4 of the best Lancashire campsites to visit this summer

After the scorching heatwave we had the other week and another hot spell on the way, it’s safe to say summer has well and truly arrived! With long evenings, sunny weekends and the six-week holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning a little summer getaway.

If you’re thinking about heading away with family or friends for a few nights of camping (or even glamping), hiring a van can make the whole experience feel that bit more special, without the stress of trying to play Tetris with the car boot.

At Intack Self Drive, we offer daily van hire for shorter breaks and flexi van hire if you're planning to stay away a little longer. We have everything from practical 3-seater vans and spacious 6-seater vans to 9-seater minibuses, making it easy to bring the whole family or your entire group along for the ride.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next summer escape, here are our favourite campsites in and around Lancashire that are worth adding to your list.

Why Lancashire is the perfect place for a summer camping adventure

When you think about a summer camping trip, your mind might instantly jump to faraway destinations, long journeys and exploring somewhere completely new. But sometimes, the best adventures are right on your doorstep, and Lancashire is the perfect example.

It’s easy to overlook what we have here because it’s so familiar, but Lancashire is home to some truly spectacular scenery. From sweeping coastal views and peaceful river valleys to wild heather-covered moorlands and dramatic fells, the county offers an incredible mix of landscapes, all within easy reach.

This variety is exactly what makes Lancashire such a brilliant place for camping. Whether you want to wake up surrounded by countryside, spend the day exploring scenic walking routes, head to the coast, cool off in a wild swimming spot or simply enjoy a drink at a cosy country pub, there's something for everyone. And when the sun is shining, the skies are blue and temperatures are nudging 30 degrees, it's surprisingly easy to forget you're only a stones throw away from home!

Primrose Cottage Camping - Chorley

Tucked away beneath Healy Nab, Primrose Cottage Camping is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a peaceful countryside escape without heading too far from home. Surrounded by open fields, woodland and streams, this adults-only campsite offers a chance to slow down and enjoy a simpler way of camping.

The site sits beside Blackbrook stream, with plenty of walking routes nearby, including peaceful footpaths and canal walks just a short stroll away. It’s also dog-friendly, making it a great choice if your four-legged friend is coming along on the adventure too.

While the campsite itself feels wonderfully secluded, you’re never far from local amenities. A traditional pub is only a 10-minute walk away, while Chorley’s cafés, shops and restaurants are within easy reach. If you fancy adding a little excitement to your trip, Go Ape Rivington is just a short drive away too. Whether you're looking to switch off for a peaceful weekend or spend your days exploring the Lancashire countryside, Primrose Cottage is a brilliant base for doing both.

Deardenwood - Rawtenstall

If you love woodland walks, fresh countryside air and a proper rural escape, Deardenwood is a hidden gem in the Rossendale Valley. Located close to the village of Edenfield, this campsite is surrounded by 11 acres of mature woodland, giving visitors plenty of space to explore straight from their pitch. With footpaths and cycle routes nearby, it’s a great choice if your ideal getaway is spending your days outdoors and relaxing back at the campsite in the evening.

The surrounding area is full of character too. Nearby Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom offer plenty of places to enjoy a well-earned meal or a post-walk drink, while Edenfield itself has cosy cafés, bakeries and pubs to discover. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning exploring woodland trails, your afternoon enjoying the scenery, and your evening unwinding under the stars.

Bridge House Marina & Caravan Park - Preston

Set beside the Lancaster Canal between Garstang and Nateby, Bridge House Marina & Caravan Park is a family-run campsite that makes the most of Lancashire’s beautiful countryside surroundings.

The site has been carefully maintained since 1974 and is perfectly positioned for exploring some of Lancashire's best attractions. With easy access from the M6, it's an ideal base for exploring the county, the Fylde Coast and even further afield.

During your stay, you can discover the historic market town of Garstang, enjoy local country pubs and restaurants, or venture into the nearby Forest of Bowland, one of Lancashire’s most impressive landscapes.

The Forest of Bowland is famous for its dramatic scenery, with sweeping hills, rugged moorland and breathtaking views that showcase just how diverse Lancashire’s countryside can be. Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, photography or simply finding a quiet spot to take it all in, there’s plenty to explore.

Calder Farm Campsite - Ribble Valley

Speaking of the Forest of Bowland, if you’re searching for a campsite with some of the best views Lancashire has to offer, Calder Farm in Bolton-by-Bowland is hard to beat.

Set in the heart of the Ribble Valley, this family-run campsite offers stunning views across the countryside towards Pendle Hill and the surrounding Forest of Bowland. It’s a landscape defined by rolling hills, open moorland and dramatic scenery, making it one of the most beautiful areas in the county.

With hardstanding pitches, grass areas and luxury camping pods available, Calder Farm caters for all kinds of campers. The surrounding area is perfect for outdoor adventures, from walking and cycling to fishing, kayaking and exploring nearby landmarks.

You’re also within easy reach of some fantastic days out, including Clitheroe Castle, Skipton, Malham Cove and the famous Settle to Carlisle railway. If you’re someone who wants a proper countryside escape where you can wake up to incredible views and spend your days exploring, this is a brilliant choice.

Bonus: Skelwith Fold - The Lake District

We know this one isn't technically Lancashire, but we couldn't put together a list of our favourite campsites without giving the Lake District an honourable mention. Sitting just over the county border, it's close enough for an easy weekend away and remains one of Britain's most iconic places to camp.

Skelwith Fold Caravan Park is set within 130 acres of beautiful woodland in the heart of the Lake District National Park, just a ten-minute drive from both Lake Windermere and Ambleside. Whether you're pitching a tent, bringing your caravan or treating yourself to one of the luxury glamping pods, cabins or safari tents, there's something for everyone.

With woodland walks on your doorstep, an adventure playground for the kids, dog-friendly facilities and some of Britain's most spectacular scenery just minutes away, it's the perfect base for exploring everything the Lakes has to offer.

Better yet, it's an easy drive from Lancashire, making it ideal if you're looking for a change of scenery without committing to a long journey. Load up the van, pack everything you need and enjoy a camping trip that feels like a proper holiday from the moment you set off.

Ready for your next summer adventure?

Whether you're planning a weekend under canvas, a family camping holiday or a glamping escape with friends, there's never been a better time to make the most of everything Lancashire has to offer. From peaceful woodland retreats and scenic countryside to incredible walks and cosy country pubs, your next adventure could be much closer than you think.

At Intack Self Drive, we've been helping people get on the road for over 50 years. With a fleet of more than 500 vehicles, including practical vans and spacious minibuses, we've got the perfect vehicle to help you pack up, hit the road and enjoy a stress-free camping trip this summer.

To find out more about our daily van hire and flexi van hire options, visit our website or give our friendly team a call on 01254 57811. We'll help you find the perfect vehicle, leaving you with just one important decision to make: which campsite are you heading to first?