My husband and I are huge fans of hiking and camping in Snowdonia, North Wales. It provides some of the most accessible yet rewarding outdoor experiences in the country. With well-marked trails such as PYG Track and Miners’ Track, designated campsites, and a variety of challenging peaks like Tyfan, it is ideal for both novice and seasoned adventurers and hikers. Snowdonia National Park is home to Wales’ highest mountain, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), which has a diverse network of hiking routes suitable for day hikes to the summit.
Camping in Snowdonia
We have camped in Snowdonia many times, especially while training for the Three Peaks Challenge. The area is well known for its unpredictable weather, diverse terrain, and protected natural habitats, making careful planning and responsible travel essential for activities in Snowdonia. From choosing the right hiking trail to understanding local camping regulations. Here are our tips and information for camping in Snowdonia (Eryri National Park).
Walking along the PyG Track to the Mont Snowdon Summit
Snowdonia National Park
When most people think of Snowdonia, Wales, they picture Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, standing at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) above sea level. Snowdon is regarded as one of the busiest mountains in the United Kingdom and one of the most visited destinations in Wales. Snowdonia National Park (also known as Eryri National Park), located in northwest Wales, covers an area of approximately 823 square miles (2,130 square kilometres).
It is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, deep valleys, lakes, and forests. There is so much to do and see in Snowdonia, from hiking and climbing to camping and kayaking. On the summit of Snowdon, you have Hafod Eryris, which you can reach either by hiking or getting the Snowdon Railway Train from Llanberis Station.
Hiking in Snowdonia
More than half a million visitors come to Snowdonia to go hiking each year. There are numerous hiking routes to the summit of Snowdon in Wales, varying in difficulty and distance, with the PyG Track or Miners Track being the most popular. Snowdonia (Yr Wyddfa) National Park is also home to an extensive network of other trails, over 100 lakes and craggy peaks. My favourites are Tryfan Mountain and the surrounding peaks, like Glyder Fawr. Jack Wolfskin outlet online store offers a wide range of outdoor gear for hiking and camping.
Snowdon Mountain Railway – Snowdon, Wales
Camping in Snowdonia
Why would you not want to wake up with the beautiful mountains as your backdrop, while you are having breakfast over a campfire? There are also several camping areas scattered at various sites around the base of the mountains in the Snowdonia National Park (Eryri). Some can be hard to get to, especially if you don’t have a car, so I suggest checking for the hiking routes you want to do and then choosing a campsite around the area. Use an ultralight sleeping bag suitable for use in a tent or outdoors.
Here are just a few suggestions for camping sites near major trails in Snowdonia National Park that offer basic facilities.
Llyn Gwynant Campsite
Llyn Gwynant Campsite is located in the Nant Gwynant valley near several hiking trails. It is one of the best campsites near Snowdon. It provides toilets, showers, and an on-site takeaway pizza place with wood-fired pizzas. The campsite also offers direct access to a lake where you can swim or paddleboard. Llyn Gwynant Campsite is accessible via the Sherpa S4 bus route, which leads to Pen-y-Pass and various hiking trails in Snowdonia.
We’ve done the Watkin Path from Llyn Gwynant Campsite, where we stayed.
Gwern Gof Isaf Farm Campsite
Gwern Gof Isaf Farm Campsite is situated near Glyderau and Tryfan mountain, one of my favourite areas to scramble and hike. It is a large farm with five camping areas, each equipped with showers, toilets, and washing facilities. The site also provides a bunkhouse, a shepherd’s hut, and holiday cottages, all with great mountain views.
Gwern Gof Isaf Farm Campsite is accessible via the T10 TrawsCymru bus route, which runs between Bangor and Corwen, passing through Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) via Betws-y-Coed. Suitable for campers arriving by train.
Tyisaf Campsite
We usually stay at Tŷ Isaf Nant Peris Campsite, Caernarfon, near Maes Parcio Car Park. The bus departs directly from here to the Pen y Pass Car Park, just 5 minutes away. It is the starting point for two of the most popular hiking routes, the Pyg Track and the Miners’ Track. There is also a pub across the road from the campsite, Vaynol Arms, which is a great place for food or drinks.
