The Golden Rules of Wild Camping

Maybe your idea of camping isn’t spending a weekend with neighbouring campgoers in an official campground. You dream of wild open spaces, of pitching a tent on the edge of a mountain lake and watching the sun set over the peaks, far from the hustle and bustle of people.

While wild camping can be an incredible adventure and give you a sense of freedom like no other, there are certain golden rules that are universally accepted to ensure you respect and protect the environment that gives you so much joy.

Before you go, make sure you know the essential rules of wild camping

First and foremost, LEAVE NŌ TRACE
This is the guiding principle of all the rules that follow. Wherever you go, aim to leave your outdoor playground as clean and undisturbed as it was when you arrived.

The reason you are wild camping is very likely to escape the realities of modern life for a little while… So in an era where the Earth’s resources are put under extreme strain, adopting a sustainable and responsible approach will help preserve our planet and allow future generations to enjoy the same places you do.

Are you allowed to be here?

Make sure you are not camping on private land without the owner’s permission. If you are wandering across public land, make sure you do your homework beforehand and know for sure that wild camping is permitted or tolerated in the area you are in. Be aware this isn’t the case everywhere.

Respect natural resources

Ensure you set up camp at least 100 metres from any rivers, lakes or streams to avoid contaminating natural water. This rules also applies to any unavoidable pee-with-a-view stops, and if there has to be a #2, ensure you dig a little hole (pack a shovel!) and bury your business.

Respect fauna and flora

You are a visitor in an ecosystem that has built up its very own equilibrium over centuries – without you. Help preserve the natural habitat of local fauna and flora by not approaching wildlife, not picking flowers and not tramping all over undergrowth to pitch your tent, but also keeping any pets under control. Whenever possible, stick to the trails and watch where you’re putting your feet.

Take your waste away

This includes food waste and any tissues, wrappers and packaging (including toilet paper!). Pack everything consciously, be extra careful in strong winds and double check your campsite before you leave.

Be campfire conscious

Ensure you are aware of any campfire regulations or restrictions in the area you are camping and only light a fire in a pre-existing campfire ring to avoid damaging the ground. If you are collecting wood, only use dead wood that is already on the ground. Green wood cut from a tree will not burn anyhow, so leave it where it is.

Be considerate and plan ahead.

Always be courteous and polite to any other campers so they can enjoy the sights and sounds just like you are. Shouting and loud music are definitely a big no-no, so leave the boombox at home.

Make sure you know where you’re going, are equipped for the difficulties of the trail and any weather coming through and are fit enough for the challenge. This will reduce any risk of you needing to be rescued.