Lee Barton, Author at Nearly Wild Camping

The Experience Weekend timetable is still being firmed up for 2024 but so far it looks like this …

- June 7 – 9th – “The weekend will be about photographing the natural world in order to understand the relationship between us as the photographer and everything that is around us,” says Ben. – Cumbria

- June 14 – 16th – Experience Willow Weaving, sensory foraging and introduction to to Emma’s journey in creating a nature based, off-grid healing retreat. Yurt and hut accommodation options also available – Devon

- July 12 – 14th – Woodland Survival Skills. You will learn how to make a friction fire with a bow drill, how to make quality cordage from natural materials as well as other useful campfrie gadgets and a bit of carving for fun – Staffordshire

- August 20 – 22nd – A full and varied Bushcraft weekend with Lizzi of Pippin and Gile. Probably Sussex, venue to be confirmed

Plus we are still confirming details with:

- Wild Cooking, with Lucy Cooke, The Wild Cook

- Wild Flowers when camping with Jum Langley of Nature’s Work

- Scything and managing hay meadows, with one of our member location owners

- Learning the science behind firelighting, water filtering, projeciles and lots more with Rupert from Feral Science

Building our confidence in wilder situations with Wilderness Tribe

Booking information to come soon, note these camps are members-only.

Full details are listed on the members Community page

When the call of the wild beckons, you’ll want to be well-prepared for your next adventure. Storing your camping equipment properly is essential to ensure it remains in good condition, ready to go when you need it. Here are some top hacks for storing wild camping equipment to keep your gear in tip-top shape:

Repairs and restorations

Clean your camping equipment thoroughly before storing it, following manufacturer instructions. Tents may need special care, including spot cleaning with mild soap and water, while sleeping bags can usually go in the washing machine. Check for wear and tear such as damaged seams, zips, or tent poles, repairing any issues before you put your equipment away. Finish by reapplying waterproofing spray to the outer layers of your tents and jackets.

Avoiding mould, mildew, and pests

Before storing, make sure your gear is completely dry to prevent mould and mildew growth. Air-dry tents, sleeping bags, and tarps and be sure to store them in a well-ventilated area. Consider using sealed containers or plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep pests at bay, plus repellents like cedar chips or lavender sachets to deter insects and rodents. You may also want to add some silica gel packets which can help absorb moisture.

Storage techniques

Tents should be stored loosely, not tightly rolled, to avoid damaging the fabric and waterproof coatings. Store sleeping bags uncompressed in large cotton storage sacks to maintain their loft. Once packed, clearly label your storage containers with their contents so it’s easy to find what you need later. Organise by type and function to quickly access the right equipment for your next wilder camping trip.

By following these storage hacks, you can ensure your camping equipment remains in great condition.

Thanks to Hannah Rose-Wynter from Boutique Camping for her tips for putting your wild camping
equipment away correctly.

Bikepacking has become an increasingly popular adventure activity, combining the thrill of cycling with the freedom of self-supported travel. It involves traveling long distances on a bicycle, usually over multiple days and across different terrains, while carrying all necessary gear and supplies. This allows bikers to explore remote areas that are inaccessible by car, and experience the great outdoors in a unique way.

But what really sets bikepacking apart from traditional cycling or backpacking is the concept of wilder camping. This means choosing to camp in non-designated areas, such as a Nearly Wild Camping location. While this may sound intimidating at first, it can actually be one of the most rewarding aspects of bikepacking. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wilder camping while bikepacking.

What is Wilder Camping?

Wilder camping, also known as Nearly Wild Camping in England and Wales, allows you to experience the natural environment without any man-made structures or with limited facilities. This can include setting up a tent in the woods, sleeping under the stars, or even finding shelter in an open field.

Many bikepackers prefer wilder camping because it offers greater flexibility and immersion in nature. You can choose your own camp location based on personal preferences, such as proximity to water sources or scenic views. Plus, you have more freedom to spontaneously change your route or stay longer in a particular location without being moved on.

Tips for Wild Camping During Bikepacking

While wild camping offers many benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

Leave No Trace: When wilder camping, it’s crucial to leave no trace of your presence. This means properly disposing of all waste and leaving the area as you found it. Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps and toilet paper.
Be Discreet: One of the key principles of wilder camping is to be discreet. Avoid setting up camp in highly visible areas or on private property. Keep noise to a minimum and avoid making large fires. Much better to get permission to camp from the landowner via the Nearly Wild Camping Club.
Set Up Camp Late and Leave Early: When wild camping, it’s best to set up camp late in the day and leave early in the morning. This way, you’re less likely to encounter any issues with landowners or other campers. But if you have permission to camp at a location this needn’t be the case.
Camp Away from Water Sources: While being near a water source may seem convenient, it’s important to set up camp at least 200 feet away. This helps preserve the water source and prevents contamination.

