However, before you get excited about your wild camping trip, you must be aware of the laws concerning wild camping in the area where you plan to set up your tent. To help you with this, here's everything you need to know about wild camping law.
What Is Wild Camping?
Wild camping means setting up a tent outside of a campsite and sleeping in a tent surrounded by the rugged wilderness. Offering a more thrilling experience, this method of camping is becoming a popular activity in the UK, especially among adventurers and nature lovers.
Basically, wild camping can refer to any camping activity done outside of a designated campsite and generally away from the public. It's about going back to the basics and experiencing life outside of the modern world. When you go wild camping, it's just you, the tent, and the natural surroundings.
Since you will be camping in an area with no camping infrastructures, you must be prepared to take care of your basic needs while in the wild. You should plan how to cook, where to get water and go on a toilet break. Some wild campers will set up campfires to cook or warm up at night, but some places in the UK prohibit this. That's why you must be aware of the laws surrounding wild camping to avoid getting into trouble.
Wild Camping Laws In The UK
Depending on the area, different rules apply to wild camping in the UK, so it's important that you check what restrictions apply on the site where you plan to set up your tent. Since you will be camping in the wild, you must also be familiar with the Wildlife and Countryside Act, which is the main legislation protecting animals, plants, and habitats.
The rules and laws about where you can and cannot camp in the mountains, hills, forests, and countryside of the United Kingdom can often lead to debate when discussed since the laws can be complicated. Generally, wild camping is legal in the UK if you have the landowner's permission since most land in the country is privately owned.
Just because you need permission from the landowner does not mean that wild camping is completely banned in the country. You only need to make an effort to ask permission before you set up your tent. In fact, talking to the landowner also comes with benefits. They may be able to suggest the best spot to camp in the area or advise you on which sites to avoid due to boggy land or some other reasons.
Where Can You Go Wild Camping In The UK?
Scotland is definitely a great place to go wild camping in England. The Scottish outdoors are breathtakingly beautiful. Its diverse landscapes consist of majestic mountains and glens, lush forests and moorlands, and a truly stunning coastline.
While it's truly fun to go wild camping in Scotland, you would be able to camp better if you stayed at a glamping site. A search for glamping in Lake District National Park will give you a list of excellent glamping sites in the Lakes with facilities like a toilet and a shower with the accommodation. Others even come with luxurious amenities like a hot tub and pool. What's more, most of these sites are surrounded by breathtaking landscape views that Scotland is known for.
Unlike wild camping, where you are solely responsible for setting up your tent, glamping does not require this since there is already a place available for you to sleep on. Moreover, you can choose from different types of glamping properties, including unique ones like a treehouse and yurt. These properties are fitted with comfy beds and have toilets and showers. Glamping is ideal for those who want to try camping but are not yet ready to experience wild camping.
Wild Camping Laws In The US
The US has its own laws for wild camping. If you are planning to go wild camping in the country, you must be familiar with these laws. Wild camping is legal in certain places in the US, including the national forests and grasslands.
It's also allowed to camp on any private land in the US for as long as you have the landowner’s permission. Camping in a private place without the owner's permission or authorisation is forbidden. Wild camping may also be allowed in public areas, provided there is no prohibition.
Wild camping is practised in isolation and not on a specially equipped campsite. The practice is tolerated in various areas throughout the country, although it's regulated in some cities and states. Therefore, before camping at a certain site, you should know the local laws and regulations. Often, the bans are due to ecological, aesthetic, and environmental reasons. Anyone who will not comply with the laws will be liable to hefty fines.
Where Can You Go Wild Camping In The US?
Camping is a popular activity in America. Those who are fond of camping consider it a wonderful way to relax, escape stress, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature. You will find plenty of beautiful places to enjoy wild camping in the USA. But for those who are not yet ready to "rough it up", consider glamping.
Glamping is a luxurious way of camping. Unlike wild camping, where you have to settle with the basics, glamping provides modern amenities like toilets and showers. You will find excellent glamping sites in New York State. These sites offer a range of glamping properties, including luxury yurts and treehouses.
With glamping, you don't have to worry about the local laws and regulations. And although you will be sleeping in a luxurious tent, you will still be surrounded by nature since most of these glamping sites are located close to forests and national parks.
