Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Best Campsites in Scotland! If you are an adventurous person looking for a unique and unforgettable camping experience, Scotland is the perfect destination for you. From the rugged coastlines to the breathtaking mountain ranges, Scotland offers a diverse range of landscapes that are perfect for camping or if you're even more adventurous some real wild camping. In this guide, we will be exploring the best campsites in Scotland, so you can plan the ultimate camping trip.
Our favourite Scottish campsites
1. The Lazy Duck Camping, Hostel and Off Grid Huts
For those looking for a unique camping experience, The Lazy Duck is the perfect choice. Located in the Cairngorms National Park, this campsite offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional camping pitches to off-grid huts. With a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly living, The Lazy Duck is the perfect choice for those looking for a more alternative camping experience.
Off Grid Huts
The off-grid huts are The Lazy Duck's signature accommodation option. These eco-friendly huts are nestled in the forest and offer a unique and peaceful retreat from the digital world. The huts are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a wood-burning stove, solar-powered lights, and a compost toilet.
Things to Do
The Lazy Duck Camping, Hostel and Off Grid Huts is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area.
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Hiking: The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their stunning hiking trails, and The Lazy Duck is the perfect base for exploring them. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there's a trail for you. The Lazy Duck also offers guided hikes for those who want to explore the area with a knowledgeable guide.
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Wildlife Watching: The Scottish Highlands are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including red squirrels, pine martens, and golden eagles. The Lazy Duck is an excellent place to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
Castle Roy
- Located near the village of Roy Bridge, Castle Roy is a 17th-century mansion that sits on the banks of the River Spean.
- The castle is privately owned and not open to the public, but the gardens are open to visitors during the summer months.
- The gardens feature a variety of plants, including a rare collection of Japanese azaleas.
- Castle Roy is also known for its connection to the Jacobite Rising, as it was used as a base by Bonnie Prince Charlie during the rebellion of 1745.
Cawdor Castle
- Located near the town of Nairn, Cawdor Castle is a stunning medieval fortress that dates back to the 14th century.
- The castle is open to visitors from April to October and features guided tours, a museum, and a beautiful garden.
- The castle's interior is decorated with exquisite tapestries, paintings, and furniture, and visitors can explore the impressive great hall, bedrooms, and kitchens.
- Legend has it that the castle was built around a holly tree, which can still be seen in the dungeon.
Contact Details
Website: www.lazyduck.co.uk
Tel: 07846 291154
2. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Ok so not a specific campsite but there are just so many good campsites here and you have to visit this national park. Located just an hour’s drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is a must-visit for any camping enthusiast. The park is home to over 20 campsites, each offering stunning views of the loch and surrounding mountains. Whether you’re looking for a basic pitch or a luxury glamping experience, there is something for everyone here.
Things to do
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Water Sports - The park's lochs offer a range of water sports activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Loch Lomond Leisure offers equipment hire and guided tours.
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Wildlife Watching - The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including red deer, otters, and golden eagles.
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Stargazing - National parks are always an excellent place for stargazing. The park holds regular stargazing events, and the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is located nearby.
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Cultural Attractions - The park has a rich cultural history, with numerous castles, museums, and galleries to explore. Some of the must-visit attractions include Stirling Castle, the Glengoyne Distillery, and the Scottish Wool Centre.
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Scenic Drives - The park offers a range of scenic drives, including the Dukes Pass, which offers stunning views of the Trossachs, and the Loch Lomond Circuit, which takes you around the entire loch.
Contact Details
Website: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
3. Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Located on the shores of the famous Loch Ness, this campsite is the perfect base for exploring the Highlands. The site offers a range of pitches, from basic to fully serviced, as well as luxury glamping pods. With views of the loch and easy access to nearby attractions, including Urquhart Castle, this campsite is a must-visit.
Things to Do
There's no shortage of things to see and do in the area around Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site. Here are just a few of our top picks:
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Explore Loch Ness: Of course, no trip to Loch Ness would be complete without exploring the loch itself. Whether you take a boat tour or hire a canoe, there's no better way to appreciate the beauty of this world-famous body of water.
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Visit Urquhart Castle: Located just a short drive from Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle offers stunning views of Loch Ness and is steeped in history.
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Walk the Great Glen Way: For those who love hiking, the Great Glen Way offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland. This long-distance trail runs from Fort William to Inverness, passing through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. And with Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site located right on the trail, it's the perfect place to start your Great Glen Way adventure.
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Visit Inverness: The capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. From its historic castle to its bustling shopping district, there's something for everyone in this charming city.
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Go Monster Hunting: Of course, no trip to Loch Ness would be complete without searching for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. While you may not have any luck spotting the creature, it's still a fun and fascinating activity to undertake while staying at Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site.
Contact Details
Website: Loch Ness Shores - Club Site
Tel: 01456 486333
4. Oban Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Located on the west coast of Scotland, Oban Camping and Caravanning Club Site is the perfect choice for those looking to explore the islands of Scotland. The campsite offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is just a short walk from the bustling town of Oban.
Facilities and Activities
The Oban Camping and Caravanning Club Site offers a range of facilities and activities to keep you entertained during your stay. From family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the facilities and activities available:
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Children's Play Area: The site has a children's play area with swings, slides, and climbing frames. It's perfect for keeping the kids entertained while you relax.
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On-Site Shop: The site has a well-stocked shop selling everything from food and drinks to camping equipment and souvenirs.
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Water Sports: The site is located close to the coast, making it an ideal location for water sports. You can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding islands.
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Hiking and Cycling: The site is surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking andcycling. There are plenty of scenic trails to explore, including the famous West Highland Way.
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Wildlife Watching: The site is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including otters, seals, and eagles. You can take a wildlife watching tour or explore the local nature reserves to see these incredible creatures up close.
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Evening Entertainment: During peak season, the site hosts regular evening entertainment, including live music, quizzes, and bingo nights.
Contact Details
Website: Oban - Camping Club Site
Conclusion
Scotland offers some of the best camping experiences in the world, and these seven campsites are just a small sample of what is on offer. Whether you’re looking for a luxury glamping experience or a more traditional camping trip, Scotland has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your ultimate Scottish camping trip today!
