On the northern fringes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, lies a truly hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Heggs Farm, a captivating rewilding project, offers a sanctuary for nature to thrive and for those seeking the true essence of wild camping in private land.
We are excited to unveil two breathtaking new Wild Spaces within this remarkable landscape, giving our community the unique opportunity to camp wild under the stars, learn firsthand about landscape scale restoration & give back to nature recovery.
The Story of Heggs Farm
Heggs Farm is not just a place; it's a journey. Nestled in the tranquil embrace of the Yorkshire Dales, this farm is part of the larger Heggs Castle Cluster, a collaborative rewilding project focused on restoring and nurturing the natural landscape. At the heart of the farm is Liz, who has taken it on herself to connect deeply with the land here, spending years to listen & observe before slowly putting in place a plan to enhance the natural environment.
With a deep commitment to biodiversity and conservation, Heggs Farm is actively creating a thriving ecosystem where nature can reclaim its place.
The rewilding efforts at Heggs Farm are driven by a profound respect for the land and its natural processes. The farm has taken deliberate steps to encourage native species to return, from wildflowers blooming in once-cultivated fields to the reintroduction of diverse habitats that support a wide range of wildlife. This vision aligns perfectly with our ethos at CampWild: to connect people with nature in a way that leaves both the land and its visitors enriched.
Meet the Guardians of Heggs Farm
Behind every piece of land is a story, and behind every story are the people who make it come alive. At Heggs Farm, the dedicated team of landowners and conservationists are passionate about restoring the balance between nature and human presence. Their vision is not just to create a haven for wildlife but also to share this incredible space with those who seek a deeper connection to the natural world.
The landowners at Heggs Farm have worked tirelessly to restore native woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, ensuring that every step you take on this land is a step back into harmony with nature. They’ve opened their gates to CampWild because they believe that wild camping can be more than just a retreat – it can be a way to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
Discover the Wild Spaces
We are excited to bring to life two new Wild Spaces at Heggs Farm: Peregrines Nest & Pine Island, both of which offer truly unique wild camping experiences.
Pine Island is located in a remnant of native Scotts Pine Trees, surrounded on all sides by a cascading beck that has been left to its own natural course, changing every season & creating new deep pools that are perfect to cool off in. The island is an incredible place to camp in tents, hammocks & tree tents, with views out across wildflower meadows & up onto the moor.
Peregrines Nest is set 450m up above the farm with expansive views across Arkengarthdale. Set against the backdrop of towering limestone cliffs, a nesting pair of peregrines soar above, diving for its prey in the moors all around you. Although it isn't the easiest of spaces to reach, the sense of solitude here & the views at sunset are worth every step!
The Nature and Wildlife of Heggs Farm
Heggs Farm is a thriving rewilding project, and as such, it’s home to an array of wildlife that you won’t find just anywhere. The reintroduction of native species has created a habitat that supports everything from rare birds to elusive mammals. As you explore the farm, keep an eye out for the creatures that call this place home.
You might spot hares darting through the meadows, or catch a glimpse of deer grazing in the distance. The woodlands are alive with the chatter of birds, and if you’re lucky, you might even hear the call of a tawny owl as night falls. Heggs Farm is also home to a variety of insects and pollinators, which play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of this ecosystem.
Why Wild Camping at Heggs Farm?
Wild camping in the Yorkshire Dales is an experience like no other, and Heggs Farm offers a truly unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a rewilding project. It’s a chance to not only connect with nature but to be part of something larger – the restoration of a landscape that has been shaped by centuries of human influence and is now being allowed to heal.
Over the next year, we will be working closely with Liz to host activation & conservation days, where you can get involved with rewilding, learn about nature recovery & give back to the places that you are exploring for your wild camping adventures.
We will also be putting more information in the profiles as to how you can contribute to 'micro-conservation' of the Wild Spaces, every time you visit. For example, by bracken bashing, de-weeding recently planted trees or counting and reporting the number of species you see whilst there. This will bring a whole new level of experience to camping wild & we can't wait to see your adventures here.
Book Your Wild Camping Experience at Heggs Farm
Ready to experience the magic of wild camping in the Yorkshire Dales? Heggs Farm is waiting to welcome you. As a member of the CampWild community, you’ll have exclusive access to these stunning Wild Spaces, where you can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature.
To discover more about Heggs Farm and book your wild camping adventure, visit the profiles on CampWild. These Wild Spaces won’t stay secret for long – secure your spot under the stars and become part of the rewilding journey at Heggs Farm.
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