The campsite serves as the primary gateway for the most direct ascent routes to Helvellyn, England's third-highest mountain.
The site is located on a working sheep farm, meaning livestock are frequently present in adjacent fields.
It is one of the few camping locations in the Lake District that permits direct access to public footpaths leading into the Eastern Fells without requiring vehicle transit.
The park is situated on land historically associated with the lead and zinc mining industry of the Glenridding valley.
Gillside Camping and Caravan Park is situated on a working farm at the southern end of Ullswater in the Lake District National Park. The site provides direct access to the trailhead for the Helvellyn mountain range via the Grisedale Valley. Facilities accommodate tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes with electric hook-up options available. The grounds are positioned within walking distance of Glenridding village and the Ullswater Steamers pier. The park offers views of the surrounding fells and proximity to the shoreline of Ullswater lake. It serves as a popular base for hikers targeting Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. The site is a family-run operation that maintains a traditional farm-campsite atmosphere.
The western edge of the campsite looking back toward the Helvellyn range and the Grisedale Valley.
Book well in advance during peak summer months, as this location is a highly sought-after base for mountain hikers.
Ensure tent pegs are heavy-duty, as the ground can be rocky due to the underlying volcanic geology of the fells.
Check the weather forecast specifically for the Helvellyn summit, as conditions can differ significantly from those at the campsite level.
Attempting to hike Helvellyn in poor weather conditions without proper navigation equipment, regardless of the campsite's proximity.
Operates seasonally from mid-spring through late autumn; closed during winter months.
Maintain quiet hours during the night, keep dogs on leads due to surrounding livestock, and practice 'Leave No Trace' principles.
