Wild camping in the Knoydart Peninsula with the locals

10 Beautiful Wild Camping Spots in Scotland for Adventurers


If you're looking for some amazing wild camping spots in Scotland where you can enjoy nature and adventure, then you're in luck! Here are 10 stunning Scottish wild camping locations that are perfect for adventurers. Whether you're interested in hiking, biking, kayaking, or just relaxing by a scenic lake, these places will offer you an unforgettable experience.


A tent wild camping


1. Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is one of Scotland's most popular and accessible wild camping destinations, offering an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking to connect with nature. Nestled within the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, this area provides a breathtaking backdrop of mountains, forests, and the expansive loch itself.

You can pitch your tent along many parts of the loch’s shoreline, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. However, it is important to note that from March 1 to September 30, wild camping in certain zones around Loch Lomond requires a permit due to Camping Management Byelaws designed to protect the environment and ensure a positive experience for all visitors. Permits cost around £4.30 per tent per night and can be booked up to four weeks in advance, allowing you to camp anywhere within the designated permit area for up to three nights. 


Key Features of Wild Camping at Loch Lomond:

  • Scenic Location: Pitch your tent along the loch’s shores, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests.
  • Permits Required in Peak Season: From March to September, camping in designated zones requires a permit to minimise environmental impact.
  • Permit Details: Permits cost £4.30 per tent per night, can be booked up to 4 weeks ahead, and allow camping for up to three nights in one area.
  • No Facilities: Permit areas offer a true wild camping experience with no formal amenities, so come prepared.
  • Environmental Responsibility: Campers must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which emphasises leaving no trace and respecting the environment and local landowners.
  • Ticks Warning: Be aware of ticks, especially in spring and summer, and take necessary precautions. 

Activities and Trails to Explore:

  • West Highland Way: This famous 96-mile trail passes through Loch Lomond, offering challenging and scenic hiking opportunities. Sections such as Rowardennan to Inversnaid provide spectacular views and access to wild camping spots.
  • Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: Beyond camping, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, watersports, and wildlife watching.
  • Local Highlights: Areas like Rowardennan serve as gateways for climbs up Ben Lomond and offer accommodation options such as hostels and bunkhouses. Water bus services connect key points along the loch for easy exploration.

Loch Lomond’s combination of accessible wild camping, stunning natural beauty, and abundant outdoor activities makes it a top choice for adventurers looking to experience the best of Scotland’s wilderness. Just remember to secure your permit during the busy season and camp responsibly to help preserve this incredible landscape for future visitors.


Wild camping in Loch Lomond


2. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, spanning over 4,500 square kilometres of diverse and stunning landscapes. It boasts some of Scotland’s highest mountains, ancient forests, and a rich variety of wildlife, making it a premier destination for wild camping enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

You are free to wild camp anywhere in the park, provided you do so responsibly and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This means camping in small numbers, avoiding damage to the environment, and leaving no trace of your stay. Campfires are generally discouraged due to the risk of wildfires and environmental impact, especially in woodland areas. 


Top Wild Camping Spots in Cairngorms National Park:

  • Loch Morlich:
    • Situated within Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich offers a unique freshwater beach surrounded by mountains. It’s a family-friendly spot with sandy shores perfect for setting up camp nearby. The area provides direct access to watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, alongside scenic walking and cycling trails through the forest.
  • Loch an Eilein:
    • Known for its picturesque island castle and tranquil waters, Loch an Eilein is a favorite for campers seeking solitude amid ancient pinewoods. The loch is surrounded by well-marked walking paths and is a haven for wildlife spotting.
  • Glenmore Forest:
    • This vast forest area offers numerous secluded spots for pitching a tent, with panoramic views of the surrounding Cairngorm mountains. It’s ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, and those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

Wild Camping Guidelines in Cairngorms National Park:

  • Camp in small groups (ideally no more than 2-3 tents and 4-6 people).
  • Do not stay in the same spot for more than two or three nights.
  • Avoid lighting open fires; use camping stoves instead to reduce fire risk.
  • Remove all litter and leave the site as you found it.
  • Avoid camping near roads, buildings, or enclosed farmland.
  • Respect wildlife and protected plant species, including European protected species found in the park. 

