Wild Camping UK: Dartmoor, the Supreme Court & Our Future
Why the Dartmoor Case Hits So Close to Home
As someone who lives and breathes wild camping, the Supreme Court's decision about Dartmoor felt personal. If you've been following my Beard in the Wild journey, you'll know how difficult it is to find a legal, peaceful place to pitch up in England. Unlike Scotland — where the Land Reform Act 2003 grants broad access to land — England’s wild camping laws are complicated, limited, and full of grey areas.
But Dartmoor? Dartmoor has always felt different. It was the one place in England where wild camping was assumed to be a legal right.
The Legal Battle That Changed Everything
Back in 2022, landowners Alexander and Diana Darwall challenged that right. They argued that the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985 didn’t grant permission to camp. Shockingly, the High Court agreed. Overnight, decades of assumed access vanished.
But in 2023, the Court of Appeal reversed that ruling — and in May 2025, the UK Supreme Court unanimously confirmed that wild camping on Dartmoor is legal again.
That moment felt like a sigh of relief — not just for me, but for everyone who cherishes their time under canvas.
Why This Is Bigger Than Dartmoor
This ruling isn’t just about one national park. It’s about what we value. The right to access our landscapes — to sleep under the stars, recharge our minds, and connect with nature.
Wild camping is one of the purest ways to experience the outdoors. But in England, it’s often clouded by doubt:
Is this spot legal?
Will I get moved on?
Could I be fined?
Even experienced campers like me second-guess ourselves. I've stood in forests and hillsides asking, “Is it worth the risk?”
That uncertainty stops thousands of people from ever giving wild camping a go. And that’s a shame.
What the Supreme Court Actually Decided
The Court ruled that wild camping is a valid form of “open-air recreation” under the Dartmoor Commons Act. Crucially, it clarified that the law’s reference to access “on foot or horseback” applies to how you arrive — not what you do once you’re there.
Camping, they ruled, is part of that recreational use. Logical. Sensible. Long overdue.
Groups like the Open Spaces Society and Right to Roam have called this a turning point — and I couldn’t agree more.
The Bigger Problem: England’s Broken Access Laws
The ruling doesn’t fix everything. Outside of Dartmoor, England’s wild camping laws are still shockingly restrictive. Only 8% of land is covered by the “Right to Roam.” That leaves over 90% of our countryside legally off-limits for camping unless you’ve got permission.
Let that sink in.
The moors, forests, riversides, and hilltops that define this country? You can’t camp there without asking.
I believe that needs to change.
Why Wild Camping Should Be a Right
People need the outdoors. The physical and mental benefits are undeniable. And most wild campers? We tread lightly:
No litter
No fires
No noise
No trace
We don’t spoil it — we honour it.
My Hope Going Forward
The Dartmoor win gives me hope — not just for that iconic landscape, but for the idea that public pressure and campaigning can lead to change.
I’d love to see England adopt a model closer to Scotland’s. Up there, responsible access is encouraged. People are trusted. Education around outdoor ethics is strong.
It’s working — and it could work here too.
Until then, I’ll keep:
Sharing my wild camping journeys
Encouraging newcomers to get outside
Respecting the land — and leaving no trace
Adding my voice to those calling for better access
Sleeping under the stars shouldn’t be an act of defiance. It should be something we all feel safe and proud to do.
Key Takeaways
The Supreme Court confirmed wild camping is legal again on Dartmoor
This decision gives hope to wider access reform across England
England still restricts camping on over 90% of its land
More people would camp if the laws were clearer and more welcoming
Wild camping responsibly is the key to building public trust
What Do You Think?
Have you ever been unsure about where you’re allowed to camp? Would a clearer “right to roam” encourage you to try wild camping?
I’d love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment or share your story. And if you haven’t already, check out the Beard in the Wild YouTube channel for more adventures.
Stay wild, leave no trace
Suggested Reading
Wild Camping UK: A Real Beginner's Guide (2025 Edition)
Everything you need to know to start wild camping confidently and legally in the UK.How Wild Camping Boosted My Mental Health
Why time in the woods isn't just an escape — it's a form of healing.Spacious & Comfy: My OneTigris Stella Wild Camp Review
See how this roomy tent holds up to British weather.Beard in the Wild: My Wild Camping Journey Begins
My personal story and how wild camping helped change my life.Best Ridgeline for Wild Camping UK – 4 Setups Ranked
Choosing the right ridgeline setup can make your tarp shelter rock-solid.
The UK Supreme Court ruled wild camping legal again on Dartmoor — but what does it mean for the rest of England?