The UK’s best staycation spots for camping families this Easter named - one country dominates the list

Sarra Gray
Sat, 28 Mar 2026 04:00:04 +0000

For families looking to swap overseas holidays for simpler, more affordable breaks closer to home, camping is a great option.

New research into the best staycation destinations for camping families highlights a clear winner: Wales. It claimed an impressive seven of the top 10 locations thanks to green space, family-friendly attractions and well-equipped campsites.

For British travellers planning a spring or summer escape, the UK’s most rewarding holidays can be found just a few hours from home.

Taking the top spot is Gwynedd, which offers the highest number of campsites per 10,000 people in the UK, according to the research by outdoortoys. Families have their choice from coastal pitches near sandy beaches to sites tucked beneath the mountains of Eryri National Park.

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The UK’s best staycation spots for camping families

1. Gwynedd (Wales)

2. Pembrokeshire (Wales)

3. Isle of Anglesey (Wales)

4. Ceredigion (Wales)

5. Powys (Wales)

6. Cornwall (South West)

7. Na h-Eileanan Siar (Scotland)

8. Highland (Scotland)

9. Merthyr Tydfil (Wales)

10. Conwy (Wales)

Overall, Wales dominated the list. Pembrokeshire came in second place, combining seaside scenery with family-friendly activities, from rock pooling to coastal walks along the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

The Isle of Anglesey completes the top three, offering a slower pace of life ideal for unplugged breaks built around cycling, barbeques and beach days.

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While Wales comes out on top, other regions also feature strongly. Cornwall remains a perennial favourite for family camping, thanks to its mix of beaches, mild climate and well-established campsites.

Further north, the remote beauty of Na h-Eileanan Siar and the Highlands offers a more off-grid experience, with vast landscapes and low population density creating a true sense of escape.

The research also highlights notable regional differences. Some areas - including parts of Scotland and even London - have virtually no campsites per capita, while others excel in outdoor amenities and green space, key factors for family-friendly trips.

Product and category manager at Outdoortoys, Nick Paulson, said: “Planning a family holiday doesn’t have to mean long-haul flights and complicated itineraries. What really matters is time spent together – outdoors, exploring, learning, and laughing.

“Camping with little ones can feel daunting, especially around Easter when the weather is unpredictable. But preparation is key. Pack for layers rather than sunshine; waterproof outerwear, spare socks, wellies and warm sleepwear are essential. A dry change of clothes can turn a rainy afternoon from a disaster into an adventure.

“Bringing simple ride-on toys like scooters or kids’ bikes will also help children burn energy, stay engaged and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.

" If the rain does set in, have a simple backup plan, like a pack of cards or colouring supplies. The key is keeping expectations realistic and enjoying the shared experience.”