Wild Camping
Welcome to the Year of Wild Camping
2025 is the year we put wild camping firmly on the map. Through our We Wild Camp campaign, the BMC are calling for a definitive moment in the political spotlight - one that raises the profile of wild camping, boosts our collective voice, and creates the conditions for meaningful reform in England and Wales.
We want to shine a light on the many social and environmental benefits this low-impact, adventurous activity brings, and celebrate the thousands who already enjoy it responsibly. Together, we’ll promote good practice, share essential codes of conduct, and launch a landmark State of Wild Camping in England and Wales report to help inform and influence future policy.
Let’s protect the freedom to sleep under the stars - and make sure it’s here to stay.
Get Involved
Wild Camping Writing Bursary
We are inviting creative young BMC members under 30 years of age to send us ideas for creative projects that we can use to progress the conversation around wild camping in England and Wales
Respect The Wild Guidelines
What special skills do you need to know if you’re heading up into the wilds of our hills and mountains? To help everyone #RespectTheWild, the BMC have a series of advice codes and films that reveal the secrets for sustainable and successful wilderness trips.
Wild Camping News and Articles
Wild Camping
The legal right to wild camp on Dartmoor has been upheld by the Supreme Court, marking a significant victory for public access to nature.
Access News
Proposals to make ordinary trespass a criminal offence have alarmed outdoor groups, including the BMC. Ahead of a debate in Parliament on the issue and the possibility of Government publishing the Police Powers and Protections Bill, Ed Douglas calls for the Government to think again.
Access News
There are concerns that government are considering moves to turn trespass from a civil offence to a criminal one. In a public consultation that is currently out for comment, it has been suggested that police powers could be strengthened to force people to move on from unauthorised encampments. The BMC is concerned however, that there could be unintentional consequences of the proposals around issues such as wild camping.
Hillwalking Skills
Camping ‘wild’ is a different way of spending the night outdoors but it isn't allowed everywhere - with a responsible approach however, there are many remote areas where you can still rest your weary head under a star-filled sky.
Expert wild camping tips
Further Resources
OutdoorHer
This resource is for everyone who is looking to learn more about managing their periods, menopause and toileting when out in the wild and other such health matters when in the outdoors, aimed at participants to leaders and allies. It has been created with inclusion in mind and we hope that it helps to support and improve adventures for all, speaking to a range of issues that have often been overlooked.
Right To Roam Campaign
The Right to Roam national campaign is to bring a Right to Roam Act to England and Wales so that millions more people can connect with the natural world. Click through and support the cause.
Respect The Wild Film Series
Adventurer Dwayne Fields teams up with wild camping expert Phoebe Smith to show you how to leave no trace when camping in the outdoors.