Scotland holidays: our complete guide to campsites in Scotland

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Whatever your interests or passions are, there’s a variety of wonderful places that are sure to persuade you that Scotland is the place for your next holiday.

With castles galore and more than 120 whisky distilleries, you’ve got your history and your hooch covered in Scotland. There are spectacular walks across remote landscapes of mountains, lochs and glens, plus some of the most stunning beaches to ever cast your eye on.

You can make the most of your leisure time here – from discovering dramatic scenery and hill walk challenges, to more sedate activities such as wonderful roads to drive, taking you to amazing views, magical woodlands and tiny white-sand beaches. With history, sculpture, beaches, castles, mountains, lochs, and more walking and cycling routes than you could ever need, Scotland is a country full of places to visit again and again.

The castles…

Edinburgh, Eilean Donan, Dunnottar … the list goes on. See the Scottish Tourist Board’s list of the top 10 castles to visit.

The distilleries…

Again, there are plenty to choose from, and this handy online Whisky Map will help you decide where to go first!

The lochs…

Ranging from small and unknown, to large and famous, there are over 30,000 lochs across Scotland. Can’t decide which one to see first? VisitScotland has put together a handy list of those that are too important to miss.

Best attractions

Northern Scotland

The Isle of Skye is a beautiful and enchanting place full of unspoilt, natural beauty. For us, a trip to the Fairy Pools, near Glenbrittle, is a must!

Fort Augustus is located on the southern tip of Loch Ness, and this pretty hamlet is also set alongside the 60-mile-long Caledonian Canal. It is a top place to while away some hours watching boats navigate the locks.

With a stunning backdrop of Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan is home to a commemorative monument and also the famous viaduct, spanning 380 metres and a lofty 30 metres above the ground.

Featuring idyllic beaches, dramatic cliffs, rare wildlife and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Orkney Islands are a magical place to discover, with 5,000 years of history to be revealed.

Located near the town of Fort William, Ben Nevis is Scotland’s largest mountain, attracting over 100,000 walkers a year. There are two main walking routes up Ben Nevis, the Mountain Track that is used by most walkers, and then a more challenging climb for experienced hikers.

Smoo Cave is a sea cave set into the limestone cliffs on Scotland’s north coast, about one mile east of the town of Durness. You can access the cave via a path from the car park down the cliffs to the beach. The cave boasts one of the largest entrances to any sea cave in Britain. The further depths of the cave can be explored by a short, guided boat trip.

The UK’s largest National Park, the Cairngorms offers outdoor space galore and a natural playground for all ages. The area has watersports, snowsports, walking and cycling routes, and 12 golf courses. There are also pretty towns and villages, historical attractions and heritage sites to discover. The national park also has low light pollution, so is perfect for night-time stargazing, with several places having been awarded International Dark Sky Park status.

Central Scotland

St Andrews is the world-famous home of golf (with 10 courses to choose from, no less!), and the town also offers a beach, medieval streets, a cathedral and plenty of shops to explore.

Within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park you can take your pick from water activities on the loch, relaxing cruises, or getting more active with walking, cycling, golf and even climbing. The word ‘Trossachs’ refers to an area of lochs, hills, forests and villages to the east of Loch Lomond and west of Stirling. It is often referred to as ‘the Highlands in miniature’, and is a stunning area.

The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. It was created to replace a flight of 11 locks which used to take nearly a day for boats to transit. The wheel lifts boats 35 metres between the two canals and is a great location for a day out with plenty to see and do – including canal boat trips, woodland walks, children’s play zones and mini golf.

At 30 metres tall, the dramatic structure of two horses’ heads, named The Kelpies is an awesome sight. When illuminated it will take your breath away.

Balloch Castle Country Park offers a 200-acre expanse of woodland, open parkland, formal gardens, meadow, play parks and shoreline, with magnificent views over Loch Lomond. If you fancy a spot of shopping, the Loch Lomond Shores complex in Balloch features all manner of retail outlets. The mall also has a Sea Life Centre aquarium and a kids’ play area.

