Scotland campsites
Ah, Scotland – it’s a bonny place indeed, and packed with utterly fab things to see and do. And that’s not some kind of biased opinion but one that’s backed up by lots of those in the know: the country was named top tourist destination for 2013 by CNN, and later voted the most beautiful country in the entire world by a Rough Guides readers’ poll in 2017.
What makes it such a special place? Well, the friendly folk, the delicious haggis and the cultural delights of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (the biggest arts festival in the world, no less) all go some way towards explaining its unique character… as does the odd dram of local whisky here and there.
But what most visitors really flock here for is the stunning scenery. Let’s not be coy about it: Scotland is GORGEOUS. It’s got mountains, it’s got beaches, it’s got forests, it’s got lakes (well, lochs)… and with a population of just over five million (that’s three million less than London alone, fact fans) it’s also got heaps of peaceful space. Pick wisely and you could be taking a holiday that’s a real escape from the crowds.
Campsites in Scotland: embracing the outdoor lifestyle
Given all that spectacular scenery and open space, it naturally follows that camping in Scotland is a splendid idea: what better way to make the most of all that fresh air and those fine views than to settle right there in the open air?
As a bonus, a Scotland camping holiday means you’ll be in prime position for setting out on those outdoor activities the country does so well – be they bagging munros, heading downhill at speed on a mountain bike or putting your way around Scotland’s best golf courses. Those seeking rather more of a leisurely time may like to pick a campsite by the beach, look out for a lochside spot or truffle out a stay near a whisky distillery (it’s most handy to be within tottering distance if you’re planning to sample enthusiastically, after all…)
Handily, our range of campsites and holiday parks in Scotland is as varied as the terrain. Some are close to towns, others way out in the sticks to make the most of Scottish stargazing. Lots of places are designed with lashings of on-site kids’ activities to make family camping in Scotland a breeze; those seeking a more peaceful existence can search for an adults-only campsite. And of course all this outdoor lifestyle is pure heaven for four-legged pals so there’s plenty of choice when it comes to dog-friendly camping in Scotland.
A tad concerned about the weather? Don’t worry – we’ve got that covered too. Guarantee yourself a dry and warm space by booking one of our Scotland camping pods, or pick somewhere that you can see out any chilly evenings in warm, bubbly style by booking a campsite with a hot tub. These are particularly fine if you’re planning a winter break: several of our Scotland campsites are open all year.
What about wild camping in Scotland?
Yep, it’s well known that wild camping is legal in Scotland, which means that you can set up camp on most unenclosed land as long as you ‘leave no trace’. It’s quite fab if you’re properly hardy and self-sufficient, but the reality for most folk is that the idyllic vision of staying out in the middle of nowhere can sour rather quickly when tasked with digging one’s own toilet facilities.
If you do want a taste of that lifestyle, check out our Scotland wild camping sites (where you can generally get the vibe with the added bonus of access to a toilet…), or search for places that allow campfires so you can experience one of the true classic camping activities. If it’s the unspoilt surroundings that have piqued your interest, have a look for peaceful sites in wildlife havens, remote Scottish campsites or our most popular walkers’ campsites in Scotland.
Where to go camping in Scotland
If you’re a first-time visitor to the country, take a look at some of Scotland’s most popular places to visit (they’re popular for good reason, generally speaking): perhaps base yourselves somewhere in the vicinity of the excellent cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow for a break that mixes up urban attractions and rural wanders, or steer north to the area around Inverness to see if you can lay eyes on the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Any one of our Scottish island campsites is likely to be a winner on the scenery front, or you could pick a place to stay near Loch Lomond.
Or how about a Scotland camping tour with a theme? Plot a scenic road trip along the North Coast 500, challenge yourself to complete one of Scotland’s best hiking routes (the glorious 96-mile West Highland Way is a classic) or take a leisurely meander along the Speyside malt whisky trail.
Covered lots of the main sights already? Scotland has plenty of under-the-radar corners that are well worth a visit. Head to the mountain bike trails and stargazing spots of the Galloway Forest Park (Scotland’s first Dark Sky Reserve), feast on fresh seafood along the Fife coastline or get set for sea life safaris out on the Moray Firth. Or just keep heading north… our options stretch all the way up to John O’Groats and beyond.
For more inspiration take a look at some of our best campsites in scotland. Or, if you're looking for something a bit different? Check out our glampsites in Scotland for an outdoor break with a bit of added luxury.
