"Respect for Dartmoor National Park urged among campers following reports of improper camping practices"
In the picturesque landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, a new challenge has arisen. An increase in fly camping, a form of unauthorized and irresponsible camping, has been reported, causing concern among local residents, park authorities, and conservationists.
The surge in fly camping can be attributed to several factors. The COVID-19 pandemic, which led to an 80% increase in camping-related spending in the UK, has brought many new visitors to National Parks like Dartmoor. Additionally, legal changes and rulings have clarified that wild camping is legal in Dartmoor when following park codes, attracting more campers, including those who do not adhere to the guidelines and engage in fly camping.
Fly camping differs from responsible wild camping in several ways. Large groups often camp illegally near roadsides or scenic spots, bringing disruptive equipment, leaving litter, and damaging the environment. Common sights include generators, sound systems, mini fridges, and even portable toilets, often ignoring the 'leave no trace' principles.
This irresponsible behavior has led to environmental degradation, with litter, fire scars, and damage to fragile landscapes and wildlife habitats reported. Rare and protected wildlife species, such as rare birds, bats, amphibians, and insects, are also being disturbed.
Local residents and park authorities are frustrated by the disruption and challenges fly camping brings to managing the protected area. To combat this, several measures are being taken. Enforcement of existing park codes and regulations is being strengthened to clarify the difference between legal wild camping and unauthorized fly camping. Education and awareness campaigns are being launched to promote responsible camping behavior, emphasizing the 'leave no trace' ethos to visitors.
Potential restoration projects, like Dartmoor's peatland restoration efforts, may help mitigate some environmental damage. Local authorities are also considering stricter controls or designated camping areas to manage visitor impact and prevent damaging unauthorized camping.
A new investment in young people's outdoor education is being proposed to improve understanding and skills for wild camping. National Park Authorities are being asked to create wild camping zones to manage responsible wild camping and tackle fly camping. The We Wild Camp campaign, launched by the British Mountaineering Council in June 2025, aims to improve education about responsible camping and combat fly camping.
As the issue of fly camping continues to evolve, it is crucial to be clear about the difference between backpack or wild camping and fly camping. The right to wild camp on Dartmoor was restored by the Supreme Court after a legal challenge, and guidance on how to wild camp responsibly is being proposed to be included in an updated version of the countryside code.
In a separate incident last week, Keswick Mountain Rescue was called out to carry out a welfare check on a tent pitched at an inaccessible location above the Lake District's Langstrath Valley, highlighting the need for responsible camping practices.
As we navigate this new reality, it is essential to remember the beauty and fragility of our National Parks and the importance of preserving them for future generations. By promoting responsible camping practices and enforcing regulations, we can ensure that Dartmoor National Park and other similar areas continue to thrive.
The rise in fly camping has sparked concerns about the preservation of Dartmoor National Park's environment, as it disrupts wildlife habitats, causes litter, and damages landscapes. To address this issue, authorities are strengthening enforcement of park codes, launching education campaigns, considering designated camping areas, and supporting outdoor education for young people to promote responsible camping practices.
In response to the growing interest in outdoor living and sports, such as home-and-garden projects and sports betting, many new visitors are flocking to National Parks like Dartmoor, sometimes engaging in unauthorized fly camping. However, it is crucial to adhere to 'leave no trace' principles and follow park codes to ensure the protection of these pristine landscapes for future generations.