A small but vibrant city, head to Stirling to take in the views of the Ochil Hills and the National Wallace Monument from the castle and then enjoy one of the city’s many pubs, cafés and restaurants. There are also a selection of shops, including independent boutiques in the historic surroundings of the Old Town.

Central Scotland

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh, has beautiful architecture, quality attractions, plenty of shops, and an abundance of places to eat and drink, from al fresco daytime dining to late-night pubs and bars.

Galloway Forest Park’s varied wildlife attracts many holidaymakers eager to see red squirrels, otters, pine martens, black grouse, golden eagles and deer, and there’s nowhere better to see it than in the 300 square miles of its forest. There are three visitor centres, at Clatteringshaws, Kirroughtree and Glentrool, and around 30 marked pathways.

If anywhere captures the true spirit of Scotland – the vibrancy of the people, the humour, the edginess – it’s the city of Glasgow. This is a modern and exciting city where you’ll find beautiful architecture, incredible museums and galleries, and fantastic shopping. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, located in the west end of the city, is one of the top visitor attractions in the UK, and houses one of Europe’s best art collections.

A lively fishing port, Kirkcudbright has a host of events, exhibitions and activities taking place during the year. The town is surrounded by coasts and hills, ideal for cycling or walking, and don’t miss the pastel-coloured houses. Known throughout the years as ‘the Artists’ Town’, the streets behind the harbour have housed generations of creative artists and there is an Arts and Crafts Trail to follow.

Moat Brae is a wonderful family attraction in Dumfries, showcasing the birthplace of Peter Pan. Featuring a discovery garden, riverside views, a restored Georgian house, pirate ship, lagoon and exhibitions, you can uncover a world of children’s stories in an enchanted land where the author, JM Barrie, played games as a child during the 1870s.

Nestling on the south Ayrshire coast, in a clifftop setting, Culzean is one of Scotland’s best-loved castles. There’s plenty to enjoy, including inside the castle, within the walled garden and in the surrounding estate. The grounds boast an adventure playground, deer park and a series of caves beneath the property.

Campsites in northern Scotland

This picturesque campsite is situated in the grounds of Blair Castle & Gardens, a truly unique location and the perfect base for exploring Highland Perthshire. The campsite is set over nine acres steeped in history and charm and is surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Cairngorms National Park. The modern reception building houses a shop and games room, and there is WiFi across the whole campsite. There's also a launderette, outdoor drying green and five heated toilet and shower blocks with dishwashing facilities.

The campsite features a small football pitch and play park, perfect for family games and a safe place for children to play. Enjoy discounted entry into Blair Castle, before enjoying a leisurely stroll around the picturesque eighteenth century walled gardens and woodland grove.

Find out more: Blair Castle Caravan Park  

Set on the beautiful west coast of the Highlands of Scotland, you can choose a pitch wherever you please at Sands Caravan and Camping. This is holiday location perfection on a 55-acre site. You can choose a sheltered spot among the sand dunes or a raised pitch with stunning views of the Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides. As well as pitches for motorhomes, caravans and tents, there are also camping pods and caravan holiday homes.

On the campsite there are three heated toilet and shower blocks, electric hook-ups, a motorhome service point, a games room, play area, licensed shop and a café. There’s also fishing available, a dog walking area and a boat-launching slipway.

Find out more: Sands Caravan and Camping  

Campsites in southern Scotland

The Woods Caravan & Lodge Park offers superb facilities in a unique location. This beautiful campsite offers exceptional scenic views. The campsite is quiet, tranquil and an ideal touring base for Stirling, The Trossachs, Perth, Loch Lomond, Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is also plenty to do in the local area. Nearby is Gartmore Dam Country Park and Alva Glen. For those that enjoy walking and cycling there is hill walking and off-road cycle routes five minutes away.

