Introduction to Wild Camping
What Is Wild Camping?

With the growing popularity of enjoying the freedom of the great outdoors. Hiking, walking, mountaineering, general survival is not just a trend. Even mainstream television is cashing in, with celebrities popping up like Ray Mears, Ed Stafford, Les Hiddins and Bear Grylls.
Camping is an activity in itself, not just a place to lay your head. Campsites and glamping pods slot in nicely with your chosen outdoor activity. What could better than breathing in the crisp, clean welsh air sleeping under the stars after a day on the wave at Surf Snowdonia?
For those who like to increase the adventure and the unknown, not being confined to designated camping areas and having the freedom to pick the perfect camping spot. More and more individuals are turning to Wild Camping.
I stumbled across wild camping while on a whim, I decided to motorbike from the UK to the office in Germany. Not making it one night to the planned spot and tiredness taking its toll, I was forced to bunker down under a tree. The contrast to being packed into a campsite full of tents with your neighbours’ camp metres away, was incomparable.
Introduction to Wild Camping
Is Wild Camping Legal?
Wild camping is illegal in England without the landowners permission. Despite many areas of natural beauty being classed as public spaces, staying the night and pitching up camp is classed as trespassing. In Scotland the Land Reform act in 2003 states you can camp on public hill land as long as you’re at least 100m from any road (whilst taking all rubbish with you when leaving). It refers to being on foot, bike or other non-motorised form of transport. Similar rules apply in Dartmoor.
It is always best to seek permission, although camping is tolerated as long as you stick to the etiquette and remain discreet. This is similar in some European countries. In England and Wales, Wild Camping is only legal with the landowners permission and in some mountain districts there are grey areas. In the Lake district, the official statement is “Wild camping on unenclosed fell land, remote from the roads, is generally accepted if undertaken responsibly by small numbers of people.”
Introduction to Wild Camping
Wild Camping Kit & Accessories
As a general rule, you want to pack light and plan for the number of days you expect to be in the wilderness. Check the weather! There’s nothing worse than not having some essential piece of kit especially if it leaves you cold, so consider the following.

Shelter

Food & Drink
Your choice of food and drink is often led by your chosen camping experience, daytime activities and number of nights you plan to be under the stars. Some food types require more equipment and water is heavy to carry. Take food such as dehydrated or wet food that can be eaten hot or cold. Carry only the water you need and plan to source more for longer trips.

Cooking equipment

Head torch
Mosquito and bugs repellent
More great articles…
Country File
The Guardian
Woodland Trust