Why choose wild camping for your business 

Wild camping provides guests with the opportunity to fulfil an authentic outdoor adventure, spending the duration of their escape with the basic necessities needed to enjoy their time, without their everyday comforts. 

There are a variety of factors to consider when setting up a wild camping business.  

Guests are likely to arrive by car, so parking should be a consideration. They’ll want it to be reasonably accessible but at the same time sufficiently separate from the camping area that it still feels ‘wild.’  

Wooded areas are popular for wild camping sites, due to the privacy they offer – as well as the feeling of being at one with nature – but can make access, especially by car, more difficult. The secluded set-up will help guests to relax and appreciate the tranquillity of their outdoor holiday. 

Think about the main reasons why people would opt for a naturistic escape. Many wish to switch off completely, so limited access to mobile reception may not be an issue. They may also be content with relatively rustic hot water and shower facilities, in-keeping with nature – made for practical purposes and not comfort. 

Wild camping might be the right diversification for your business if you have a river or lake on your holding, as guests may wish to complement the outdoor aspect of their trip in the wild with some outdoor swimming.  

Why choose luxury glamping for your business 

Luxury glamping includes a variety of different accommodation types including enclosed pods and yurts – a much sturdier and warmer way to spend the night. 

Glamping offers a very different experience for guests, allowing them to enjoy the camping experience whilst being comfortable and benefitting from better facilities – many glamping units would include a hot shower and a wood burning stove.  

For a business owner, this means higher initial and ongoing outlay – as well as guests having higher expectations – good mobile phone reception, electrical outlets, etc.  

They may also expect additional provisions such as firepits, a restaurant or pub, activities for children, guided hiking trails and more.  

What to consider when looking at wild camping or luxury glamping sites for sale

We are currently seeing a high level of demand across the country for land to set up a wild camping or glamping site, as new entrants to the industry see this as offering better value. Of course, you will pay less for land with potential, but buying an established site allows you to hit the ground running and start generating an income straightaway. 

That said, compared to other types of leisure business, glamping and even more so wild camping both have relatively low start-up costs – and you can expand the business as and when past income allows for it.  

When choosing the location, just make sure that there is the level of demand from potential clients – with the highest demand being in coastal areas or national parks.  

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Expanding an existing or starting a new wild camping or luxury glamping site is likely to require planning permission or may fall under permitted development rights in some circumstances. Obtaining specialist planning advice from the outset would be critical to any future plans.

If you’re thinking of buying, developing or expanding a wild camping or glamping site and would like advice – or if you currently have a site and are thinking of selling – get in touch with Stephen Richards, Head of Rural Leisure at Carter Jonas on 07968 216596 or stephen.richards@carterjonas.co.uk.  

Alternatively, you can see all our rural leisure property, including glamping businesses for sale on our property search.