Just up the road from town you can find Okehampton Camp, a prominent military training area operated by the Ministry of Defence. The camp, established in the 19th century, spans approximately 1,500 hectares and provides a wide range of facilities for training, including firing ranges that are integral to military exercises. These firing ranges are essential for both regular military personnel and reserves, allowing them to practice various aspects of weaponry and live-fire drills in a controlled and safe environment.
The firing ranges at Okehampton Camp support a diverse array of training activities. These include small arms training, where soldiers learn to handle firearms such as rifles and pistols, as well as more specialized training involving heavier weapons systems like machine guns and mortars. The camp’s ranges accommodate both individual marksmanship practice and larger-scale tactical training, often involving live ammunition and simulated combat situations. This variety ensures that soldiers are well-prepared for a range of operational scenarios, from urban warfare to open-field combat.
One of the most notable features of Okehampton’s firing ranges is the rugged, remote landscape of the Dartmoor area. The terrain provides a realistic and challenging backdrop for training exercises. The open moorland, combined with the camp’s varied topography, offers a unique setting for live-fire training, where soldiers can engage in field exercises that replicate the conditions they might face in real-world combat situations. The geographical isolation of Okehampton also ensures that military training activities do not interfere with civilian life, making it an ideal location for such intensive exercises.
The firing ranges are equipped with modern safety features to ensure that training is conducted in the safest possible manner. These include bullet traps, clear safety zones, and comprehensive risk assessments that minimize potential hazards to personnel. Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence enforces strict regulations regarding range use, ensuring that military personnel adhere to safety protocols at all times. This emphasis on safety is crucial, given the nature of live-fire training and the potential risks involved.
In addition to military training, the Okehampton firing ranges also play a role in supporting national defense initiatives, contributing to the readiness and effectiveness of the British armed forces. The facility is used for various operational and strategic purposes, helping to maintain the UK’s defense capabilities. As a result, Okehampton Camp remains a critical asset for both the military and broader defense infrastructure, continuing its long-standing role in the preparation of soldiers for modern warfare.
When not being used for live-fire training, this whole area is superb for walking and exploring with plenty of good parking spaces and easy access to open moorland, granite tors and streams.
Check firing times when planning a visit – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dartmoor-firing-programme
