Guide to Wild Camping in the UK
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Wild camping in the Outer Hebrides
I absolutely love camping! Give me the choice between a night under the stars, or a 5-star hotel, and the hills win every time. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a little luxury now and then. But there’s something extra special about getting away from modern life. For years, I pitched my tent on campsites with flushing toilets and running water. But, as camping has grown in popularity, campsites have started to feel a bit busy. These days, I crave something different, and wild camping gives me that. It’s quieter, simpler, and allows me to feel more connected with nature, and with myself. Besides, what could be better than waking up to the sunrise, high in the hills?
If you’re curious about giving wild camping a go, this guide will take you through everything you need to know - from where it’s allowed, to what to pack, and how to leave no trace.
Where is wild camping legal in the UK?
Wild camping rules vary across the UK. In most of England and Wales, camping without the landowner’s permission counts as trespassing. The only exception is Dartmoor and, even then, you can only camp overnight in certain areas of Dartmoor and not in a vehicle or large group. Having said that, in mountainous areas like parts of Wales or the Lake District, there’s a tradition of wild camping being tolerated. It’s usually above the highest fell wall, out on the open hills.
Northern Ireland has similar rules to England and Wales, meaning you’ll need the landowner’s permission to wild camp.
Scotland is a different story. Wild camping is allowed, as long as it’s done responsibly. That means small numbers and short stays, usually just a couple of nights, in the same place. But keep in mind there are seasonal byelaws in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs so in some areas, you’ll need a camping permit or have to use a campsite. You can check the full details in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
How to wild camp responsibly
If you’re heading out for a wild camp, it’s important to do it responsibly. Many of the issues around wild camping come from big groups making a weekend of it, not from quiet campers just stopping for a night.
Check the wild camping code below:
Leave no trace
When you pack up, your campsite should look exactly as it did when you arrived. Don’t move rocks, damage plants, or take away all litter - whether it belongs to you or was left by someone else.Keep it short
Only stay one or two nights in the same place. Wild camping isn’t about having a party weekend away, it’s about passing through quietly.Think about timing
Arrive late (around dusk) and leave early (at dawn). The less you’re seen, the less impact you have.Be discreet
Camp high up, or away from main paths, buildings, roads, and animals. Stick to tiny groups and keep noise levels down.Protect water sources
Camp at least 200 feet away from rivers, streams, and lakes. Don’t use soap, shampoos, or detergents, even the eco-friendly kind.Be fire-safe
Use a camping stove, not an open fire or disposable BBQ’s. They scorch the ground and can cause wildfires, especially in dry weather.Bury toilet waste
If nature calls, bury organic waste at least 200 feet away from any water. Even better, take it home - and always take sanitary products home with you.Ask first if you can
If you know who owns the land, ask for permission before camping.Respect requests
If a landowner asks you to move, do it calmly and without argument.
How to choose a wild campsite
Before you head out, have a think about where you’re going. The best wild camping spots are quiet, tucked away, and close to a water source. Remember, you’ll be carrying all your kit in - and your rubbish out.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right spot:
Check the rules
Make sure camping is allowed where you’re going - especially in places like Dartmoor or Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, where there are specific restrictions.Camp on durable ground
Pick hardwearing surfaces to avoid causing damage to vegetation.Think about rain
Check the ground conditions and avoid dips or marshy ground where water might collect if it rains. Also check for terrain where water may get funnelled towards your tent.Find your comfy spot
Ideally, pick a flat camp that’s free from sharp rocks or roots.Look up and around
Check for things like loose rocks, unstable slopes, or tree branches that could fall.Respect wildlife
Avoid places with signs of large animals (you may not have the most comfortable night if you camp in the middle of a herd of cows) and keep your distance from local wildlife.Stay hidden
Camp well away from paths, roads, and buildings. The more discreet you are, the less likely you are to be disturbed.
What to pack for wild camping
With wild camping, you’re carrying everything in, whether that’s on your back or strapped to your bike. So, keeping things lightweight makes a big difference. That said, there are a few essentials you want to take along.