Additional Facilities and Activities:

  • Glenmore Caravan and Camping Site:
    • For those who prefer some facilities, this well-equipped campsite on Loch Morlich’s shore offers toilets, showers, electric hook-ups, and laundry services. It’s a great base for exploring the park’s many outdoor activities, including skiing on Cairngorm Mountain in winter.
  • Outdoor Adventures:
    • The park is a playground for hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Trails range from gentle forest walks to challenging mountain ascents. The area is also renowned for birdwatching and spotting rare species like the Scottish wildcat.

Cairngorms National Park’s vast wilderness and accessibility for responsible wild camping make it an exceptional choice for adventurers looking to experience Scotland’s raw natural beauty. Just remember to camp responsibly, follow local guidelines, and respect the fragile environment to ensure this spectacular landscape remains pristine for future visitors.


Wild camping in Cairngorms National Park


3. The Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a truly magical destination, renowned for its dramatic and diverse landscapes thatnturers and nature lovers alike. From towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to pristine sandy beaches and the enchanting Fairy Pools, Skye offers a wild camping experience like no other.

Wild camping is permitted across much of the island under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, provided you camp responsibly, leave no trace, and respect the local environment and communities. There are no formal facilities at wild camping spots, so you must be prepared to be self-sufficient and carry out all your waste. 


Top Wild Camping Locations on the Isle of Skye:

  • Quiraing
    • This otherworldly landslip on the Trotternish Ridge is famous for its surreal rock formations, such as the Table and the Needle. Camping here offers breathtaking sunrises and panoramic views across the island and out to the sea. The area is popular with hikers and photographers, and its dramatic scenery has featured in several major films.
  • Old Man of Storr
    • One of Skye’s most iconic landmarks, the Old Man of Storr is a towering pinnacle of rock set against a backdrop of sweeping hills and sea lochs. Wild camping near the Storr allows you to enjoy the sunrise or sunset in relative solitude, especially if you arrive early or stay late to avoid the crowds. The hike up is moderately challenging, with steep and sometimes slippery paths, so sturdy walking shoes and rain gear are essential.
  • Cuillin Hills
    • For experienced adventurers, the Cuillin Hills offer a rugged and remote wild camping experience. These jagged peaks are a magnet for climbers and serious hikers, with wild camping spots scattered throughout the glens and corries. The views from your tent at dawn or dusk are unforgettable, but be prepared for rapidly changing weather and challenging terrain.

Alternative: Designated Campsites

If you prefer some facilities, consider staying at a campsite like Staffin Campsite, which is conveniently located between the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. This site offers amenities such as toilets and showers, while still providing easy access to Skye’s most spectacular scenery.

The Isle of Skye’s wild camping spots promise adventure, solitude, and some of the most breathtaking views in Scotland. By camping responsibly and respecting the island’s unique environment, you’ll help preserve its magic for future explorers.


Wild camping in the Isle of Skye


4. Glencoe

Glencoe is a majestic and atmospheric glen, steeped in both natural beauty and dramatic history. Famed for its towering mountains, deep valleys, and haunting past, Glencoe is a magnet for adventurers seeking a true taste of the Scottish Highlands. The glen was the site of the infamous Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, where members of the MacDonald clan were killed by government forces led by the Campbell clan-a story that adds to the area’s mystique, especially when the mist rolls in at dusk.

Wild camping is permitted in Glencoe under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, making it an excellent choice for those who want to immerse themselves in raw, untamed landscapes. However, the region’s popularity and fragile environment mean it’s crucial to follow responsible camping practices and check for any local restrictions, especially during peak seasons. 


Why Camp in Glencoe?

  • Stunning Scenery: The glen is surrounded by dramatic peaks such as Buachaille Etive Mòr and the Pap of Glencoe, offering breathtaking views and endless photo opportunities.
  • Rich History: The echoes of the 1692 massacre linger in the landscape, giving Glencoe an eerie and evocative atmosphere-especially at night.
  • Adventure Hub: Glencoe is a base for mountaineers, hikers, and climbers, with routes ranging from gentle walks to challenging scrambles and rock climbs.

