Wild camping
Wild camping means pitching a tent away from an official campsite, usually on open land and without a booked pitch. It is not one right that applies everywhere in the UK. The rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and they can change from one piece of land to the next.
Where you'll see it
Guides, apps and articles use the term. Seeing a spot on a map or in a post does not show that camping is allowed there. Treat every spot as unconfirmed until you have checked the rules for that place and the owner's position.
What to check
- The official guidance for the nation you are in, starting with wild camping in the UK: the rules explained.
- The landowner's or land manager's permission, asked for before you travel and kept in writing.
- Any local byelaws or site-specific arrangements for the exact place. See byelaw.
- The Countryside Code, or the Scottish Outdoor Access Code in Scotland, for how to behave.
- Whether a campsite or bunkhouse nearby would be the better choice if permission is not confirmed.
Related terms
- Backpack camping: wild camping on the move, often on a walking route.
- Open access land: land where walking rights apply, which may not cover camping.
- Countryside Code: the official advice for visitors.
- Leave No Trace: the principles for keeping your impact low.
Read more: Wild camping in the UK: the rules explained, how we check the rules and the wild camping rules finder.