Woodland glamping near Ballater, Aberdeenshire

Located within the magnificent Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of Royal Deeside, the pretty little village of Ballater is one of the region’s top destinations. Victorians flocked here to soak up the curative waters of nearby Pannanich Springs while, today, the Royal Family spend their summers at nearby Balmoral Castle and everyone else visits to take advantage of the opportunities for such outdoor adventures as hiking, skiing and climbing Lochnagar, one of the most popular Munros in Scotland. Close by, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery welcomes visitors to see how it produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies.

100% (6)

Top-rated campgrounds

Located within the magnificent Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of Royal Deeside, the pretty little village of Ballater is one of the region’s top destinations. Victorians flocked here to soak up the curative waters of nearby Pannanich Springs while, today, the Royal Family spend their summers at nearby Balmoral Castle and everyone else visits to take advantage of the opportunities for such outdoor adventures as hiking, skiing and climbing Lochnagar, one of the most popular Munros in Scotland. Close by, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery welcomes visitors to see how it produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies.

100% (6)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

124km from Ballater · 22 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations

2. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

93km from Ballater · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

Luxury woodland cabins, each with a private hot tub, in the grounds of a Scottish castle

3. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

142km from Ballater · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

4. Mondhuie Chalets

45km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Nethy Bridge, Scotland

Just under an acre, close to Ancient Caledonia Forest , on the Speyside Way (which runs from Elgin to the South) Garden space for pets, kids and a run around! Our house and 2 Chalets (1 sleeps 5, 1 ideal for 2 or small family) are on the property. Not fully fenced from road. On the outskirts of NethyBridge. Private driveway, and car park

5. Muiredge

100%

(16)

95km from Ballater · 8 units · Glamping · Perth and Kinross, Central Scotland

Rural glamping in a converted railway carriage, shepherd's hut, or bell tent in blissful Scotland

6. The Snug at Logie Farm

100%

(7)

76km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Falkland, Fife, Central Scotland

Luxury glamping pods with all mod cons, with an elevated position overlooking the River Tay.

7. The Nest at Loch Lomond

100%

(2)

139km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

This modern space can sleep up to 4. The Nest sits at the top of a 5 acre field. It has a full kitchen, smart TV and dining area. Views overlooking Loch Lomond. We are the perfect base for your adventures- so many hiking and mountain biking routes directly from The Nest. Covered veranda with outdoor seating with Bluetooth surround sound to enjoy your sundowners!

8. Organic Welltree

100%

(2)

69km from Ballater · 2 units · Glamping · England

Welcome to Organic Welltree's beautiful eco-friendly yurts. Looking for a place to stay in the heart of Scotland, Perthshire for that perfect organic, vegetarian or vegan holiday? Come and enjoy our unique rooms in Scottish design or try luxury glamping and back-to-nature living in our well equipped yurts like a Home from home no matter where you’re from, a place to relax, enjoy nature and escape from the city.

9. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

106km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Lochearnhead, England

When travelling in Scotland, you will want to have the confidence in the quality of your accommodation, knowing that it will play a big part in the whole pleasurable experience of your holiday. Our location in Lochearnhead provides an ideal base for walking, water-sports, cycling, with flora & fauna and wild life in abundance. There are many local historic places to inspire you and bring the history of the highlands to life. Or perhaps you'd simply choose to curl up with a good book and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a slower pace of life. Wester Auchraw is located on the A84, Cycle Route 7 and the much loved walk 'Rob Roy Way'. It sits amongst spectacular scenery in Highland Perthshire yet is only 1 hour's drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth.

10. Glamping Bothy

100%

(2)

49km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Central Scotland

An upmarket bothy in the grounds of a 12th-century Aberdeenshire castle

Camper favorites near Ballater

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mondhuie Chalets

45km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Nethy Bridge, Scotland

Just under an acre, close to Ancient Caledonia Forest , on the Speyside Way (which runs from Elgin to the South) Garden space for pets, kids and a run around! Our house and 2 Chalets (1 sleeps 5, 1 ideal for 2 or small family) are on the property. Not fully fenced from road. On the outskirts of NethyBridge. Private driveway, and car park

Muiredge

100%

(16)

95km from Ballater · 8 units · Glamping · Perth and Kinross, Central Scotland

Rural glamping in a converted railway carriage, shepherd's hut, or bell tent in blissful Scotland

The Snug at Logie Farm

100%

(7)

76km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Falkland, Fife, Central Scotland

Luxury glamping pods with all mod cons, with an elevated position overlooking the River Tay.

The Nest at Loch Lomond

100%

(2)

139km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

This modern space can sleep up to 4. The Nest sits at the top of a 5 acre field. It has a full kitchen, smart TV and dining area. Views overlooking Loch Lomond. We are the perfect base for your adventures- so many hiking and mountain biking routes directly from The Nest. Covered veranda with outdoor seating with Bluetooth surround sound to enjoy your sundowners!

Organic Welltree

100%

(2)

69km from Ballater · 2 units · Glamping · England

Welcome to Organic Welltree's beautiful eco-friendly yurts. Looking for a place to stay in the heart of Scotland, Perthshire for that perfect organic, vegetarian or vegan holiday? Come and enjoy our unique rooms in Scottish design or try luxury glamping and back-to-nature living in our well equipped yurts like a Home from home no matter where you’re from, a place to relax, enjoy nature and escape from the city.

