An Introduction to Wild Camping
A 2 day introduction to wild camping on the beautiful Isle of Arran, camping on a minimal campsite with a loo and running water (cold water and no shower). This is a way for you to experience walking with a back pack and all the kit you need, setting up camp, cooking on a small camping stove, and spending a night off grid surrounded by some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.
Arran is just a short distance from the central belt yet feels remote and wild. Jagged peaks, towering mountains, secluded glens, waterfalls and gushing rivers. It’s where I go when I need a dose of the mountains but am short on time.
Over the course of this weekend you’ll learn:
- How best to pack and carry a rucksack
- What kit you need and where to get it
- How to set up a tent and where to camp
- What food to bring and how to cook efficiently and safely
- How to leave no trace when camping
- What to consider for hygiene and safety
Upcoming Dates
There are no trips planned at the moment.
If you would like to inquire about a bespoke weekend please get in touch or join the mailing list to hear about future dates.
Itinerary
On Day 1 we’ll meet at Ardrossan Ferry Terminal. After the crossing to Brodick, we’ll walk for an hour to our campsite and set up camp. This is a chance to learn how to pick a good spot for camping, set up a tent if you haven’t done that yet, and learn about other aspects of campcraft.
We’ll then have time for a short walk before dinner. We’ll cook together and this is an opportunity to chat about what food and drink to take of wild camping trips, learn to safely use a stove, and try some lightweight yet tasty camping food. The evening is yours to chill, go for a walk or a swim, or get the cards out!
On Day 2 we’ll have a leisurely start with breakfast and hot drinks (another chance to use the stoves), then pack up and head out for a gentle walk with our rucksacks to get more experience of walking with all the kit. Arran is simply stunning and has so much to offer walkers of all abilities. We can choose from coastal walks, rocky routes, or wooded trails, depending on interests and energy levels.
We’ll have a packed lunch and head for a ferry mid-afternoon to be back in Ardrossan by 5.45pm.
Who is this for
This is for participants who have a good level of fitness and enjoy walking outdoors for up to 5 hours.
This is for those who are new to walking with a rucksack weighing around 10kg (22lbs) and/or who are new to camping. The weekend will be tailored to the participants so that everyone can try new things, pick up new skills and tips to allow you to plan your own wild camping trips.
What is included in the ticket price
- All the planning and preparation. Just turn up and enjoy a safe, comfortable, and fun night of camping in incredible surroundings.
- Advice, tips and information about kit, camp craft, nutrition, safety, hygiene, and minimising our impact on the environment. All recapped into one document for you to keep.
- Food: hot drinks, nutritious and tasty breakfast and dinner. If you have and dietary requirements please flag this up when booking.
- The cost of the basic campsite.
- Ferry travel to/from the Isle of Arran from Ardrossan.
- Equipment can be provided for an additional cost: 60L rucksack, lightweight 2-person tent, 3 season sleeping bag, inflatable mat, stove, fuel, bowl, mug, spoon and fork. All high quality and lightweight, suitable for backpacking. (discounts available if you can bring all the required equipment or if you are sharing a tent with a friend).
What you’ll need to bring
You’ll need to bring your personal walking clothing and footwear, lunch and snacks for both days, as well as other personal items:
- Camping equipment (this can be provided for £80 per person/ £100 for couple): 60L rucksack, lightweight 2-person tent, 3 season sleeping bag, inflatable mat, stove, fuel, bowl, mug, spoon and fork.
- Clothes: Walking trousers or leggings, base top, fleece, change of underwear, gloves, hat, change of clothes for sleeping
- Waterproofs: waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers
- Sanitary products: small soap, period products, toothbrush and toothpaste, and medication
- Footwear: comfortable walking boots
- Other: midge net, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, walking pole(s) if you use them
- Water bottle, snacks and lunch for both days
- A mobile phone with a full charge (there are no charging points on the campsite)
Getting there and timings
We will meet at Ardrossan Ferry Terminal. There is paid parking or it’s accessible by train from Glasgow Central Station.
We will meet at 10am to allow time to kit up before the 11am ferry.
We will be back in Ardrossan by 5.45pm the following day.
Pricing
Standard Price: £100 per person
Camping kit can be provided for an additional £80 per person, or if sharing a tent £100 per couple/£50 per person.
Booking
Please get in touch to inquire about availability.
Questions
If you’re unsure if this course is suitable for you, or have any questions or concerns, please get in touch: view contact details.
