What exactly is wild camping? Wild camping entails pitching your tent after a long hike somewhere other than a designated campsite, and generally away from other people. It’s all about getting back to basics: just you and a natural shelter. This could be in the woods, on a mountainside, or in a field.
Is wild camping legal?
Different countries have different rules for wild camping, so it’s important to research the restrictions in your chosen country. Even in countries where wild camping is legal, rules can vary by region, so you’ll need to do some research into any local rules or guidelines to ensure you’re wild camping in an approved location.
Wild camping is permitted in large areas of Scotland, but most of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland land is privately owned. Because current law does not allow people to camp on someone else’s land, wild camping is strictly prohibited in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Many landowners, however, are willing to host wild campers if they ask permission first and are respectful of the land. It’s up to you to ensure that you ask permission and follow the wild camping rules.
You could be charged with trespass if you are caught wild camping without permission. Because this is a civil offence, you will most likely not be arrested but will be asked to leave. As long as you do so, the situation will be resolved. You may be fined if you are caught wild camping without permission on multiple occasions.
