala Lake.
Common facilities have been recently updated with a refreshed shower and toilet block, laundry facilities, and washing up area. In addition, there is an excellent on-site shop that has all the essentials for your stay.
The village of Bala is just a short five minute walk from the campground and you can find shops, pubs, and restaurants to suit your needs there. In addition, water spots are very popular on Bala Lake and those interested in sailing, fishing, or windsurfing will have no shortage of things to do.
Bodnant Caravan Park
Camping Options: Caravan & Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Holiday Caravans for let
Reservations: Recommended. Phone or email to book.
For a less remote camping experience on the edge of Snowdonia you can’t go wrong at the Bodnant Caravan Park. Set on the edge of the Welsh market town of Llanrwst this campground is easy to access and well located for exploring the surrounding region.
Complete with tent pitches, as well as space for campers and caravans, Bodnant is a family run operation that tends to attract families year after year. Caravan pitches are hard standing with 16-amp electric hookups while tents have flat, grassy field.
You’ll find all the essentials such as a clean shower and toilet block, dishwashing area, and small shop.
Nearby the Gwydir Mawr & Bach Forest has excellent walking trails while the Conwy Valley’s famous Gwydir Castle is also close.
Llyn Gwynant Campsite
Camping Options: Caravan & Camper pitches, Tent pitches, Glamping
Reservations: Essential. Click here to reserve.
Set as the base of mighty Snowdon and on the shores of Lake Gwynant is the appropriately named Llyn Gwynant Campsite. This is a exceptionally beautiful area and the campground does its best to embrace its prime location with simple but thoughtful amenities. Camper vans, caravans, and tents are all welcome here although we like the campground best for its lakeside tent pitches.
The real amenities at Llyn Gwynant is the incredible natural environment surrounding the campground with trails to the top of Snowdon a short distance away and plenty of water activities on the lake. You can also enjoy the incredible experience of stand up paddle board yoga out on the water.
The small shop on-site has camping basics as well as some local produce and other goodies while the pizza restaurant is the perfect place to grab a meal after a day of adventuring in Snowdonia.
More Snowdonia Camping Options
Of course, there are plenty of additional campgrounds and caravan parks beyond the ten we’ve covered in detail in the section above. The list below contains additional options worth considering when looking for a campground in Snowdonia:
- Smuggler’s Cove Boatyard
- Dolgam Campsite
- Trwyn yr Wylfa Caravan & Camping Site
- Bryn Gloch Caravan & Camping Park
- Glanllyn Caravan & Camping Park
- Hafod y Llan Campsite
- Tan Aeldroch Farm
- Llwyn yr Helm Caravan and Camping Park
- Tynllwyn Caravan & Camping Park
- Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls
- Cae Gwyn Farm Holidays
- Cae Du Campsite
- Torrent Walk Campsite
- Hendre Hall Camping
Snowdonia Wild Camping
For those hoping to explore some of the wilds of Snowdonia you might be interested to know more about the wild camping rules and regulations in Snowdonia. This will most likely apply to anyone on a multi-day excursion in the park, seeking to split up a summit attempt of Snowdon, or simply looking to get off the beaten path.
However, it is important to understand that officially speaking wild camping in prohibited in Snowdonia without the consent of the land owner. This differs significantly from Scotland (Ben Nevis is one of our favorite camping destinations!) where it is permitted, but is consistent with the rest of the UK. You’ll find the following information on Snowdonia National Park’s official website:
In unfenced isolated upland areas, the access land provisions of the Countryside & Rights Of Way Act (CROW) specifically state (under the list of restrictions in Schedule 2{1} s) that wild camping is not a permitted activity unless granted by permission.
Snowdonia Government Website
However, in practice many visitors often disregard these rules and wild camp anyways. We don’t recommend this, but if you are planning to do so please be considerate and follow some of the general guidelines below.
Wild Camping in Snowdonia
Given that wild camping in Snowdonia requires the permission of the land owner, that is always the first place to start. However, it can be difficult or impossible to ascertain who owns a specific area and much of the National Park is controlled by local or national government.
As such, if it is not possible to obtain landowner consent but you find yourself in a situation that mandates wild camping please consider the following:
- Camp high and off the beaten track, well away from buildings, roads, and farms.
- Wild camping is lightweight, done in small numbers, and only for a single night
- Do not light any fires
- Human waste should be packed out or buried at least 15 cm deep and 30 m away from a water source.
- Do not alter the environment of your campsite by moving rocks, digging trenches, etc.
- Always Leave No Trace camping principles.
While these principles present the basic guidelines you should consider when wild camping in Snowdonia, we highly encourage all visitors to consider other alternatives to help preserve this wonderful environment.
For the sake of environmental preservation we won’t go into specific wild campsites in Snowdonia, as those are best discovered on your own. However, a simple Google search will reveal a few good general areas.
Finally, if you’re considering wild camping, please ensure you are adequately prepared for all weather conditions and have ample supplies. Weather changes quickly in Wales and especially in the mountains of Snowdonia and you won’t be able to simply amble down to the shops if you find yourself in need.
Have a great trip!
That’s it!
We hope we’ve provided all of the information you need to plan a fantastic Snowdonia National Park camping trip, and we know you’ll find the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure!
Be sure to let us know in the comments below if you have any questions and be sure to tell us about your trip!