Top Wild Camping Spots:

  • Rannoch Moor Bridge (Ba Bridge): Located on the famous West Highland Way, this remote spot offers magnificent views over the moor and is ideal for those seeking solitude. Be prepared for midges, especially in summer.
  • Glen Etive: A quieter alternative to the main glen, Glen Etive offers beautiful riverside pitches and easy road access, though camping close to the road is less “wild”.
  • Among the Trees and Lochans: Many campers choose spots near Glencoe Lochan or tucked away in the forests, where you can enjoy a sense of seclusion while still being close to walking trails and the village. 

Weather and Conditions:

  • Rannoch Moor Bridge (Ba Bridge): Located on the famous West Highland Way, this remote spot offers magnificent views over the moor and is ideal for those seeking solitude. Be prepared for midges, especially in summer.
  • Glen Etive: A quieter alternative to the main glen, Glen Etive offers beautiful riverside pitches and easy road access, though camping close to the road is less “wild”.
  • Among the Trees and Lochans: Many campers choose spots near Glencoe Lochan or tucked away in the forests, where you can enjoy a sense of seclusion while still being close to walking trails and the village. 

Weather and Conditions:

  • Rannoch Moor Bridge (Ba Bridge): Located on the famous West Highland Way, this remote spot offers magnificent views over the moor and is ideal for those seeking solitude. Be prepared for midges, especially in summer.
  • Glen Etive: A quieter alternative to the main glen, Glen Etive offers beautiful riverside pitches and easy road access, though camping close to the road is less “wild”.
  • Among the Trees and Lochans: Many campers choose spots near Glencoe Lochan or tucked away in the forests, where you can enjoy a sense of seclusion while still being close to walking trails and the village. 

Glencoe’s haunting beauty, rich history, and wild landscapes make it an unforgettable wild camping destination for those prepared for the elements and respectful of the land. Whether you’re seeking adventure, solitude, or a brush with Scottish legend, Glencoe delivers a truly iconic Highlands experience.


Wild camping in Glencoe


5. Knoydart Peninsula

Knoydart Peninsula is often hailed as “the last wilderness of Scotland,” offering a truly remote and untamed experience for wild campers. Accessible only by boat or on foot, Knoydart is free from roads and large settlements, making it a haven for adventurers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dramatic mountains, pristine coastline, and a landscape teeming with wildlife.

Wild camping is permitted throughout the peninsula, but visitors must be fully self-sufficient and committed to leaving no trace. The lack of infrastructure is part of Knoydart’s charm-here, you’ll rely on your own supplies and skills, and every view feels like a reward for your effort.


Why Camp on Knoydart Peninsula?

  • True Wilderness: Knoydart is one of the most unspoiled areas in Britain, with no vehicular access and minimal human impact. It’s a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
  • Epic Scenery: Campers are treated to spectacular views across Inverie Bay to the Isle of Rum, with wild Munros like Ladhar Bheinn, Luinne Bheinn, and Meall Buidhe dominating the skyline.
  • Wildlife Haven: The peninsula supports a rich variety of wildlife, including pine marten, roe deer, water voles, otters, foxes, buzzards, golden and sea eagles, and even dolphins and whales offshore.

Top Camping Spots and Options:

  • Long Beach Campsite: For those who want a touch of comfort while still enjoying wild surroundings, Long Beach Campsite near Inverie offers compost toilets, a shelter, fire pits, and drinking water-plus unbeatable views over the bay. It’s just a 15-minute walk from the ferry pier, or a multi-day hike if you’re coming on foot.
  • Wild Camping in the Hills and Glens: There are countless secluded spots for pitching your tent, whether you’re aiming for a beachside sunrise or a high mountain vista. Popular areas include Mam Barrisdale (a great base for Munro-bagging) and the glens leading to Inverie. 

Essential Tips for Knoydart Wild Camping:

  • Be self-sufficient: carry all your food, cooking gear, and camping equipment, as supplies are limited and you’ll be far from shops.
  • Prepare for the elements: Knoydart’s weather can be unpredictable-pack waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy boots.
  • Enjoy the wildlife: keep an eye out for pine marten, water voles, roe deer, otters, eagles, and more as you explore.
  • Plan your journey: access is by ferry from Mallaig to Inverie or by a long hike from Kinloch Hourn or Glenfinnan. There are no roads into Knoydart, which only adds to the sense of adventure. 

