How to Start Wild Camping in the UK Without Getting Fined
Introduction: The Call of the Wild
Wild camping offers a raw, immersive way to experience the UK’s great outdoors — from misty moorlands to hidden fishing lakes. But with freedom comes responsibility, and the wrong pitch in the wrong place could lead to hefty fines or being asked to move on.
Whether you’re planning to fish and camp under the stars or hike remote trails, this guide will help you do it legally, safely, and with confidence.
Is Wild Camping Legal in the UK?
🏴 England & Wales
- Generally illegal without the landowner’s permission.
- You’re technically trespassing unless camping in:
- Dartmoor National Park (limited legal rights restored in 2023)
- With express permission (e.g. some estates or farms)
🏴 Scotland
- Legal under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
- You can camp almost anywhere on unenclosed land
- Must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
🔍 Northern Ireland
- Same as England & Wales — not generally legal unless permitted.
Where Can You Wild Camp Legally?
| 🌍 Location | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dartmoor (Devon) | One of the few legal wild camping spots in England. Check Dartmoor Camping Map |
| Lake District (stealth) | Not officially allowed, but tolerated at high altitudes if done respectfully |
| Scotland Highlands | Best legal wild camping experience in the UK |
| Yorkshire Dales (quiet spots) | Requires discretion; avoid popular walking paths |
👉 Top Tip: Use the Campy App to find remote, lesser-known camping and fishing locations.
How to Wild Camp Without Getting Fined
- Use a Lightweight Tent or Bivy
- Keep it discreet (green, brown, or camo colours)
- Avoid large family tents
- Use a Lightweight Tent or Bivy
- Camp Late, Leave Early
- Arrive after 7pm, leave before 9am
- Avoid setting up during peak walking hours
- Camp Late, Leave Early
- Stay One Night Only
- Never overstay your welcome
- Stay One Night Only
- Leave No Trace
- Pack out all rubbish
- No fires unless permitted
- Use a portable stove
- Leave No Trace
- Respect Wildlife & Livestock
- Camp away from herds, nesting areas, and crops
- Respect Wildlife & Livestock
- Ask for Permission Where Possible
- Especially near private lakes, rivers, or fishing estates
Fishing + Wild Camping: What You Need to Know
If you plan to fish while wild camping, keep these in mind:
- 🎣 Fishing licence required in England, Wales, and some Scottish waters
- ⚠️ No night fishing on certain waters — check local by-laws
- 🪪 Many private fisheries don’t allow wild camping or require pre-booking
- 🏕️ Combine wild camping with permissive fishing access via the Campy app or platforms like Fishbrain
What to Pack for a Legal & Low-Impact Wild Camping Trip
| 🧳 Essentials | 🎯 Notes |
|---|---|
| Lightweight tent/bivy | Small footprint, blends in |
| Sleeping bag + mat | Cold nights even in summer |
| Portable stove + fuel | No open fires |
| Water filter or tablets | Streams only — no tap |
| Headlamp + spare batteries | For discreet late-night moves |
| Trowel + toilet paper | Bury waste 15cm deep, 30m from water |
| First aid kit | Always |
| Navigation app + power bank | No signal = no safety |
🛒 Check out GetHookt’s camping gear for tents, headlamps, stoves, and survival essentials.
Places to Avoid (Unless You Like Fines)
🚫 Popular tourist spots like:
- National Trust land
- Most beaches in England & Wales
- Car parks, farmland, nature reserves
🚓 Local authorities may fine or move you on. In some areas, wild camping is considered aggravated trespass, especially in groups.
Wrapping Up: Freedom Comes with Respect
Wild camping in the UK is absolutely possible — and deeply rewarding. But doing it legally and considerately is key to avoiding fines, bad experiences, and ruining it for others.
Respect nature, keep a low profile, and do your research. If you’re ever in doubt, err on the side of caution or pitch at a nearby fishing-friendly campsite instead.
