10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park

There is no better way to reconnect with nature than to holiday at one of the most scenic campsites in Snowdonia National Park. This mountainous region of North Wales is full of beauty and history and welcomes you amidst magical landscapes, from rivers to hills and woodlands. And, of course, we can not mention Snowdonia without its famous Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales.

I never thought of Wales as a travel destination, yet, I was surprised on my first visit. It had such a beautiful atmosphere with its forests and green hills. I loved it! Since then, I have visited the country and national park many times, and it is always an incredible trip.

Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Snowdonia has so much to offer. And whilst the weather can be unpredictable, going on a camping trip is a great way to slow down, unwind and experience local culture. Plus, it will give you a perfect base to explore the surrounding area with your partner or family.

In this article, discover the 10 best picturesque campsites in Snowdonia National Park for a few days or week trip. From the riverside to the mountains, these sites are ideal for tents, caravans and motorhomes and will give you an excellent taste of the natural beauty of North Wales. Enjoy!

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

My Snowdonia experience:
Season Spring, Summer & Winter
Favourite campsite Llyn Gwynant

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Overview: best campsites in Snowdonia, Wales

1. Snowdon Base Camp: best for hiking Mount Snowdon
2. Llyn Gwynant Campsite: best for water activities
3. Tyn Cornel Riverside Camping & Caravan Park: best for outdoor activities
4. Gwern Gôf Isaf Campsite: best for adventure enthusiasts
5. Pen y Bont: best for families
6. Graig Wen: best for wild camping
7. Dolgam Campsite: best for hikers & climbers
8. Rynys Farm Campsite: best for calm & quietness
9. Talymignedd Campsite: best for photographers
10. Nantcol Waterfalls Campsite: best for children & dog owners

Looking for the best easy walks in Snowdonia? Check out this article:
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Snowdonia

What is Snowdonia National Park?

Situated on the west coast of Britain, Snowdonia is a mountainous region and the largest national park in Wales, covering a total of 823 square miles. It is home to the famous Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales, and over 100 lakes and rugged peaks such as Cader Idris and Tryfan.

Full of beauty and history, Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover and adventure enthusiast. It is also a perfect getaway opportunity for families looking to enjoy the outdoors, as the area provides an endless mix of activities.

READ MORE: 30 Best & Prettiest Places to Visit in The UK

Best campsites in Snowdonia – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

The 10 best campsites in Snowdonia, Wales

1- Snowdon Base Camp

Best for: hiking Snowdon.

If you want to pitch your tent not far from Mount Snowdon whilst enjoying peace and serenity, Snowdon Base Camp is for you! Set in a stunning location overlooking Lake Cwellyn, this campsite is the ideal base for exploring Snowdonia and hiking through breathtaking scenery – with all the best facilities you need. 

In addition, the campsite has its own local pub, the Cwellyn Arms – located less than a 15-minute walk from the site. It is the perfect place to enjoy a hot breakfast or a cold drink after a long day of hiking. 

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL54 6TL 
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: only during quieter periods
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Fire pits
• Picnic benches
• Free power showers and toilets
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Stunning views
• Walking distance to Snowdon

2- Llyn Gwynant Campsite

Best for: water activities.

Llyn Gwynant is located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park and is the ideal campsite for active couples or families looking to have fun and enjoy outdoor activities. From yoga to climbing and swimming, there is something for everyone!

Set in one of the most beautiful valleys in Wales, next to mountains, a river and a lake, it is also a perfect base camp for hiking Snowdon or appreciating the natural beauty of your surroundings and relaxing by the water. Plus, you can bring your own boat or hire canoes and kayaks on-site to explore the nearby area. 

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL55 4NW
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: no – only accept small & large vans
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Limited wifi
• Picnic benches
• Free power showers and toilets
• Food outlet and shop
• Laundry room with washers and dryers
• Boat hire
• Lakeside location
• Walking distance to Snowdon

3- Tyn Cornel Riverside Camping & Caravan Park

Best for: outdoor activities.

If you love wildlife and the outdoors, this site is for you!

Nestled on the banks of the River Tryweryn in the foothills of the Arenig Mountains, four miles from the town of Bala, Tyn Cornel is a peaceful riverside campsite and a perfect site for adventure seekers and families. 

The site offers plenty of spaces for children to play and activities for all ages. From the riverbank, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing or whitewater rafting. And if you want more action, hiking, mountain biking, road cycling, and rock climbing are some of the possibilities the campsite offers. 

