Motorhomes and campervans are facing new restrictions at 11 car parks in Eryri National Park, also known as Snowdonia. Since 1 April, Eryri National Park Authority (ENPA) has enforced an overnight parking ban at these locations, citing a rise in "informal camping" that has led to littering, environmental damage, and anti-social behaviour.
Why the Restrictions Were Introduced
Nearly four million people visit Eryri National Park each year. The ENPA stated that the changes were "necessary to address increasing issues linked to overnight stays, particularly unauthorised campervans." The authority noted that three years of monitoring had shown that certain locations were under the greatest pressure, prompting the strategic introduction of the restrictions.
Local Reactions
Ian Young, a local holiday let owner, expressed concern that a "minority" of visitors show no respect, potentially harming his business. In contrast, Ian Smith, who lives on the same road, suggested that the car parks should remain open overnight but include dedicated facilities for campervans and motorhomes. "That would be a sensible measure. You know, in these days when campervans are everywhere, everybody's got one," he said. "Now's the time to take that bull by the horns and do it."
Betws-y-Coed Community Council said it "understands the reasons for the ban on overnight parking including campervans and slept-in vehicles."
Full List of Affected Car Parks
- Pont Bethania - Parking for Nant Gwynant and Watkin Path on Yr Wyddfa
- Llyn Cwellyn - Parking for Snowdon Ranger path on Yr Wyddfa and Llyn Cwellyn boardwalk
- Rhyd Ddu - Parking for Rhyd Ddu path on Yr Wyddfa, and Lôn Gwyrfai
- Betws-y-Coed - Long stay car park (does not apply to Cae Llan)
- Ogwen - Parking for Cwm Idwal and Ogwen Valley
- Beddgelert - Parking for Beddgelert, Lôn Gwyrfai and Fisherman's Path and Cwm Bychan
- Ty Nant - Parking for Pony Path on Cader Idris
- Dôl Idris - Parking for Minffordd Path on Cader Idris
- Morfa Dyffryn - Parking for Benar Boardwalk and Benar beach
- Llyn Tegid - The main car park for Llyn Tegid and Bala
- Llangower - Parking for the south of Llyn Tegid
The ENPA has urged visitors to use designated campsites and respect the park's natural environment. The restrictions are part of a broader effort to manage tourism sustainably in one of the UK's most popular national parks.
