Dartmoor is the one place in England where you can legally wild camp without the landowner's permission, which makes it the country's premier backpacking and wild-camping destination.
What to expect
Open moorland, granite tors and river valleys where backpack camping is permitted under the Dartmoor Commons byelaws — the only such public right in England, confirmed by the Supreme Court in 2025. Pitch small and high, away from roads and farmland, follow the National Park's camping map and leave no trace. There are also organised campsites around the moor for those who prefer facilities. See our guide to where you can legally wild camp in the UK.
Getting there car-free
The nearest stations are Newton Abbot and Okehampton (now reopened to passenger trains), with buses out onto the moor.
Can you wild camp on Dartmoor?
Yes — it is the only place in England with a public right to wild camp, within the byelaw areas shown on the National Park map.
When is the best time to camp here?
Late spring to early autumn for the longest days and least-harsh weather, though the moor is exposed in any season.
