Camping
Backpack camping on Dartmoor commons
Backpack camping on Dartmoor offers access to some incredible places but it's really important to understand what backpack camping is (and what it isn't). Please make sure you read the backpack camping guidelines before planning an overnight stay.
How do I go backpack camping (wild camping) on Dartmoor?
Check the interactive map which clearly shows where you can and are encouraged to backpack camp without needing prior approval from the landowner. You must check this before you plan your trip
No overnight stays in vehicles, campervans or motorhomes.
Search for a campsite or caravan park
No large tents or large groups camping.
Search for a campsite or caravan park
What is backpack or wild camping?
If you can carry everything you need in your backpack as part of a Dartmoor walking expedition, you are welcome to backpack camp for one or two nights in some areas of open moorland, and out of sight from roads or settlements using a ‘no impact’ approach.
Planning and preparation is essential for this type of activity. This includes having the right equipment and navigational skills to survive safely ‘well away from civilisation’, and crucially, knowing where it is possible and best to camp. However you cannot camp everywhere in the National Park. It's vital that you know where it is best to go before setting off.
Check the Interactive Camping Map
Find out how you can love moor life by following the Ranger Code
Ground nesting bird season 1 March - 31 July
Please take extra care during this time and avoid the rare bird nesting sites.
Backpack Camping Code
Following the Backpack Camping Code will help to protect Dartmoor’s fragile moorland environment.
Travel light
- Use a lightweight tent and equipment that fits into a backpack you can carry
- Staying one or two nights max as part of your longer walk or expedition
Stay out of sight
- Small and lightweight tents which easily blend into the landscape
- Out of sight from roads and buildings
- There must be no more than six people in a group
Tread lightly
- No open fires or BBQs
- Take all litter home
- Bury poo and used toilet paper under at least 15cm of turf (you will need to take a trowel with you)
- Don't pollute streams or rivers
- Avoid disturbing wildlife, particularly during lambing and bird breeding season (1 March - 31 July)
Remember Dartmoor is a beautiful and special place
If you worry about carrying your rubbish out, need a bin or a toilet, or need more equipment and facilities to enjoy back pack camping, then this isn’t for you – please use a campsite instead!
Camping in family sized tents, as a large group, in campervans and motorhomes
Designated campsites are a must for large tents, campervans and motorhomes.
There are friendly farm campsites, rustic camping barns, isolated bunk houses and fantastic hostels, together with huts and pods where you can view Dartmoor’s dark night skies and enjoy its peace and tranquillity.
Look out for small farm campsites if you want a remote, more intimate feel with basic facilities.
Search campsites and caravan parks
Motorhomes and camper vehicles
If you plan to visit in a motorhome the vehicle size may mean some roads are off limits. Please don’t rely on satellite navigation systems to get you to your destination, but use the helpful Coach Driver and Motorhome Guide for Dartmoor map (PDF) to plan your route.
It's OK to pull into a layby to admire the view and have a cup of tea, but overnight sleeping in vehicles at the roadside or in car parks is not permitted under National Park byelaws.
Please use designated sites which accept motorhomes for your overnight stay.