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL23 7NU
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Free wifi
• Fire pits
• Picnic benches
• Playing field
• Free power showers and toilets
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Small shop
• Riverside location

4- Gwern Gôf Isaf Campsite

Best for: central & secluded location.

Based on a traditional hill farm between Capel Curig and Llyn Ogwen, Gwern Gof Isaf is an ideally situated campsite with a beautiful view of one of the most recognisable peaks of Britain, Tryfan.

With its central yet secluded location, this site is perfect for escaping the city and taking the time to breathe. And for the most adventurous, the surrounding mountains of the Glyders and Carneddau provide incredible climbing experiences for unforgettable views. 

📍 Location: Conwy, LL24 0EU
🐶 Pet-friendly: no
🚍 Campervans: yes (but no caravans)
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Fire pits
• Picnic benches
• Toilets
• Token operated showers
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Stunning views
• Mountain location

5- Pen y Bont

Best for: families.

Pen y Bont is a small, family-run campsite near Lake Bala and the town of Bala. Whether you want to go outdoors with your family or enjoy a relaxing getaway with your partner, this site covers a variety of activities.

For the thrill-seekers, you will find in the nearby area only a short drive away the Zip World, Tryweryn White Water Rafting, Surf Snowdonia, and many more. And if you prefer to spend a few calm and relaxing days, stay at the campsite and appreciate the scenery and fresh air. Or explore the town of Bala, just a five-minute walk away.

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL23 7PH
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Limited wifi
• Picnic benches
• Free power showers and toilets
• Small shop
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Lakeside location
• Walking distance to Bala

6- Graig Wen

Best for: wild camping.

Graig Wen is a small and tranquil campsite near Barmouth and Dolgellau with direct access to the Mawddach Estuary and cycle trails. The fields are car-free and are the perfect place to get away from it all, unwind and watch the stars around a campfire. 

With 45 acres of meadows and wild woods crossed by streams and dry stone walls overlooking the estuary, you will find yourself surrounded by unspoilt landscapes and wildlife. It is ideal for campers with an adventurous spirit looking for a wilder experience or families with older children.

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL39 1YP
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes – camper vans and small motorhomes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Fire pits
• Picnic benches
• Small shop
• Free power showers and toilets
• Stunning views over the estuary
• Wild camping

7- Dolgam Campsite

Best for: hikers & climbers.

Situated on the bank of the river Llugwy, Dolgam is a paradise for walkers and climbers visiting the area due to its stunning background and ideal location between Betws-y-Coed and Capel Curig.

With spectacular views of the Moel Siabod mountains and a scenic riverside position, the site is open all year round, making it a perfect base to explore Snowdonia during all seasons. Plus, you will find the Gwydyr Forest and many peaks within ten miles of the campsite for countless trails to discover. 

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL39 1YP
🐶 Pet-friendly: no
🚍 Campervans: yes (no caravans)
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Free power showers and toilets
• Mountain views
• Riverside location

8- Rynys Farm Campsite

Best for: quiet & peaceful location.

Rynys Farm campsite occupies a peaceful and picturesque location two miles from the village of Betws-y-Coed. The site offers gorgeous views down the Machno Valley and towards Moel Siabod and is an excellent base from which to explore Snowdonia National Park and the rest of North Wales.

Due to its central location, the nearby peaks are perfect for walkers and mountain bikers, with numerous paths starting near the campsite, including the Machno Falls, the Penmachno and Marin Trails. And if you prefer to relax, stay at the site and enjoy the quietness of the countryside. 

📍 Location: Betws-y-Coed, LL26 0RU
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Toilets
• Token operated showers
• Limited wifi
• Stunning views
• Countryside location

9- Talymignedd Campsite

Best for: photographers & nature lovers. 

Tucked in the Nantlle Valley, Talymignedd is a family-run campsite offering a quiet and peaceful getaway with fantastic views of Snowdonia and over the Nantlle ridge. It is the ideal spot for any nature lover and photographer looking to capture breathtaking landscapes. 

From walking to cycling and fishing, this site offers a variety of activities right on your doorstep. You can easily stroll through the fields to the farm lake or walk to the top of the nearby hill, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the valley. Plus, a path to Mount Snowdon is just a 5-minute drive from the campsite.

📍 Location: Natlle, LL54 6BT
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Fire pits
• Free power showers and toilets
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Breathtaking views

10- Nantcol Waterfalls Campsite

Best for: kids & dog owners.

