Backpack camping is in the spotlight after the Court of Appeal ruled in favour of Dartmoor National Park Authority in a landmark case centred around people’s right to backpack camp on the commons. The ruling was given in favour of ‘wild camping’ provided it was ‘in strict accordance with the applicable byelaws.’ The Authority wants to ensure people understand backpack camping regulations so their night under canvas is a memorable one and have provided a map which shows the areas where this can take place, provided the ‘leave no trace’ principles are followed. Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Chief Executive Dr Kevin Bishop said: “Planning is essential, and we’d urge everyone to check our map to make sure you’re in the right spot. It’s always been the case that camping is prohibited in some areas and pitching a tent in those places’ risks breaching National Park byelaws.”

View the fully interactive map and check the Backpack Camping Code at www.dartmoor.gov.uk/about-us/about-us-maps/camping-map