Scotland largely allows wild camping, with national parks like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs being just one part of the accessible countryside.
Wild Camping: A Guide for Scotland and Dartmoor
Wild camping, the practice of camping outdoors without permanent facilities, offers a unique and immersive experience for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the rules and regulations for wild camping vary across different regions, particularly in Scotland and Dartmoor National Park in England.
In Scotland
Camping Management Zones in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park require permits between March and September. Elsewhere in Scotland, wild camping is generally allowed, except in enclosed fields and areas near buildings, roads, and historic structures. A high-quality, waterproof tent is necessary for wild camping in Scotland.
When wild camping in Scotland, it's essential to follow guidelines to minimize impact on the environment. This includes leaving no trace, minimizing impact, not spending more than a night or two in the same location, packing away all rubbish, using stoves instead of campfires, and burying human waste. A warm-rated sleeping bag is essential for wild camping in Scotland, especially at higher altitudes.
Pitching a tent is a matter of personal preference. Whether you choose a secluded glen or a beach in time for sunset, it's best to pick a spot that is flat, dry, offers some shelter from the wind, and is not directly beneath a tree or beside water sources. A light breeze can help keep midges at bay while wild camping.
In Dartmoor
Wild camping on Dartmoor National Park is a unique case in England and Wales. Due to a Supreme Court ruling in the Darwall and another v Dartmoor National Park Authority case, a public right to wild camp on Dartmoor's commons has been established, making it an exception within England and Wales.
However, this right comes with conditions. Campers must follow the park's codes, such as staying just one night, arriving late and leaving early, avoiding fires, and moving on politely if requested. Elsewhere in England and Wales, wild camping remains subject to landowner consent without any inherent right, and unauthorized camping risks civil action under trespass laws.
For those seeking a more organised wild camping experience, services like Wild With Consent offer exclusive campervan pitches on private land with pre-arranged landowner permission. Scottish Forestry car parks allow overnight van parking, and the Brit Stops scheme offers free overnight stays across the country.
Regardless of the location, a lightweight and minimal kit is recommended for wild camping. This includes a lightweight sleeping mat, small travel stove, fuel, and a basic cooking set. A water filter or means to boil water, bin bag, toilet roll, shovel, and a good head torch are also necessary.
Remember, wild camping is a privilege, and it's up to each camper to respect the environment and the landowners' rights. Always leave no trace and follow local guidelines to ensure a positive wild camping experience for all.
- In Scotland, wild camping is allowed in most areas, excluding enclosed fields and areas near buildings, roads, and historic structures, and requires following guidelines to minimize environmental impact, such as leaving no trace and packing away all rubbish.
- Wild camping on Dartmoor National Park in England is a unique case as it has a public right to wild camp on its commons, but campers must follow the park's codes, such as staying just one night, arriving late, and leaving early, and avoiding fires.
- For travelers seeking a more organized wild camping experience, services like Wild With Consent offer exclusive campervan pitches on private land with pre-arranged landowner permission in Scotland, while Scottish Forestry car parks allow overnight van parking, and the Brit Stops scheme offers free overnight stays across the country.
