Hammock Camping in a Forgotten Woodland | Wild Camping UK
A Night Alone in the DD Frontline Hammock
There’s something magical about stepping into a place that feels untouched by modern life. This was my first hammock wild camp of 2025, and I chose a truly forgotten woodland — somewhere I’ve never seen another soul. Hidden away, it was quiet, wild, and begging to be treated with respect.
I was out here in the DD Frontline Hammock — no tarp, no tent, just me, the trees, and the stars. This post is about that night, the gear I used, the dinner I cooked, and why wild camping in the UK is something everyone should try — responsibly.
Respecting the Woods We Love
Before I dive into the gear and setup, I want to address something important. Wild camping is growing in popularity, and while that’s incredible, it comes with a cost. More and more, I’m seeing beautiful spots ruined by litter, discarded gear, and careless campers.
So if you’re reading this, whether you’re new or seasoned, please leave no trace. Take your rubbish with you. Respect the land, and don’t ruin these special places for those who come next.
The Setup: DD Frontline Hammock, Jungle Ridgeline, No Tarp
Let’s talk setup. For this trip, I kept it simple:
DD Frontline Hammock – with integrated bug net (a lifesaver on this trip).
No Tarp – I wanted to sleep under the stars and wake to the full canopy.
Hammock Straps – basic Amazon specials, about £8.
Jungle Ridgeline – two lengths of paracord tied with overhand knots for fast, knot-free setup (I’ve got a separate video on how to make one).
Underneath – no underblanket this time. The night stayed around 7°C, so three pairs of socks, thermals, fleece, and a Rab Ascent bag were enough.
This was a beautiful setup. I slept with the bug net zipped up, looking through the mesh at a canopy filled with movement and light.
The Meal Plan: Budget-Friendly and Lightweight
I’m on a bit of a calorie cut at the moment, so the food for this camp was minimal but satisfying:
Fray Bentos Pasta Bolognese (£1.99) – boil-in-the-bag style, surprisingly tasty.
Skinny Whip Bar – 80 calories of chewy goodness.
Walnut Cake Slice – 100 calories, cheap and cheerful.
Twix Hot Chocolate mixed with Nescafé 3-in-1 – warming and sweet, my new go-to camp drink.
Compared to a £7 camping meal, that Fray Bentos pouch was an absolute steal. Same calories, similar weight, much less cost.
Sleeping Without a Tarp — Why I Did It
Choosing not to use a tarp was deliberate. I wanted to fall asleep looking up at the canopy and wake with the sunrise on my face. It made me feel connected — vulnerable in a good way.
Sure, I ran the risk of rain, but with a clear forecast and mild conditions, it was a chance worth taking.
Morning Magic: Red Kites and Birdsong
Waking up in the woods just before dawn is a feeling like no other. At 4:30am I opened my eyes to birds in full song, a soft canopy glow, and absolute peace. I got up, hiked to a higher viewpoint, and sat with my morning coffee (Twix hot chocolate + Nescafé combo) overlooking the valley.
It was still, wild, and absolutely beautiful.
What I Took With Me
Here’s a quick breakdown of the essentials:
Hammock: DD Frontline Hammock
Ridgeline: Jungle line (paracord)
Bug Protection: Integrated net and mozzie spray
Insulation: Rab Ascent 900, three layers of socks, thermals
Food: Low-cal, boil-in-bag options
Cooking: Gas stove + titanium mug
Lighting: Head torch + mini lantern
Hygiene: Sudocrem (for mozzie bites), toothbrush, wet wipes
Key Takeaways
Hammock camping can be as comfortable as tent camping with the right gear.
Sleeping without a tarp brings a magical connection to nature — when the forecast allows.
Budget-friendly food doesn’t have to mean boring meals.
Respecting the land should be non-negotiable.
Sometimes the best camps are spontaneous.
Final Thoughts
This trip wasn’t planned. I didn’t go out with a full script or gear list. I just knew I needed a break. Wild camping, especially hammock camping, continues to be my reset button.
And if you’re someone thinking of giving it a go — don’t wait for the perfect time. Just find a quiet spot, be respectful, and go for it.
Let me know in the comments: Have you ever hammock camped without a tarp? Would you?
Stay wild, and leave no trace.
I Slept Alone on a Wild Camp In A Forgotten Woodland! using the DD Hammock and no tarp, wild camping beneath the tree canopy. This solo trip explores minimalist hammock camping, wild woodland solitude, and affordable camping food like Fray Bentos meals-perfect for those craving peaceful escapes and back-to-basics camping.
A spontaneous wild camp in a forgotten woodland using the DD Frontline hammock. No tarp, just stars, birdsong, and a full mental reset.