The campsite has two modern, award-winning, heated toilet blocks, baby changing facilities, dishwashing area, laundry and drying area, motorhome facilities, seasonal pitches and also a children’s play area. There is also a small shop on the campsite and gas is available to buy. The on-site restaurant & bar, The Woodsman is open seven days. A bus stop and train station are within easy reach.

Find out more: The Woods Caravan & Lodge Park  

Solway View is located within Balmangan Farm where you can enjoy walking the farm/nature trails and adjoining woodland. The farm is beside a secluded bay and a short drive from larger beaches. The region, Dumfries and Galloway, in southwest Scotland, is full of stunning scenery.

The campsite has grass and hardstanding pitches and wigwam camping pods, across three spacious areas. Some pitches have the bonus of a sea view. Every pitch has a picnic bench and fire pit. There are pitches with electric hook-up, too. Pets are welcome and there is an exercise area. Children have a play area and space to have fun. If you love the great outdoors or you simply wish just to relax, everything for your perfect holiday is here.

Find out more: Solway View Holidays  

Campsites near Edinburgh

Enjoy the best of both worlds on your trip to Edinburgh at this beautiful five-star campsite on the shores of the Firth of Forth. Combine a visit to the city of Edinburgh with glorious East Lothian, with sandy beaches, rugged coastline and top-class golf courses.

Drummohr has superb public transport links to Edinburgh by bus or train and is open all year. Beautifully landscaped, with greenery, flora and fauna, in the grounds of a former monastery, there are a choice of grass and hardstanding tent and touring pitches, all with electric, some serviced. The campsite is dog friendly, with up to two dogs welcome free of charge on tent and touring pitches. There is a dog walk on the campsite, as well as coastal and woodland walks close by, and a choice of dog-friendly accommodation.

Find out more: Drummohr Camping & Glamping Site  

Tantallon Caravan and Camping Park occupies an idyllic location, overlooking the Firth of Forth and with views to Bass Rock – home to a large colony of gannets. The campsite is a short walk to the beach and there is a golf course with nine-hole putting green. Also within walking distance is the local swimming pool and there are good transport links to Edinburgh. North Berwick is a charming harbour town that is just 15 minutes’ walk away, with shops, bars and restaurants.

The campsite has a range of pitches, from fully serviced hardstandings to traditional grass pitches. Facilities on the campsite include two toilet blocks, a games room, laundry room and adventure playground for the children.

Find out more: Tantallon Caravan & Camping Park  

Set in the city of Edinburgh on 200 acres of a private, leafy country estate, just four miles from Princes Street and the historic World Heritage old town and all that this capital city has to offer. The campsite is an ideal location and very convenient to get into the city on a regular bus route and back until late at night.

The campsite is open all year and offers a variety of pitch types, including fully serviced hardstanding to grass pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes, campervans and RVs, as well as camping. The campsite is very well equipped and has a number of amenity buildings with WCs and shower facilities, easy access and family rooms, as well as water points, chemical points, dishwashing areas, launderette, campers' kitchen and games room. Extra facilities include a bar and restaurant on the campsite, plus a coffee and farm shop at the nearby garden centre.

Find out more: Mortonhall Caravan Park  

The campsite is situated within the John Muir Country Park on the East Lothian coastline in the small village of West Barns and just a few minutes off the A1. In a sheltered spot, this campsite is a great base for sightseeing, and with public transport from the gates of the campsite, you could take the scenic bus route into Edinburgh.

Belhaven Bay Caravan & Camping Park sits half a mile from the East Links Family Park with its coffee house, miniature railway and a petting zoo the children will love! Facilities on the campsite include heated WCs and showers, a launderette and dishwashing. Confectionery and drinks are available on the campsite and a local leisure complex with pool and sauna are nearby.