Essential Gear for Wilder Camping While Bikepacking

When bikepacking, you want to pack as light as possible while still being prepared for any situation. Here are some essential items to bring for wild camping:

- Shelter: The most common form of shelter for bikepackers is a lightweight tent, but you can also use a bivy bag or hammock.

- Sleeping Gear: A sleeping bag and sleeping pad are crucial for keeping you warm and comfortable at night. Consider the weather conditions of your destination when choosing these items.

- Cooking Gear: A lightweight camping stove and cookware are essential for preparing meals during your trip. Don’t forget to pack utensils, a water filter, and fuel as well.

- Navigation Tools: A map, compass, and GPS device are important for navigating through unfamiliar terrain. Make sure to bring extra batteries or a solar charger as well.

- First Aid Kit: It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to bring a well-stocked first aid kit for any injuries that may occur.

The use of E-bikes for Bikepacking trips

Due to carrying all your camping equipment when bikepacking your bike is going to be much heavier than usual and therefore harder to pedal. Unless you are really fit you might find it almost impossible to travel any great distance and that might mean you will not reach your planned destination. This is where electric-assisted bikes come into their own. They make travelling longer distances much easier and make the hills seem less steep! You are much more likely to be able to travel from one camping location to another with an E-bike. Recent developments mean battery weight has reduced and they now last longer on a full charge. E-bikes make travelling by bike more enjoyable and allow you to get more miles in without worrying about arriving at your camp exhausted and too tired to setup camp for the night. Above: Cairn E-Adventure Rambler

Conclusion

Wilder camping adds an element of adventure and freedom to bikepacking. With the right planning and preparation, it can be a truly rewarding experience. Just remember to follow local laws and regulations, leave no trace, and be respectful of the natural environment. So grab your bike and gear, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the great outdoors! Go ahead and explore the world on two wheels, and discover the beauty of wild camping during your next bike packing trip. Happy bikepacking…!

The outdoors is a place of beauty, adventure, and connection with nature. In order to preserve this natural environment for generations to come, it is important to follow the principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) camping ethos.

Leave No Trace is a set of seven principles that guide outdoor enthusiasts on how to minimize their impact on the environment and leave it pristine for others to enjoy. These principles were developed in the 1960s by outdoor recreation and conservation professionals, and have since been adopted by various organizations around the world.

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

Plan ahead and prepare: Proper planning can help minimize potential issues such as overcrowding or damage to sensitive areas.

Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stick to established paths and camp locations to avoid damaging vegetation.

Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all rubbish, including food waste, and dispose of human waste properly.

Leave what you find: Do not take anything from the natural environment, whether it is a rock or a wildflower.

Minimize campfire impacts: Use existing fire rings and make sure to fully extinguish the fire before leaving.

Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed or approach them.

Be considerate of other visitors: Respect others’ experience in the outdoors by keeping noise levels down and giving them space.

By following these principles, we can all do our part in preserving the natural beauty of our environment. But it is not just about minimizing our impact, it is also about leaving a positive impact by being good stewards of the land.

Tips for Practicing Leave No Trace

Pack out what you pack in: Bring rubbish bags with you and make sure to leave your camp location cleaner than you found it.

Use a stove instead of making a campfire: This helps minimize the impact on the natural environment and reduces the risk of wildfires.

Stay on designated paths: Venturing off path can cause erosion and damage to delicate plant life.

Respect wildlife and their habitats: Do not disturb or approach animals, and make sure to properly secure food to avoid attracting them to your campsite.

Leave nature as you found it: Resist the urge to take home souvenirs such as rocks, shells, or plants.

Educate others: Spread the message of Leave No Trace and encourage others to follow these principles.

Adhering to the Leave No Trace camping ethos not only helps protect the environment, but it also ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy the same natural wonders that we do today.

So next time you head out into the great outdoors, remember to leave no trace and leave it better than you found it. Happy camping!

The Leave No Trace principles not only apply to camping, but also to any outdoor activity such as hiking, backpacking, or even just a day trip

Going on a camping trip with your furry best friend can be the perfect adventure for both of you. But before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. As much as your dog loves being by your side, being in a new environment can be intimidating for them. That’s why we’ve gathered some tips for taking your dog camping to make sure that you and your pup have a fun and safe adventure.

1. Prepare your dog for the great outdoors

Before you go camping, start preparing your dog for the new environment. Take them on hikes and walks in the woods and let them get used to the sights and smells of nature. This will help them familiarize themselves with new things and get comfortable in a new place. You’ll also want to make sure they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations, to keep them safe against any potential illnesses they may encounter while out in the wild.

