Your Essential Guide to Motorhome & Campervan Wild Camping

Wild camping in a motorhome or campervan is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the UK. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, surrounded by nature, with no noisy neighbours or hotel rooms to deal with. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? Well, if you’re looking to break away from the crowds and embark on a bit of motorhome wild camping or campervan wild camping, this guide is for you.

Wild camping, often referred to as “free camping”, is camping without electricity, running water and the facilities of a campsite. Whether it’s on a remote beach, tucked away in the hills or overlooking a tranquil lake, wild camping offers a level of freedom and adventure that traditional campsites just can’t match.

But before you pack up your motorhome or campervan and hit the road, there are some important things to know. Here we’ll look at everything you need to know about wild camping in a motorhome or campervan, including tips, rules and some of the best spots for a memorable experience.

Top Tips for Motorhome Wild Camping and Campervan Wild Camping in the UK

1. Plan Your Route

While the allure of wild camping is all about spontaneity, a little planning can go a long way in making your experience smoother. If you’re new to motorhome wild camping, it’s a good idea to research areas where wild camping is more acceptable.

In the UK, wild camping is legal in some areas and prohibited in others. Scotland is the most well-known destination where wild camping is allowed. However, there are still guidelines you need to follow to ensure you're not breaking the law or disturbing the local environment.

2. Check the Local Rules and Regulations

Different parts of the UK have different rules regarding wild camping, so it's essential to know where you're allowed to camp. In Scotland, wild camping is generally permitted in most areas, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This includes camping responsibly and not leaving litter behind.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, wild camping is illegal in most areas unless you have permission from the landowner. However, there are exceptions, such as on certain parts of Dartmoor in Devon. Be sure to check the local regulations before setting up camp to avoid any fines or unwanted attention.

Scotland: Wild Camping is Legal with Conditions

Scotland is the most welcoming location in the UK for wild camping. Thanks to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which allows responsible wild camping, you can camp almost anywhere in the country. However, there are some conditions:

• Wild camping is allowed on unenclosed land (land that’s not within private property boundaries).
• You must not camp in areas where it would cause disturbance to other people or damage to the environment.
• It’s crucial to avoid popular tourist areas, especially during peak times, and make sure to leave no trace
  
  

England, Wales and Northern Ireland: Wild Camping is Generally Prohibited.

Wild camping in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is mostly illegal, although there are some exceptions, such as:

•  Dartmoor: Dartmoor is the only place in England where wild camping is allowed in certain areas, but you still need to follow specific guidelines and obtain a permit in some parts.
• National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs): Generally, wild camping is not permitted in these areas, but you may find campsites or wild camping-friendly locations with prior permission.

In any case, it’s vital to research the area you’re planning to visit and check local regulations before you set off.

3. Leave No Trace – Respect Nature

• One of the most important principles of wild camping is leaving no trace. Wild camping means immersing yourself in nature, but it also means protecting it. Be conscious of your environmental impact and follow the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles. Don’t Leave Litter: Always carry your rubbish with you and dispose of it properly.
• Camp Away from Water Sources: Set up camp a good distance away from rivers, streams, or lakes to protect the natural habitat.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife: Don’t disturb wildlife and be cautious about the food and waste you leave behind.
• Leave what you find: Leave rocks, plants and natural objects to preserve the ecosystem.
  
  

4. Prepare Your Motorhome or Campervan Properly

If you're planning on motorhome wild camping, make sure your vehicle is ready for the adventure. This means ensuring that your motorhome or campervan has adequate water storage, waste disposal systems, and a reliable power supply. If you’re going off the grid for several days, it’s essential to be self-sufficient.

Many motorhomes and campervans are equipped with solar panels, onboard toilets and waste tanks, but you may need to supplement these with portable power banks or extra water storage. Additionally, keep a supply of food and other essentials in case you end up in more remote areas without easy access to shops.

5. Wild Camping Etiquette – Respect Others

Motorhome and campervan wild camping is all about peaceful, respectful experiences. While you might be tempted to park up next to a beautiful view or secluded spot, make sure you're not disturbing others. If you do find yourself in a popular spot, be courteous to others by staying for a reasonable amount of time and keeping noise to a minimum.

6. Don’t Overstay Your Welcome

Wild camping is a temporary way of life, so avoid staying in the same spot for days on end. Some locations may have restrictions on how long you can stay, and even in areas where wild camping is allowed, it’s good practice to keep moving on. The more you respect the land and the people living around it, the more places you'll be able to visit.

The Best Places to Try Motorhome Wild Camping or Campervan Wild Camping in the UK

Now that you’re familiar with the dos and don’ts of wild camping, let’s take a look at some of the best places to enjoy the freedom of wild camping in the UK.

1. The Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is an excellent choice for motorhome wild camping. With its dramatic landscapes, remote valleys and rugged coastlines, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature. Some of the most popular wild camping areas include Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, as well as the North Coast 500 route, which offers breathtaking views and plenty of off-the-beaten-path spots.

2. Snowdonia, Wales

Snowdonia is a fantastic location for a bit of motorhome wild camping. Whether you want to be near lakes, forests, or the foothills of Wales' highest mountain, Snowdonia offers a range of wild camping spots. If you're not sure where to start, try parking your van at the base of some of Snowdonia's more challenging mountains and enjoy the surrounding tranquillity.

3. The Lake District, England

The Lake District is another popular location for wild camping, with its stunning scenery, rugged fells, and tranquil lakes. While wild camping is not officially permitted in most parts of the Lake District, it is still possible to find a peaceful spot if you're respectful of the environment and the local communities. The area around Ullswater is often mentioned as a good place for campervan wild camping.

4. Cornwall and Devon

Cornwall and Devon are fantastic places to try motorhome wild camping, especially along the beautiful coastal routes. The cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills provide plenty of secluded spots to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars. Just make sure to respect the local rules and avoid camping on private property without permission.

Specialist motorhome and campervan insurance through Ripe

Ready to get set on a wild camping adventure? Like all camping in a motorhome and campervan, it does come with risks which means you might want to consider motorhome insurance.

Specialist motorhome and campervan insurance through Ripe allows you to build your policy so you can tailor your cover to suit you and protect your motorhome against things like theft, fire, flood, and accidental damage.

Motorhome insurance through Ripe also offers optional add-ons, including enhanced windscreen cover, personal accident cover, continental Europe cover, legal expenses cover, and key cover.

Find out more about specialist motorhome and campervan insurance through Ripe and get a free online quote today.

For more tips on keeping your motorhome secure, take a look at our motorhome security blog.