England sadly doesn’t boast the Allmansratten or right to roam that is commonplace in Scotland, Scandinavia and several other European countries,, so wild camping needs a little extra thought.
Of course, there’s more to acceptable wild camping practice than carrying out waste and avoiding campfires. A ‘trace’ can also be psychological, it’s not just about litter.
We’ve always encouraged a respectful, positive attitude, limiting the likelihood of encounters with passers-by, hikers or morning dog walkers by choosing an off-the-beaten track spot for a camp. If you do encounter someone, bid them a hearty hello and “good morning!”
The size and appearance of a camp also has a big impact on those who happen upon the area. We’ve always banned tents from traditional wild camps, they’re bigger, more visible, leave a larger footprint and give the impression of a more permanent camp. A walker can’t comfortably engage with a human who is inside a tent, whereas a bivvy bag or hammock is a lot less intimidating.
Every engagement a person or group has while camping contributes to the overall reputation of wild campers in general, and anyone choosing to venture outdoors should act as an ambassador. Yes, there will be idiots who trash a woodland and walk out without thought of their remnants, but it doesn’t take much to plan an enjoyable, respectable wild camp.
Although wild camping isn’t strictly legal in many parts of the UK, there’s a chasm between an impromptu rave and a couple of friends hiding away in search of a peaceful night beneath the stars.
The National Trust are keen to distinguish between discreet wild campers – who pitch late in remote locations and go early without leaving any trace of their presence – and larger groups camping in inappropriate places and leaving behind rubbish. [Guardian, 19 July 2020]
While there’s no set guidebook for how officials or members of the public will respond to discovering a group of wild campers, there’s a growing sense of proportionate reaction. Act responsibly and you’re less likely to be found or moved on.
Here are an easy-to-follow set of suggested guidelines for wild camping in England:
Rule One: If you’re wild camping and nobody finds you, or would know you’d been there after you’ve left, you’re doing it right. They call it stealth camping in North America for a reason.
If you can, ask permission from the landowner. If asked by a landowner to move on do so with respect and without argument
Avoid any areas likely to be considered ‘peak’ destinations. Join wild camping groups and get a feel for where is acceptable and not.
Find a remote location, away from main tracks, houses and farms.
If you’re heading into an unknown remote location, consider downloading an app like OS Locate to ensure you can always pinpoint your location.
Pitch camp late - just before dark - and leave at first light.
Minimise numbers of campers in your group.
Keep your camp low-level and unintimidating. Try to stick to bivvy bags and hammocks. If you have a tent, ensure it’s a natural colour and make an extra effort to hide away.
Don’t assume everyone knows how to camp responsibly. If you encounter inappropriate campers, call them out. Educate them on the spot if you feel comfortable enough to do so. Don’t publicly or online shame, just educate. Education is the key, if they knew it, they’d likely not be doing it.
Use a proper camping stove (not a portable BBQ) for cooking. Don’t light a campfire or use portable BBQs without permission. Scorched earth isn’t just a visible stain, there’s potential damage to habitat, insect life and underground fires to consider.
Use tree straps for a hammock.
Do not use soaps or detergent for washing in streams, lakes or rivers.
Maintain the peace by being as quiet as possible during your camp.
Don’t remain in the same spot for more than one night.
Toileting should be well away from any water source or path (30 metres minimum). Carry paper and sanitary products out with you, do not bury.
Do not dig drainage ditches, move rocks or cut down trees. Avoid trampling plants, wild flowers or causing damage to your surroundings.
Avoid a disposable mentality. Buy sustainable, well-made gear and look after it. It’ll last longer, give you more pleasure and will save you money in the long run.
If you like the idea of a more comfortable, traditional camping experience, book into an official campsite.
Act responsibly. It’s the irresponsible behaviour that gets the bad press but everyone gets tainted with the same suspicion. Please don’t ruin the wild camping experience for anyone - or anything - else.
Lastly, LEAVE NO TRACE. Carry out your equipment, food scraps and litter. Leave your camp site as you found it.
If you like the idea of wild camping responsibly but haven’t yet done it yet, join a group with an experienced leader. Outside of the pandemic The YesTribe lead regular wild camps and have regional groups all over the UK.
