Appeal issued to wild campers after surge in detritus on Dartmoor
Fury over trend of wild campers leaving rubbish on Dartmoor
- Dartmoor National Park has experienced a significant increase in "fly camping" incidents this summer, with rangers reporting discarded equipment and rubbish.
- Officials noted a 62.5 per cent rise in incidents, from 160 to 260, attributing it to hot weather and heightened social media interest in the park's unique wild camping status.
- Dartmoor remains the only place in England where wild camping is legally permitted, a right that was upheld by the Supreme Court in May following a landowner's challenge.
- Park rangers are urging visitors to "leave no trace" and treat the moorland with respect, emphasising that fires and barbecues are prohibited due to wildfire risks.
- The park authority plans to engage social media influencers next year to educate campers on responsible behaviour and adherence to the wild camping code of conduct.