2. Make a list of essential supplies

Just like you, your dog will need some gear for camping. Make a list of essential supplies, such as a leash, collar, water bowl, food dish, and poop bags. You may also want to bring a dog bed or blanket to ensure your furry friend stays comfortable throughout the trip. Don’t forget to pack plenty of food, treats, and plenty of fresh water for your pup. It’s important to keep them hydrated, especially when they’re running around in the sun all day.

3. Choose a dog-friendly camping location

Make sure to research dog-friendly camp location before you head out. Look for places that allow dogs and offer amenities such as a dog wash and off-leash areas. You’ll also want to ensure that the location has plenty of space for your dog to run around and explore safely.

4. Keep your pup safe

When you’re out camping, there are dangers that come with it. From wild animals to unexpected weather, it’s important to keep your dog safe at all times. Bring a pet first-aid kit, and make sure your dog stays on a leash or under your supervision at all times. Use flea and tick prevention and bring your dog’s medications in case of an emergency.

5. Have fun!

Taking your dog on a camping trip can be an amazing experience for both of you. Enjoy the great outdoors by hiking with your pup, swimming in a lake, or playing fetch in an open field. Just remember to keep your dog happy and safe so that everyone has fun.

Camping with your furry friend can be one of the best bonding experiences you’ll ever have. By following these tips for taking your dog camping, you can ensure that your pup stays safe and happy while enjoying nature’s beauty. Make sure to prepare your dog for their adventure, stock up on essential supplies, and find a dog-friendly camp location that’s perfect for your pup. As long as you’re well-prepared and ready to have fun, you and your dog are sure to have an unforgettable trip!

Going camping is a great way to get back to nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And while one of the best parts of camping is being outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, another great part is the food! Camping food can be simple but delicious, and there are lots of recipes that are easy to make with just a few ingredients. Here are 5 recipes that are sure to please any camper’s taste buds:

1. Sausage and Bean Stew: This hearty stew is perfect for a cold night by the campfire. Simply brown some sausage in a pot, add a can of beans and some veggies (whatever you have on hand), and enough water to cover. Let it all simmer until the sausage is cooked through and the veggies are tender, then enjoy!

2. Foil-packet potatoes: potatoes, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Wrap everything up in foil and put it directly on the coals of your fire for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft. Then open it up, top with some shredded cheese (if you like), and enjoy!

3. Campfire Pancakes: flour, eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter. Mix everything together in a bowl and pour it into a greased skillet set over the coals of your fire. Cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown, then serve with your favourite toppings. Yum!

4. Dutch Oven Pizza: pizza dough, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni (or any other toppings you like). Place the pizza dough in the bottom of a Dutch oven that’s been preheated with coals from your fire. Add the sauce and toppings, then top with the cheese. Place more coals on top of the Dutch oven and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Slice into pieces and enjoy!

5. S’mores: Digestive biscuits, chocolate bars, marshmallows. This classic camping treat needs no explanation! Just roast some marshmallows over the fire (be careful not to burn them!), place them between two biscuits with a piece of chocolate, and enjoy!

Conclusion – There are so many delicious things that you can make while camping! These 5 recipes are easy to make with just a few ingredients and are sure to please any camper’s taste buds. So next time you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to try one (or all!) of these tasty recipes. Bon appetit!

Off grid camping is a type of camping where you are not connected to any utilities like water or electricity. This means that you will need to bring all of your own supplies with you and be prepared to camp in a more rustic setting. While this may sound like a lot of work, off grid camping can actually be a very rewarding experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in trying it out.

1. Be Prepared
  One of the most important things to remember when off grid camping is that you need to be prepared. This means bringing enough food and water for everyone in your party, as well as any other supplies you might need. It’s useful to research the area where you’ll be camping so that you know what to expect. It’s also a good idea to pack some basic medical supplies in case anyone gets injured.

1. Leave No Trace
  When you’re off grid camping, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all of your rubbish, being careful with fire, and respecting wildlife. By following these principles, you can help ensure that everyone can enjoy the outdoors for years to come.
2. Be prepared for bad weather
  When you’re camping off grid, you need to be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

1. Have Fun!
  Off grid camping can be a great way to unplug from technology and connect with nature. So relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy your time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a new camping adventure, why not try off grid camping? It’s a great way to disconnect from technology and appreciate the natural world around us. Just remember to be prepared and practice Leave No Trace principles so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors for years to come.

Taking a solo camping trip can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. The fresh air, the natural beauty, and the feeling of independence can be a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’ve never been wild camping before, though, it can be intimidating to take that first step into the unknown. Here are some tips to help make your first solo wild camping experience in the UK a safe and enjoyable one:

Pack Wisely
The key to successful wild camping is packing wisely. It’s important to bring everything you need – including food and water – and not overpack. Be sure to bring a good sleeping bag and mat so you’ll stay warm on chilly nights; if you plan on pitching a tent, make sure you bring all necessary poles, pegs, and other equipment too. Also consider bringing a gas stove so you can cook meals while out in nature. A small charge bank is also useful for keeping your phone charged while you’re away from home.

