If you’re searching for the best bushcraft camps in North Yorkshire, you’re not alone. More parents are looking for outdoor experiences that help children disconnect from screens, build confidence, and learn real-world survival skills.
From fire lighting and shelter building to woodland exploration and outdoor cooking, bushcraft camps offer an unforgettable way for children to connect with nature.
To help you choose, we’ve ranked the top bushcraft camps in North Yorkshire based on quality of activities, safety, age range, and overall experience.
1. Adventure Camps – Survival Camp (Best Overall Bushcraft Camp)
https://www.adventure-camps.co.uk/programmes/survival-camp/
Adventure Camps takes the top spot as the best bushcraft camp in North Yorkshire, thanks to its fully immersive outdoor experience and strong focus on both safety and skill-building.
Designed for children aged 8–14, this 100% outdoor survival camp delivers hands-on bushcraft learning in a fun, structured environment.
Key Activities:
- Shelter building and den construction
- Fire lighting and outdoor cooking
- Woodland foraging and nature exploration
- Team challenges and survival skills
Each day brings a new adventure — from crafting shelters to cooking over open fires — helping children develop confidence, independence, and resilience.
What sets Adventure Camps apart is its balance of adventure and safeguarding, with Ofsted-registered locations and experienced staff ensuring a safe, supportive environment.
Learn more about their approach to safety and safeguarding:
https://www.adventure-camps.co.uk/parents/safety-safeguarding/
2. Camp Wilderness – Castle Howard (Best Family Bushcraft Experience)
https://campwilderness.co.uk/venues/castle-howard/
Set in the stunning grounds of Castle Howard, Camp Wilderness offers a unique mix of bushcraft and family-friendly outdoor adventure.
Suitable for ages 7–14, the camp focuses on creating a tech-free environment where children can reconnect with nature.
Highlights:
- Fire lighting and shelter building
- Wilderness first aid basics
- Campfire games and storytelling
- Safari-style bell tent accommodation
With 24-hour supervision and experienced leaders, this is a great option for families wanting a more relaxed, shared outdoor experience.
3. The Bushcraft Company – Yorkshire Camps (Best for Structured Residentials)
https://thebushcraftcompany.com/locations/castle-howard/
The Bushcraft Company is well known for its structured residential camps that focus on teamwork and outdoor living skills.
Ideal for ages 8–16, their Yorkshire programmes provide a more traditional camp experience with a strong bushcraft core.
Activities Include:
- Fire building and management
- Shelter construction
- Trap making and woodland skills
- Group challenges and campfire activities
This is a strong choice for children looking for a longer residential experience that builds independence and social skills.
4. PGL / Wild Inspired – Dearne Valley (Best Mixed Adventure & Bushcraft Camp)
https://adventureholidays.pgl.co.uk/bushcraft/
PGL’s bushcraft programme blends outdoor survival skills with classic adventure activities, making it ideal for children who want variety.
Designed for ages 8–13, these 3–7 night residential camps include structured bushcraft workshops.
What’s Included:
- Fire lighting and whittling
- Shelter building and outdoor cooking
- Plant and tree identification
- Archery and zipwire activities
This camp is perfect for children who want a balance between bushcraft and high-energy adventure.
5. Base Camp – North Yorkshire (Best for Younger Children)
https://www.basecamplearning.co.uk/
Located near Thirsk, Base Camp offers forest school-style holiday clubs for younger children aged 5–11.
Focused on the benefits of nature, this camp emphasises mental wellbeing, creativity, and outdoor play.
Key Benefits:
- Nature-based learning and exploration
- Focus on mental health and wellbeing
- Screen-free outdoor environment
- Social development through group activities
Base Camp is ideal for younger children taking their first steps into bushcraft and outdoor learning.
Why Choose a Bushcraft Camp in North Yorkshire?
North Yorkshire provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure, with its woodlands, countryside, and natural landscapes offering an ideal setting for bushcraft activities.
Bushcraft camps help children:
- Build confidence and independence
- Learn practical survival and life skills
- Improve mental wellbeing through nature
- Develop teamwork and social skills
Final Thoughts: Which Bushcraft Camp is Right for Your Child?
Choosing the right camp depends on your child’s age, interests, and level of experience.
- For the best all-round bushcraft experience → Adventure Camps
- For a family-friendly outdoor escape → Camp Wilderness
- For a structured residential programme → The Bushcraft Company
- For a mix of adventure and bushcraft → PGL
- For younger children and forest school learning → Base Camp
If you’re looking for a safe, Ofsted-registered, and fully immersive bushcraft experience, Adventure Camps stands out as the top choice in North Yorkshire.
