Wild Camping is for Everyone!

For many years, I’ve personally witnessed the transformative power of wild camping. I spent my youth in the wilds of Dartmoor, exploring nature, trekking to remote locations and being in awe of the natural world around us – and haven’t really stopped since then!

In my view, wild camping is an experience that transcends age, ability, and background, offering a profound connection not only to nature, but with yourself. The outdoors is for everyone and a beautiful night under the stars is something everyone should (regularly!) experience.

If you have yet to try wild camping, but are not sure where to start, here are five tips on what you should consider to create an adventure that is right for you and to ultimately make it something you’ll be wanting to repeat again and again:

1. Seek Adventure on (Permitted!) Private Land: For those who may feel apprehensive about venturing into public wilderness areas, consider embarking on adventures on private land. We set about providing access to a network of Wild Spaces, in conjunction with landowners, trusts and custodians. Visiting a private estate or holding offers a sense of security to those who may be new to wilder camping experiences, as the space has been vetted, graded and mapped out to support the overall experience. This allows you to immerse yourself in nature while reducing concerns about safety or legality.
   
2. Learn from Others: One of the most enriching aspects of wild camping is the sense of community fostered by shared experiences and knowledge. Reach out to like-minded individuals to share stories, exchange tips, and seek advice from ambassadors who have “been there, done that”. Engaging with the CampWild community is another example of a supportive environment where everyone is made to feel welcome and empowered to embark on their own wilderness adventures.
   
3. Accessing the Right Kit: I truly believe that the kit you need to create an exciting and memorable adventure in a beautiful wild location doesn't need to be over complicated. In fact, we are on a mission to remove the ‘intimidation factor’ from knowing what kit is needed for wild camping, and instead inject confidence into those who don't know where to start. We are therefore currently working behind the scenes with our friends at Vango to create an innovative kit grading system that is a game changer when it comes to planning and embarking on camping adventures. Watch the space in the coming weeks as The Kit Grade comes to life!
   
4. Embrace Solitude and Nature: There's nothing quite like the serenity of being alone in nature, free from the distractions of our connected world. Wild camping offers the opportunity to totally unwind, disconnect, and immerse yourself in the natural world. Whether you’re gazing at the stars, listening to the trickle of a brook, or marvelling at the beauty of a sunrise, embracing solitude is a hugely empowering feeling. Switch off from your daily routine and instead embrace the simplicity of nature, and foster a sense of mindfulness and deeper appreciation for the world around us.
   
5. Do What Works For You: At its core, wild camping is about inclusivity and accessibility. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to experiencing nature, and everyone should feel empowered to explore the outdoors in a way that suits their abilities and preferences. I set up CampWild to help make wild camping more accessible – to people of all backgrounds, ages, and physical abilities. Just remember that the beauty of wild camping lies in the sense of freedom it offers. So, grab your backpack, leave behind the noise of the modern world, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. But be warned, if you’re anything like me, once you’ve camped in nature once, it may just become a way of life!

www.campwild.uk