This wild camping Peak District post has everything you need to know about stealth camping in the Peak District National Park. Offering suggestions on the best places to pitch and some top tips. If you are new to wild camping, I’d suggest also reading my general wild camping UK guide first. It includes gear suggestions, toilet and camping etiquette.

The Peak District is a National Park conveniently located in central England. It is known for its rolling hills, plateaus and valleys rather than jagged peaks. The most popular hike in the region is Kinder Scout, the highest summit in the Peak District at 363m.

The Peak District is split into two areas: the Dark Peak and the White Peak.

Wild camping in the Peak District offers a fun way to connect with nature and enjoy this beautiful space. I would say the Peak District isn’t as easy to wild camp in compared to some of the larger National Parks like the Lake District or Snowdonia. Having said that, though, it is very possible and something I have done multiple times.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, there has sadly been a rise in anti-social wild camping behaviour. PLEASE read this guide carefully and always follow the ‘leave no trace’ rules. This protects nature and ensures we can all continue to enjoy Wild Camping in the National Parks.

Due to wildfire risk, barbecues, disposable barbecues or any form of open fire and flame are not permitted in the open countryside anywhere in the Peak District. Read more here.

You might also want to check out my other blogs:

• The best camping and campfire games
• How to pack a hiking backpack like a pro
• How to stay warm when camping
• Wild Camping Snowdonia
• Wild Camping Brecon Beacons
• WIld Camping Lake District

Before we start….

If you are new to this blog, I’m Bex Band – a full-time UK adventurer, author and founder of the women’s adventure community Love Her Wild. You can read more about me here. I share all my advice in this Peak District Wild Camping guide to help make your overnight adventure as smooth and easy as possible.

If you have any questions, please use the comments box below. And for ongoing tips and inspiration on camping and adventure, make sure you follow me on Facebook and Instagram.

Also, grab a copy of my best-selling adventure memoir – Three Stripes South.

Is wild camping in Peak District legal?

Legally, you are not permitted to wild camp in the Peak District. The National Park land is privately owned, and without permission from the landowner to camp overnight, you are technically breaking the law.

The only areas you can legally pitch a tent overnight in the wild are in Dartmoor (although there are some restrictions – more details here) and Scotland.

However, with the right care and approach, it is tolerated for the most part and is a practice that is undertaken regularly.

It is worth noting that the risk of moorland fires is very high in the Peak Districts. Fires have caused huge damage in the area in recent years, making authorities more alert of wild campers. It is absolutely vital, for the protection of our natural spaces, that you do not have an open fire if wild camping.

Make sure you’ve had a good read of all the Leave No Trace policies on this page before attempting a wild camp.

How to choose a Peak District wild camping spot

Having an OS map (see the ‘Resources’ section below) is an essential bit of kit you will need to work out potential wild camping spots.

Decide what hiking route you want to do. For first-time wild campers, a simple hike in and out with a wild camp overnight is ideal. A more advanced adventure could include a multi-day hike wild camping in a different spot each night.

Using the map, mark a few potential wild camping spots that are in the area your hike finishes. Aim for 2-4 spots you can check in person on the day.

For a good wild camping spot look for the following:

• a spot a few km from the nearest road and preferably a bit away from any major paths
• somewhere that doesn’t involve jumping a fence
• flat spot (the closer the contour lines are together, the steeper the terrain) 
• no too exposed (you don’t want to be high up on an exposed spot where you are open to the elements)
• running water nearby for resupply

You’ll only know if they are definitely a good choice when you see the place in person. Check that you aren’t sitting in a bog or at the bottom of a ditch that might flood if it rains. Ensure there’s no danger of rockfall, and you don’t need to trample lots of wildflowers or vegetation to make a space.

Best wild camping spots in the Peak District

This list of places to wild camp in the Peak District is just intended as a guide. See what these spots look like on a map. Then use that as a guide to try and find your own spaces.

The beauty of wild camping is that the place feels like it isn’t known, and part of the joy really does come from discovering your own hidden place!

It’s also worth noting that as wild camping increases in popularity, some of these sites can become crowded. As much as possible, avoid sunny weekends, especially during the holidays. It’s much better to camp off-season or mid-week when you can enjoy the quiet and the guarantee of a space.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started on where to pitch your camp:

#1 Burbage Valley

One of the most beautiful areas in the Peak District National Park, this offers great stealth camping opportunities. I’d recommend finding a spot in the woodlands, where you’d be nestled away from on-lookers and have a good chance of spotting a wealth of wildlife.

#2 Reynards Cave in Vovedale

The cave offers an unusual spot for wild camping (especially bivvy bag camping). But is also well-known, so it is not a good choice on a busy, sunny weekend. You’ll find the cave on the eastern banks of River Dove, which got its name from a local bandit who apparently used the spot as a hideaway.

#3 Agden Rocher

A small tent will fit below Agden Rocher, but be wary of rockfall here and leave enough space so you aren’t right up against a wall. You’ll have a nice view and maybe also some sheep for company. The spot is a short drive from Sheffield. So it could be a good choice for first-time wild campers who want the security of a quick escape if needed.

#4 Bleaklow and Derwent Moors

Some describe these moors as ‘bleak’, but they also hold their own special kind of beauty. These are easy places to wild camp as there is lots of flat open space to pitch a tent discretely.

#5 Lawrence Field Quarry

The woodland around this artificial lake offers many potential spaces to pitch a tent. It can get busy as it’s one of the more popular spots with outdoor enthusiasts.

