Dartmoor National Park Authority has emphasized that wild camping “is not about large tents and fairy lights” following a landmark Supreme Court ruling that confirmed the legal right to pitch tents in designated areas of Dartmoor.
The court unanimously dismissed an appeal from landowners Alexander and Diana Darwall, who argued that camping should require landowner permission. The ruling now legally permits wild camping in certain parts of Dartmoor, provided campers adhere to a strict code of conduct.
In response, the park authority has urged wild campers to “tread lightly and leave no trace,” reinforcing the importance of respecting the environment after the ruling.
While wild camping has been legally recognized in Scotland since the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, England generally lacks a broad right to camp on private land—making Dartmoor a notable exception.
The official code of conduct requires campers to carry all their gear in a backpack and limits groups to six people or fewer. Dr. Kevin Bishop, Chief Executive of Dartmoor National Park Authority, told BBC Radio Devon, “It’s only in certain areas, you can’t just turn up and pitch up and it’s not about large tents and fairy lights.”
He encouraged potential visitors to consult the park’s website for detailed guidance before planning their trips.
Tom Backhouse, a Dartmoor native and founder of the wild camping promotion group Wildcamp, welcomed the ruling as an opportunity to reconnect with nature respectfully. “We’re guests on this land,” he said, “so walking in and out without leaving a trace is vital.”
Backhouse expressed hope that responsible wild camping will gain legal recognition in other parts of England, similar to Scotland.
Emma Preece, a solicitor representing landowners, acknowledged the ruling might bring a short-term rise in campers but does not expect an increase in irresponsible behavior. She reassured rural landowners, stating that the decision is limited to Dartmoor Commons legislation and does not remove existing protections.
“This isn’t a green light for damage,” Preece said. “It’s about balancing access with stewardship.”
Camping Rules to Follow
- All tents and equipment must fit in a backpack
- Groups limited to six campers
- Camp out of sight from roads and buildings
- Maximum stay of two nights
- No overnight vehicle stays (no campervans or motorhomes)
- Leave no trace: no fires and take all rubbish away
Dr. Bishop stressed, “This is not a blanket right to camp anywhere or do whatever you want. With rights come responsibilities.” He added that the park authority will firmly enforce respectful and responsible use of the right to wild camp.
Environmental lawyer Richard Broadbent noted that some poor behavior stems from the rarity of wild access in England. “We need a ‘both-and’ approach,” he said. “Yes to access, but also yes to education and responsibility.”
Broadbent believes that fostering outdoor experiences from a young age will reduce problems such as littering and fire damage in the long term.
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