Nestled at the base of the rugged Rhinog mountain range and two miles from Shell Island and its golden sandy beaches, Nantcol Waterfalls offers a unique camping experience and first-class luxury facilities. Find a perfect spot among the seven acres of land or relax by the river with a campfire – the choice is yours!

This campsite is ideal for families with kids and dog owners, as it offers plenty of space for walking and swimming. Plus, you will find from the car park the start of four different trails taking you on a journey through woods and rivers, making it an excellent place to uncover the natural beauty of Snowdonia.

📍 Location: Gwynedd, LL45 2PL
🐶 Pet-friendly: yes
🚍 Campervans: yes
⛺ Main facilities & highlights:

• Fire pits
• Picnic benches
• Free power showers and toilets
• Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
• Scenic woodland and river walks

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Best campsites near Snowdon

Wherever you stay in Snowdonia, you will have easy access to Snowdon. However, if your goal is to hike as much as possible and avoid taking the car, here are a few campsites that will make for a perfect base:

• National Trust – Hafod y Llan: a working farm offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and an ideal location for exploring Snowdon and the nearby hiking trails.

• Snowdon Base Camp: a scenic campsite excellent for pitching your tent not far from Mount Snowdon whilst enjoying peace and serenity with all the best facilities you need. 

• Llyn Gwynant Campsite: the perfect base camp for hiking Snowdon and appreciating the natural beauty of your surroundings, relaxing by the water and enjoying lots of fun outdoor activities.

How to get to Snowdonia

BY CAR

You can easily reach Snowdonia by car whether you are coming from the UK or the rest of Europe. From London, the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours and 2-3 hours from Manchester. 

You can also fly to the nearest airports (Manchester Airport or Liverpool John Lennon Airport) and rent a car from there. 

BY BUS 

National Express and other bus services connect major cities to towns in and around Snowdonia. Bus services within Snowdonia are also available but keep in mind that they may be less frequent, especially in more remote areas.

BY TRAIN

The main train stations in Snowdonia are Bangor and Betws-y-Coed. You can take a train from major cities like London, Manchester or Liverpool to Bangor. From Bangor, you can use local transport or hire a taxi to reach different parts of the national park.

How to get around Snowdonia

BY CAR 

The easiest way to get around Snowdonia freely is by car. You can bring your own or rent one to allow you to explore different parts of the national park at your own pace. Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in more remote areas, so plan your routes accordingly.

BY TRAIN

Another fun option is to travel through Snowdonia by train. For example, you will find the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, heritage railways offering scenic rides across the national park. They connect towns like Porthmadog, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Caernarfon, providing a unique and leisurely way to experience the landscape.

BY BUS

You will find local bus services connecting towns and villages within Snowdonia. However, these services may be less frequent in more remote areas, so check the schedules in advance.

ON FOOT

If you enjoy hiking, Snowdonia offers a network of footpaths and trails, allowing you to explore the stunning scenery on foot. This is an excellent way to experience the national park up close and truly enjoy the beautiful landscapes and local villages.

BY BIKE

Alternatively, for the most courageous, you can explore on a bike! Snowdonia has cycling routes suitable for different skill levels, so you can bring your own bike or rent one locally. But keep in mind that some routes may be challenging due to hilly terrain.

Wild camping in Snowdonia

Wild camping is not permitted anywhere in Snowdonia – or Wales under current law – unless you have prior permission from the landowner or farmer. Camping in car parks or on roadside verges is also not allowed at any time.

I recommend using official campsites in the national park, such as the ones in this article. All these campsites offer wide open spaces through the countryside, woodlands and mountains and are perfect places to immerse yourself in nature. 

In addition, there are plenty of sites near Snowdon, so you will have no problem finding a spot near the famous mountain. 

And if you have permission to wild camp, it should be done responsibly and discreetly in the hills and mountains. For more information, read the Snowdonia Wild Camping Code.

Want to spot the legendary monster Nessie? Check out this article: 
Loch Ness Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do

Best time to visit Snowdonia

Snowdonia is one of those places where the weather can be unsettled, and you can experience four seasons in one day. With mountains and sea nearby, rainfall is a non-negotiable part of the National Park. 

But do not panic! You can still visit Snowdonia any time of the year and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, and here is some guidance.

Spring is a great time to go outdoors and enjoy the cities, trails and castles. Some months such as March and April may still be wet, but the colours and atmosphere will be lovely. It will be the ideal opportunity to enjoy a stroll along a lake with the morning mist.

