Your first camper van camping trip should be easy, memorable, and full of charm. These seven small, independent campsites—all within about 150 miles of Scarborough—are ideal for beginners. From moorland retreats to countryside pubs, each one welcomes camper vans and offers that personal, family-run touch.

1. 🌿 Prospect House Farm – Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: 0 miles
Best for: Stargazing, nature, and coastal walks
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes (limited grass pitches & EHU available)

Just a few miles from the sea and nestled in the North York Moors, Prospect House Farm is a peaceful escape. Expect wildflower meadows, dark skies, and thoughtfully eco-conscious facilities. If you’re looking to slow down and soak up Yorkshire’s natural beauty on your first camper van outing, this is the place. Complete with fire pit hire, a small shop and pizza nights throughout the year.

2. 🏞 Catgill Farm – Bolton Abbey, North Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 70 miles
Best for: Iconic views, family fun, and adventure
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes (hardstanding & EHU available)

Located near Bolton Abbey in the Yorkshire Dales, Catgill Farm combines boutique camping vibes with sweeping valley views. It’s a well-loved site with great facilities, a coffee shop, and family-friendly extras like firepit hire and wood-fired pizza. It’s an ideal stop for new camper van travellers looking for comfort with a touch of adventure.

3. 🌾 Wethercote Farm – Near Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 50 miles
Best for: Hikes, views, and peace
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes

A relaxed and rural campsite on the edge of the North York Moors, Wethercote is a top pick for walkers and those looking to escape the crowds. Pitches are grassy and spaced out, with no frills—just countryside and quiet.

4. 🌳 Mount Pleasant Farm – Near Pickering, North Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 20 miles
Best for: Forest trails and market towns
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes

This welcoming site is a short drive from both Dalby Forest and the market town of Pickering. It’s a great location for active travellers and families wanting to explore trails, castles, and country pubs. Expect simple, clean facilities and a friendly vibe.

5. 🌸 Field House Campsite – Driffield, East Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 30 miles
Best for: Wolds walking and a touch of luxury
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes

Peaceful and uncrowded, Field House Campsite sits in the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds. It’s a low-key site with gorgeous countryside views and an on-site café serving up good coffee and local bakes—ideal for relaxed, rural camper van weekends.

6. 🌲 Tranwell Farm – Morpeth, Northumberland

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 100 miles
Best for: Woodland peace and off-grid escapes
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes

A quiet, rustic site surrounded by trees, Tranwell Farm is all about simplicity. You’ll find big skies, birdsong, and space to breathe. It’s perfect for vanlifers who prefer their trips tech-free and tranquil.

7. 🐑 Spital Farm – Staxton, North Yorkshire

Distance from Scarborough: Approx. 8 miles
Best for: Easy facilities and pub dining
Camper van friendly: ✅ Yes (EHU available)

If you’re new to camper van travel and want a site that’s easygoing with solid facilities, Spital Farm is a safe bet. It’s close to the A64, offers electric hook-ups, and even has a carvery pub on-site.

🚐 Plan Your Camper Van Camping Trip Near Scarborough

These seven independent campsites showcase the best of North Yorkshire and beyond—from forest adventures to starry skies. Each one offers a friendly, laid-back environment to help you ease into van life, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family.