The Big Wild Sleep Out at RSPB Arne is a unique opportunity to sleep out in the Wild. Spend the night in an idyllic private area of the reserve overlooking Poole harbour and the Purbeck hills, along with a hearty locally sourced dinner and an early morning breakfast next to Poole harbour.
On arrival your camping gear will be transported to the camp site, where the children can go bug hunting or sweep netting whilst you set up your tent.
After dinner you'll have the option to go on a guided night walk with an expert in search of the eerie call of the Nightjar, bats, moths and possibly glow worms. The evening will end around the camp fire where you can star gaze and relax with a marshmallow or 2...
Your morning alarm clock might just be the cry of a Sika deer or the unmistakable call of the Curlew. For those who fancy a bit of spotting, we'll set some scopes up first thing with some expert guides to help you identify the waders and wildfowl of Arne. After breakfast you'll have time to relax next to the harbour before we transport your gear back for you.
Book your tickets quick-they go off sale at MIDNIGHT on Tuesday 19th July!
It's the perfect chance to get back to the wild!
We will be camping on a normally out of bounds area, a field with a truly amazing view of Poole Harbour. You may even spend the night sleeping next to a rabbit or a deer!
Please note that the booking process automatically allocates you 1 tent pitch only per booking,
Visitors must bring their own tents and camping equipment to the reserve i.e. tent, sleeping bag, pegs, mallet, torch, sleeping mat, warm clothes, drinking water etc.
There will be toilets available, but no shower facilities.
Evening meal and breakfast are included in the price.
No Campfires allowed. A large communal fairy light 'fire' will be provided.
In July and August there may be midges about, so visitors should bring a hat and repellent if they wish.
We are going on night walks so good shoes/boots should be worn and bring a torch.
All visitors should be aware of ticks and will be advised to check for ticks after the event. Tick twisters to remove them will be on hand in the first aid equipment.
There is no electricity on the camping site.
No dogs or pets allowed.
No smoking, drug or alcohol.
No loud speakers or music to disturb the wildlife.
2-4pm: Arrive at reserve and meet in Arne overflow car park (The transportation for camping gear will only be available between 2-4pm)
Camping equipment and anyone who requested assistance is driven to camp site
Walk to camping site (approx. 20 minute walk) and set up tents
4-6pm: Enjoy the views of Coombe Field, visit the Guide in the Hide at Middlebere Lookout, buy snacks from the tuckshop!
6-8pm: Dinner time! (served form 6pm-7pm)
8-9:15pm: Evening walk taking in the sunset and looking out for nightjar, owls, bats, moths, glow worms, badgers etc.
9:15-9:45pm: Enjoy the evening down at the communal campfire area, before tucking into bed and dreaming of Arne.
From when you wake - 8am: Enjoy the view/visit Middlebere Lookout
8am-9:30am: Breakfast! (food served between 8am-9am)
9:30-12:00: Pack up tents and leave by 12pm. transportation of camping gear available from 10am-12pm.
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?
No under 5's please and children (under 18) must be supervised at all times by their responsible adult.
What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
A reserved parking area in the overflow carpark will be sign posted on arrival.
See our website for train, bus, bike, and road options.
Our carpark is located on the right at the beginning of Arne village.
Arne Nature Reserve, Dorset - The RSPB
Do you cater for special dietary needs?
Yes, our catering team can cater for any special dietary requirements. Please note these on the booking form.
Can I stay on the reserve after the sleepout?
Yes, Arne is open from dawn to dusk, once you have packed up and returned it all to your vehicle, you are welcome to explore the rest of Arne, including our wild play area, café, shop, wildlife garden and beautiful trails. Your ticket purchase for the Big Wild Sleep Out grants you access to the reserve on Sunday.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Email arne@rspb.org.uk. All bookings must be made online.
What's the refund policy?
If we cancel an event for any reason, you will receive a full refund. Should you need to cancel, then you receive a full refund up to three days before the event, after which no refund is available. Cancellations must be made using the email address arne@rspb.org.uk
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No - We will be using the QR code send with your ticket confirmation. please bring this on your phone or printed. RSPB members should bring their membership cards with them please.