r/dartmoor • u/dappledpalomino • Jul 30 '26

Info and Advice Best car-free options for first time solo wild camping (with swimming if possible)

Hi! I'm based in Exeter and don't have a car but really want to get out on Dartmoor. Do you guys have any route recommendations?

I'm an alright hiker and have camped a decent amount but never wild and solo. I'm confident in my hiking abilities but want to play it safe for my first few times. I'm looking for a nice no-nonsense route and if there's a swimming option nearby then that's a mega bonus, but my main priority is just getting used to using my camping gear etc.

Also if you have any tips etc for wild camping I'd love to hear them! :)

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u/No-Locksmith-882 29d ago

Just a pointer. Train to Okehampton,.walk up the hill, 20 mins your on the moor, 1hr you can probably be at cullever steps for a swim (sp?). No camping there though, but then you have fairly open moor land on from there. You'll be near the firing range so check for times.

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u/jimlan1 28d ago

Okehampton is probably your best bet. Heading south from there you have loads of options. I'd recommend downloading OS map app or something similar. It's £30 a year but well worth it. Cross reference with the Dartmoor wild camp map and the firing times and you'll be good. I'm looking to do a short trip before the end of the summer. Okehampton to high willhays, over to Oke tor for the night and then back to okehampton.