Last Updated on Embark on an unforgettable adventure of wild camping in the UK, where nature’s beauty is your backdrop and wide-open spaces incite wonder. Whether you’re seeking solitude in remote landscapes with a tent or exploring the countryside using the comfort of motorhomes, wild camping offers a unique experience away from the crowds. This guide will equip you with everything you need to navigate towards a safe, responsible, and immersive camping experience.
Discover the Top Wild Camping Spots Across the UK
The UK is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes, perfect for those seeking the thrill of wild camping. From rugged coastlines to secluded forests and majestic mountains, each spot offers a unique experience sure to leave you in awe. We’ve explored the basics of wild camping for motorhomes, now in this article, we present our top wild camping locations UK.
Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
Sandwood Bay in Sutherland is on the northwestern coastal tip of Scotland, renowned for its stunning, unspoiled beauty. With its sandy beach, dramatic sea cliffs, cacophony of sea bird life and rolling dunes, it is a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a true connection with nature. It promises a delightful walk along its four-mile moorland path and open sea spaces are enough to wash any busy mind away.
The remote location and breathtaking scenery make Sandwood Bay an ideal spot for a memorable wild camping experience. However, as Sandwood is well favoured for its conditions and location, the car park at Blairmore may be full. Keep your options open and prepare to consider alternative stays.
Loch Enoch, Galloway Forest
Loch Enoch, nestled within the heart of Galloway Forest in Scotland, is a tranquil and remote wild camping destination. Surrounded by rugged hills and serene waters, this loch offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape into nature’s embrace. The area’s dark skies also make it a prime spot for stargazing in Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park, adding an extra layer of magic to your wild camping adventure.
While getting to the Loch itself will require some scrambling without a direct path, the area is well known for its hiking trails along its ridgeline and great fishing spots. Plus, you are sure to find some whimsical artworks throughout the forest and natural formations like the Grey Man of Merrick.
Carneddau, Snowdonia
Carneddau in Snowdonia Wales, offers a wild camping experience surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and sweeping valleys. While exploring Mid Wales, also known as the ‘green heart’, this rugged landscape is perfect for adventurous campers who crave the thrill of high-altitude solitude and breathtaking views. With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Carneddau provides an unforgettable backdrop for a wild camping escape.
Anticipate nights of stargazing above at a celestial canopy or cycling on the terrain below within the largest park in Wales. As it ushers in a lot of visitors, be sure to secure your wild camping holiday by booking your campsite well in advance. They offer many options for campervans and motorhomes, but you must note that camping in car parks is not allowed.
Camasunary, Isle of Skye
Camasunary on the Isle of Skye, Scotland is a wild camping paradise, offering a blend of coastal beauty and mountain grandeur. Tucked away on the shores of Loch Scavaig, the striking Cuillin mountains surround this remote spot and offer panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. As it is only accessible by foot or boat, Camasunary is an idyllic location for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of Scotland’s most stunning settings. Be sure to plan your parking in advance.
The area is one of the top ten walks in Skye, with an average difficulty rating and manageable in most weather. As it has some walking paths with loose gravel, have sturdy walking shoes or boots. The walk is about 9.2km (considered long) and will take you about 2.5 hours or so to complete.
Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons
The Black Mountains in the Breacon Beacons National Park, Wales, offer a wild camping experience amidst rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and dramatic ridges. Having celebrated its 66th anniversary of becoming a national park, it underwent renaming to honour its Welsh identity, Bannau Brycheiniog, and celebrate a return to a natural heritage. This area is rich in history, formed early on by the Ice Age and later on by many generations of agricultural work.
You can expect a lot of mountains and vast moorland – about 20 miles worth of open hill common – between the three mountain ranges of Bannau Brycheiniog. This remote and rugged landscape is ideal for hiking and camping among serene environments and lingering prehistoric monuments. The Black Mountains, with its sweeping vistas and rich wildlife, provide a tranquil and immersive retreat into nature’s heart. While there, keep an eye out for the Welsh mountain ponies, the resident groundskeepers.
Ennerdale Valley, Lake District
Ennerdale Valley in the Lake District is a one of the top wild camping locations UK, known for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. There is a particular focus on reducing human intervention with their wild land restoration project, one of the longest ongoing efforts in the UK. In November 2022, Wild Ennerdale became a National Nature Reserve (NNR).
