How Much Land / AcresDoes a Camel Really Need?

Having sufficient land space for camels will ultimately improve their wellbeing, but how much space do camels really need…?

Most assume a lot of space, but this is a complex question with a complex answer as we consider the variety of environments that camels are normally domesticated in. 

One of the most common questions new and aspiring camel owners ask is: How much space does a camel need? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a number of acres—it depends on several important factors, including environment, feed availability, and proper camel management.

Let’s explore what you need to know when preparing land for camels.

It’s Not Just About Space—It’s About Nutrition

Many people assume camels need vast open land—more than horses or even elephants—simply because they’re large animals. But that’s not exactly true. The real key isn’t space; it’s how much nutritious feed the land can support.

As a general rule of thumb: one acre per camel is often recommended in pastoral environments. But this varies wildly depending on your location, climate, soil type, and what’s growing on the land.

For example:

• Is the land arid or tropical?

• Is the ground sandy or rich pasture?

• What plants are present, and are they camel-friendly?

Your local agricultural department can give you region-specific stocking rates for cattle or horses, which can serve as a helpful starting point when evaluating your camel’s needs.

Camels Aren’t Cows or Horses

While camels eat roughly the same amount as horses or cattle, their dietary needs are very different. In the wild, only about 8% of their diet is grass. They prefer woody plants, herbs, and shrubs. Their unique digestive systems (they’re pseudo-ruminants) mean they can’t simply be fed like cows or horses.

This is where good management becomes essential. Domestic camels can adjust to a wide range of environments, but only with informed and proactive care. Don’t assume generic livestock feed is appropriate—camels need specialised nutrition, especially in domestic or non-desert environments.

Land Quality Affects Feed Quality

Even if your paddocks look lush and green, that doesn't always mean there's enough nutrition. In fact, grass grown quickly due to rain can be low in nutrients—think of it as "fast food" for camels: it fills them up, but doesn’t offer much in the way of health benefits.

Many camel keepers, even those on pasture-rich properties, supplement with hay and mineral mixes regularly. This not only ensures the camels are getting adequate roughage but also helps cover nutritional gaps that the land may not provide.

Camels Need More Than Food—They Need Movement & Enrichment

In the wild, camels can walk up to 50 km a day searching for food and water. So while they might physically "fit" on a small block, their mental and physical well-being depends on routine stimulation, enrichment, and, ideally, room to roam.

If your space is limited, daily walks, proper training, and regular enrichment activities become even more important. A bored camel will often start chewing or eating things they shouldn’t—which can lead to serious health issues.

The more limited the space, the more your camels will rely on you to provide stimulating and enriching activities. This includes:

• Going on regular walks

• Allowing access to browse shrubs and trees

• Hanging up cut branches at head height to encourage natural foraging behaviour

   

These simple actions go a long way in supporting your camel’s wellbeing and natural instincts, especially in confined areas.

No Land? No Problem—Consider Agistment

If you don’t have your own land yet, agistment (leasing space on someone else’s property) can be a great option. Many camel owners begin this way while saving for their own property. It allows you to get started sooner and start building your camel care skills without waiting years for the "perfect" setup.

💡Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the question of land size really comes down to how well you manage your camels' nutrition and enrichment needs. Camels are incredibly adaptable, but they need proper care to truly thrive—just like any other animal.

Whether you have 1 acre or 100, success lies in understanding the land, supplementing where necessary, and always staying informed about best practices in camel care.

Want to Dive Deeper into Camel Care?

If you're serious about giving your camels the best life possible—no matter your land size—The Academy is where you'll find the expert guidance, support, and up-to-date information you need.

Inside The Academy, you’ll get:

• In-depth camel husbandry education

• Direct access to a camel vet for questions

• Nutrition plans tailored to domestic camels

• Training tips to keep your camels engaged and happy

• A community of camel owners who get it

🐪 Ready to feel confident in your camel care?
Join The Academy today »