Pitchup's Ultimate Scotland Camping Guide

The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye in the Highlands and Islands (Bjorn Snelders on Unsplash)

Before you go

Our top tips for camping in Scotland

The main reason to have a holiday in Scotland? The scenery. Seriously, it’s spectacular. From the sky-skimming peaks of the Grampian Mountains to the silvery sands at Morar, the views are some of the best in the UK.

And it's not just the landscapes that are lush. There are castles to admire, whiskies to sip and lochs to linger at (including one with a mythical monster you might just have heard of…).

Oh, and did we mention that you can go wild camping in Scotland? In fact, it’s the only UK nation that allows you to set up a tent just about anywhere you like. Whether you’re planning a road trip along the North Coast 500 or a long-distance hike on the Caledonian Way, the country’s just the ticket for cheap camping, glamping or touring breaks.

Essential Scotland Camping Checklist

We’ve got a lengthy camping checklist to help you prepare, but some of the handiest bits and pieces to chuck in the backpack include:

A sturdy pair of walking boots (Scotland is a hikers’ nirvana, after all)
A thick sleeping bag (Britain’s northernmost nation is also often its chilliest)
Insect repellent (you’ll want to keep the midges at bay)
Reusable bags (to take away your rubbish when wild camping)

Bringing a canine companion with you? Here’s what to pack when camping with dogs.

Once you’re all sorted, let’s have a look at the best places to explore and stay in Scotland.

Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Highlands (Jack Anstey on Unsplash)

Guides to camping in the Highlands and Islands

Covering the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles – Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides – this region is fantastically diverse. It’s also got some of Scotland’s most sought-after scenery within its boundaries, including the legendary Loch Ness.

Places to stay and explore in the Highlands and Islands

Browse all Pitchup’s campsites in the Highlands and Islands.
Continue planning your trip with the top places to visit in the Scottish Highlands.
Eager to explore on foot? Here are the best hiking trails in the Scottish Highlands.

Wildlife and castle spotting in the Highlands and Islands

Pack the binoculars – you’ll want them after reading this birdwatching guide to the Scottish Highlands.
Or visit these castles in the Scottish Highlands, including some of the country’s best-preserved historical structures.

The coast of East Lothian from above (Milosz Falinski on Unsplash)

Guides to camping in Lothian

From strolling along the sandy beaches of Belhaven and Yellowcraig to trekking Traprain Law, there are oodles of spectacular sights to appreciate in Lothian.

Places to stay and explore in Lothian

Give yourself time to take in the lovely landscapes on the best places to walk in East and West Lothian.
You’ll want somewhere to settle down during the trip, so book a campsite and glampsite in Lothian here.

Top-rated Lothian activities

Interested in ogling old buildings? Tour the top six castles in East Lothian.
For a hodge-podge of activities, have a look at the five best things to do in West Lothian.
Pack your flip-flops for the top beaches in East Lothian.

Stirling Castle (neostalgic on Unsplash)

Guides to camping in Stirlingshire

If you’re into your history, Stirlingshire is the Scottish region to set off towards. Home to the country’s former capital, much of the most tumultuous moments in bygone years happened here.

The best things to do in Stirlingshire

Get set for scenic strolls – here are the best walks and trails in Stirlingshire.
Rove among the ramparts at the top castles in Stirlingshire.
Organise your entire travel itinerary with these days out and top attractions in Stirlingshire.

Places to eat and stay in Stirlingshire

Hungry? Satisfy your stomach at the best places to eat in Stirlingshire.
Rest afterwards at our Stirlingshire camping and glamping parks.

Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway (Michael Cummins on Unsplash)

Guides to camping in Dumfries and Galloway

Wind your way to the western Southern Uplands for championship golf courses, lush local produce and dark-sky camping. Dumfries and Galloway also has wildlife galore – listen out for the natterjack toad and keep your eyes peeled for rare red squirrels. There are seabirds to sight at the Mull of Galloway too, along with lofty cliffs.

Food and accommodation in Dumfries and Galloway