It’s more than compost loos and charming signage.

Sustainability has become a selling point. A word sprinkled onto booking forms and welcome boards. But how do you know a campsite or stopover truly walks its talk?

Real sustainability isn’t about a checklist. It’s about ethics in action, embedded at every level—from the soil to the sign-in sheet.

Here’s what we look for when assessing a site’s sustainability:

Land Stewardship
Does the site actively protect and regenerate land?
Look for wild zones, native planting, low-impact pitches, and support for local wildlife corridors. Bonus: tree planting, soil restoration, or peatland care.

Water & Waste Systems
Are greywater and toilet waste handled responsibly?
Are there water-saving showers, composting loos, or reed bed filtration systems? Sites that encourage (or provide) proper separation of recycling, food, and general waste score higher in long-term care.

Energy Use
Is power sourced sustainably?
Solar panels, wind power, or renewable-sourced grid electricity count. So does energy use awareness: low-light zones, motion sensors, and clear guidance on consumption.

Community Connection
Does the site feed its neighbours—not just its travellers?
Think local suppliers, staff from nearby villages, story-sharing sessions, or co-hosted events. A sustainable site benefits people as well as planet.

Infrastructure That Lasts
Is what’s built designed to age well—or biodegrade gently?
Look for natural or reclaimed materials, low-sealant finishes, and structures that can be repaired—not replaced every few years.

Transparency and Accountability
Does the site share its values, stats, and ongoing efforts?
Look for signs that they’re evolving, not claiming perfection—like certifications, community feedback loops, and meaningful partnerships.

True sustainability isn’t aesthetic. It’s humble. It admits it’s a work in progress. And it opens a conversation—not just a booking form.

At The Sustainable Stop, we spotlight places that aren’t just pretty—they’re principled.
Explore our vetted stays, host interviews, and site-choosing checklist to camp with confidence and care.