There are three main types of provision for campers on National Trust property: on recognised camp sites managed by the Trust, on recognised sites managed by camping clubs and on smaller sites managed by tenants and others. Camping away from recognised sites requires permission.

The Trust compiles an annual list of recognised camping and caravan sites on its properties which gives an indication of facilities, opening times, charges and restrictions. Some of these sites are restricted to use by scout and/or guide groups only.

Guiding principles
1. The National Trust welcomes, promotes and publicises camping on recognised sites managed by itself and others.

2. There is a presumption against camping on non-recognised sites without permission. This presumption is waived in certain circumstances and areas, eg in the Lake District, in upland areas above 450 metres out of sight of the public highway, to allow the wilderness experience to be enjoyed.

3. 'Wild camping', where tolerated, should only involve one night stop-overs, a maximum of two campers and leave no trace of its presence.

4. Organised groups, eg Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, should consult with local National Trust contacts in advance of a visit to determine if there are special arrangements for groups of this type.

Good practice
The design and management of recognised sites should reflect the National Trust's environmental principles, particularly in relation to refuse, sanitation and water management.

There should be no lighting of fires or barbecues except where such sites are provided.
Assessments should be made of site capacity, bearing in mind the characteristics of the site and its surrounding area.

The National Trust will continue to produce an annual site guide which might include more information about 'responsible' camping.

Farm tenants should be encouraged to consider the provision of sites in appropriate circumstances. Such sites should reflect the National Trust's environmental standards.

Dogs should be kept under close control, ideally on a lead, on recognised camping sites and may occasionally be prohibited. They should be exercised away from pitch areas and those used for communal activities, and faeces should be picked up and disposed of responsibly.

Trends
The Camping and Caravanning Club has an audited membership of 294,772 with membership continuing to increase. The total number of pitches currently used by campers and caravanners is thought to be in the order of 300,000.

Possible impacts

• Disturbance to wildlife, livestock or farming practice from insensitively sited pitches.
• Disturbance to local communities.
• Fires.
• Litter.
• Pollution of watercourses.
• Visual intrusion in sensitive landscapes.

Contacts and liaison

Camping and Caravanning Club
Greenfields House, Westwood Way, Coventry CV4 8JH
Tel: 024 7669 4995
Contact: Sites Director

The Club represents the interests of campers and caravanners and provides facilities through a national network of sites for its members.

Legislation, codes and agreements
The provision of sites for camping is governed by the Public Health Act 1936 together with subsequent Town and Country Planning legislation. A licence is only required for the use of land as a rented camp site if the use exceeds 42 consecutive days per year or a total of 60 days during a calendar year. The Camping and Caravanning Club is permitted to operate sites without a licence.

References
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1998). Housing Research Summary - Local Authority Powers for Managing Unauthorised Camping (No.90, 1998). DETR, London.

Mountaineering Council of Scotland (1998). Wild Camping - A Guide to Good Practice. M C of S, Perth, Scotland.