Wild Camping UK by Kayak – Medway Canoe Trail Adventure
Discovering a Free Kayak and a New Challenge
Every so often, an adventure comes your way that you just can’t pass up. For me, it all started with a free kayak I found on Facebook Marketplace. Yep—zero pounds. I had no idea if it would float, leak, or even get me past the first bend, but I threw in my wild camping gear, drove to Brighton to pick it up, and hit the River Medway Canoe Trail for a 29km paddle-and-camp mission.
Day One: The Wobbly Start
The adventure didn’t start smoothly. After launching at Tonbridge, I paddled in the wrong direction for an hour before realising my mistake. Backtracking meant two hours just to get back where I started—but I eventually set off properly, thanks to a kind couple who offered tips on handling the kayak.
Changing Plans on the Water
My original goal was to camp near Stoneham Lock, but with daylight slipping away, I aimed for Porter's Lock instead. On the way, I met another couple wild camping who warned me about a grumpy landowner and a dog the size of a horse. They pointed me toward a safer, more secluded spot under a massive tree on public land. Gold.
After passing through the fish chute at Porter's Lock (red level 2—and yes, a little nerve-wracking), I pulled up at what turned out to be Porter's Sluice. A few locals helped me ashore and welcomed me to camp there for the night.
Camp Setup at Porter's Sluice
I pitched my trusty Hilleberg Soulo tent—not the most budget-friendly tent for a riverside camp, but it’s bombproof and I love it. A Dutch couple staying nearby in a canal boat-turned-Airbnb were lovely and curious about my adventure. No boozy campfire party here—just a quiet, respectful wild camp with zero trace left behind.
Dinner was basic: low-calorie, no-frills trail food. The mozzies were relentless, but mosquito spray and some patience did the trick. I cleaned up camp, packed gear for a fast getaway, and settled in for a peaceful night by the water.
Day Two: A 4:30 AM Start
By 8 AM, I was back on the water. The second fish chute—also a level 2—was definitely spicier than the first. Cold splash included. Still upright. Still dry. Just.
I eventually reached Oak Weir Lock, one of only three designated wild camping spots on the trail. Unfortunately, someone had left rubbish behind, which is not okay. This is your reminder: leave no trace. Always.
I also encountered about 50 teenagers doing their Duke of Edinburgh expedition, which led to a long delay getting the canoe across. This slowed the whole trip, making it a tight squeeze to reach Allington on time. But that’s part of the journey—adapting as you go.
Gear I Used for the Trip
Kayak: Free Facebook find
Tent: Hilleberg Soulo (worth every penny)
Stove: OEX Tacana Solo Set
Food: Lightweight boil-in-the-bag meals
Lighting: Kilos Gear Rover X camping light
Mosquito Spray: Jungle Formula
Power: 20,000mAh Amazon power bank
Key Takeaways
You can start kayaking and wild camping with minimal cost. I used a free kayak!
The Medway Canoe Trail offers legal, scenic spots for wild camping.
Learn from others—local advice made my camp safer and better.
Always leave no trace. Rubbish ruins it for everyone.
Flexible plans are key—locks, delays, and weather can all change things.
Final Thoughts – Could You Camp from a Kayak?
This adventure reminded me that you don’t need a ton of money or experience to get out and explore. A free kayak, a river, and a quiet place to pitch a tent were all I needed to push my limits and hit the reset button.
If you’ve tried kayak camping—or if it’s something you’d love to do—drop a comment below. I’d love to hear your stories, tips, or questions.
Stay wild and leave no trace.
I found a Free Kayak and took it Wild Camping along the Medway Canoe Trail. This solo Kayak trip explores hidden river camps, scenic rapids, and remote overnight spots using my new Free Kayak.
A spontaneous wild camp in a forgotten woodland using the DD Frontline hammock. No tarp, just stars, birdsong, and a full mental reset.