Nearly Wild Camping
S U S TA I N A B L E T R AV E L What could be more restorative in challenging times than sustainable camping in a beautiful environment? Words | Helen Holmes
TOASTING MARSHMALLOWS AT PEGS AND PITCHES CAMPSITE, SUSSEX
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BritishTravelJournal.com
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E’VE ALL BEEN confined to our homes this spring, in what must be one of the strangest experiences most of us have ever had. And if there’s one thing about being told to stay inside – it’s that it makes you want to go outside like never before. The city dwellers amongst us, in particular, have been craving countryside, wilderness, open space. We’re also seeing some of the immediate environmental benefits of reduced travel and industrial activity – the skies are clearer, the air is cleaner, and wildlife is thriving. It’s unclear right now what kind of travel plans we’re going to be able to make this summer, but if we are able to get away, one highly appealing option is to find a remote spot and pitch a tent. Actual wild camping – away from campsites – is technically illegal in most of the UK, unless you have permission from the landowner. But there are some amazing campsites which provide the experience of being immersed in nature, alongside off-grid facilities, and the security of knowing that you’re allowed to be there. The remote camping places we’ve discovered do their utmost to tread lightly on the planet – working actively to conserve the local environment and wildlife whilst also giving people the opportunity to sleep under the stars at night and wander through forests, or take to the water, by day.
