Why I Love Wild Camping (And What I Get From It)

Why I Wild Camp

Wild camping in the UK, for me, has never just been about finding a good place to pitch up. It is something that has evolved as I have grown older.

Nortent Skjul bivvy set up on a grassy hill at dusk, top zipped down with bug net visible, facing colorful pink and purple sky — Watching the night sky from my Nortent Skjul

It’s something I’ve come back to at different points in life, and for different reasons. Sometimes it’s been about adventure, sometimes about keeping things simple and more recently, just about getting a bit of space.

Now

These days, things are a bit different because of my age and responsibilities.

Long trips have been replaced with shorter, overnight camps. Less distance, less time – but still enough to to get a buzz from a mini adventure.

The reasons haven’t changed completely, but they’ve just become a little simpler and shorter.

What I get from it

A bit of movement

Getting to a chosen camp spot usually means a decent walk with a pack on my back. Distances can range from 2–12 miles (3–20 km) to and from camp – that’s enough to get the heart going and the legs working.

Backpack with cup and flask on a milestone during a wild camping rest break — A quick break on the trail – backpack, cup and flask laid out on a milestone

It’s a simple and enjoyable way to stay active – and it’s a big part of my exercise routine.

Time to switch off

This is probably one of the biggest reasons.

No noise, no distractions, no rushing around. Just walking, setting up and being there.

POV of sitting on stacked cut tree trunks eating a sandwich with forest in view — Sat on stacked tree trunks with a sandwich and a quiet forest view

Things tend to really slow down when there’s nothing else going on. I find my thoughts become clearer and less cluttered, and decisions feel easier to make.

The planning side

I enjoy this more than I probably should.

Looking at maps, working out routes, finding rights of way and trig points – it’s all part of the enjoyment. Sometimes I’ll spend more time planning than actually being out.

Living in Dorset means I have to be adaptable and choosy at certain times of the year. There are a lot of busy areas in summer, restricted land, parking issues all play a big part in my decisions.

Noticing more

Over time, and as I’ve got older, I’ve started to appreciate nature more.

I find myself slowing down and noticing the smaller things -things I would have walked straight past years ago. I finding more pleasure in the smaller and more mundane things.

Two snails on a metal post, one moving into the hole and the other on its back — Two snails on a metal post – one exploring the hole, the other on its back

Pausing to observe what is around me, makes a real difference. Even something as small as watching birds move across the sky or the sunsets at the end of the day – it certainly leaves a lasting impression.

Dealing with things not going to plan

This happens a lot in my world.

Spots don’t work out, I get lost, the ground isn’t ideal – it’s part of wild camping.

You adapt where you can, and when you can’t, you just get on with it. Most of the time, being a little uncomfortable is only temporary.

POV view of muddy trainers and trousers while sitting on the ground — Sat down in the mud after a long walk, trainers and trousers covered in mud

That’s probably one of the more useful parts of being out – is getting used to things not being perfect and still being fine about it.

Final thoughts

Wild camping means different things to different people.

For me, it’s just a simple way to step away for a bit, a quick reset and returning to life, feeling a little clearer and recharged.

It’s not always about pushing myself to the limits or doing anything extreme – just getting out, keeping things simple, and making the most of the time I have.

A quick note

If you do head out, look after the places you visit.

Warning sign reading “Sensitive Conservation Area – No Entry” on a post — A clear warning: Sensitive conservation area – no entry

Keep it simple, be respectful and leave no trace.

A Gentle Encouragement

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch via social media or the contact page.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this, and I’d genuinely like to hear your thoughts – good or bad.

Thanks again,
Dan

The time alone helps me see the next step in a plan and what should be prioritised. This naturally happens and benefits me greatly. On my return, I am able to hit the ground running and with increased energy levels.

#wildcamping #blog #lovewildcamping