Knoydart Peninsula is a bucket-list destination for wild campers who crave remoteness, dramatic scenery, and a chance to reconnect with nature in one of Scotland’s most extraordinary landscapes.


Wild camping in Knoydart Peninsula with the locals


6. Sandwood Bay

Sandwood Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful and remote beach located at the northwestern tip of Scotland, widely celebrated as one of the most pristine and unspoiled stretches of coastline in the UK. With its mile-long expanse of golden sand, turquoise waters, dramatic dunes, and wild Atlantic waves, Sandwood Bay offers a truly unforgettable wild camping experience for those willing to make the journey.

Reaching Sandwood Bay is an adventure in itself. There is no road access; instead, you must walk just over 4 miles (about 6.5 km) from the gravel car park at Blairmore, crossing exposed and often boggy moorland. This isolation helps keep the beach quiet and unspoiled, even during the summer months. 


Why Wild Camp at Sandwood Bay?

  • Secluded Beauty: The bay’s remote location ensures a peaceful, crowd-free experience, even at peak times. The sense of isolation is part of its magic.
  • Pristine Environment: Managed by the John Muir Trust, Sandwood Bay is considered one of the cleanest and most untouched beaches in mainland Britain, with extensive dunes, machair, and a freshwater loch just behind the beach.
  • Spectacular Views: The scenery is dominated by the striking Am Buachaille sea stack, which rises from the ocean just south of the bay, and the vast, open skies that stretch towards Cape Wrath. 

What to Expect and Explore:

  • The Walk In:
    • The 4-mile walk from Blairmore is well-trodden and relatively flat, but can be wet and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is essential.
    • The path passes several small lochs and moorland before reaching the dunes and the bay itself.
  • Camping:
    • Wild camping is permitted on and near the beach, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: camp in small numbers, stay only a night or two, and leave no trace.
    • There are no facilities at the bay, so you must be fully self-sufficient and carry out all rubbish and waste.
    • Avoid camping near livestock, as sheep often graze the dunes.
  • Nearby Attractions:
    • Sandwood Loch: A freshwater loch just behind the dunes, perfect for peaceful walks or birdwatching.
    • Am Buachaille Sea Stack: This dramatic sandstone pillar is a landmark for climbers and photographers. Reaching or climbing the stack requires careful planning around tides and is best left to experienced adventurers.
    • Wildlife: The area is home to seabirds and, with luck, you might spot otters, deer, or even dolphins offshore.

Sandwood Bay’s combination of wild beauty, remoteness, and dramatic scenery makes it a bucket-list destination for adventurous wild campers seeking a true sense of escape in the Scottish Highlands.


Wild camping in Sandwood


7. Assynt

Assynt is a remarkable region in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland, celebrated for its unique and spectacular geology as well as its dramatic, distinctive landscapes. Home to some of the oldest rocks and fossils in the world, Assynt’s terrain features striking mountains, lochs, and unspoiled wilderness that captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Wild camping is allowed throughout Assynt, offering plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in its rugged beauty. Some of the best wild camping spots are near iconic landmarks such as Stac Pollaidh, Suilven, and the coastal village of Lochinver, each providing stunning views and access to memorable hikes.


Why Choose Assynt for Wild Camping?

  • Unique Geology: Assynt is part of a UNESCO Geopark, renowned for the Lewisian Gneiss rocks that are over 3 billion years old-the oldest in Europe. This ancient geology shapes the dramatic landscapes and distinctive mountain shapes.
  • Dramatic Mountains and Lochs: The region’s mountains, including Suilven and Stac Pollaidh, rise sharply from low-lying moorland and lochs, creating breathtaking panoramas.
  • Rich Wildlife and Wilderness: Assynt’s remote and sparsely populated nature means abundant wildlife, wide skies, and a genuine sense of solitude.

