On the fringes of Dartmoor, a rare patch of temperate rainforest has been rejuvenated, with a sustainable campsite now operational alongside it. Wray Valley Camping, located between Lustleigh and Moretonhampstead, offers visitors the chance to experience this unique ecosystem through “nearly wild” camping pitches.
Reviving a Rare Habitat
Temperate rainforests, or Atlantic woodlands, thrive in conditions of high humidity, consistent rain, and mild coastal weather. At one time, they spread across 20% of the UK, from Scotland to Cornwall, but today, over 95% of this habitat has vanished. Thanks to Devon’s persistent moisture and Atlantic influence, sections of this rare environment survive there.
Michelle Grist and Kevin Chamberlain, the owners of Wray Valley Camping, have dedicated seven years to restoring this fragile biosphere. Their efforts have resulted in their land being recognised as a county wildlife site by Devon authorities, affirming its status as a precious remnant of temperate rainforest and wet woodland.
A New Kind of Eco-Friendly Camping
Michelle and Kevin, with backgrounds in environmental consulting and search and rescue respectively, have crafted this campsite from the ground up, drawing from their personal camping experiences. The campground adheres to a low-impact philosophy—cars are banned from the site, and camping gear is transported by wheelbarrow. Facilities are eco-conscious, featuring composting toilets, borehole water, and solar power.
The Challenge of Conservation
Reviving the rainforest was just one part of the project. The bigger challenge lies in balancing visitor engagement with protection efforts. Michelle and Kevin manage visitor numbers cautiously, allowing them to maintain the site’s environmental integrity. They aim to attract patrons who value preservation, and this approach seems to be working, with guests often actively contributing to the woodland’s upkeep. One horticulturist even assisted in cataloguing native species.
Exploring Wray Valley
The site isn’t just for camping; it serves as a portal to eastern Dartmoor’s lush landscapes. Nearby, the Wray Valley Trail invites visitors on a 7-mile journey that traces the historical path of the Moretonhampstead and South Devon Railway, linking key cultural sites in the area. Adventurous paths lead to scenic spots like Hound Tor, rich with historical remnants.
Recreation with a Purpose
Camping at Wray Valley offers more than a scenic retreat. It situates visitors in an ecological tapestry that includes ancient woodlands and special scientific areas, home to diverse fauna. This mini-ecosystem serves as a living model for the larger environmental restoration of Dartmoor.
The costs for a “Nearly Wild” camping experience start at £10 for adults and £8 for children, with inclusive facilities such as hot showers. The site comprises six pitches in the Hay Meadow and four additional Nearly Wild pitches. This initiative reflects a shift towards camping that values environmental stewardship as much as comfort.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.