Speak with others who have wild camped alone and survived to tell the tale! Fear of the unknown can be quite off-putting – but don’t let it get to you. The UK is one of the safest parts of the world when it comes to wildlife encounters, almost everything will be scared of you. You may hear some twigs snap in the night but you will be lucky to see what caused it.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When planning your trip, do some research about where you’re going and what kind of terrain to expect. Are there any unusual animals or plants in the area? Are there any potential hazards like cliffs or uneven ground that could cause injury? Knowing what dangers exist can help keep you safe during your journey. A detailed Ordnance Survey map can be really useful for this. Additionally, always tell someone where you will be going before heading out on your adventure – this way if something goes wrong, someone will know how and where to find you quickly.

Bring a First Aid Kit

No matter where you go or what activity you are doing, it is always wise to bring along a well-stocked first aid kit just in case anything happens while out in nature. Include items such as bandages, antiseptic ointment, painkillers and antihistamines – these should cover most minor injuries that may occur while camping outdoors alone. Additionally, it may be wise to learn basic wilderness first aid so that you know how to handle more severe emergencies should they arise while out in nature.

Conclusion: With these tips under your belt, it’s time for adventure! If this is your first time wild camping alone in the UK remember to stay aware of your surroundings at all times, pack wisely for any contingencies that may arise during your trip and bring along a well-stocked first aid kit just in case something does go wrong! With preparation and mindfulness of safety protocols set up before embarking upon an adventure such as this one – great memories await! So get ready for an incredible experience…

Camping in the winter can be a great experience. You can enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors without having to worry about the crowds that come with warmer weather. However, camping in the cold weather does present some challenges, chief among them being how to stay warm. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on how to keep warm when camping in the winter so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Dressing in Layers

One of the best ways to stay warm when camping in the winter is to dress in layers. This will allow you to regulate your body temperature more effectively. Start with a base layer that will wick away moisture, such as merino wool or synthetic materials. Then add a mid-layer for insulation, such as fleece or down. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. A hat and gloves are also useful to keep warm.

Sleeping Warm

Another way to stay warm when camping in the winter is to make sure you’re sleeping warm. A good quality sleeping bag is a must-have for any winter camper. Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for cold weather and has a comfortable temperature rating that you’re comfortable with. In addition to a good sleeping bag, you should also invest in a sleeping pad that will insulate you from the cold ground. Some light exercise before getting in your sleeping bag will help to boost your temperature.

Building a Fire

One of the best ways to stay warm when camping in the winter is by building a fire. Not only will a fire provide warmth, but it will also be a great place to gather around and socialize with your fellow campers. When building a fire, make sure you find a spot that’s away from any trees or other flammable objects. Then, clear away any dead leaves or branches from the area so you have a safe space to build your fire. Ideally you will use a fire bowl or an off the ground, folding, wood burning stove. Once your fire is lit, make sure you keep it burning by adding logs as needed. If you’re not comfortable building a fire on your own, there are plenty of instructional videos and articles online that can help you out.

Conclusion:

Camping in the winter can be a great experience if you know how to prepare for it. By dressing in layers, sleeping warm, and building a fire, you’ll be able to stay nice and warm all trip long. So get out there and enjoy nature—just make sure you do it safely!

Base Camp Food is an independent UK based business, offering the best range of freeze dried, dehydrated and ready to eat expedition and camping meals. Stocking the widest range of lightweight expedition meals in the UK, all with free delivery on all orders. You won’t find a better choice of freeze dried meals and expedition food.

Base Camp Food stock meals from the leading brands from across Europe including LYO Expedition Foods, Summit to Eat, Expedition Foods, BeWell, Bla Band, Real Turmat, Wayfayrer, TentMeals, Forestia and Extreme Adventure Food. There is a huge range of lightweight expedition breakfasts, main meals and snacks to choose from. They have a significant Vegan range of meals across various brands.

To complement the freeze dried meals and ready to eat meals, they have a fantastic range of lightweight cookware, stoves and utensils, including stoves from Optimus and titanium cookware from Evernew. Other well stocked popular brands include MSR, Jetboil, Solo Stove, JetBoil, SOTO and Vargo.

Base Camp Food supply Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions with DofE recommended ready to eat meals from Wayfayrer.

‘We have years of experience and expertise supporting expeditions across the globe and offer impartial, expert help for all adventures. We have a hand picked range of equipment including stoves, cookware, hydration solutions and tents.’ – Base Camp Food. Visit the website www.basecampfood.com

[ Members log-in to the NWC website to view discounts codes from Base Camp Food and other Business Partners ]