Dune Buggies

A smiling man in a helmet waving from the driver's seat of an off-road dune buggy at Camp Kindling

DUNE BUGGIES

Helmet on, harness clicked, hands on the wheel. Young drivers take on the corners, chase a better lap time and come back grinning from ear to ear.

What are dune buggies?

Dune buggies are small, open off-road vehicles with chunky tyres, soft suspension and a strong metal roll cage around the driver. They're built to bounce over bumpy ground like sand, grass and dirt tracks. Driving one means steering round a circuit, getting to grips with the corners and trying to beat your lap time.

The name comes from the sand dunes where people first raced them, but these days you'll find buggies on farm tracks, fields and off-road circuits too.

How does a dune buggy work?

Many buggies have just two pedals, the throttle to go and the brake to slow down, plus a steering wheel. That lets drivers focus on steering and speed. The big tyres grip loose ground and the suspension soaks up the bumps.

Safety is built in. The roll cage is a frame of metal bars that protects the driver, and a harness holds them snugly in the seat. Every driver wears a helmet.

What happens at a first dune buggy session?

It starts with a safety briefing and a look at the controls. Your Activity Leader makes sure each driver's helmet fits and their harness is done up properly. Then it's time for some steady practice laps to get a feel for the throttle, brake and steering.

Once drivers are confident, they learn the tricks for going faster. Brake before the corner, not in it. Look ahead to where you want to go. Squeeze the throttle gently as you come out of the bend. Drivers take it in turns, and there's often a timed lap to finish.

Are dune buggies good for kids?

They're a brilliant way for young drivers to feel grown-up and in control. Everyone gets steady practice laps before speeding up, and the circuit runs with clear rules. Children drive on their own, which is a real confidence boost, and seeing their lap times improve is hugely satisfying. Grown-ups often love cheering from the sidelines just as much.

What should we wear for dune buggies?

Closed-toe shoes are a must, along with shorts or trousers you can move in. Off-road driving can be dusty or muddy, so wear clothes you don't mind getting grubby. Tie back long hair so it fits neatly under a helmet, and leave scarves and dangling jewellery behind.

FAQ

DOES MY CHILD NEED ANY DRIVING EXPERIENCE?

No. Your Activity Leader explains the controls and gives drivers practice laps before anything else. Children do need to be able to drive a buggy on their own.

ARE DUNE BUGGIES SAFE?

Dune buggies are a high-risk activity. Buggies can collide or overturn, and hands or feet can be trapped against the vehicle. Helmets and harnesses must be worn at all times, and drivers must follow the circuit rules. Do not stand on the track, and do not climb in or out of a buggy until the Activity Leader says so.