Campsites with showers in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve

·

The dramatic coastal scenery of Caerlaverock, its mudflats and saltmarsh, supports a rich range of wildlife, from birds such as barnacle geese, bar-tailed godwit and knot, as well as natterjack toads, Scotland’s rarest amphibian. Situated where the River Nith meets the Solway Firth, a network of paths with raised boardwalks lead visitors through the reserve and there’s also a viewing platform, picnic areas and a viewing hide. While there are no organized campsites within the nature reserve, private spots sit just minutes away with spaces for campervans and motorhomes.

95% (167) 355 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve

Howbeck Lodge

1. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Harebeck Holidays

2. Harebeck Holidays

86%
(25)
Wasdale, England · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

3. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
Penrith, England · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£90
 / night
Langley Dam Glamping

4. Langley Dam Glamping

England · 5 units
Nestled in the Tyne Valley, on our beef and sheep farm, at the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Langley Dam Glamping provides high quality, en-suite accommodation in our unique glamping cabins. The six ‘Langley Longboat’ cabins are positioned on the bank of Langley Dam Reservoir, providing exceptional views over the 14 acres of water and towards Whitfield moor. Langley Dam itself is a commercial fly fishery and Troutmaster water. Visitors are welcome, and encouraged, to enjoy the fishing experience that the water provides (charges do apply, but residents have discounted fishing fees). We also have rowing boats that can be hired for fishing purposes. We have created some fantastic 3D showcases of the inside of the cabins. You can use these to get a better feel of how the cabins are laid out. We have created 3 showcases to reflect the 3 types of cabins we have. Humbleton is unique, then The Wonneys which is the same layout as The Rushy Lot, and Wheatleys which is the same as Blackcleugh and Bare Bones.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£167
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

5. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
Carlisle, England · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Otter Moss Accommodation

6. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%
(8)
Brampton, England · 4 units
Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£85
 / night
Collierhall Farm

7. Collierhall Farm

81%
(21)
Lanark, Scotland · 5 units
Very quiet and easily accessible from the motorway (1 mile) The farm is set in 100 acres and has a mixture of caravans, motorhomes and tents. There is a golf course across the road and the world heritage site of New Lanark only 7 miles away. Edinburgh and Glasgow are also easily reached by car or train.
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
£20
 / night
Cairn Meadow Pods

8. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(42)
Cumwhitton, England · 4 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£98
 / night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

9. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
Brampton, England · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£210
 / night
Inside Out Yurts

10. Inside Out Yurts

100%
(9)
Keswick, England · 3 units
Rustic yurt glamping with a riverside setting, fell views and an enviable Lake District location
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£115
 / night
Renison's Farm

11. Renison's Farm

100%
(1)
Penrith, England · 1 unit
Off-grid wagon glamping on a farm with views of Lake District fells
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£90
 / night
Oystercatcher Caravan

12. Oystercatcher Caravan

100%
(1)
Newton Stewart, Scotland · 1 unit
The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£65
 / night
Garrison Shepherd's Huts

13. Garrison Shepherd's Huts

100%
(2)
Bowness On Solway, England · 4 units
Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.
Pets
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£100
 / night
Herdie Hideaway

14. Herdie Hideaway

Scotland · 2 units
Herdie hideaway is run by Charlotte and Alex and is nestled next to rolling hills of the the Lake District overlooking the Solway Firth, our shepherd’s hut offers a haven of tranquility. Lush woodlands surround the property, teeming with wildlife, creating a symphony of sights and sounds for nature enthusiasts. Here, on a working farm, you’ll find a quiet escape unlike any other. We hope you enjoy your stay in this beautiful part of the world which we hope you are able to switch off, unwind and have a relaxing time in this lovely secluded area.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£120
 / night
Stone Raise Bells

15. Stone Raise Bells

92%
(6)
Carlisle, England · 3 units
Off-grid bell tents on a working farm in Cumbria’s Eden Valley
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£65
 / night
Esk Yurt

16. Esk Yurt

100%
(5)
Peebles, Scotland · 1 unit
Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming
Potable water
from 
£130
 / night
Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

17. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%
(3)
England · 1 unit
A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P
Campfires
Wifi
Potable water
from 
£100
 / night
Rowan Retreat

18. Rowan Retreat

England · 1 unit
Shepherd's hut in idylic location with extensive views under dark skies,set on its own in a private 5 acre field amidst nature,semi off grid,decking under a canopy,firepit area, centrally located for Lake District,Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland and Scottish borders.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£68
 / night
Broom Fisheries Campsite

19. Broom Fisheries Campsite

Newbie, Scotland · 4 units
Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes
Pets
Hot Tub
Potable water
from 
£167
 / night
Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

20. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%
(2)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 3 units
Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.
Hot Tub
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£165
 / night

The dramatic coastal scenery of Caerlaverock, its mudflats and saltmarsh, supports a rich range of wildlife, from birds such as barnacle geese, bar-tailed godwit and knot, as well as natterjack toads, Scotland’s rarest amphibian. Situated where the River Nith meets the Solway Firth, a network of paths with raised boardwalks lead visitors through the reserve and there’s also a viewing platform, picnic areas and a viewing hide. While there are no organized campsites within the nature reserve, private spots sit just minutes away with spaces for campervans and motorhomes.

