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After a summer of wild camping adventures, we take a look back at reader responses to Chris Townsend’s defence of wild camping in Dartmoor – and everywhere else. In his article, Chris responded as a landowner tried to get wild camping banned on Dartmoor. He argues that this integral part of hillwalking and mountaineering, aligned with Leave No Trace values, must be supported. Let’s hear our readers’ perspectives...

Nick Lord (@NickLord57, Twitter)

“On Kinder, I pick up over two bags of rubbish every day. I’ve lived and worked as a mountain instructor here for many years and the last few years have seen a massive increase in rubbish left on the moors. I’ve filled bags with BBQs, bottles, nappies, used toilet paper, three tents and two chairs.”

Peter Judd (@aimhigh09, Twitter)

“Heartily recommend this excellent article from The Great Outdoors’ backpacking expert

(incidentally a BMC hillwalking ambassador too), Chris Townsend. A sense of perspective and not being misled by outrage fed by distorted presentations of reality are so necessary.

Tim Gent (T.H.Gent/Facebook)

“Thank you, Chris. This worrying situation needs as much exposure as possible.”

SpectralSong (@spectral_song, Twitter) “Good, well-reasoned article by Chris.”

Sarah Twomers (hcsarah/Facebook)

“I do get it, but over lockdown we were under siege and a lot of habitat was damaged.”

M(@ttyEngland, Twitter)

“The greatest thing about wild campers is they’re everywhere but you’d never know. Their name unfortunately has become misappropriated by motorised campers, party campers and downright disgusting leave-all-their-mess-and-gear-forsomeone-else-to-clean-up campers.”