Dartmoor National Park is one of the last true wildernesses in England, offering rugged moorlands, granite tors, and sweeping valleys. For those seeking adventure, solitude, and a break from modern life, few experiences compare to Dartmoor wild camping. Whether you’re in a tent or a campervan, Dartmoor’s untamed landscape invites explorers to reconnect with nature. If you’re considering Dartmoor wild camping this year, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know — from legalities to safety, and the best spots to pitch up or park overnight.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, wild camping rules and land access agreements on Dartmoor are subject to change. Readers are strongly advised to check the latest guidance from the Dartmoor National Park Authority and to consult official maps and byelaws before planning a trip.
The author and publisher accept no responsibility for any loss, injury, fines, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this information. Wild camping involves personal responsibility, and it is your duty to ensure your actions comply with local laws and respect private property and the environment.
Is Dartmoor Wild Camping Legal?
Dartmoor wild camping has seen several legal challenges in recent years, but as of 2025, it remains permitted in designated areas thanks to agreements between the Dartmoor National Park Authority and local landowners. Historically, Dartmoor was the only place in England where wild camping was widely tolerated without landowner permission. However, a 2023 High Court ruling temporarily disrupted this tradition.
Following public backlash and negotiations, a compromise was reached. Under the revised Dartmoor camping rules, wild camping is allowed in certain mapped areas with landowner consent facilitated by the Park Authority. These permissions are governed by the updated Dartmoor byelaws 2024/2025, which specify where tent camping is lawful and under what conditions. For up-to-date legal boundaries, consult the official Dartmoor wild camping map, available on the Dartmoor National Park Authority website.
Dartmoor Wild Camping with a Tent vs Campervan
There is an important distinction between tent-based Dartmoor wild camping and campervan overnight stays. Tent wild camping is legally permitted within marked zones shown on the official map, provided you follow Leave No Trace principles and camp only for one or two nights in the same location.
Conversely, wild camping on Dartmoor in a campervan is more restricted. The Park Authority does not currently permit overnight stays in vehicles outside formal campsites or authorised car parks. Sleeping in your vehicle on common land or moorland roads could lead to fines or enforcement, especially in conservation-sensitive zones. Campervan users should seek permitted overnight parking areas or consider a hybrid approach — parking legally and pitching a tent in an authorised location nearby.
Best Places for Dartmoor Wild Camping
Some of the best places for Dartmoor wild camping are remote yet accessible, offering dramatic views and a sense of isolation. Below are a few notable locations based on the 2025 Dartmoor wild camping map:
- Bellever Forest: Popular with beginners, this wooded area near Postbridge offers level ground and good access to hiking trails.
- Cosdon Hill: A quieter spot on the northern edge, with sweeping views of North Dartmoor and fewer visitors.
- Holne Moor: Nestled near the River Dart, this area features woodland, moorland, and easy access to water — ideal for short stays.
- Great Mis Tor: Once one of the most beloved spots, its accessibility has drawn attention and occasional restrictions, so always check current permissions.
Avoid military training areas, such as Willsworthy and Okehampton ranges, which may be closed to the public during exercises. The best Dartmoor wild camping experiences often come from hiking a little further off the beaten path — just remember to follow all rules and respect the land.
Where to Park Overnight on Dartmoor in a Campervan
Overnight parking in a campervan on Dartmoor is strictly controlled under the Dartmoor National Park Byelaws. As of 2025, you cannot park your motorhome or campervan overnight in laybys, at the roadside, or in Dartmoor car parks. These rules are in place to protect the moor’s delicate environment and ensure that the landscape remains accessible and unspoiled for all.
If you’re planning to explore Dartmoor in a campervan, it’s important to plan ahead and respect access limitations. Due to Dartmoor’s narrow roads and historic bridges, not all areas are suitable for larger vehicles. The Park Authority advises against relying solely on satellite navigation systems. Instead, use their official Coach Driver and Motorhome Guide for Dartmoor map (PDF) to navigate safely and responsibly.
While true Dartmoor wild camping is only permitted in designated zones for tents, campervan users should instead look to the following options:
- Stay at campsites: There are many well-located campsites and certified locations just outside the park boundary that welcome campervans.
