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.