Tŷ Isaf Nant Peris campsite provides basic facilities, including a washing-up area, toilets, and a paid shower block. It’s perfect for after hiking in Snowdonia. There are no power outlets at the campsite, so bring a head touch for moving around at night or a portable charger. The campsite is fairly priced and convenient for visitors coming by car or train. Another campsite nearby is Cae Gwyn Campsite.
Our tent is set up at Tyisaf Campsite, Snowdonia National Park
Wild Camping in Snowdonia
I personally don’t go wild camping, as I prefer to stay at a paid campsite or a hotel. However, I know that wild camping attracts many hikers on routes like Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa). It’s important to understand that it’s not officially legal to wild camp without landowner permission, but it’s often tolerated if carried out responsibly.
Wild camping in Snowdonia should adhere to a strict “leave no trace” principle: camp high, arrive late, leave early, and avoid lighting fires. Areas near Llyn Idwal and the quieter slopes of Cadair Idris are popular, but always be discreet and respectful when pitching a tent. Consider using something like a Dry Sack Trash Bag to store your rubbish when wild camping.
Snowdonia Camping Pods
Camping Pods, or glamping, are a good option if you love the idea of camping but dislike the hassle of pitching a tent (or facing Welsh weather). There are several glamping and camping pods in Snowdonia National Park. These wooden shelters provide a cosy, weatherproof base while keeping you close to the mountains, making them ideal for hikers seeking a bit more comfort after a long day on the trails.
Here are some great camping pod site options across Snowdonia, all well placed for hiking adventures in the nature reserve:
Bryn Dinas Camping Pods
Bryn Dinas Camping Pods is located in the Nant Gwynant valley at the foot of Snowdon along the A498, near Pont Bethania car park. It is one of the top spots for hikers planning to tackle the Llwybr Watkin Path. The pods are insulated and heated, offering a comfortable stay right in the centre of the mountain landscape.
Glamping in Llanberis
Glamping in Llanberis is situated near Llanberis village, one of the main gateways to Snowdon. It is an excellent location for anyone looking to hike the Llanberis Path or catch the Snowdon Railway train up to Snowdon. Several glamping yurts sleep 2-4 people and are equipped with electric fires and USB ports for charging.
Scrambling on Gib Goch up to the summit of Snowdon
Use Betws-y-Coed as a base instead of camping
Alternatively, if you can’t find a place to camp for logistical reasons, Betws-y-Coed is an ideal base. We have stayed here multiple times when hiking Snowdon and Tryfan. It is a great location, especially if you are not driving, as the town is walkable. There is a train station, plenty of outdoor shops, and the Sherpa bus service will take you from there to Snowdon, as well as to other hiking routes and towns in the area.
Additionally, there is a good selection of places to eat and drink, such as Y Stablau – Stables Bar (a favourite of ours) and the Hangin’ Pizzeria. A great spot for ice cream and a coffee is Cadwaladers. While there are no major hotel chains, there are B&Bs, guesthouses, and boutique hotels. Some places we recommend staying at include the Royal Oak Hotel, the Gwydyr Hotel, and the Glan Aber Hotel.
Getting around Snowdonia camping and hiking routes
Local buses known as the Sherpa bus service connect the main towns, hiking trails, campsites, and parking areas across Snowdonia National Park. Services increase during peak hiking seasons, especially to car parks like Llanberis and Pen y Pass for the popular Pyg Track and Miners’ Track up to Snowdon.
The Sherpa bus service allows passengers to travel one way on one route and return on another. Tickets can be purchased on the bus for either a single journey or a day pass. When the Pen y Pass car park is full, we park at Maes Parcio Car Park and catch the bus, which is two stops away. We usually opt for a day pass as it’s more convenient for us.
Hiking and camping with our car in Snowdonia the best option for getting around
How to Get to Snowdonia
There are several options on how to get to Snowdonia (Eryri National Park), depending on where you’re travelling from and how much flexibility you have. These options are Car, train and bus. If you have a car, how about visiting Pembroke Castle while in Wales?
