Camping on the River Thames
Camping near the River Thames is a great way to experience outdoor adventures and get close to nature. Pitch a tent in a family-orientated site or stay in a small site - perfect for walking the Thames Path.
Where to pitch your tent
There are over twenty camp sites, some remote - great for peace and quiet - others near to main roads for easy access. Choose the upper Thames - stretching from Oxford to the Cotswolds for a gentle pace, or the lower Thames for closer proximity to London. See 'Go Camping' fact sheet for a comprehensive list.
Camp at a lock
Could this be camping with a difference? Access to water activities is surely a compelling reason to stay near a lock. Experience the joys of canoeing, kayaking and hiring a day boat, or just relax and watch boaters negotiating the locks. The campsite at Hurley Lock is uniquely situated on its own gated island in the middle of the river, and the lock cafe serves scrumptious cream teas.
Part of the charm of the lock campsites is their size -- usually no more than 10 pitches -- and their remoteness. Don't expect to be able to drive up to your pitch, many of the lock campsites are accessible by boat or on foot only, and some don't even have parking!
There are also all-singing, all-dancing campsites with facilities ranging from swimming pools, licensed bars and showers to 'ready tents' - great for families who want everything set up and ready to use. See Go Camping.
Experience water related fun
Why not hire a canoe for the day or the weekend with Thames Canoes. The River Thames is one of the finest and safest canoe touring rivers in England. Canoe rental costs from £65 per day and will accomodate two adults and one child with space for luggage.
Where to eat out
What you save on hotel costs, you could spend on a gastronomic treat. There are lots of riverside pubs and restaurants; offering decent pub grub to award-winning food. Two of the three, Michelin 3-star restaurants are at Bray, near Maidenhead.
For more detail see our camping fact sheet and find out more about walking the Thames Path.