Summer is the best time to visit Snowdonia as it is the hottest and driest. This season is the perfect period to enjoy wildlife and the natural beauty of the national park through camping, climbing or kayaking – the possible activities are endless, making it a prime time for families.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit Snowdonia, as the forests and landscapes are breathtaking. You will also have fewer crowds, and the weather will still be comfortable with some rain. It is the perfect period for nature lovers and photographers. 

Winter is one of the roughest times to visit the national park, as the days will be darker and the weather cold and unpredictable. However, most of Snowdonia will be empty, with only residents in local areas. And if skiing or winter climbing is your thing, look no further.

Going to the Lake District National Park? Check out this article:   
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District

How long to stay in Snowdonia

Snowdonia is a large national park offering many possible sights and experiences. Therefore, I recommend spending 2 to 3 days in the area, but more would be ideal. Most commonly, one day would be to climb Snowdon and the rest to explore the surrounding villages, lakes and hills.

When visiting a natural site such as Snowdonia, prioritise quality over quantity and stay longer, which means: slowing down, taking the time to appreciate the scenery and getting to know the local culture. That is why camping is an excellent way to discover this national park! 

In addition, by adopting a slow travel approach, you will learn much more about your destination whilst having a positive impact – does it not sound good?

Want more scenic camping inspiration? Check out this article: 
10 Best Campsites in the Lake District, UK

Sustainable camping in Snowdonia

What is sustainable travel?

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Want to know more? Check out this article: 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Yes, sustainability in a national park such as Snowdonia matters a lot. As travellers, we need to be aware of our carbon footprint and reduce it as much as we can when staying or exploring natural and protected spaces. 

Plus, the popularity of Snowdonia and its well-known Mount Snowdon has come with a price: over-crowded places, environmental and wildlife destruction and path erosion (to name a few). That is why we all have a role to play.  

What is eco-camping?

Sustainability also applies to camping. Eco-camping is a way to leave as little impact as possible on the places you stay, which means being mindful of what you pack, where you go and what you do whilst camping. READ MORE: 20 Best Eco-Friendly & Durable Camping Gear.

Sustainable camping tips 

Here are some tips to minimise your environmental impact when camping with a tent, caravan and motorhome in Snowdonia for a short or long stay:

• Leave no trace: sustainable camping means leaving little to no trace. Therefore, do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter, as leftover waste damages the local ecosystem. Take biodegradable bin bags with you and, of course, leave the place better than you found it 🙂

• Bring reusable, plastic-free items: it will help prevent excess trash during your camping trip. For instance, avoid single-use plastic water bottles and prioritise a reusable filtered bottle such as this one. You can refill it anywhere from lake to river for clean and fresh water. The same applies to food containers and toiletries.

• Choose eco-friendly toiletries: for your sustainable camping holiday, pack toiletries and cleaning products that are biodegradable and not harmful to the environment. And if you visit Snowdonia in summer, wear a zero-waste and natural sunscreen that does not contain destructive chemicals.

• Pack sustainable gear: arrive in Snowdonia prepared and pack items made from natural fabrics to limit the spread of microplastics and reduce your impact. Here are a few of my favourite eco-responsible brands: Merrell, Osprey and Rab.

• Minimise campfire impacts: only make a campfire if it is allowed on the land you are camping and always consider your surroundings first, especially in summer when the terrain is dry. If not done correctly, campfires can have a disastrous impact on wildlife and the environment.

• Respect wildlife: enjoy watching and learning about wild animals but do not approach or feed them! Remember that you are only a visitor in their home, so do not disturb their environment, especially during mating and nesting seasons.

• Be considerate of other visitors and locals: when camping in Snowdonia, the chances are you will encounter other people any time of the year. So be mindful of your surroundings, and do not play loud music or make a lot of noise. Camping is about reconnecting with nature and appreciating peace and quiet – so make the most of it! Also, remember that the national park is a place to live and work. Be grateful to the locals for welcoming you and smile 🙂 

Want to know more?

• Sustainable Travel Guide: What, Why & How
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Carbon Offset Your Flight: Complete Guide
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Download your FREE sustainable travel checklist ↓

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Wales travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Wales?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your camping trip in Snowdonia stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Wales?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Wales, including Snowdonia. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Wales?
Yes, renting a car in Wales is easy and is a great way to explore Snowdonia National Park freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Wales?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Snowdonia camping – FAQ

And you, which is your favourite campsite in Snowdonia National Park?
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie