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Follow the countryside code
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Emma Frampton • • Jun 28, 2018 • 5 minute read
You don’t need bucket-loads of time, money or have to travel far to wild camp.
The options for wild camping are endless - from cliff top views to lapping beach waves and forest canopies. But if you’re a wild camping virgin (or fairly new to the wild camping concept) then knowing how to choose a spot, can be helpful. So you feel better armed to get outside, and get exploring.
Below are my five steps to go through before heading out there.
Before even starting the search for a spot, here are some questions that can be useful to ask yourself to help you hone in on what will make it a great night out.
Once you’ve narrowed down the kind of spot you’re looking for, decide on a rough area of the country you’d like to explore, or something specific you’d like to see.
For example, you might fancy a camp out somewhere in the county of Buckinghamshire or alternatively, if it’s springtime, a camp out in one of the UK’s bluebell woods.
Once you have a rough area or theme – Google to your heart’s content.
’Best views in [insert county]’
‘Best walks in [insert county]’
‘Highest point in [insert county]’
‘Lakes/rivers in [insert county]’
‘Bluebell woods in [insert county]’
‘UK’s best bluebell woods’
Once you have found an area you think you might like to explore, use the OS Map Sheet Finder to find which map you'll need. Or, head over to OS Maps to view maps online.
Now you don’t need to be a wizard at map reading to be able to find a good wild camp spot, and you certainly don’t need to know how to find a grid reference or any of that technical stuff. However, maps do make it easier to find a suitable spot.
Here’s what to look for on an OS Map:
The world of navigation via phone has come on leaps and bounds in recent years.
So you can use your phone to help you navigate from your transport stop to the wild camping spot, as well as your map. Just plot your route in the OS Maps and save it, for easy access offline via the OS Maps app.
Know that there are no rights or wrongs when it comes to finding a wild camp spot.
It’s best to find somewhere far enough away from the surrounding suburbs so that you’re not going to be disturbed, but equally if you are happened upon by the odd dog walker – it’s no biggie (they’re likely to be pleasantly surprised by you and say good morning!).
Remember to leave no trace, take care of the great outdoors and follow the Countryside Code at all times.
Visit the Adventure Queens website to find out about upcoming campouts and join your local group, to head out wild camping with fellow wild women.
Be inspired to do more and go further by equipping yourself with the best tools for the job. Our maps are built on 220 years of experience - we keep walkers, runners, cyclists and more safe in the great outdoors all year round.
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