Here’s what I pack:
Tent or bivvy bag
A tent gives you shelter and privacy. A bivvy bag is lighter and means you can fall asleep under the stars. The choice is up to you, and may depend on the time of year and weather.Sleeping bag
Choose a sleeping bag that suits the season. You’ll want a warmer bag for winter but something lighter for summer. It will always be a balance between warmth vs weight, and whether you sleep hot or cold.Sleeping mat
A good mat insulates you from the ground and makes a big difference to your sleep. Trust me! After sleeping on a thinner (more lightweight), poorly insulated mat, I went and bought one with a higher R value.
Read about R ratings from Valley & Peak *Dry bags
These keep your clothes and kit dry, even when it’s raining. Bonus tip: stuff one with a spare fleece and you have a makeshift pillow 😉Change of clothes
Dry layers are important, especially if the weather turns or you’ve worked up a sweat. I always pack a buff and woolly hat too - keeping your head warm will help keep the rest of you warm.Water
I usually carry in enough water for hot drinks and rehydrated meals, just in case I can’t find a good water source. I also have a water filter, handy for topping up from streams safely.Stove and food
For a quick overnight wild camp, I go simple and take a pack of dehydrated food. Firepot do great gluten free options. I also like to bring a hot chocolate as a treat. Remember to pack up any rubbish to carry out with you - and please no disposable BBQ’s, they’re a huge fire risk in the hills.Toiletries
I like to feel human, so wet wipes, tissues (which double up as loo paper), toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and a little moisturiser go into my bags. Maybe that’s why mine’s always heavier than Mr ODG’s 😂Emergency kit
A power bank, mobile phone and lead, head torch, tick removing tool (unless it’s the middle of winter), and a map and compass are all essential pieces of kit in my bag.
How to plan your wild camping trip
A little planning will go a long way toe ensure you’re safe, dry and comfortable. Here are a few things to think about before you go:
Check the weather forecast
The weather in the UK can turn quickly, especially in the mountains. Always check the forecast, and remember to look at the overnight conditions too. I once camped on top of a cliff in what looked like calm weather. When the wind picked up overnight, I realised I’d only checked the daytime forecast. Luckily, I had a phone signal and a husband at home to confirm it was going to ease off!Plan your route
This is especially important if you’re camping in a remote area without a signal. Know how to get back to your car or the nearest road quickly - and don’t just rely on your phone (see next point!).Remember tech can fail
Apps like OS Maps, Komoot, and Google Maps are brilliant, until your battery dies or your phone ends up at the bottom of a cliff. Always have a non-digital back up (paper map and compass), just in case.Have a back up plan
It’s useful to have a back up in mind if something doesn’t go to plan. With new kit, or when camping solo, I like to pick somewhere closer to civilisation. It’s always reassuring to know I can get off the hill quickly and easily if needed, and it makes me feel more confident when I’m up there.Tell someone where you are
If you’re wild camping alone, this one’s a must! I always let Mr ODG know exactly where I’ll be, and that he can track my phone. I check in before bed and again in the morning, just to say I’m safe and heading home.
For me, wild camping isn’t about finding the perfect Instagram view or ticking off miles. It’s about slowing down and finding joy in the simple things.
With a bit of planning and a leave no trace mindset, I find it one of the most peaceful ways to spend a night outdoors. Heavy backpacks and bikes are always forgotten in the adventure.
In a nutshell, if you’re planning a wild camping trip, check where it’s legal, leave no trace, and come prepared. Whether you’re looking for an amazing sunrise or just want to find a little headspace, wild camping will give you a simple adventure that will stay with you for years.
You may also be interested in reading:
Bikepacking in the Outer Hebrides - Barra and Vatersay
Wild adventures on a mountain bike
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You shouldn’t notice any difference in the product or cost. Importantly, the content I write is NEVER impacted by these links. For more details, please read my policy on affiliate links, including Amazon Affiliate links.
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Read about R ratings from Valley & Peak
