Campsites in Inverness, Highlands and Islands

8 bookable campsites within 15 miles of Inverness Sorted by distance

Why visit Inverness?

An excellent location 

When at our Inverness campsites you’re in the Highlands and Islands, a region of swoon-worthy scenery on Scotland’s north-eastern coast. Settle down not too far from this city of 70,000, right where the River Ness flows into the Moray Firth inlet. With glens, lochs, mountains and beaches in the surroundings, it’s hardly an exaggeration to say Inverness has it all. Yet there’s no need to go far for nature: the Ness Islands, linked to the mainland by Victorian-era suspension bridges, are a 20-minute walk from the city centre. 

The legend of Loch Ness

First time camping in Inverness? Then you’ll want to try and get a glimpse of the beast said to lurk in Loch Ness. And in the likely event you don’t manage to spot the elusive monster, the 23-mile-long lake is still worth visiting. Flanked by sheer hills and with Urquhart Castle high up on its banks, it’s lovely to look at. Fact fans: the stunning scenery is even said to have inspired Peter Pan’s Neverland. 

Whiskies and nightlife 

Glug some of Scotland’s finest exports at the Tomatin Distillery Centre, a whisky-making establishment on the outskirts of Inverness. After sipping a dram or two, you might be in the mood to experience more Highland culture at Hootananny, a city centre establishment that hosts ceilidhs (Scottish folk music and dancing events). As you emerge from the venue late at night in the dark winter months, you could be lucky enough to see the lime-green tinge of the Northern Lights glowing in the sky. 

The best things to do in Inverness

When camping near Inverness, these are the top experiences to embark on: 

* Wander among the exotic plants at the Inverness Botanical Gardens

* Rent a rowing boat and sail on the placid pond at Whin Park

* See the city from above at Inverness Castle’s viewing platform 

* Spy the dolphins from Chanonry Point, a slither of land extending into the Moray Firth

* Ride the Ness Island Miniature Railway with the kids (during weekends and public holidays)

Delve deeper into Inverness

Caledonian Canal

The Great Glen, an enormous fault line that runs from Fort William to Inverness, has four lochs: Linnhe, Lochy, Oich and Ness. Scottish engineer Thomas Telford linked them all up in the 19th century so ships could easily travel through the area, creating the Caledonian Canal. Nowadays, you can wander along the waterway near your campsite in Inverness and watch vessels pass through the cleverly constructed lock system. 

History and culture 

When it comes to art and culture, this Scottish city punches above its weight. Get an intro to Highlands history at Inverness’ museum and gallery, then admire architecture like the neo-gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral and 16th-century Abertarff House. There’s also the covered Victorian Market – ideal for staying dry when the Scottish weather’s not playing ball. Slightly out of town is Fort George, a structure once referred to as “the mightiest artillery fortification” in the UK. 

John o’ Groats Trail

Inverness is the kick-off spot of the as-yet-unfinished walking path leading to mainland Britain’s most northerly point. The John o’ Groats Trail is a 147-mile long trek, much of which skirts the seaside. You can pitch up along the way – wild camping is allowed in Scotland – or find a site to stay at enroute. Inverness is also the end of the Great Glen Way, the famed 79-mile coast-to-coast hike. 

Here’s how

Whether you’re on a long-distance walk or an urban holiday, you’ll want a comfy campsite in Inverness. Scroll up to start browsing or choose from some of the following filters: 

* Family-friendly campsites in Inverness

* Inverness campsites with electric pitches

* Dog-friendly Inverness camping sites

We’ve also got glamping accommodation ranging from lodges, cabins and pods to boutique bell tents. And for folks with a home on wheels, there are Inverness motorhome sites and touring caravan parks

Prefer to pitch up somewhere more laidback? Navigate your way to Nairn, a small seaside spot with three beaches and a couple of championship golf courses. 

Whether you’re a camping beginner or expert, glance at our guides for useful tips on taking outdoor trips up a notch. You’ll discover everything from where to find the darkest stargazing skies in the UK to advice on planning a pet-friendly break.

Inverness Tent pitchesInverness Touring caravan pitchesInverness Motorhome pitchesInverness Lodges, cabins, pods or hutsInverness Caravans for hireInverness Glamping