95% (167) 355 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve

Howbeck Lodge

1. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Harebeck Holidays

2. Harebeck Holidays

86%
(25)
Wasdale, England · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

3. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
Penrith, England · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£90
 / night
Langley Dam Glamping

4. Langley Dam Glamping

England · 5 units
Nestled in the Tyne Valley, on our beef and sheep farm, at the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Langley Dam Glamping provides high quality, en-suite accommodation in our unique glamping cabins. The six ‘Langley Longboat’ cabins are positioned on the bank of Langley Dam Reservoir, providing exceptional views over the 14 acres of water and towards Whitfield moor. Langley Dam itself is a commercial fly fishery and Troutmaster water. Visitors are welcome, and encouraged, to enjoy the fishing experience that the water provides (charges do apply, but residents have discounted fishing fees). We also have rowing boats that can be hired for fishing purposes. We have created some fantastic 3D showcases of the inside of the cabins. You can use these to get a better feel of how the cabins are laid out. We have created 3 showcases to reflect the 3 types of cabins we have. Humbleton is unique, then The Wonneys which is the same layout as The Rushy Lot, and Wheatleys which is the same as Blackcleugh and Bare Bones.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£167
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

5. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
Carlisle, England · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Otter Moss Accommodation

6. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%
(8)
Brampton, England · 4 units
Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£85
 / night
Collierhall Farm

7. Collierhall Farm

81%
(21)
Lanark, Scotland · 5 units
Very quiet and easily accessible from the motorway (1 mile) The farm is set in 100 acres and has a mixture of caravans, motorhomes and tents. There is a golf course across the road and the world heritage site of New Lanark only 7 miles away. Edinburgh and Glasgow are also easily reached by car or train.
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
£20
 / night
Cairn Meadow Pods

8. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(42)
Cumwhitton, England · 4 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£98
 / night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

9. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
Brampton, England · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£210
 / night
Inside Out Yurts

10. Inside Out Yurts

100%
(9)
Keswick, England · 3 units
Rustic yurt glamping with a riverside setting, fell views and an enviable Lake District location
Pets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£115
 / night
Renison's Farm

11. Renison's Farm

100%
(1)
Penrith, England · 1 unit
Off-grid wagon glamping on a farm with views of Lake District fells
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£90
 / night
Oystercatcher Caravan

12. Oystercatcher Caravan

100%
(1)
Newton Stewart, Scotland · 1 unit
The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£65
 / night
Garrison Shepherd's Huts

13. Garrison Shepherd's Huts

100%
(2)
Bowness On Solway, England · 4 units
Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.
Pets
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£100
 / night
Herdie Hideaway

14. Herdie Hideaway

Scotland · 2 units
Herdie hideaway is run by Charlotte and Alex and is nestled next to rolling hills of the the Lake District overlooking the Solway Firth, our shepherd’s hut offers a haven of tranquility. Lush woodlands surround the property, teeming with wildlife, creating a symphony of sights and sounds for nature enthusiasts. Here, on a working farm, you’ll find a quiet escape unlike any other. We hope you enjoy your stay in this beautiful part of the world which we hope you are able to switch off, unwind and have a relaxing time in this lovely secluded area.
Pets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£120
 / night
Stone Raise Bells

15. Stone Raise Bells

92%
(6)
Carlisle, England · 3 units
Off-grid bell tents on a working farm in Cumbria’s Eden Valley
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£65
 / night
Esk Yurt

16. Esk Yurt

100%
(5)
Peebles, Scotland · 1 unit
Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming
Potable water
from 
£130
 / night
Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

17. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%
(3)
England · 1 unit
A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P
Campfires
Wifi
Potable water
from 
£100
 / night
Rowan Retreat

18. Rowan Retreat

England · 1 unit
Shepherd's hut in idylic location with extensive views under dark skies,set on its own in a private 5 acre field amidst nature,semi off grid,decking under a canopy,firepit area, centrally located for Lake District,Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland and Scottish borders.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£68
 / night
Broom Fisheries Campsite

19. Broom Fisheries Campsite

Newbie, Scotland · 4 units
Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes
Pets
Hot Tub
Potable water
from 
£167
 / night
Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

20. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%
(2)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 3 units
Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.
Hot Tub
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£165
 / night

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Campsites with showers in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

Winter is the best time for birdwatching in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve. From late September to early May, huge numbers of barnacle geese and pink-footed geese arrive from their Arctic summer homes—try to visit at sunrise or sunset for the spectacle of thousands of geese in the sky. During the summer months a variety of open water habitats support invertebrates and amphibians and you may hear a croaking natterjack toad or the sound of rutting red deer.

Know before you go

  • The nature reserve is important for wildlife so visitors should visit responsibly, following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Keep dogs under control at all times, particularly between March and August during the bird breeding season. 
  • Avoid any cattle you see—they are not accustomed to people so may be dangerous.
  • During high tides, the paths may flood: check the local tide tables, which are displayed in the reserve.
  • The closest bus stop is at Caerlaverock 1.3 miles (2 kilometres) away, on the Dumfries to Caerlaverock route. The closest railway station is Dumfries, eight miles (13 kilometres) away, on the Kilmarnock to Carlisle line.