Why visit Scotland?
Spellbinding scenery
Camping in Scotland puts you smack-bang in the middle of some spectacular landscapes. But what are the prettiest places to stick on your itinerary in this northern nation? While it’s a tad tricky to whittle it down we’d definitely recommend visiting Ben Nevis, the country’s highest peak at 1,345 metres above sea level; the mountainous, heather-covered Cairngorms National Park, and the lakes, vales and woodlands of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs first.
Gorgeous glens
Perhaps the most well-known valley in the nation, Glencoe is a paradise for hikers. Amble up to the Three Sisters pinnacles or the conical Pap of Glencoe for far-reaching views before looping around Loch Leven or wandering to waterfalls. To easily access this part of the Highlands and Islands – and a little more besides – base yourself near Fort William on your Scotland camping trip.
Coastal explores
With 900 offshore islands, Scotland’s got a whopping 11,602 miles of coastline to explore. Go west for the white-sand beaches of the Inner and Outer Hebrides archipelago, particularly the popular Isle of Mull, then ease your way east to Dunnottar Castle, precariously perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea. After swanning around the stately structures of St Andrews – also home to one of the most scenic seaside golf courses you’ll ever set eyes on – pop to the pretty fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife.
Stately cities
Edinburgh needs no introduction but we’ll give it one anyway: Scotland’s main city has elegant architecture, a modern parliament building and scenic views from Arthur’s Seat. Get to Glasgow for the world-class paintings in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and contemporary street graffiti, then strike out for Stirling to gaze at a cracking castle in Scotland’s former capital.
Top things to do in Scotland
Ticked off the main cities and national parks? Here’s what else to do from our Scotland campsites:
* Hunt the mythical monster in the lengthy Loch Ness
* Find your way to Fort George, known as the UK’s mightiest fortification
* Take a trip on the Hogwarts-esque steam train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct
* Sip whisky in one of the eight distilleries scattered across the Isle of Islay
* Stare at Steall Waterfall, the second-highest in Scotland with a 120-metre drop
Unexplored Scotland
Idyllic islands
The Isle of Skye – quite rightly – gets a lot of attention for attractions such as the Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr mountain. But to really get away from it all, head to the harder-to-reach Shetland islands. White-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, like on St Ninian’s, are serene slices of paradise.
Lesser-known lochs
Most of Scotland’s lakes are inland, but as Loch Sunart in Strontian joins up with the sea, you might even spot a dolphin taking a dip here. Head out to see whales and puffins on wildlife-watching tours from this area too. Loch Maree, meanwhile, has five woodland islands – and 60 smaller ones – in the middle of freshwater considered to cure illnesses. Much like the better-known Loch Ness, it’s also said to have its own sea monster.
Traffic-free road-tripping
The North Coast 500 is a most excellent road trip option. But in busier seasons it’s best to drive the SWC300 instead. This 250-mile route along Scotland’s south-western side skims the coast of Aberdeenshire’s Moray Firth. Hurtle past fantastic fishing villages like Portsoy, soaring cliffs and scenic sandy beaches before heading into the hinterland for handsome castles, whisky distilleries and high mountain roads.
Southern scenery
Had a jaunt to John o’Groats, the most northerly point of mainland Britain? Go to the opposite side of the country next and tick off the Mull of Galloway in Scotland’s southernmost section. It’s got beaches, coastal walks and gardens galore. Scale the 115 steps up to a lighthouse designed by Robert Stevenson for soul-soothing views.
Here’s how
It's legal to go wild camping in Scotland. But if you’d prefer to stay at an established park, here’s how to find the right one.
Whether you're looking for tent pitches or touring caravan sites in Scotland, figure out what facilities you want. Perhaps access to a toilet and shower is all you need? Or amenities like a clubhouse and indoor swimming pool? You can also browse family-friendly parks, campsites open in Scotland all year round, and options in remote locations.
If you don’t fancy bringing the tent but still want a self-catering stay in the great outdoors, browse our glamping pods and wigwams. There are also static caravan sites, along with campervan and motorhome pitches.
You could also search through these popular filters:
* Camping in Scotland with electric pitches
* Dog-friendly campsites in Scotland
* Camping sites in Scotland with fires allowed
* Fully serviced pitches at Scotland camping sites
Thinking of exploring more of the UK? Go south into England then west to Wales or find a ferry over to Northern Ireland.
But before all that, take a look at our camping guides. Scotland’s a superb spot if you’re new to motorhoming about – get tips here – and its relatively rural nature also makes it stellar for stargazing.
