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The Best Camping and Caravan Sites Along the River Thames

Writer: HelenHelen

Updated: 4 days ago


White caravan with attached black-and-white awning, set on green grass under a sunny blue sky. Visible text: Challenger sport, Swift.

The River Thames isn’t just the beating heart of London—it winds its way through some of the most scenic countryside in England, offering the perfect backdrop for camping and caravan adventures. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly campsite, a peaceful riverside retreat, or a dog-friendly getaway, these top-rated Thames-side caravan parks and campsites deliver the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and adventure.


Open field with green grass, trees, and bushes under a cloudy sky. A distant red hot air balloon floats above. Calm, peaceful setting.

1. Hurley Riverside Park, Berkshire


A Picturesque, Dog-Friendly Campsite on the River Thames


📍 Location: Hurley, Berkshire

🏕️ Accommodation: Touring pitches for caravans, motorhomes, and tents

🐾 Dog-Friendly? ✅ Yes, up to two dogs per pitch


This caravan and camping park is very close to my heart. Not only did it begin my love affair with Hurley, the place I now call home, but it is without a doubt the most beautiful, well-run caravan site I have ever stayed on. The family who run it are now personal friends, and I know how much they care about making the park a great place to be, so much so that many of the caravan owners spent much of their year on the park and are very much involved in village life.


Sun setting over a lake, with purple thistle flowers in the foreground, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Nestled in the charming village of Hurley, this award-winning, family-run park is a favourite among campers who love riverside walks, boating, and fishing. With direct access to the Thames, this well-maintained site provides modern facilities while keeping its countryside charm.


🔹 Facilities & Features:


• Spacious grass and hard-standing pitches with electric hook-ups

• Heated shower blocks and modern family-friendly facilities

• On-site shop for camping essentials and fresh produce

• Children’s playground and dedicated nature trail

• Dog-friendly site with a heated dog wash and walking areas

• Direct river access for kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing


📍 Nearby Attractions: Take a riverside stroll Henley-on-Thames, explore the historic town of Marlow, or enjoy traditional British pubs in Hurley. Home to the Hurley Regatta held in August, which is a great family-friendly day out, Hurley fete in July and easy access to Henley Royal Regatta, Pub in the Park in Marlow and Henley Rewind festival.


Two adult swans and four cygnets swim peacefully in a calm pond. The morning sunlight casts a warm glow on the serene scene.

🌍 More info: hurleyriversidepark.co.uk


2. Swiss Farm Touring and Camping, Henley-on-Thames


Outdoor pool with clear blue water under a bright sky. Green lounge chairs line the poolside. Trees and a small building in the background.

Luxury Camping & Caravanning in Henley-on-Thames


📍 Location: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

🏕️ Accommodation: Touring caravan pitches, tent pitches, and glamping pods

🐾 Dog-Friendly? ✅ Yes


For a more luxurious outdoor experience, Swiss Farm Touring and Camping is a highly rated campsite just a short walk from Henley-on-Thames. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Henley Royal Regatta, quaint riverside cafes, and boutique shops.


🔹 Facilities & Features:


• Spacious fully serviced touring pitches

• Luxury glamping pods for a stylish outdoor stay

• Heated swimming pool (seasonal)

• On-site licensed café and farm shop

• Fishing lake and riverside walks

• Dog-friendly site with designated walking areas


📍 Nearby Attractions: Enjoy a boat trip along the Thames, visit the River & Rowing Museum, or indulge in fine dining at one of Henley’s famous restaurants.Easy access to Henley Royal Regatta and Henley Rewind festival.


🌍 More info: swissfarmcamping.co.uk


3. Bridge Villa Camping & Caravan Park, Wallingford


Green field with tall trees under a blue sky. Car and trailer near a hedge, fence and houses in the background. Calm and sunny setting.

A Peaceful Riverside Campsite near Historic Wallingford


📍 Location: Wallingford, Oxfordshire

🏕️ Accommodation: Touring caravan pitches, motorhomes, and tents

🐾 Dog-Friendly? ✅ Yes


Located just a two-minute walk from the Thames, Bridge Villa Camping & Caravan Park is a family-run site offering a peaceful escape with easy access to charming Wallingford—a market town known for its history and riverside charm.


🔹 Facilities & Features:


• Spacious pitches for tents and touring caravans

• Modern shower blocks and laundry facilities

• On-site shop for camping supplies and essentials

• Riverside walks and cycling routes nearby

• Pet-friendly site with ample walking areas


📍 Nearby Attractions: Explore the historic streets of Wallingford, visit the Cholsey & Wallingford Railway, or take a scenic river cruise.


🌍 More info: bridgevilla.co.uk


4. Lee Valley Camping & Caravan Park, London


Three wooden cabins with green roofs in a grassy field under a clear blue sky. The mood is peaceful and rustic.

A Riverside Escape on the Outskirts of London


📍 Location: Edmonton, London

🏕️ Accommodation: Caravan pitches, motorhome spaces, and glamping pods

🐾 Dog-Friendly? ✅ Yes


For those looking for a mix of countryside and city life, Lee Valley Camping & Caravan Park offers a peaceful retreat just outside London. Located near Lee Valley Regional Park, it’s perfect for nature lovers who still want easy access to the capital.


🔹 Facilities & Features:


• Glamping pods, tent, and caravan pitches

• Golf course, cinema, and sports facilities on-site

• Close to train stations for easy access to central London

• Dog-friendly with riverside trails


📍 Nearby Attractions: Visit the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, explore the Lee Valley Nature Reserve, or hop on a train for a day in London.


🌍 More info: visitleevalley.org.uk


5. Thamesview Camping, Essex


Eco-Friendly Camping on a Riverside Farm


A white bell tent with flags and open entrance on grass, showing inside a bed and small table, under a clear blue sky. Relaxed mood.

📍 Location: East Tilbury, Essex

🏕️ Accommodation: Tent pitches, touring caravan spaces, and bell tents

🐾 Dog-Friendly? ✅ Yes (one dog per pitch)


For a back-to-nature experience, Thamesview Camping offers a unique, eco-conscious stay on a working cattle farm. With campfires allowed, this is the perfect spot for those looking for an authentic camping experience with beautiful views of the Thames.


🔹 Facilities & Features:


• Off-grid, eco-friendly camping

• Spacious pitches for tents and tourers

• Glamping options in luxury bell tents

• Riverside fishing, birdwatching, and cycling routes

• Dog-friendly with leash rules to protect livestock


📍 Nearby Attractions: Discover the historic Tilbury Fort, take a Thames estuary walk, or explore the Thurrock countryside.


🌍 More info: thamesview-camping.com


Final Thoughts on the best Camping and Caravan Sites Along the River Thames


Boats on a river; one towing the other. People in red uniforms, flags displayed. Lush green trees and a clear blue sky in the background.

Whether you’re after luxury glamping in Henley, a family-friendly caravan park in Berkshire, or an eco-friendly farm stay in Essex, these are some of the best camping and caravan sites along the River Thames provide the perfect combination of nature, adventure, and relaxation.


For the best experience, book early, especially during summer and bank holidays, and check the site’s policies on dogs, campfires, and river access.


Have you stayed at a riverside campsite on the Thames? Share your experiences in the comments!


Don’t forget to save this guide for your next outdoor adventure!



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