Motorhome Parks In Settle, England -- Find Motorhome Campgrounds
2.2772° S, 54.0686° E
Quick Overview
Settle sits in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, where limestone cliffs rise dramatically above the River Ribble and centuries-old market squares buzz with local life. This historic market town draws motorhome travelers with its proximity to Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough peaks, plus easy access to the famous Settle-Carlisle Railway line. The surrounding dales offer some of England's most spectacular countryside, with dry stone walls crisscrossing emerald fields and traditional pubs serving hearty Yorkshire fare.
The camping scene here centers around several established campgrounds, with some offering free overnight stays. Most parks cater to touring caravans and motorhomes with electric hookups, though facilities vary significantly between sites. The area attracts a mix of hiking enthusiasts, railway buffs, and families exploring the Three Peaks challenge.
From your pitch near Settle, you're perfectly positioned for day trips to Malham Cove's towering limestone amphitheater, just 20 minutes north. The town itself rewards exploration on foot – browse the Tuesday market, climb up to Castleberg rock for valley views, or catch a steam train through Ribblehead Viaduct. Many campers use Settle as a base for tackling Yorkshire's famous walking routes, including sections of the Pennine Way.
Camping styles range from basic grass pitches with electric hookups to more developed sites with shower blocks and camp shops. Most parks welcome families and offer level pitches suitable for larger motorhomes, though advance booking is essential during summer months and bank holidays. The area's popularity with walkers means many sites fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Visit between May and September for the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, though spring brings fewer crowds and stunning wildflower displays. Winter camping is possible but limited, as some sites close from November through March. Book early for summer stays, particularly if you're planning to coincide with the Settle Folk Festival in July.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Settle
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All Dump Stations Near Settle
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knight Stainforth Hall Camping & Caravan Park, Settle, North Yorkshire | 5043.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Orcaber Farm Caravan & Camping Park | 5047.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Traveling to Settle by RV
The A65 provides the main route into Settle from both Leeds (45 miles southeast) and Kendal (35 miles northwest), offering a scenic drive through Yorkshire Dales countryside. From the M6, exit at Junction 36 and follow the A65 west through Kirkby Lonsdale – this approach gives you stunning views of Ingleborough as you descend into Ribblesdale. The roads are generally motorhome-friendly, though some of the narrow country lanes leading to individual campsites require careful navigation with larger rigs.
Fuel up in Skipton or Kendal before heading into the dales, as petrol stations become sparse once you're in the national park. Tesco and Morrison's in Settle provide good grocery shopping, while the Co-op offers basics if you need last-minute supplies. The town center has several outdoor gear shops for walking equipment and maps.
Be aware that some of the minor roads around Malham and Grassington have weight restrictions and tight turns unsuitable for larger motorhomes. Stick to the A65 and B6479 for the safest routes to most campgrounds. Parking in Settle town center is limited, so consider walking or cycling from your campsite rather than driving into the market square area.
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Dump Station Costs in Settle
Caravan Site rates in the Settle area typically range from £18-25 per night for a standard pitch with electric hookup, rising to £30-35 for premium locations with mountain views during peak summer months. Of the area's several camping options, a portion% offer free stays while a portion% charge standard commercial rates.
Summer pricing (July-August) runs 20-30% higher than shoulder seasons, with bank holiday weekends commanding premium rates. Many sites offer discounts for stays of a week or longer, particularly valuable if you're using Settle as a base for exploring the broader Yorkshire Dales region.
Caravan Club and Camping and Caravanning Club members can access reduced rates at affiliated sites, typically saving £3-5 per night. Some farms offer basic camping at lower rates (£12-15) but with minimal facilities – perfect for self-sufficient RVers who just need a legal overnight spot.
Grocery costs in Settle run slightly higher than urban areas, so stock up on non-perishables before entering the dales. Pub meals range from £12-18 for hearty portions, while takeaway options are limited but reasonably priced.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Settle
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Best Time to Visit Settle by RV
Winter
December-February
35-45°F
Crowds: Low
Several campgrounds close; check availability. Stunning snow-capped peaks but limited daylight for hiking activities.
Spring
March-May
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Wildflower season with fewer crowds. Some sites reopen mid-March. Book ahead for Easter weekend.
Summer
June-August
55-70°F
Crowds: High
Peak season requires advance booking. Warmest weather but expect crowds on popular walking routes.
Fall
September-November
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Beautiful autumn colors and fewer families. Some sites begin closing in November. Great hiking weather.