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

106km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Lochearnhead, England

When travelling in Scotland, you will want to have the confidence in the quality of your accommodation, knowing that it will play a big part in the whole pleasurable experience of your holiday. Our location in Lochearnhead provides an ideal base for walking, water-sports, cycling, with flora & fauna and wild life in abundance. There are many local historic places to inspire you and bring the history of the highlands to life. Or perhaps you'd simply choose to curl up with a good book and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a slower pace of life. Wester Auchraw is located on the A84, Cycle Route 7 and the much loved walk 'Rob Roy Way'. It sits amongst spectacular scenery in Highland Perthshire yet is only 1 hour's drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth.

Glamping Bothy

100%

(2)

49km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping · Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Central Scotland

An upmarket bothy in the grounds of a 12th-century Aberdeenshire castle

Stories from the community

C

Caitlin

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The view you wake up to is breathtaking! The pods themselves are immaculate and stocked with everything you need. You have your own private bathroom which is heated and again immaculately clean. Lovely and quiet!

K

Kinga

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The atmosphere was cozy, the place spotless, and the hospitality truly warm. It was a pleasure to be your guest, and I look forward to returning , very recommend:)

E

Eric

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Muiredge

The place is really nice. Our tent was prepared for four and we sleep there really well. Views on morning were amazing. And comon places were really good when weather made not possible to be outside.

Mirjam

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Muiredge

We loved the cabin. Spacious and we slept very well. The best shower ever! The campsite has wonderful views and is well maintained. We used the bbq and fire pit. The barn is well equipped for cooking and relaxing. Angus is a wonderful host. Definitely would return to Muiredge when in Scotland!

T

Tracie

August 2025

With kids

4 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The pods were clean, comfortable, spacious and well equipped. Unfortunately the fly screen for our door was broken so it was a choice of being gnawed on by midges or being very hot- we chose the heat which was a bit uncomfortable but a fan had been provided which helped. The views were incredible of the loch and mountains and the walking and cycling just stunning. It's a little public with it being next to the main path but if you aren't looking for seclusion then it's fine and we found it vibrant and interesting watching the boats and people coming and going. The food in the cafe was excellent and we enjoyed the take away option, it does close fairly early so best to get there before 5:15pm. All in all it was a beautiful spot and very good accommodation and we had a brilliant time.

C

Chris

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Organic Welltree

We had a fantastic stay at Organic Welltree in the Bramble yurt. Lovely people, lovely setting and very nice accommodation. If you’re looking for a weekend escape this is a great, affordable option. We’ll definitely visit again.

L

Lorna

June 2025

With pets

4 nights at Organic Welltree

I loved my 4 night break in the Bramble Yurt. The yurt was clean and cosy. I did have the stove burner on due to the weather being so good. The bathroom shed was clean and fresh. The fridge was a god send considering the temperature reach a high of 27 degrees. I had a relaxing time sitting in the fresh air watching the wild life and the world go by. I would highly recommend Organic Welltree. I shall definitely go back. I wish to thanks them for my time at Kirkland.

H

HEATHER

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

A lovely wee site with various accommodation options, the staff are super helpful.

M

Mandi

April 2025

1 night at West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

Very friendly staff. Easy to find. Great facilities. Lovely walks right at back of premises. Only downside for me was the noise off other campers. People turning up and setting stuff up after 10 pm. Also loud group of lads. But I’m use to wild camping so maybe noise would be acceptable for most.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Woodland glamping near Ballater guide

Where to go

Around Ballater

The picturesque Victorian village is home to a number of good restaurants and cafés, and offers easy access to the outdoor adventures on its doorstep. Golfers will love the village’s Ballater Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course encircled by hills and stunning scenery. Within a short walking distance of the village centre, Ballater Caravan Park is set in a quiet and attractive location and welcomes tents, caravans and motorhomes.

Around Ballater

The picturesque Victorian village is home to a number of good restaurants and cafés, and offers easy access to the outdoor adventures on its doorstep. Golfers will love the village’s Ballater Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course encircled by hills and stunning scenery. Within a short walking distance of the village centre, Ballater Caravan Park is set in a quiet and attractive location and welcomes tents, caravans and motorhomes.

Muir of Dinnet

A 10-minute drive east of Ballater, the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve is a patchwork of wetlands, heath, moors and woods where you can spot more than 100 bird species, as well as otters. Its most famous attraction is the cauldron-shaped granite pothole known as the Burn O’Vat, which you can stand inside for an otherworldly experience. A 10-minute drive east, Aboyne Loch Caravan Park has pitches for tourers and motorhomes.

Lochnagar

Known as Beinn Chiochan in Gaelic, the pointed peak of Lochnagar stands 2,200 feet (71 metres) above the Balmoral Estate and is a very popular mountain with walkers, climbers and mountaineers all year round. The walk to the summit is around 12 miles (19 kilometres) and well-signposted all the way up. The starting point is around a 30-minute drive from Ballater.

When to go

Summer is the most popular time to visit the Cairngorms and its surrounding area, but the season does bring crowds and booked-up campsites. If planning to visit in the summer, try to at least avoid school holidays and weekends. Spring is a good alternative—while the weather will likely be cool, you can still enjoy activities such as hiking and climbing. Late February through March is the best time for skiing and other winter sports at nearby Glenshee Ski Centre.

Know before you go

Some sites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before traveling.
Wild camping is legal in Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Biting midges are a common nuisance during Highland summers. Don’t forget to pack repellant and long sleeves.
There is no longer an active train station in Ballater, but local buses run to Aberdeen, which is connected by train to Edinburgh and beyond.