Top Wild Camping Spots in Assynt:

  • Suilven and Glencanisp Forest
    • Nestled between the imposing mountains of Suilven and Canisp, Glencanisp Forest offers idyllic wild camping spots with panoramic mountain views. The area is accessible via a 4.2-mile walk from the Lochinver road car park, with options to camp on dry outcrops above the river or sandy shores of Loch na Gainimh. This location is perfect for multi-day adventures including climbing Suilven and Canisp, wild swimming, and campfire cooking (using stoves to protect the environment).
  • Stac Pollaidh:
    • Known for its distinctive rocky ridge and moderate but exhilarating scramble, Stac Pollaidh provides excellent wild camping opportunities nearby. The summit offers stunning views over the Inverpolly Nature Reserve and surrounding peaks like Suilven. The terrain can be wet and rocky, so choose your pitch carefully for a dry, flat spot.
  • Lochinver and Surrounding Coast
    • The village of Lochinver serves as a gateway to Assynt’s wild landscapes. Nearby coastal areas and lochs offer additional camping possibilities, combining sea views with mountain backdrops.

Activities and Highlights:

  • Hiking and Scrambling: Explore the iconic peaks of Suilven (731m), Stac Pollaidh (550m), and Canisp, with routes ranging from moderate walks to challenging scrambles. The landscape offers “choose your own adventure” style routes with spectacular views.
  • Wild Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the trout-filled lochans scattered around Glencanisp Forest or the sandy shores of Loch na Gainimh.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead, red deer roaming the hills, and the diverse birdlife of the Inverpolly Nature Reserve.

Assynt’s blend of ancient geology, striking mountains, and remote wilderness makes it a top destination for wild campers seeking a dramatic and authentic Highland experience. Whether you’re tackling iconic climbs or simply soaking in the vast landscapes, camping here offers a deep connection to one of Scotland’s most extraordinary natural regions.


Wild camping in Assynt


8. Torridon

Torridon is a spectacular region in the Northwest Highlands, famed for its dramatic and rugged scenery that attracts walkers, climbers, and wild campers alike. The area is home to some of Scotland’s most impressive mountains and glens, including the towering Liathach, the ancient Beinn Eighe, and the stunning Glen Torridon. Its wild, remote landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for adventurous wild camping, but visitors should be prepared for often wet and very windy conditions.

Wild camping is allowed throughout Torridon, giving you the freedom to choose your own spot. Ideal locations tend to be at some height to capture sweeping views, near freshwater sources like burns or lochs, and a few miles’ walk from roads to ensure solitude and a true wilderness experience. However, the weather can be volatile, so preparation is essential.


Why Wild Camp in Torridon?:

  • Dramatic Mountains: Torridon boasts six Munros across three mountain ranges-Beinn Alligin, Liathach, and Beinn Eighe-offering some of the most challenging and rewarding climbs in Scotland.
  • Remote Wilderness: The glens and forests provide a sense of isolation and tranquility, perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds.
  • Stunning Views: From your campsite, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of rugged peaks, deep lochs, and sweeping sea lochs.
  • Rich Outdoor Activities: Torridon is a hub for hiking, scrambling, mountain biking, and wildlife watching, with guided walks and courses available through local centres.

Top Wild Camping Tips and Spots:

  • Choose Elevated, Water-Adjacent Sites: Camp at a height for views and near a clean water source such as a burn or loch, but avoid low-lying boggy ground.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Torridon is known for strong winds, frequent rain, and rapidly changing weather-bring waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy boots.
  • Midges: In calm, overcast weather, midges can be intense-pack effective insect repellent.
  • Respect Stalking Seasons: Some areas have restrictions during deer stalking season; check local guidance before camping near Liathach or other sensitive zones.
  • Consider the Torridon Campsite: For a semi-wild experience with basic facilities like toilets and hot showers, Torridon Campsite near the village offers a great compromise. It’s free to use, allows campfires in contained areas, and provides shelter from the elements while still feeling rustic and remote. 

Activities and Routes in Torridon:

  • Hiking and Climbing: Explore the peaks of Liathach, Beinn Eighe, and Beinn Alligin. These mountains offer challenging routes with breathtaking views but require experience and caution due to steep ridges and variable weather. Guided walks and navigation courses are available from the Torridon Countryside Centre for safety and local knowledge.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails range from gentle forest rides to technical loops like the Torridon Loop and Beinn Damh Loop, with bike hire available locally.
  • Scenic Walks: Enjoy easier walks such as the Torridon Village Walk (3.75 miles), Loch Coulin & Loch Clair (5.5 miles), Woodland Beinn Eighe (1 mile), or the Sheildaig Peninsula (2.75 miles).
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife including red deer, golden eagles, and otters.

