Joexplore’s wild camping top tips

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16 Oct 2025

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Wild camping in the Lake District is technically not permitted but is tolerated if you follow the guidelines. @Joexplore is a keen wild camper and has shared his top tips for a safe and fun wild camping adventure.

1. Choosing your ‘wild campsites’

Keep it above the highest fell wall (350-450m high), the more remote the better. Trust me the views are worth it! Camping in car parks, on roadside verges or by lakeshore is not allowed at any time.

2. Leave no trace

Respect the landscape. No litter, no damage, no trace. Leave the lake District as wild as you found it, so we can keep enjoying them.

3. Be prepared

Check the weather and plan for the worst (it’s the Lake District after all). Bring extra power banks as your electronics can die when cold, dry bags are a great way to keep your gear dry, always take extra layers and stay safe.

4. Keep groups small

Less impact, more adventure. Some of my favourite adventures have been solo!

5. Be creative

Don’t copy Instagram, use maps to find your own responsible spots. It’s not wild camping if you turn up to a spot trending on social media and your joined by so many others.

6. Test your gear

Don’t learn the hard way on a summit. Practice setting up your gear before you head out. Alternatively, there’s plenty of offical campsites that offer that wild feeling across the Lake District, with views of lakes and mountains, but with a real toilet and fresh water on tap!

7. One night in one location

There’s so much beauty to see in the lake district, why stay in the same place! And remember to pitch late and leave early.

8. No fires

Fires are not allowed in the Lake District. Use a stove, it’s less hassle anyway. Protect the fells, fire scars not only look nasty but can cause real harm to wildlife and the landscape.