Training

Workshops

Training and support is at the heart of what we do. Online sessions and email support is provided free of charge and we price one day workshops to be as affordable as possible. Expeditions are more costly but offer excellent value with 2 experienced leaders and a small group size (5 max). There are more details on the Expeditions page.

Successful and enjoyable adventures begin with good preparation so if you want to join a Camp 404 expedition we expect you to complete all our training sessions first. Expeditions are optional though, you can just do the training if you prefer.

If you want to find out more about wild camping and how to do it safely and responsibly, we offer the following programme of events which are designed to follow in the order shown -

1. Introduction to Wild Camping (online, Zoom)

This is an online presentation with plenty of Q&A time afterwards. We cover the many benefits of wild camping as well as the legal situation and our responsibility to respect others, and protect the environment by following the principles of 'leave no trace'. By the end you'll have a clear idea what wild camping is, and how Camp 404 can help you get started.The adventure begins on the Booking page!

2. Essential Guide to Wild Camping (online, Zoom)

The second online session we run covers hillwalking, backpacking and wild camping. The presentation is packed full of essential information and useful tips and is designed to prepare you for a first experience of wild camping in the hills/mountains of the UK.

3. Wild Camping Workshop (1 day, or combined with an expedition)

If you plan to join a Dartmoor Expedition a workshop is included on the first afternoon.

A one day workshop on Dartmoor is a good alternative to joining a Camp 404 expedition if you're almost ready to wild camp on your own or with family/friends, .

It's very hands-on and the environment is relaxed and collaborative. We'll discuss what you need, why you need it, how to pack it, and how to use the equipment. Although there is no overnight wild camp, you will be backpacking on the moors learning and practicing all the essential wild camping skills in a small group environment supported by an experienced leader. You can borrow all the backpacking and camping kit from Camp 404. This is a good way to try out quality kit and get ideas about what to buy before you go wild camping on your own. It's also fine to bring some or all of your own kit along.