Explore the Settle Area
Knight Stainforth Hall Caravan Park consistently gets the best reviews from motorhome travelers, offering level pitches with mountain views and excellent facilities about 3 miles north of Settle. Their shower blocks stay spotlessly clean and they're perfectly positioned for exploring both Malham and the Ribble Valley. Book well ahead for summer weekends.
For wild camping enthusiasts, the Yorkshire Dales allows responsible overnight parking in some areas, though designated campgrounds are strongly recommended given the sensitive landscape. Check with local wardens before attempting any off-grid camping.
Don't miss the Settle-Carlisle Railway – you can park at Settle station and take the train to Ribblehead Viaduct for spectacular photos without driving narrow mountain roads. The Naked Man pub in Settle serves excellent local ales and welcomes muddy walkers, while Ye Olde Naked Man Cafe does brilliant full English breakfasts.
Dog owners will find most campsites pet-friendly, and the surrounding fells offer endless walking opportunities. Keep dogs on leads around livestock – sheep farming is still very active throughout the dales.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Settle
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Settle?
Knight Stainforth Hall Caravan Park tops most lists with excellent facilities and mountain views, while Riverside Caravan Park offers a more budget-friendly option closer to town. Both provide electric hookups and clean amenities, though Knight Stainforth's location makes it ideal for serious hikers tackling the Three Peaks challenge.
Is there free motorhome camping near Settle?
True free camping is extremely limited in this area of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with most overnight stays requiring payment at established campgrounds. Some farm sites offer basic pitches at lower rates around £12-15, but completely free options are virtually non-existent due to the protected landscape status.
What is the best time of year to camp in Settle?
May through September offers the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours for hiking and sightseeing. July and August bring the warmest temperatures but also the biggest crowds and highest caravan site rates. Spring (April-May) provides excellent value with wildflower displays and fewer tourists competing for the best pitches.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Settle?
Most campgrounds in the Settle area offer electric hookups as standard, but full service pitch with water and sewer connections are less common than in other parts of England. Many sites provide fresh water taps and chemical toilet disposal points, which adequately serve most touring caravans and motorhomes for short to medium-length stays.
Can I take my motorhome on the Settle-Carlisle Railway?
The railway doesn't transport vehicles, but you can park your motorhome at Settle station and take the passenger train for spectacular scenic rides through Ribblehead Viaduct. This approach lets you experience the famous railway line without navigating narrow mountain roads with your rig, making it perfect for day trips from your caravan site base.
What hiking trails are accessible from Settle campgrounds?
The Pennine Way passes directly through Settle, offering everything from short riverside walks to challenging fell climbs up Pen-y-ghent. Most campgrounds provide easy access to footpaths leading to Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and the Three Peaks route. Local sites often stock Ordnance Survey maps and can recommend routes suitable for your fitness level and available time.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Settle?
Knight Stainforth Hall Caravan Park tops most lists with excellent facilities and mountain views, while Riverside Caravan Park offers a more budget-friendly option closer to town. Both provide electric hookups and clean amenities, though Knight Stainforth's location makes it ideal for serious hikers tackling the Three Peaks challenge.
Is there free motorhome camping near Settle?
True free camping is extremely limited in this area of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with most overnight stays requiring payment at established campgrounds. Some farm sites offer basic pitches at lower rates around £12-15, but completely free options are virtually non-existent due to the protected landscape status.
What is the best time of year to camp in Settle?
May through September offers the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours for hiking and sightseeing. July and August bring the warmest temperatures but also the biggest crowds and highest caravan site rates. Spring (April-May) provides excellent value with wildflower displays and fewer tourists competing for the best pitches.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Settle?
Most campgrounds in the Settle area offer electric hookups as standard, but full service pitch with water and sewer connections are less common than in other parts of England. Many sites provide fresh water taps and chemical toilet disposal points, which adequately serve most touring caravans and motorhomes for short to medium-length stays.
Can I take my motorhome on the Settle-Carlisle Railway?
The railway doesn't transport vehicles, but you can park your motorhome at Settle station and take the passenger train for spectacular scenic rides through Ribblehead Viaduct. This approach lets you experience the famous railway line without navigating narrow mountain roads with your rig, making it perfect for day trips from your caravan site base.
What hiking trails are accessible from Settle campgrounds?
The Pennine Way passes directly through Settle, offering everything from short riverside walks to challenging fell climbs up Pen-y-ghent. Most campgrounds provide easy access to footpaths leading to Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and the Three Peaks route. Local sites often stock Ordnance Survey maps and can recommend routes suitable for your fitness level and available time.
