I just wondered what's the earliest/latest times of the year people go camping. I'm new to this and after spending most of the last two days doing nothing but reading posts on this site and looking at tents/equipment I'm now ready to buy and get going, however I think the weather will hold me back for a good few weeks yet!
It really depends on what kit you've got and how nuts you are ... there was a UKCS member camping out in the big freeze last month with what looked like nothing more than a tarp and a sleeping bag!
Generally people camp from april/may till sept/oct - depending on the weather. It also depends on the fabric your tent is made from. It also depends on whether you have a EHU, and therefore heating, or not. Some folks are way more hardy than others. I'm not one of them! Good luck on chosing your tent.
I am the same as you ... raring to go but am too much of a wimp to go in this weather, we had our last trip in september last year and will prob start in march this year but that will be with a hookup and fan heater !
There is no definitive answer to your question giddy camper. However, from personal observation on trips, from looking through campsite brochures and reviews, and from reading posts here on UKCS, the 'season' seems to be very roughly from the beginning of April to the end of September.
However, many people start a month or so earlier and continue a month or so later. A significant minority extend their season even further and other hardy souls camp all year round.
Last year, as just one example, a group of us camped together in mid-November. Most of the group enjoyed the benefit of electric hook-up for heating but a few relied on campfires alone.
You'll find some more answers in this current UKCS thread.
Whenever you decide to go, I hope you really enjoy your camping trip.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: When to go camping
