Elevate Your Outdoor Culinary Adventures with Quality Gear and Inspiring Ideas…

If you’re passionate about cooking in the great outdoors, Campfire Cookshop is a must-visit destination for all your alfresco culinary needs. Established with the aim of bringing together the best products and resources for outdoor cooking, Campfire Cookshop offers everything from robust cast iron cookware to innovative camp stoves, making it easier than ever to create delicious meals wherever your adventures take you.

Campfire Cookshop’s website is a treasure trove of inspiration for both seasoned outdoor chefs and those just getting started. Their curated selection includes skillets, fire pits, grills, and a host of clever accessories designed to make cooking outside as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip or a solo bushcraft overnighter, you’ll find equipment to suit every scenario and budget.

Whether you’re a bushcraft enthusiast or simply enjoy a fireside meal under the stars, Campfire Cookshop is your companion for making every outdoor meal memorable. Visit their website and ignite your passion for campfire cooking today!  www.campfirecookshop.com

 

As an organisation we set out to support primarily ‘bring your own’ tent camping but quickly realised there was a demand for campervan and hammock-suitable wilder locations. In more recent years we have been approached by a lot more hybrid types of camping setups. Traditional campsites can be a bit snobbish and refuse these as they don’t fit a standard category.

One of the main reasons we don’t support motorhomes or caravans in general is that quite a few of the wilder locations have access issues – narrow lanes, sharp bends, soft undulating land, low hanging trees etc. So what we suggest is that the number of locations suitable for hybrid setups will be limited to what the landowner sees as suitable for their location – just ask when booking. If the directory listing states that you have to park 100m away from the camping area and wheelbarrow your kit to your pitch then that location is probably not a suitable location.

On the other hand if a location accepts campervans they are much more likely to accept a micro-caravan, trailer pod or similar – just confirm when booking. Amongst the setups some of our members have include roof tents, motorbikes, trailer tents, larger campervans and car campers.

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. But they offer so much value – it’s worth becoming a member just to get involved!

     

    Full details are listed on the members Community page. For non-members please visit: www.nearlywildcamping.org

    Before discussing the benefits of joining the Nearly Wild Camping Club, it’s important to note that camping, in general, can offer a range of physical and mental health benefits. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase overall wellbeing. Additionally, camping provides an opportunity for physical activity such as hiking and swimming.

    Now, when it comes to the Nearly Wild Camping Club, there are many benefits to consider. First and foremost, this club allows campers to experience nature in a more authentic and immersive way. Rather than staying at a crowded campsite with full amenities, Nearly Wild Camping facilitates camping in more remote and natural settings. This can offer a greater sense of peace and solitude, as well as a chance to connect more deeply with the environment.

    Another benefit of joining the Nearly Wild Camping Club is the opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge related to outdoor living. The club offers workshops and educational resources on topics such as bushcraft, wilderness survival, and sustainable living practices. This can be not only personally enriching but also empowering in terms of feeling more confident and capable in the outdoors.

    In addition, Nearly Wild Camping prioritizes environmental responsibility and sustainability. The club operates in a way that minimizes harm to the natural areas where they camp, and they encourage others to do the same. This makes membership a worthwhile investment for those who value protecting and preserving the environment

    Finally, joining the Nearly Wild Camping Club provides access to a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable living. This can foster new friendships, support networks, and opportunities for group activities and trips.
     
    Overall, joining the Nearly Wild Camping club offers a unique and rewarding camping experience that prioritizes nature, sustainability, and community.

    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…

      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 ]

      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…!

      Jackie was a young girl who always wanted to go wild camping but her mum was scared to do it. After lots of pestering and with a bit of research her mum found  a solution that she was much happier to try. Jackie was so excited when her mum said that they could go Nearly Wild Camping. Jackie was happy to see that her mum was finally willing to try out something  a bit more adventurous than going to a campsite full of people, noise and cars moving back and forth.

      They packed up the car and set off for their camping location. It was a beautiful spot in the woods, and Jackie was excited to get started. They set up their tent, lit a fire in the fire pit provided and started cooking dinner. Jackie loved being outside and she was having a great time.

      After dinner, they sat around the campfire telling stories and roasting marshmallows. Jackie felt like she was really getting to know her mum and they were having a lot of fun. As evening drew in they saw a deer in the distance and could hear the bird song settling down for the night. Jackie was so glad that her mum had finally given Nearly Wild Camping a try. Maybe next time they could try out an even wilder location using the Wildness Rating to judge which ones  would be most suitable for them…

      https://nearlywildcamping.org/nearly-wild-rating/