Free Camping Spots: The UK’s Hidden Gems

Do you fancy a camping trip without the hefty price tag? Free camping in the UK is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors without paying for campsites.

Free or wild camping provides a genuine connection to nature. However, before you head off, you must understand the rules and choose your spots wisely.

This guide, brought to you by Small Campsites, covers everything you need to know about camping for free, including the best locations, campsites, legal considerations, and tips. Let’s get started.

Understanding Free Camping in the UK

First, let’s determine what free camping is and the legal technicalities in the UK:

Free camping often involves setting up camp outside of designated, paid campsites. It’s about embracing simplicity, exploring uncovered landscapes and saving a few quid while you do it!

Unlike traditional camping holidays, free camping spots often lack facilities like toilets and showers, so campers must be self-sufficient and well-prepared.

The Legal Framework

The legality of free camping varies across the UK:

• Scotland: Wild camping is generally legal thanks to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Following the code’s guidelines, you can camp freely on unenclosed land, such as national parks.
• England and Wales: Free camping is more restricted and requires landowner permission. The exception is Dartmoor National Park, where wild camping is permitted in designated areas.
• Northern Ireland: Free camping is generally prohibited without permission, but some remote areas, like the Mourne Mountains, offer discreet opportunities.

Learning the legal framework ensures your camping trip stays enjoyable and trouble-free.

Top Free Camping Locations

Here are the best locations for free camping in the UK, organised by country:

Scotland

Scotland is popular for free campers thanks to its relaxed rules and stunning scenery.

Top spots include:

• Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: Popular for its scenic beauty, but stick to designated camping areas due to specific bylaws.
• Cairngorms National Park: Perfect for remote spots with dramatic mountain views and wildlife.

England

Although more restricted, there are fantastic opportunities for free camping in England:

• Dartmoor National Park: One of the few places in England where wild camping is allowed. Stick to designated areas and avoid camping near roads or farms.
• Lake District (with landowner permission): While free camping isn’t officially allowed, many landowners in remote areas are open to discreet campers who leave no trace.

Wales

Wales offers some stunning spots for wild camping, including:

• Brecon Beacons National Park is known for its lush landscapes and unpolluted skies, perfect for stargazing.
• Snowdonia National Park has towering peaks and peaceful valleys, making it a top pick for adventurous campers.

Northern Ireland

Free camping in Northern Ireland is more challenging due to strict rules, but these spots are worth exploring:

• The Mourne Mountains are a remote area in Northern Ireland with beautiful hiking trails, ideal for campers who enjoy exploring.
• Causeway Coast: Stunning coastal views and hidden spots for free camping.

How to Find Free Camping Spots

To find the best spot to set up camp, consider using some of the following options:

Online Resources

We recommend websites such as Wild Camping, which has forums dedicated to camping enthusiasts and can help you discover free campsite locations.

Joining specialist groups such as Wild Camping for Beginners on Facebook is another excellent way to find tips on free camping in the UK.

Local Camping Communities

Talk to locals, outdoor groups, or community members for advice. They often know about lesser-known free camping spots and can share helpful information about the area.

Maps and Navigation Tools

Use detailed maps or GPS tools, like Google Maps, to find remote and legal camping spots.

Choose areas away from roads and busy places for the best experience.

Preparing for Your Free Camping Adventure

Knowing what to pack and following a camping checklist, you can be prepared for a successful free camping trip:

Safety Precautions

• Let someone know your plans and expected return time
• Pack a first aid kit, torch, and a fully charged phone
• Be mindful of wildlife and avoid camping in areas prone to flooding or landslides
• Find a spot to camp on high ground

Leave No Trace Principles

Free camping is a privilege, not a right. Always:

• Take all your rubbish with you
• Avoid lighting open fires unless necessary
• Camp away from water sources to protect local ecosystems

Find Your Perfect Camping Spot for Free

While it’s technically illegal to camp for free in most parts of the UK, you can visit some well-known (and less well-known) locations without paying campsite fees. If you live in England, the best place for free camping is, without a doubt, Dartmoor National Park.

Do your research on the location, and if in doubt, always ask for the landowner’s permission first. Free camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and many hidden gems in the UK await exploring.

Now start organising what to pack, plan your routes, and find the perfect spot!

Prefer low-cost camping with facilities?

Explore our full UK campsites directory for peaceful, budget-friendly places to pitch.

Tried free camping yourself?

We’d love to hear about it. Share your wild camping experiences with us on Facebook.