Can you wild camp in England?

Wild camping is an exciting way to connect with nature and escape the hustle of everyday life. However, if you’re planning to wild camp in England, it’s important to know the rules, regulations, and best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s everything you need to know about wild camping in England!

Wild camping typically means pitching your tent outside of a designated campsite, often in remote or natural locations. Unlike traditional campsites with facilities like toilets, electricity, and designated pitches, wild camping offers a more rugged and adventurous experience.

Wild camping in England is largely not permitted without the landowner’s consent. Most of the land is privately owned, and the rules governing its use are strict. However, there are some exceptions and legal workarounds.

Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor was historically the only place in England where wild camping was legal in designated areas without requiring landowner permission. However, recent legal changes mean you now need to obtain explicit permission even here. Visit Dartmoor National Park's website for the latest updates on their camping policies.

Permission from landowners

If you obtain prior permission from the landowner, wild camping is perfectly legal. This is often easier to arrange in rural or remote areas.

If you’re set on wild camping but want to stay within the rules, here are some alternatives:

The wild camping experience with a caravan

If you own a campervan or caravan, consider using it for a semi-wild camping experience. Some rural campsites offer secluded pitches that provide the wild camping vibe while staying legal.

Check out our range if you’re looking for a campervan or caravan for your next semi-wild camping experience!

Camping on designated sites

Many campsites across England offer stunning locations close to nature. While not technically wild camping, these sites can still provide a peaceful outdoor experience. Browse this campsite directory to help you find your next destination.

If you decide to wild camp with permission or in a permissible area, here are some tips to make your trip enjoyable and environmentally friendly:

1.   Leave no trace

Take all your rubbish with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants. Wild camping is about respecting nature.

2.   Stay small and unobtrusive:

Use a small tent and set up camp late in the day, leaving early in the morning to avoid detection and minimise impact.

3.   Be prepared

Wild camping means no facilities, so pack essentials like water, food, and a portable toilet solution if needed.

4.   Check local rules

Always verify the rules for your chosen area. For example, while parts of Dartmoor were accessible for wild camping, this has changed in recent years.

Understanding the law around wild camping in England is crucial. Here are some resources to help:

• The Countryside Code – The Countryside Code outlines how to enjoy nature responsibly, including respecting landowners and wildlife. It explains what different signs mean, such as how to distinguish between footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways, open byways, permissive paths, national trails and open access paths.
• Right to Roam and access rights – The UK Government Access to Land Guide explains your rights to access land, including restrictions on camping. You can use your right to roam on open access land, which includes mountains, moors, heaths, downs, common land and some land around the King Charles III England Coast Path. Private land may also be accessible if the land was used as a public right of way in the past, the land was accessed by the public for at least 20 years and nobody has asked them to stop, or if the landowner has granted ‘permissive access’.

Thanks to Scotland’s right to roam laws under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, you’re permitted to camp on most unenclosed land there, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This code emphasises responsible camping practices, like leaving no trace, respecting wildlife and avoiding disruption to local communities or landowners. 

Popular wild camping destinations in Scotland include the Cairngorms, Glencoe and the Isle of Skye, though campers are encouraged to be mindful of seasonal restrictions, especially in high-traffic areas like Loch Lomond, where permits may be required. 

While wild camping in England isn’t as straightforward as it is in Scotland (where the rules are more relaxed), it’s still possible to enjoy the experience with some planning. Whether you choose to camp with permission, in Dartmoor (following the latest guidelines), or at a secluded campsite, you can find ways to enjoy England’s stunning countryside legally and responsibly.