By Car
Driving is the most convenient and best way to reach Snowdonia. It is also a great option, especially if you plan to hike multiple trails or camp in more remote parts of Snowdonia. From major cities:
- London around 4.5–5.5 hours
- Cardiff around 3.5 – 4 hours
- Liverpool: around 2 hours
If you’re travelling from London, the most common route is via the M40, M6, and A55. I recommend hiring a car if you don’t already have one, especially if you are travelling in a group. Discovercar offers a wide selection of cars for hire at competitive prices from all major cities.
By Train
Snowdonia is well connected by rail, making it the easiest and most popular choice for travellers without a car. Direct trains run from London Euston to Bangor in around 3–3.5 hours. You can also travel to Betws-y-Coed with one change, usually at Llandudno Junction. From the station, you can go by bus, taxi, or on foot to your campsite. You can check train times, prices and book tickets on RailEurope.
Key stations in Snowdonia are:
- Bangor (ideal for northern Snowdonia and Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon)
- Betws-y-Coed (a popular base for hikers & campers with serveral campsites)
- Blaenau Ffestiniog (gateway to quieter southern areas)
Scrambling in Tryfan Snowdonia with my husband
Tips for Camping in Snowdonia
- Bring your dog: Check the camping site’s rules before bringing your dog; some allow dogs, and some don’t. Some allow dogs, but they must always stay on a leash.
- Pack Smart: If you are coming by train, especially, pack light camping gear, like tents.
- Waterproof clothing: The Welsh weather can be unpredictable, so I suggest taking a waterproof jacket, especially if you plan to hike. Jackewolf online has a good selection of outdoor clothing.
- Book ahead during peak season: Snowdonia National Park gets very busy with visitors during school holidays and weekends. I recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Respect the land: Much of Snowdonia is working farmland. Close gates, stay on paths and keep any rubbish you have with you.
- Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel: I recommend having a drink or staying there. It is a historic remote mountain farmhouse where Hillary and Tenzing stayed while training on Snowdon for Everest.
Hiking Articles You Might Enjoy
Here are some suggested articles on hiking around the world that you might enjoy reading.
- Hiking and things to do on Sado Island, Japan
- Best Day and Multi-Day Hikes in Europe
- Hiking Trails Lerderderg State Park Victoria, Australia
Have you been camping in Snowdonia, Wales, before? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below
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Disclaimer: All views are my own, based on my personal experience of camping in Snowdonia, Wales.
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Snowdonia looks so beautiful! It’s definitely on the list once I finally get on the road (hopefully in the new year). Such a gorgeous location!
It is a beautiful place to visit for sure and I go up there as often as I can.
Wow, this is a lovely article, especially because me and my husband, just like you, love hiking and outdoors activities. Thanks for saying what to look for while hiking and which trail to choose according to our health and fitness level. We’ve never heard of these hiking opportunities so thank you for introducing something new to us. A perfect weekend getaway!
I definitely recommend it or the Lakes District https://www.melbtravel.com/2017/08/the-trout-hotel-the-perfect-english-weekend-break/ both are great spots for a weekend trip hiking.
I climbed Snowdon, on a rather more challenging route than the path I did the first time, in August. It was great because I went on a organised trip and met a bunch of great people. I did not know that there were so many routes there though. Love the idea of the Mini projection
I do a lot scrambling around Mt Snowdon up to the summit. My favourite though is Tryfan as there are fewer people and I think can be a little bit more challenging.
Great post! It really makes me want to go to Snowdonia. Those photos make it look absolutely stunning!
Snowdonia is a wonderful place to visit and definitely recommend it for a long weekend.
The view from the top of Mount Snowdon looks fantastic! Thanks for sharing these hiking tips and also including the railway information for those of us who are sometimes short on time for hiking trips!
It is pretty amazing at the top but trust me I have been up there plenty of time and not seen anything 🙂 I always hike or scramble up but I like to take the train at least once 🙂
I’ve been to Snowdonia when I was a kid but not been back since, I remember it’s very scenic though! Must have been a fun trip with the Mini
You will have to come with me next time Suze, we can go for a light hiked and then a spa afterwards. 🙂
First off your pictures are seriously stunning! I love how vibrant they are, I can’t even image how beautiful this place is in person. The mini sounds like it did well on the trip! They are such neat cars.
