Looking for the perfect places to see local wildlife during your stay at the Old Hall Caravan Park? Whether you’re into birdwatching, nature walks or finding some of the UK’s wildlife during your stay, you’ll find it at Old Hall Caravan Park.
With the Forest of Bowland, Morecambe and the Lake District nearby, you’re just a short drive away from beautiful hills, forest and coastal adventures.
Discover the best places for wildlife, nature activities for kids and how to make the most of your stay at Old Hall Caravan Park. Plus, we’re pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy nature with you, too.
Roe Deer
If you’re an early riser, get ready for a red deer sighting! These majestic creatures are most active at dawn and dusk, so grab a cup of coffee and head to the eastern side of the park, where the forest opens into grassy clearings.
When is the best time to see Roe Deer?
Autumn is the perfect time to see the stags in action during the rutting season, where their impressive antler displays are a real spectacle. They’re often seen grazing peacefully in the morning light in and around the park.
Where to see Red Dear?
Leighton Moss Nature Reserve and the surrounding wooded areas – just a 15-minute drive from our South Lakes caravan park – are prime locations to catch a glimpse of these well-camouflaged creatures. Look carefully between the trees as red deer tend to gather in small groups.
Otters
What’s cuter than a family of otters playing in the Lancaster Canal? These playful creatures are a delight to watch, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when they’re busy fishing.
How to spot otters?
Head to the quieter sections of the Lancaster Canal – again, less than 200 yards away – near the reed beds or bridge crossings. Otters love these calm, fish-filled waters. Keep an eye out for bubbles or ripples, as these are signs that an otter is swimming just below the surface.
Fish
The Lancaster Canal isn’t just for otters, either. It’s also home to a variety of fish species, including roach, perch and pike. And if you’re a keen angler with an Environment Agency Rod Licence, you can actually fish in the Lancaster Canal, too.
Best time to see a fish?
Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for watching fish swim close to the surface. Find a quiet place along the canal, especially near the shaded banks and weedy areas, and let the tranquillity of the canal wash over you.
Birds
Bird enthusiasts are in for a treat. Our park and nearby RSPB Leighton Moss are a haven for a wide variety of bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just curious, you’ll find something special here. It’s great fun to take the kids or grandkids to see if they can find their favourites.
What varieties of birds are there to see?
In spring, keep your ears open for the drumming of woodpeckers and the melodic songs of warblers. The park is also home to robins, blue tits and even herons. Bring your binoculars because there’s definitely some spotting to be done.
Bird watching at Leighton Moss
For a more extensive bird-watching experience, take a short drive to Leighton Moss Nature Reserve. Here, you’ll find rare birds like marsh harriers, bitterns, and bearded tits. Morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit the hides overlooking the wetlands – it’s the largest reed bed in North West England.
Bats
As dusk falls, pipistrelle bats take to the sky, hunting insects in the twilight. If you’re out walking your dog or spending time stargazing, keep an eye out for bats fluttering past as dusk sets in.
When can you see a bat?
The wooded areas and paths near the park’s perimeter are perfect for spotting bats. Watch the sky as they swoop and dive, catching midges and mosquitoes. These tiny creatures play a huge role in keeping the local insect population in check.
Insects and Bugs
Insects may not be the stars of the show, but they’re vital to the park’s ecosystem. From colourful butterflies to busy bees, these little critters add a touch of magic to your nature walks. Going on a bug hunt around our pollinator patches can be great fun with little ones, especially on sunny days. We also hold a Bee Friendly Park badge awarded to us by David Bellamy.
When are insects most active?
From spring to autumn, the park’s wildflower meadows are buzzing with life. Look out for butterflies like the peacock, red admiral, and small tortoiseshell. For a closer look, explore the woodlands and meadows where ants and beetles are hard at work. You never know what you might see when you start looking.
Embrace wildlife at Old Hall Caravan Park
Whether you’re watching roe deer at dawn, enjoying the playful antics of otters or marvelling at the variety of birds and insects, our park offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. It’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly nature holiday that everyone can enjoy, no matter their age. There’s wildlife that the whole family can enjoy together at our Carnforth caravan park.
As you explore this beautiful park, remember to respect the wildlife, keep a safe distance, and leave no trace. Together, we can help preserve this natural paradise for future visitors.
