Stealth Camping in the UK: Laws, Risks & Insider Tips

If you love the freedom of sleeping under the stars but don’t want to pay a campsite fee, stealth camping might sound tempting. In plain English, stealth camping means parking your motorhome or van in a spot where you’re not supposed to stay overnight and trying to stay out of sight. It works fine most of the time, but you need to know the rules, the risks, and how to do it without getting a ticket.

What the law actually says

There is no single "stealth camping" law in the UK. Instead, you’re covered by a mix of trespass, litter, and public order rules. On public land (like highways or public parks) you’re only allowed to stop for a short break – usually up to two hours. Anything longer can be classed as illegal camping and may lead to a fine or a warning from the police or local council.

Private land is a bit different. If you’re on someone’s property without permission, you’re trespassing. Landowners can ask you to move, and if you refuse you could face a police summons. In Scotland the “right to roam” lets you camp on most uncultivated land, but even there you must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code – leave no trace, stay away from crops, and move on after a night.

Practical tips to stay low‑key and safe

1. Pick the right spot. Look for quiet back roads, farm lanes, or unused lay‑bys. Avoid obvious tourist hotspots and places with visible signs prohibiting overnight stays.

2. Blend in. Use a blackout curtain or a reflective sunshade to hide interior lights. Park your vehicle close to trees, hedges, or a car park wall to break the outline.

3. Be quick. Set up, get some sleep, and pack up before sunrise if possible. The earlier you leave, the less chance you’ll be spotted.

4. Mind the noise. Keep music low, use a portable fan instead of a heater, and avoid any smells that could attract attention.

5. Leave no trace. Pack out all trash, don’t disturb wildlife, and refill any water you’ve used. A clean spot makes it less likely someone will call it in.

6. Use technology wisely. Apps like Park4Night or iOverlander have user‑rated stealth spots. Check recent reviews before you go – a spot that was fine last month might now be patrolled.

7. Carry proof of ownership. If you’re asked to move, showing a registration document can help prove you’re a legitimate motorhome owner rather than an unwanted squatters.

8. Stay respectful. If a landowner or authority asks you to leave, do it politely. Being confrontational only increases the chance of a fine.

Remember, the goal isn’t to break the law – it’s to enjoy a night under the sky without paying a fee. By staying informed and using these simple tricks, you can keep your stealth camping adventures low‑risk and enjoyable.

Bottom line: stealth camping works best when you treat the land and the people who own it with respect, keep a low profile, and know when to move on. Follow the legal limits, pack smart, and you’ll get to keep sleeping under the stars without the hassle of a citation.