Thank you very much, I appreciate it. Most of them are taken on my phone while hiking. It is to hard to carry a big SLR camera. I loved using the MINI it was such a fun little car to use, I loved the heated seats.
Bloody hell, that’s what Snowdon looks like! We climbed mid summer this year and could barely see 5 m in front of us because of bad weather! Cracking snaps there!
The first time I ever went to the summit it was pouring with rain and I could barely see in front of me. I thought for sec, why on earth do people do things like this. Now I love hiking and climbing especially when I do get views like this. I hope that you get to go back and see the views from the top one day.
I think we’re planning on doing the Three Peaks challenge sometime this year, so fingers crossed we’ll get views like yours!
My fingers will be crossed for you and good luck with it all.
Snowdonia is a gorgeous part of Wales. We visited to tackle the Mt. Snowdon as part of the Three Peaks Trek – and I was blown away by the area. Great tips on camping in the area. Car looks great as well. 🙂
It is definitely super green there but I think it is because of all the rain 😉 The 3 peaks is definitely a challenge and I remember thinking halfway through it that I wanted to give up but I didn’t. I reckon I would do it again.
What a coincidence I stayed at the same campsite in Snowdonia a few years back. And, I totally loved my time there. Unlike you, I didn’t have the comfort of Mini Cooper. lOve your hiking tips. I need to go back.
Oh really that is very cool. I have stayed here a few time in my own car and definitely was no as good as having the Mini to use 🙂
This brought back many memories of my childhood and cant wait to get back out there and do some hiking. I remember doing the train ride up Snowdonia when I was a child. One day I will return, and its only a 5 hour drive from my house!
I have never caught the train, I have always hiked up or scrambled on the side. I would like to do it at least once though, maybe hike up and then catch it down 🙂 Then I get the best of both worlds. You definitely should do the running challenges up that way.
You know, being from Ireland i think the only times i have been to Wales has been to get the ferry from Holyhead across to England. I love hiking so I really should get across sometime to explore Snowdonia some time. You said that the Mini is surprisingly big. Would I be able to fit? I am 6 foot 2!
You could easily fit into the car, my husband is tall too and found it quite spacious. Definitely get yourself over to Snowdoina
I wanna go to Wales badly and this makes me wanna go even more. The landscapes in this country are so incredible! Thanks for the inspiration and btw I love your NY hat! 🙂
I love going to Wales it is one of my favourite places to explore and it was fun using the mini
I live in montaneous Swiss but Snowdonia…wow! Love love it! I would definitely camp as I belive camping is the real 5 star hotel one ever can get…with less comfort though. I am glad I stumble on your post because Snowdonia is now on my list! And the MINI cooper countryman, adorable but unfortunately to small for us now.
A few years ago the car would have been perfect!
I will be in Switzerland within the next two weeks, I love the alps there too. You should definitely go to Snowdonia for a weekend it is beautiful and I agree I love camping too especially with an open fire
The Mini Cooper Countryman looks like the perfect car to drive out to a campsite in. Mini’s are so spacious now, long gone are the Mr Bean version of the mini! Snowdonia looks like the perfect place to escape the city. With so many trails every time will be different and I’m sure the air is much fresher too!
Oh I loved the car the only problem now is that I want one for myself.
I am amazed at the possible view from train. Snowdonia seems magical to me. Thanks for the hiking tips. The MINI cooper too is interesting especially with the heated up seats. I hope to get to Wales some day.
I have never caught the train, I have always hiked up to the top though I would like to try it one day. Maybe hike up and then catch the train down. We really had a lot of fun with the Mini driving it around
Snowdonia looks so beautiful and green. What an amazing place to hike and camp. Wales is a place the hubby and I have on the bucket list. Now I see even more reason to visit. Was it easy to get out onto the Cannon for that photo?
Snowdoinia is one of my favourite places to go in the UK and if I ever win the lotto, I would buy a holiday house there. To get to the Cannon you have to do some scrambling up the mountain. If you do that kind of thing then it won’t be a problem to get up but I wouldn’t suggest it if you don’t, as it is dangerous.
