The Best Wild Camping Spot on the River Thames
Discovering a Hidden Gem for Wild Camping UK
When I first started planning this trip, I’ll admit — the Thames Estuary didn’t exactly scream wild camping paradise. But I was itching to get out, and after scanning the OS map for somewhere flat, quiet, and scenic, I locked in on a spot along the River Thames that looked promising.
I had no idea it would end up being one of the best wild camping locations I’ve ever experienced.
The Journey Begins: Finding Solitude Near the Thames
I set off with a simple goal — to find somewhere beautiful and remote where I could wild camp legally and respectfully. My kit was packed: the Hilleberg Soulo tent, Rab Ascent 900 sleeping bag, trusty Kilos Gear mat, and a couple of boil-in-the-bag meals.
The Thames Estuary might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of stunning views, but as I made my way deeper in, the crowds thinned, the noise faded, and the landscape began to open up.
I wandered for hours, bypassing walkers and dodging busy tracks, until I spotted a slight offshoot from the path — flat, dry, and with an incredible view of the water. Game on.
Camp Setup: Simple, Stealthy, Scenic
I set up camp behind some low brush with an open view of the river and sunset. The gear I brought was perfect for the night:
Tent: Hilleberg Soulo — bomber in wind and perfect for stealth camping
Sleeping Bag: Rab Ascent 900 — toasty even with a clear, moonlit sky
Mat: Kilos Gear sleeping mat — one of the comfiest I’ve tried
Stove: OEX Tacana Solo Stove — compact and super fast boiling
Light: Kilos Gear Rover Camping X Light — looks like a lightsaber, performs like a champ
For dinner? Wayfayrer peri-peri chicken (meh), a Galaxy x Nescafé 3-in-1 hot drink (underrated), and a Bounce plant-based brownie bar (surprisingly good).
I waited for the sun to dip low before cooking — didn't want to draw attention — and once the food was done and the light faded, I headed up the sea wall to take in the view.
Sleeping by the Water: What a Night
The stars came out, the moon lit up the estuary, and all I could hear was the gentle slosh of water on the shore. I zipped up, stayed warm, and drifted off feeling absolutely content.
Waking up the next morning, I was met with something special — the kind of peaceful, beautiful moment that reminds you exactly why wild camping in the UK is so worth the effort.
Why This Spot Stands Out
I’ve wild camped in woodlands, on ridgelines, in hammocks, and even in the snow. But something about this spot beside the Thames really hit different.
Low traffic: Once the walkers cleared out, it was pure peace.
Unmatched view: Sunset and sunrise across the water.
Flat, dry ground: Great for a good night's sleep.
Wildlife everywhere: From seabirds to seals (yep, seriously).
Gear Used This Trip
Here’s a quick list of my wild camping gear for this trip:
Tent: Hilleberg Soulo
Sleeping Bag: Rab Ascent 900
Mat: Kilos Gear sleeping mat
Stove: OEX Tacana Solo Stove
Light: Kilos Gear Rover Camping X Light
Meals: Wayfayrer boil-in-the-bag + hot drink mix
Water: 2L carried in reusable bottle
Entertainment: Kindle (always!)
Key Takeaways
Trust your map skills — some of the best spots are just off the path.
Sometimes the most unexpected locations turn out to be the most memorable.
You don’t always need a mountain summit to have an epic wild camp.
River camping brings unique challenges (wind, bugs, condensation), but also massive rewards.
Have You Camped Along a River?
Let me know in the comments — have you ever wild camped near the Thames or another river in the UK? Got a favourite spot you’re willing to share (or keep secret)? I'd love to hear about it.
I think I found the best wild camping spot along the River Thames, peaceful, remote, and absolutely stunning for the UK.
Suggested Reading
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