- Use pub stopovers: Some rural pubs may allow overnight parking if you dine with them — always ask ahead.
By choosing a legal and low-impact place to stay overnight, you help maintain Dartmoor’s tranquillity and support local communities.
Remember: Dartmoor wild camping is a privilege, not a right — and motorhome access is more limited than on-foot tent camping. Always follow the rules to preserve access for everyone.
Dartmoor Wild Camping Etiquette: Leave No Trace
To preserve Dartmoor for future generations, wild campers must practise impeccable etiquette. The Leave No Trace approach is non-negotiable:
- Take all litter home, even biodegradable waste.
- Camp late, leave early, and avoid setting up near paths, roads, or livestock.
- Use a camping stove rather than open fires, which are strictly forbidden.
- Toilet practices: Use a trowel to bury human waste at least 15cm deep and 50m from water sources.
Respecting nature, fellow campers, and local communities ensures Dartmoor wild camping remains viable long-term.
Planning Your Dartmoor Wild Camping Trip: When to Go & What to Pack
The best time for Dartmoor wild camping is between late spring and early autumn (May to September), when days are longer, temperatures milder, and the risk of boggy ground is reduced. However, Dartmoor weather is notoriously changeable — always come prepared.
Essential items for Dartmoor tent camping include:
- Lightweight, waterproof tent and sleeping bag
- Waterproofs and warm layers (even in summer)
- Camping stove and high-energy food
- OS Explorer OL28 map or offline navigation app
- Power bank and torch
- First aid kit and whistle
For campervans, ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, stocked with water, and fitted with blackout blinds for privacy. Extra fuel, a waste bag system, and levelling blocks are also useful.
Staying Safe While Dartmoor Wild Camping
Safety is paramount on Dartmoor, especially when you’re off-grid. The terrain can be deceptively challenging, and weather conditions can change in minutes.
- Navigation: Always carry a compass and physical map. Phone signal is unreliable in many areas.
- Weather: Check forecasts regularly. Fog can descend suddenly, reducing visibility.
- Wildlife and livestock: Keep a respectful distance, especially from ponies and sheep.
- Emergencies: In remote areas, dial 999 and ask for police and mountain rescue. The What3Words app can help pinpoint your location.
- Route sharing: Let someone know your planned route and return time. Avoid venturing solo unless experienced.
A cautious and well-prepared approach ensures your Dartmoor wild camping trip is enjoyable and incident-free.
Dartmoor Hiking and Camping Routes
Dartmoor hiking and camping go hand-in-hand, with countless trails offering opportunities to blend walking and overnight stays. Here are some scenic routes ideal for multi-day Dartmoor wild camping:
- Postbridge to Fur Tor: A challenging route across the heart of Dartmoor, leading to one of its most isolated tors. Good for experienced navigators.
- Princetown Circular: Explore High Moorland areas, including Great Mis Tor and King’s Tor. Several good wild camping zones nearby.
- Burrator Reservoir to Gutter Tor: A gentler route with lovely scenery and accessible Dartmoor wild camping zones.
Use these trails to break up your days with purposeful walking and strategic camping. It adds depth to your adventure and spreads the impact across the moor.
Useful Resources and Final Tips
Before setting off, consult these resources:
- Dartmoor Wild Camping Map
- Dartmoor National Park Authority website for byelaws and access updates
- OS Maps and ViewRanger for route planning
- What3Words for emergency location sharing
- Park4Night app for campervan-friendly parking
Final tips:
- Always check access updates before each trip
- Respect landowners and signage
- Be discreet and courteous — Dartmoor wild camping is a privilege, not a right
In Conclusion: Enjoy the Freedom of Dartmoor Wild Camping — Responsibly
Few places in the UK match the rugged beauty and sense of freedom Dartmoor offers.
Whether you’re in a tent beneath the stars or tucked up in a campervan, Dartmoor wild camping can be an unforgettable experience. With the right planning, respect for the rules, and an eye for safety, you’ll enjoy a trip that brings you closer to nature without leaving a trace behind.
Tread lightly, explore deeply, and cherish every moment on the moor.