Surrounded by towering fells and lush forests, this remote valley offers a peaceful escape into the heart of nature. Whether you’re staying in your campervan by the serene expanse of Ennerdale Water or exploring the rugged trails, the valley’s untouched landscapes make for an idyllic and rejuvenating wild camping experience. You can do most of your favourite activities at Ennerdale – but take note of the parking recommendations and paddler’s code.
Essential Wild Camping Tips for Your Adventure
Alongside choosing the perfect wild camping UK locations, it’s important to prepare with the right knowledge and gear for a safe and enjoyable experience. Make the most of your time in the wild by following these guidelines for a responsible and rewarding adventure in the UK’s great outdoors – whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first timer.
- Choose the Right Location: Select secluded spots, away from trails and settlements, and ensure they permit wild camping (see our section on laws in the UK).
- Pack Light, Pack Smart: Carry only essential gear, keeping your backpack lightweight for a more comfortable journey.
- Leave No Trace: Understanding the seven Leave No Trace principles is a non-negotiable in the UK. Take all your rubbish with you, avoid environmental damage, and leave your campsite as you found it.
- Stay Safe: Always carry navigation tools, inform someone of your plans, and prepare for changing weather.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance, secure your food, and avoid disturbing animals.
- Water Safety: Always filter or purify water sourced from natural streams or lakes before drinking.
- Campfire Caution: Use established fire rings, keep fires small, and ensure they’re all extinguished before leaving.
- Know Your Limits: Choose a reachable camping spot and set up before nightfall to avoid unnecessary risks.
- Weather Awareness: Check the forecast and prepare. Pack appropriate clothing and gear for all weather conditions.
- Be Considerate of Others: Respect other campers’ space and keep noise to a minimum for a peaceful experience.
When it comes to the legal side of wild camping in UK locations, the laws vary for each country. Some allow wild camping – and others do not have such clear legislation. This is where you need to be diligent in your research about the region and the specific spot you wish to wild camp in.
Scotland
Scotland allows wild camping and it promises many wonderful campsites. Campers must, however, abide by five basic principles:
- No camping in enclosed areas (such as fields for crops, livestock or animals)
- No camping close to buildings and historic monuments
- Follow campfire restrictions
- Camp away from roads
- Leave no trace
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland considers wild camping a civil offence if you do not have permission from the landowner. However, you will not get arrested. Make use of their guide to camping and touring their various forested sites.
England and Wales
As for England and Wales, be mindful not to trespass on land that is most likely owned by an individual or a greater entity. Overall, they both prohibit wild camping and is therefore considered illegal in England and Wales according to the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
The exception to this rule is Dartmoor, South-West England. There, you can wild camp without a landowner’s permission. Explore their interactive camping map to navigate Dartmoor Commons. While in Dartmoor, be sure to follow their rules for wild camping (this term applies to transporting your equipment by backpacking and staying a maximum of two nights):
- Leave no trace (don’t light any fires, remove and take all rubbish with you)
- No staying overnight (whether in vehicles, campervans or motorhomes)
- No camping in large groups
- No large tents
Safety tip: Be mindful that they designate certain Dartmoor forest areas for military training and live firing. These areas get closed off to visitors when in session.
FAQ
What happens if you get caught wild camping UK?
If caught wild camping in the UK where it’s not permitted and you do not have the landowner’s permission (for Northern Ireland, Wales and England, although Dartmoor is an exception) – you may get asked to leave immediately and could face a fine or legal action, especially if there’s damage or litter. In some cases, responsible campers may only receive a warning. To avoid issues, seek permission or camp in areas like parts of Scotland where wild camping is more accepted.
Can you wild camp in a motorhome in the UK?
Wild camping in a motorhome is generally not allowed in the UK without permission from the landowner. However, you can often find spots in more remote areas where they tolerate wild camping, such as Scotland. Always follow local regulations, leave no trace, park responsibly, and don’t obstruct to avoid fines or getting asked to move on.
Where can you park overnight for free in the UK?
You can often park overnight for free in the UK at designated areas stop sites or motorhome stopovers, certain rural laybys, and some public car parks that allow overnight stays. In Scotland, you have more freedom to park in remote areas, especially under the right to roam, but always check for signs or local restrictions.