#6 Bamford Edge

Bamford Edge, located in the heart of the Peak District, offers breathtaking views that stretch far across the rugged landscape. This is a popular spot for wild campers.

Can you wild camp on Kinder Scout?

Kinder Scout, standing at 636 meters, proudly claims its position as the highest peak in the Peak District.

There are multiple routes to climb the mountain – with Grindsbrook Clough and Jacob’s Ladder being popular choices. Grindsbrook Clough, a challenging scramble, is best suited for experienced hikers. It involves some rugged terrain unsuitable for campers carrying heavy backpacks. In contrast, Jacob’s Ladder offers a relatively straightforward path. Guiding hikers over an ancient bridge and along a gently sloped trail ensure a manageable and scenic approach.

There are lots of wild camping opportunities in the Kinder Scout area. While camping atop the peak is an option, it’s wise to consider lower elevations. This way, you aren’t exposed to the rapidly changing weather. Woolpacks, located just south of Kinder Scout, offers a sheltered camping spot. It’s surrounded by boulders that will offer good shelter.

For an extra touch of adventure, venture less than a mile northwest to Mermaid’s Pool. A hidden gem perfect for wild swimming and captivating views, adding an exciting element to your camping experience in this remarkable landscape.

Getting to the Peak District

As with any adventure, I like to promote leaving the car behind and taking public transport. It’s an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint on your travels…..and is much more adventurous!

There are lots of stations that stop nearby where you can then easily catch a bus to take you more in the heart of the Peaks:

North of the Peak District – train lines stop at Derwent, Hope and Edale Valleys
South of the Peak District – train lines connect Derby to Matlock
West of the Peak District – train lines stop at Glossop and Buxton

During the summer months, there is also the Hope Valley Explorer. A hop-on-hop-off bus with commentary that will take you to all the best hiking spots.

Where to base yourself in the Peak District

My recommended place to base yourself for any adventures in the Peak District is Bakewell. The town has everything you need to stock up and is close to the Peaks. It is easy to reach from most places.

If you are travelling from the West, Buxton could be an easier alternative if you come by train.

If you are looking for somewhere nice to stay before and after your adventure, check out The Rutland Arms Hotel, with prices starting at £40 a night.

What’s the best tent for Wild Camping?

Among my collection of tents, there’s one that stands out as the ultimate choice for wild camping. It’s impressively lightweight, built to endure rain and winds, discreet yet surprisingly roomy, and incredibly simple and swift to set up.

Allow me to introduce you to the MSR Hubba Hubba (as pictured above). Owning one of these is a decision you won’t regret!

Can you Bivvy Bag in the Peak District?

Yes! Bivvy bag camping is an even more discrete way to wild camp as you are less visible than in a tent. Set up is easier as you require a smaller footprint and you are far more out in the open, only increasing that sense of adventure and connection to nature.

The downside is that you are more exposed to the elements. Because of this, I find that I can only bivvy bag camp for 2 nights in a row until I feel like I’m ready for shelter.

This video I made below isn’t from the Peak District but gives you a sense of how to find a suitable spot for the night and also proves that you can very much wild camp, even if you have a toddler with you!!!

Wild camping Peak District resources and books

For a full list of what to pack for your Peak District wild camping adventure, head to my Wild Camping guide. Beyond your general camping items, you are going to want to get an OS map for the Peak District to help you plan and navigate. There are two maps that cover the National Park depending on the area you are planning to head to:

• OS Peak District OL24 (White Peak area)
• OS Peak District OL1 (Dark Peak area)

For wider reading on the Peak District and mini-adventures, check out:

• Wild Guide to Central England (inspiring book with lots of mini-adventure ideas in the region, including Peak District)
• Pathfinder Outstanding circular walks (ideas for circular hikes in the Peak District)
• 50 Walks in the Peak District (ideas for hikes in the Peak District region)
• Britain’s Best Small Hill’s (a great all-around wild camping guide for suggestions across the UK on where to sleep wild for a night)

If you want to add a little bit of fun to your camping trip, check out my handy guide with 100+ camping games and challenges for adults: CAMPING GAMES FOR ADULTS.

For reliable weather forecasts, check out the following. If you are expecting strong winds, make sure you are away from trees and not camping in an exposed place. In wet weather, you want to make sure you aren’t in a basin or low ground that may flood:

• Peak District MetOffice Weather Forecast

Other relevant posts to help you get ready:

• How to pack a hiking backpack like a pro
• 7 tips for staying warm when camping
• 19 Fun camping games for adults

Tops Tips and inspiration for stealth camping in the Peaks

• The most popular climb in the Peak District is Kinder Scout, the highest peak. So choose a different mountain if you want a quieter experience.
• Because the Peak District is smaller and less ‘wild’ than other National Parks, it’s especially key that you pitch late and leave early so you are discreet and unseen.
• Any time you go wild camping, tell someone your general plan and direction. As well as what time they should expect you home.
• It’s vital you understand and follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ rules so you protect the land you are camping on. You can find them on this page – Wild Camping UK.
• Check the weather each day so you are up-to-date with any changes or warnings.

For a bit of inspiration

If you want to get an idea of what wild camping might look like in the Peak District, take a look at these vlogs:

I hope you found this guide to wild camping Peak District helpful; if you’re new to the activity – remember that confidence is often the thing that holds most people back from trying it for the first time. So leap and go for it! Absolute worst-case scenario: you’ll need to pack down at night and head home.

For more adventure inspiration and advice, follow me on Facebook and Instagram. Or you can subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Happy camping adventurers!!!!