Torridon’s combination of towering mountains, remote glens, and wild coastline makes it a premier destination for wild campers seeking adventure and solitude in one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. With careful planning and respect for the environment, camping here offers an unforgettable Highland experience.


Wild camping in Torridon


9. Mull of Kintyre

The Mull of Kintyre is an idyllic and peaceful peninsula located at the southwestern tip of Scotland, making it an ideal destination for adventurers seeking a relaxing and refreshing escape from city life. Known for its scenic beauty, the area offers spectacular views of the sea and nearby islands, with a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with nature.

Wild camping is permitted across much of the peninsula, giving campers the freedom to choose their own spots. However, finding suitable wild camping locations can be a bit challenging due to farmland, private properties, and some restricted areas. Despite this, some of the best wild camping spots are near Machrihanish Bay, Campbeltown Loch, and Southend, where you can enjoy a mix of coastal and inland landscapes.


Why Camp at Mull of Kintyre?

  • Peaceful and Scenic: The peninsula offers a quiet retreat with stunning coastal views, rolling hills, and a chance to watch wildlife such as deer roaming freely.
  • Varied Landscapes: From golden sandy beaches at Machrihanish Bay to the sheltered waters of Campbeltown Loch and the rugged coastline near Southend, there’s something for every camper.
  • Rich Cultural History: The area is famous for its connection to the Wings song “Mull of Kintyre,” and features landmarks like the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse, which overlooks Northern Ireland on clear days.

Top Wild Camping Spots:

  • Machrihanish Bay: A popular spot with access to a beautiful sandy beach, ideal for surfing and beach walks. Nearby Machrihanish Holiday Park offers facilities such as showers, toilets, and glamping pods if you prefer some comforts alongside your wild camping.
  • Campbeltown Loch: This sheltered sea loch provides quieter camping opportunities with easy access to the town of Campbeltown for supplies and amenities.
  • Southend: Located near the southern tip of the peninsula, Southend offers wild camping spots close to the coast with dramatic views and peaceful surroundings.

Important Tips for Wild Camping on Mull of Kintyre:

  • Respect Private Land: Much of the land along the peninsula is farmland or private property, so always seek permission where necessary and avoid disturbing livestock or crops.
  • Be Mindful of Restrictions: Some car parks and lay-bys have “no overnight parking” rules, so plan your camping spot carefully to avoid fines.
  • Leave No Trace: Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code by camping in small groups, staying only a night or two, and taking all your rubbish with you.
  • Prepare for Midges: In summer months, midges can be prevalent-bring insect repellent and consider a head net.
  • Access and Transport: The peninsula is accessed by narrow, winding single-track roads, so drive carefully and allow extra time for travel.

Additional Facilities and Activities:

  • Machrihanish Holiday Park: For those who want a blend of wild camping and facilities, this family-friendly site offers spacious pitches with electric hookups, clean showers, a shop, and even glamping pods. It’s close to the beach and golf courses, making it a great base for exploring the area.
  • Hiking and Surfing: The peninsula has excellent walking routes along the coast and inland hills, plus Machrihanish Bay is popular for surfing and water sports.
  • Wildlife and Views: Keep an eye out for red deer, eagles, and seals along the coast. On clear days, views stretch across to Northern Ireland and the islands of Islay and Jura.

Mull of Kintyre’s combination of peaceful landscapes, coastal beauty, and a touch of cultural heritage makes it a fantastic wild camping destination for adventurers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy Scotland’s quieter side. Whether you pitch your tent near the beach or tucked away in a hillside glen, the peninsula offers a refreshing and memorable experience.


Wild camping in Mull of Kintyre


10. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran, often dubbed “Scotland in miniature,” is a compact island off Scotland’s west coast that packs an incredible variety of landscapes and attractions into its modest size. From soaring mountains and ancient forests to sandy beaches, castles, and distilleries, Arran offers a taste of everything the country is famous for-making it a top destination for adventurous wild campers.

Wild camping is permitted across much of Arran, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and camp responsibly. The island’s main road, the A841, circles the coast, giving easy access to a host of scenic camping spots. Whether you’re seeking mountain vistas, coastal tranquility, or a base for exploring Arran’s many outdoor activities, you’ll find a spot to suit your style.


