Riverside camping near Chester
Roman ruins, wildlife attractions, and riverside fun make Chester ideal for family camping.
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12 top river, stream, or creek campsites near Chester
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Riverside camping near Chester guide
Overview
Tucked in the elbow of the River Dee at the border of England and Wales, Chester is all about family fun and outdoor adventures. Once you’ve explored the city’s Roman walls, Tudor-style townhouses, and ancient amphitheater, plan a day trip to Cheshire Zoo, one of the UK’s most famous wildlife attractions, or take to the water to boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard along the River Dee. Campers have plenty of options, from holiday parks and caravan parks with electric hookups and full amenities to tranquil riverside campgrounds, country lodges, or rural Hipcamps set amid rolling farmlands.
Where to go
Clwydian Range And Dee Valley AONB
Grassy peaks and heather-blanketed uplands lie over the border in North Wales, just a 40-minute drive from Chester. Bring your tent or drive your campervan into the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to hike and mountain bike across wild moorlands, discover Iron-Age hillforts and historic villages, and kayak along scenic canal ways.
River Mersey
North of Chester, the mighty River Mersey flows from Liverpool to Stockport, affording plenty of options for riverside camping. Rent a houseboat to cruise the famous river, head into Liverpool to watch a football (soccer) match or follow in the footsteps of The Beatles, or snag a coastal campsite at Crosby Beach or Formby Beach along the Irish Sea coast.
Peak District National Park
Just an hour’s drive east of Chester, the Peak District National Park is Britain’s first national park and remains one of its most popular destinations for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. Campers have endless choices here, whether you prefer pitching your tent in the backcountry, cozying up in a luxury glamping tent, or parking your caravan on a local farm.
When to go
Summer is the liveliest—and sunniest—time to visit Chester, when you can make the most of the outdoor theatre in Grosvenor Park or head to the Moonlight Flicks outdoor cinema at Chester Cathedral. The Taste Cheshire Food and Drink Festival (April/May) also pulls in the crowds, but watch out for seasonal showers—spring and autumn weather can be temperamental, so tent campers should come prepared.
