🚐 What Is Wild Camping?
Wild camping in a campervan is one of the best ways to explore the UK on your own terms. With your bed, kitchen, and gear all in one place, you can fall asleep to crashing waves, wake up to mountain views, and escape the crowds – all without the hassle of pitching a tent.
But before you hit the road and park up in a secluded spot, it’s important to know what’s legal, what’s respectful, and how to camp responsibly. This guide covers everything you need to get started with van wild camping in the UK.
⚖️ Is Wild Camping Legal in the UK?
The short answer: it depends where you are. Here’s the breakdown:
- England & Wales: Wild camping in a van is not legally permitted without the landowner’s permission. However, there’s a little flexibility in practice, especially in more remote areas. Dartmoor National Park recently regained the right to allow wild camping – a win for outdoor lovers!
- Scotland: Scotland has the most relaxed rules thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. While the law mainly applies to non-motorised camping, van campers can still find plenty of spots to park overnight – just make sure not to block access or disturb wildlife.
- Northern Ireland: Like England and Wales, wild camping is not allowed without the landowner’s permission. Always check local guidance before setting up.
🚨 Always be respectful and discreet – the more considerate we are as campers, the more freedom we’ll have in the future.
🌍 Best Spots for Wild Camping
If you’re looking for wild, scenic, and remote spots to spend the night in your van, these UK regions are great starting points:
- Dartmoor National Park: Legal again! Ideal for quiet lay-bys or tucked away moorland stops
- Scottish Highlands: Wild and rugged – ideal for true offgrid vanlife
- Snowdonia National Park: Stunning views, but ask for landowner permission
- Lake District: Some areas are restricted, but legal overnight parking is available
- Northumberland National Park: Quiet, vast landscapes perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep
💡 Tip: Use apps like Park4Night or Searchforsites to find vetted spots shared by fellow vanlifers.
🛠️ What You’ll Need: Campervan Wild Camping Essentials
Your van already gives you a head start on comfort, but here are a few extras that make off-grid stays more enjoyable (and responsible):
- Power Supply: Solar panels or rechargeable power banks to keep you charged up
- Water: Carry plenty of water for drinking, cooking and cleaning
- Toilet Solution: A portable toilet keeps things clean and private
- Waste Disposal Bags: Leave no trace, especially in places with no bins
- Cooking Kit: A compact gas stove, utensils, and food supplies
- Warm Layers: Even summer nights can get chilly in remote spots
- First Aid Kit: Always good to have on hand
🌿 Leave No Trace: Be a Responsible Wild Camper
This bit matters. Whether you’re tucked in a forest lay-by or parked up beside a loch, leaving no trace ensures these places stay beautiful and open to campers in the future.
- Arrive late, leave early – Stay discreet and reduce your impact
- Don’t overstay – One or two nights max in any one location
- Leave no trace – Rubbish, grey water, everything
- No open fires – Fires can cause lasting damage and risk wildfires
- Stay on firm ground – Avoid muddy tracks and soft verges
- Keep noise to a minimum – No loud music/conversations
- Respect others – Locals, landowners, fellow campers – we’re all sharing the space
📝 Final Tips for Wild Camping in Your Van
- Plan ahead: Scope out spots in advance and have backups in case your first choice is busy
- Be prepared: Many remote areas have poor if not zero phone signal
- Stay self-sufficient: Don’t rely on others for water, power, or facilities
- Be flexible: Weather, road closures, or full lay-bys can change your plans
- Keep it stealthy: Don’t draw attention with noise or lights
- Trust your gut: If a spot doesn’t feel right, move on
Wild camping in a van is one of the best ways to experience the UK’s hidden gems. With a little planning, the right mindset, and a respectful approach, you’ll discover incredible places far from the crowds – and plenty of stories to go with them.
Happy camping!