Top Wild Camping Spots on the Isle of Arran:

  • Glen Rosa
    • Nestled at the foot of the Arran Mountains, Glen Rosa is one of the island’s most idyllic wild camping locations. With clear streams, lush meadows, and dramatic views of Goat Fell and Beinn Nuis, it’s a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. The area is also home to the mysterious “Witch’s Step” rock formation, adding a touch of local legend to your stay.
  • Brodick Bay and Beach
    • For those who prefer coastal camping, Brodick Beach offers sweeping sandy shores just a short walk from the island’s main town. Here, you can enjoy stunning sunsets over the Firth of Clyde, with the Arran Hills as your backdrop. Brodick is also a convenient base for exploring the island’s standing stones and local amenities.
  • Lochranza
    • Located at the northern tip of Arran, Lochranza is renowned for its picturesque castle, herds of red deer, and excellent wild camping opportunities. The area is peaceful and scenic, with easy access to walking trails and the Arran Distillery. There’s also a well-equipped campsite nearby for those who want a few more facilities. 
  • Sannox North Picnic Spot
    • Situated on the northeast coast, this grassy, flat area is secluded, spacious, and offers beautiful views of Goat Fell and the sea. It’s considered one of the best wild camping spots on the island, with fewer midges and some shelter from the rain.
  • Other Notable Spots:
    • Tinkers Campsite (north of Thundergay): Spacious, scenic, and popular with road-trippers, though a bit exposed to the elements.
    • Dougarie: Offers open, grassy pitches with spectacular views of Kilbrannan Sound.
    • The Sailor’s Grave: A quiet, historic spot near Lochranza, set back from the main road and ideal for those seeking solitude. 

What Makes Arran Perfect for Adventurers?

  • Diverse Landscapes: Arran’s compact size means you can explore mountains, forests, beaches, and moorland all in a single trip. Goat Fell, the island’s highest peak, is a must for hikers.
  • Outdoor Activities:
    • Hiking: The Arran Coastal Way is a 65-mile circular route that takes in the island’s best scenery and wild camping spots.
    • Sea Kayaking: The clear waters around Arran are ideal for kayaking, with local guides and rental services available.
    • Wildlife Watching: Look out for red deer, otters, golden eagles, and even seals along the coast.
  • Rich Heritage: Explore castles, standing stones, and distilleries, or take in local folklore during your stay.

The Isle of Arran’s blend of wild beauty, accessible adventure, and rich Scottish heritage makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Scotland’s outdoors in one compact, captivating island. 


Wild camping in Isle of Arran


Shop All Backpacking


Scottish Wild Camping FAQs


Yes, wild camping is legal in Scotland under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, which gives you the right of responsible access to most unenclosed land. However, you must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and respect any local byelaws or restrictions, especially in popular areas like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. 

You can wild camp on most unenclosed land, such as hills, moorland, forests, and much of the Scottish Highlands. Avoid enclosed fields with crops or livestock, and do not camp near buildings, roads, or historical sites. Some areas, like parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, require a permit during peak months. 

Yes, certain areas-especially Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park-have camping management zones where you must obtain a permit between March and September. Camping outside these zones or without a permit can result in fines, even if you are following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. 

No, the right to wild camp does not extend to motorhomes or campervans. Overnight parking in vehicles is only allowed with landowner permission or in designated stopovers or lay-bys where signage permits it. Sleeping in vehicles in restricted areas without a permit is not allowed. 

Camp in small groups and for only two or three nights in one place. Always leave no trace-take all rubbish and belongings with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and keep noise to a minimum. Use a stove instead of open fires, and only light fires where permitted and safe to do so. 

Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, check weather forecasts, and let someone know your plans. Bring appropriate gear for changing conditions, and always have a plan to relocate if your chosen spot is already occupied or unsuitable. 



Related Articles



Let us know you agree to cookies

We use marketing, analytical and functional cookies as well as similar technologies to give you the best experience. Third parties, including social media platforms, often place tracking cookies on our site to show you personalised adverts outside of our website.

 

We store your cookie preferences for two years and you can edit your preferences via ‘manage cookies’ or through the cookie policy at the bottom of every page. For more information, please see our cookie policy.