Wild Camp and Navigation Training Weekend on Dartmoor

Gain hands-on experience in map reading and wild camping during this two-day course in the remote northern reaches of Dartmoor National Park. Starting in the village of Belstone, the weekend involves a full overnight expedition with practical navigation training and a wild camp under the stars. Ideal for those with little or no prior experience, this course is all about building confidence, independence, and a better understanding of the outdoors.

Key Details

Group size: 2-6 people
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Meeting point: Belstone, Dartmoor
Age: Adults 18+
Experience level: Beginners and those wanting to refresh their skills

Key Skills

Understanding map features and symbols
Using a compass and taking bearings
Route planning and estimating walking time
Identifying safe wild camping spots
Packing and carrying kit efficiently
Basic campcraft and group safety outdoors

What to Expect

Day 1
The course begins in Belstone with a short session on packing and kit distribution to ensure everyone is carrying a manageable load. From there, the group heads out onto the moor, walking for approximately 8 hours with regular stops for navigation training and discussion. You'll cover grid references, contour interpretation, compass use, and GPS, along with advice on access rights, mountain safety, and appropriate gear. Along the way, there will be chances to practise what you’re learning in real terrain.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll assess and choose a suitable wild camping location based on weather, water availability, and ground quality. After pitching tents, dinner will be a hot expedition-style meal followed by an evening spent discussing the day’s progress and relaxing outdoors.

Day 2
After breakfast and a reminder to leave no trace, the group breaks camp and continues to refine their navigation skills. The second day is focused on consolidating learning, giving you the chance to revisit any techniques you’re unsure about and gain more experience navigating off the beaten track. The course wraps up mid-afternoon with a return to Belstone and a final debrief.

Location

This course takes place in the northern part of Dartmoor National Park, starting in the small village of Belstone. The area is known for its open moorland, granite tors, and wide-ranging views.

As a less busy part of Dartmoor, it offers the ideal setting for wild camping and learning navigation without distractions, with real opportunities to experience remote hiking and solitude.

Accommodation

Accommodation for the weekend is provided in lightweight tents, with shared camping where possible to reduce the load. All participants are encouraged to share tents to make the most of the available space and minimise the weight of their packs.

If you're unsure about the suitability of your tent, please reach out ahead of time to discuss options. Tents can also be provided for an additional fee if arranged in advance. Please note, there are no facilities on the moors, so a true wild camping experience is ensured.

Prerequisites

Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be able to carry their camping equipment for two days over uneven and sometimes steep ground.

No previous navigation or wild camping experience is required, but a willingness to be outdoors in variable weather and sleep without facilities is essential. This course is open to adults aged 18 and over.

Why Choose Us

The course is led by an experienced Mountain Leader with over 30 years of trekking and teaching across a variety of environments worldwide. The approach is friendly, supportive, and highly practical, with a focus on helping people build confidence in real-world conditions.

Group sizes are kept small to allow for individual attention, and the weekends are designed to be enjoyable as well as educational, with a relaxed pace and a supportive atmosphere. Whether you're aiming to gain independence in the hills or just try something new, this is a great introduction to outdoor adventure.

All meals (Saturday packed lunch, expedition dinner, Sunday breakfast, snacks)
Navigation equipment (maps, compasses, camping stove)
Navigation training and mountaincraft instruction
Wild camping in the hills (tents shared where possible to reduce pack weight)
Support and guidance from an experienced instructor

Transport to and from the meeting point
Personal outdoor clothing and footwear
Water bottle and drinks
Personal camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat unless pre-arranged)
Rucksack and packing essentials (dry bags, liner, head torch, whistle, sun hat)
Personal insurance

No prior experience is required. This course is suitable for beginners, but it’s also great for those who want to build confidence in their navigation skills.

You’ll receive full instruction on map reading, compass use, and the basics of wild camping, so you’ll be well-prepared for the weekend.

You will need suitable outdoor clothing (walking trousers, non-cotton base layers, warm clothing, waterproofs, and walking boots). A rucksack (50-60L) is required to carry all your gear, along with a sleeping bag, mat, and a lightweight tent (if you have one).

A head torch, whistle, dry bags, and a water bottle are also essential. A detailed kit list will be provided after booking, so you can ensure you have everything you need.

Yes, the hike will involve around 8 hours of walking per day, with plenty of breaks.

The terrain will be mountainous, but we maintain a relaxed pace, so there’s no need to worry about keeping up. The emphasis is on learning navigation skills, and no one will be left behind.

The course is designed for people of average fitness. While you don’t need to be an experienced hiker, you should be prepared to walk for long periods while carrying a rucksack.

For the wild camping part, you'll be carrying your personal camping equipment, which requires a basic level of fitness.

Yes, you will carry all your gear, including food, clothing, and camping equipment.

However, we will assist you in packing your rucksack efficiently to ensure that it’s not overburdened. If you prefer, tents can be provided for an additional fee if arranged before the course. Please contact us via the adventuro chat to arrange this.

Yes, you can bring your own lightweight tent, but it should be suitable for wild camping in rough conditions.

If you’re unsure about whether your tent is appropriate, feel free to contact us for guidance. We can also provide tents for an additional fee if arranged in advance.

Yes, you’re welcome to book individually. However, please note that a minimum of 2 participants is required for the session to go ahead.

If the minimum number isn’t met, we’ll get in touch to discuss rescheduling or refund options.

Andy is a highly experienced Mountain Leader with over 30 years of trekking and expedition experience across a wide range of environments, including mountains, deserts, and jungles. He has led groups in the UK and internationally in countries such as Nepal, Mongolia, Iceland, Namibia, Brazil, and Ghana. Known for his calm leadership and practical teaching style, Andy specialises in outdoor skills including navigation, campcraft, and group leadership. His passion for the outdoors is matched by his commitment to helping others build confidence and capability in wild and challenging environments.