This looks absolutely beautiful! I love the fact that you made this trip through Wales with a Mini Cooper, this is really cool. Based on the experiences that you share, I think it is an amazing way to explore a place like Wales such a way. You are flexible, independent and very close to everything. I would do it probably exactly the same.
I love Wales and a good road trip through the country. The only problem is the traffic coming back to London afterwards it is a lot of stopping and starting and not a straight drive right through.
This looks like such a gorgeous place! How fun that you got to explore it in a Mini Cooper! I hadn’t really thought to travel here but I know my kids would get a kick out of the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Snowdonia is a great place to explore with kids and I can’t want to have kids and take them here.
We are waiting for our UK tourist visa, can’t wait to explore the beautiful country. Snowdonia is on our itinerary for sure. I love Mini Cooper , it is stylish as well as cute
I wish you the best of luck with your visa for the UK. You are going to have such a great time exploring this beautiful country.
This is the first post I have read on Snowdonia and I do like what I see! Exploring the area in a Mini Cooper with a camping tent sounds so perfect. Love the lush landscapes.
I love Snowdonia it is so green and pretty though it does rain a lot there. I just wish that is was a little closer to London 🙂
I’ve never heard of this area, but I love visiting national parks and camping. I’d love to explore this area, and how fun with a Mini.
Snowdonia is a pretty area to explore and one of my favourites. I just wished that it was closer to me in London.
Snowdonia National Park is so grand , did you mention 100 lakes, just wow. I am so jealous to know about the Mini car trip because I always dreamt of doing the same. I am also happy that through your pictures I have actually done it virtually lol. Loved the description and detailing you have shared even about the Mini.
I love Snowdonia it is one of my favourite places to visit and I am glad that you like the pictures so much.
This is such a lovely post! Snowdonia looks stunningly beautiful with all that greenery, lakes and mountains. Mount Snowdown is worth the climb considering the breathtaking view from the top. Love the amazing features of ‘Mini Countryman’. Thanks for sharing the helpful camping tips. A beautiful place with over 100 lakes is definitely a worth visit. Hope to explore the place soon! 🙂
It is very beautiful and green there and there is so much to do. I definitely recommend it.
I’ve always wanted to tour Wales. What a fun way. My husband would be a huge fan of this way. 😉 The railway looks more my speed. LOL
Wales is one of my favourite places to do road trips too. The only downside is the driving back into London on our way home. My husband loved using the Mini
I am an outdoors enthusiast and this excites me. Hike to Mt Snowdon looks scenic. I have done some high altitude trekking such as Everest base camp (18,000 plus feet), so 3,560 ft seems very easy to me. I loved the picture which shows the bird’s eye view from Mount Snowdon.
I have also been to Everest and I used Snowdonia to train on before I went. It is a really pretty part of the world.
This is absolutely my kind of thing and each trail is quite beautiful. My favorite possibly would be Snowdonia. Loved that picture with you perching on that branch. Cheers
The branch is a giant stone up at about 800 meters, it is really scary sitting on it.
Snowdonia looks stunning! I would love to camp in Snowdonia National Park and take in all the gorgeous greenery. I love how you also included tips – the one on charging everything in your car or bringing a spare battery is especially useful, as I tend to hike everywhere with my camera.
Camping in Snowdonia is one of our favourite things to do in the summer. We want to try it is winter but I think it will be way to cold.
Wales looks stunning Mel. Nice Yankees hat too 😉 Big fan of finding a hike matching my abilities; love that note. Some overdo it and get sick or injured. I am in pretty good shape but know my limits. I recall pushing it in Cusco back 2012 way and definitely paid the piper.
Ryan
I love that hat and people always think I am american 🙂 Then they hear the Aussie accent. Wales is definitely great for all abilities. I will have to check out the Cusco one 🙂
Oh wow what beautiful countryside! I feel Wales gets overlooked quite easily but wow! those images are gorgeous
Thanks very much, I love Wales it is such a great outdoors area to explore.