Lake District enhances campaign to curb fly camping with QR code bin bags

The Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) is taking innovative steps to address the issue of fly camping, introducing specially branded bin bags embedded with QR codes.

These bin liners, distributed by rangers from the National Park, the National Trust, Forestry England, and Westmorland & Furness Council, aim to combat irresponsible camping and promote the use of official campsites.

The initiative, dubbed "Rubbish Campsites," seeks to educate visitors on the benefits of choosing official campsites over informal spots. With the slogan “Leave no trace, just good vibes," each bin liner sleeve features a QR code directing users to a directory of over 100 "unreal campsites"—ideal alternatives to lakeshore camping.

Rubbish Campsites Campaign Highlights

Leading the campaign is Cumbria’s Strategic Visitor Management Group (SVMG), which coordinates visitor management in the region.

Adding a creative twist, the campaign encourages the public to "vote for your favourite fell" by discarding litter in branded bins at Ullswater Information Centre in Glenridding and Coniston Boating Centre over the bank holiday weekend from 28th to 31st August.

These bins are divided into two halves, each representing a popular mountain, allowing locals and tourists alike to cast their vote by choosing a side to deposit their litter.

Part of the Lake District Kind Initiative

This bin liner campaign integrates into the broader Lake District Kind initiative, which underscores sustainable travel, environmental respect, safety in the fells, and the principle of leaving no trace.

Visitors are reminded that fly camping by lakeshores and in laybys is prohibited, and fires and barbecues are not allowed within the National Park.

For those considering wild camping, the practice is generally tolerated if adhering to leave no trace principles, camping unobtrusively above the highest fell wall, and staying for one night only.

Further details on wild camping in the Lake District are available on the LDNPA website, along with guidelines on enjoying the region responsibly.