Find out more: Belhaven Bay Caravan & Camping Park  

Coastal campsites in Scotland

With views across azure waters and a sandy bay towards St Andrews and beyond, award-winning St Andrews Holiday Park is one of the most sought-after holiday locations on the east coast of Scotland. St Andrews is famed for being the home of golf and the campsite is positioned within easy reach of all the best courses, including the renowned Old Course.

Outdoor types will enjoy the Fife Coastal Path which passes alongside the campsite, taking in rugged cliffs, long sandy beaches and wildlife reserves. Back on the campsite is The Braes, a bar and restaurant offering a delicious fresh menu with a focus on gourmet burgers. Guests can watch big-screen sports, find a quiet spot in the snug or relax with a drink on the sun terrace taking in the sea views. There’s also a Papa John’s Pizza takeaway with the option of delivery direct to your pitch.

Find out more: St Andrews Holiday Park  

Nestled behind an expanse of dunes and sandy beach, multi-award-winning Elie Holiday Park at Shell Bay is a hidden gem. Voted as the Best Visitor Attraction in Fife and Best Family Holiday Park runner-up, families have been enjoying holidays here for generations, attracted by the unique location, fantastic entertainment, abundance of wildlife and the exciting Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park.

You can walk the coastal path, go rockpooling, spot seals, spy deer bobbing between trees, and, if you’re lucky, you may even see a rare red squirrel! Kids can go wild at the Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park and enjoy the exciting arcades in the Smugglers' Cove Games Room. Couples can explore fishing villages, enjoy a walk around Ruddons Point, catch one of the local festivals, or sample tasty menus at the Kincraig View Restaurant and enjoy barista coffee at The Mirador Café on the campsite.

Find out more: Elie Holiday Park  

An award-winning campsite situated on the beautiful coastline of Dumfries and Galloway, with direct access to a secluded beach overlooking picturesque Wigtown Bay and only a short drive from the stunning Galloway Hills.

There are many ways to enjoy a holiday at Auchenlarie Holiday Park, with caravans, lodges, camping and touring. With its indoor heated pool, sauna, arcade, daily entertainment, children’s indoor and outdoor play areas, Auchenlarie is the perfect base for a fun-filled family holiday or a relaxing break away. On the campsite is the superb Rob n’ Roll Restaurant and Takeaway plus a choice of three different bars and a well-stocked Premier convenience store.

Some touring and tent pitches overlook the spectacular Solway Coast, others are alongside a burn with the remaining pitches having views to the distant hills. All pitches have electric, water hook-up and TV points, all included in the price with no extra charges for an awning, extra persons, cars, pets etc.

Find out more: Auchenlarie Holiday Park  

Scotland holidays: FAQs

Where is good for camping in Scotland?

Scotland offers many excellent camping spots, each with unique charm and natural beauty. The Isle of Skye is a top choice, with its dramatic landscapes. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park provide serene lochside camping with stunning views and ample hiking opportunities. Glen Coe, known for its rugged mountains and scenic valleys, is ideal for more adventurous campers.

Cairngorms National Park, the UK's largest, offers diverse wildlife and expansive vistas. You could head into Edinburgh to uncover the city’s expansive history and to enjoy the lively atmosphere, or you could pitch up near the coast for some of the best beaches the UK has to offer.

Is there free camping in Scotland?

With such a vast area to explore, you might be wondering if you can wild camp in Scotland. While it is possible to wild camp, there are byelaws and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to abide by, to protect the environment and landowners.

Pitching up on a proper campsite in Scotland will give you access to quality facilities, serviced pitches (if required), and good old Scottish hospitality from your campsite hosts! To find yourself the perfect campsite in Scotland you can use our Campsite Finder tool.

What are the best months to visit Scotland?

The best months to visit Scotland are May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is milder, with longer daylight hours and fewer tourists compared to peak summer. May and June offer blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring the countryside and historic sites.

September provides a beautiful transition into autumn, with colourful foliage and still relatively mild weather. These months also offer a chance to experience local festivals and events.