Lakeside pitches, waterskiing, paddleboarding and a friendly bar. Splashy, sociable summer camping.
Our verdict
The best splashy, sociable summer camping within half an hour of Faringdon.
| Distance from SN7 | 9 miles |
|---|---|
| County | Oxfordshire |
| Price band | ££ what the bands mean |
| Open | April to October |
| Tents | Yes |
| Campervans & motorhomes | Yes |
| Electric hook-up | Yes |
| Campfires | No |
| Swimming pool | No |
Hardwick Parks is built around a string of spring-fed lakes in the Lower Windrush Valley, and the water is the whole point. Kids spend entire days paddleboarding, kayaking and splashing off the beach area while braver souls try waterskiing and wakeboarding with the on-site club.
Pitches run right down towards the shore, so you can watch the sun set over the water from your camping chair. The lakeside bar serves food and cold drinks on summer evenings, with pizza nights a regular fixture in high season. It is lively in August, which is exactly why families love it.
Why children love it
- Safe lakeside beach area for paddling and swimming
- Paddleboard, kayak and pedalo hire on site
- Lakeside bar with family-friendly food and regular pizza nights
Days out nearby
- Standlake village shop and pubs (walkable)
- Lincoln Farm Park leisure centre day passes
- Witney's Cogges Manor Farm (15 minutes)
Know before you go
- Bring wetsuits, the lakes are fresh even in July.
- Lakeside pitches go first, request one when booking.
- Watersports sessions are bookable by the hour on site.
The honest bit
August is loud and lively, and the lakes are chilly even then. If you want hushed birdsong evenings, choose Holycombe or Abbey Home Farm.
Camping weather this week
Live 7-day forecast for Standlake, straight from Open-Meteo.
Quick answers
Are campfires allowed at Hardwick Parks?
No, open campfires are not part of the offer at Hardwick Parks. A raised BBQ is usually fine, but check the site's current rules when you book.
Does Hardwick Parks have a swimming pool?
No. The nearest pool site in this guide is Lincoln Farm Park, about 1 miles away. Hardwick Parks makes up for it outdoors.
How far is Hardwick Parks from Faringdon and Oxford?
Hardwick Parks is about 9 miles from Faringdon (SN7) and roughly 11 miles from Oxford city centre. Distances are approximate road miles.
When is Hardwick Parks open?
Hardwick Parks is typically open April to October. Dates shift a little year to year, so confirm with the site before travelling.
Peg & Lantern is an independent guide and takes no commission. Details last checked July 2026; facilities and opening dates change season to season, so always confirm directly with the campsite before travelling. Photography is illustrative, not of the campsite itself.
