Wild camping in the UK: your ultimate guide to an off-grid adventure
Dreaming of waking up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by nothing but rolling hills, pristine forests, or the gentle lapping of waves against the shore? Wild camping in the UK offers a taste of true freedom, a chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the great outdoors.
While wild camping in the UK isn't always straightforward due to strict regulations, it's certainly not impossible. With a bit of knowledge and preparation, you can experience the magic of off-grid adventures throughout the UK.
What is wild camping?
Wild camping, also known as freedom camping or dispersed camping, is the practice of camping outside of designated campsites. It involves setting up camp in natural areas like forests, meadows, mountains, or even beaches. Unlike traditional camping, which typically includes amenities like toilets, showers, and fire pits, wild camping offers a more rugged, back-to-basics experience.
Is wild camping legal in the UK?
Wild camping laws in the UK vary significantly depending on which country you're in.
Wild camping is generally illegal in England and Wales without the explicit permission of the landowner. This applies to most land, including national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
There are a few exceptions however, such as
Dartmoor National Park, Devon: Holds a legal right to wild camp in certain areas.
Some parts of the Lake District: Have a history of tolerance towards wild camping, though it's not strictly legal.
In Scotland, wild camping is legal in most parts thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. This act grants the public a right to responsible access to most land and inland water, including for wild camping.
Bear in mind, while you can pitch a tent in these places, there may be different restrictions when it comes to either parking your car or motorhome.
Renting a motor home for your wild camping experience
While wild camping purists may opt for tents, there's no denying that a RV offers a whole new level of convenience, comfort, and flexibility.
The downside to wild camping is that are no facilities, but obviously this doesn’t matter when you’ve got your home away from home to stay in. You have a proper bed, a kitchen to cook meals, and a toilet and shower.
Of course, thanks to the great storage in our motorhomes, you can also pop in a tent and enjoy a night away from the RV to experience the thrill of ‘proper’ wild camping - all with the knowledge you’ve got a loo and somewhere close by to freshen up.
While it may not be as wild as the Scottish highlands, another option is to park in a car park. Most councils across the UK publish a list of car parks where you can stay overnight in their area and what the charges will be.
Overall, a camper van enhances the wild camping experience by providing comfort, convenience, and freedom. It allows you to explore the great outdoors on your own terms, while still enjoying the comforts of home. If you're looking to elevate your wild camping adventures, one of our spacious motorhomes is the perfect choice.
Wild camping etiquette
Leaving no trace is the golden rule of wild camping. It's about respecting the environment and ensuring that future adventurers can enjoy the same pristine wilderness that you did. Here's how to wild camp responsibly:
Stealth camping: Arrive at your chosen spot later in the day and pack up early in the morning. This helps you blend in with the natural surroundings and minimises your impact on the landscape.
Small is beautiful: Keep your group size small to minimise noise and disturbance to wildlife and other campers. Embrace the intimacy of a smaller gathering under the stars.
Pack it in, pack it out: Bring all your food in sealable, reusable containers to avoid attracting animals. Take all your rubbish with you.
Fire safety: Only light fires when it's safe and permitted, and always keep them small and contained. Be sure to extinguish them completely before leaving.
Leave it as you found it: Resist the urge to rearrange nature's furniture. Avoid moving rocks, logs, or removing any vegetation. Let the wilderness remain wild.
One night stand: Don't overstay your welcome. Limit your stay in one place to a single night to minimise your impact on the environment and avoid overusing resources.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your wild camping adventures leave a positive impact on the environment and preserve the beauty of the UK's natural landscapes for generations to come.
