Dog-friendly camping 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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Ballater

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.

99% (57)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ballater

1. Dalaraban Luxury Pods

129km from Ballater · 2 units · Glamping

Situated above Loch Linnhe with uninterrupted views towards Corpach and Treslaig, you can watch the sea and golden eagles above from the decking of these pods, as well as the roe deer visiting you in the morning. Unlike other pods, our pods are equipped with a full-size shower, a wood burner, a kingsize bed, a sofa bed for two children and a kitchen with a mini fridge and freezer. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the area with many activities and attractions within driving distance. Dalaraban Luxury Pods are located on farmland to the South side of Fort William beside the road that climbs above the town. This gives marvellous clear views to Loch Linnhe and the hills beyond. Whether you are seeking thrilling outdoor pursuits, exploring historical landmarks, or simply soaking in the breath-taking scenery, there’s something here for everyone. From hiking the iconic Ben Nevis to cruising on Loch Linnhe or discovering the rich culture of the area, here there are some of the best activities and experiences Fort William and its stunning surroundings have to offer. Start planning your Highland adventure today!

2. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

106km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping

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.

3. Mondhuie Chalets

45km from Ballater · 1 unit · Glamping

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

The best campsites available this weekend near Ballater

The Hideyhole Campsite

72km from Ballater · 6 units · Motorhomes

Explore the beautiful Moray Coast from the comfort of your caravan nestled in our award-winning family run Hideyhole Campsite here on Westfield Farm. Taking a maximum of only 6 caravans at any time, you’ll enjoy the peaceful setting here on the farm and appreciate the wealth of wildlife we are lucky to have. Enjoy exploring the ancient beech woodland and stunning farmland of Westfield. Dogs will love the peace quiet and space to run about. We have a tarmac tennis court available to book on-site for the sporty campers. Perfectly located for exploring the numerous beaches and seaside villages of the Moray Firth, all within a short drive from the site. Moray is famed for its many golf courses, distilleries, and coastline as well as some great local eateries and seafood. The National Cycle Route 1 from Dover to the North of Scotland runs through the farm, a short distance from the campsite. For those exploring the NC500, and wishing to continue the adventure, we are well placed for an extra stop off before or after you reach Inverness.

Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

97%

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15km from Ballater · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pitches and pods in the Cairngorms National Park

Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

124km from Ballater · 22 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

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

West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

142km from Ballater · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

Fernlea - Campsite & Pod

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73km from Ballater · 7 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

Welcome to Fernlea. We would love to have you visit us, either on our 5 pitch campsite for motorhomes and caravans, or in 2025 to our new luxury glamping pod. Fernlea is our home in the heart of an agricultural plain called “The Carse of Gowrie,” which runs for 20 miles or so along the River Tay between Perth and Dundee. It’s a beautiful area that we hope you will love too. We are a short walk from the village of Errol, with access to lovely walks along the Tay. We are adjacent to the local bus route (just stick your arm out!), the Sustrans cycle route 77, plus only a mile or so from the A90 Perth to Dundee / Aberdeen road. We are perfect for both a short stopover and a longer break with a fascinating local area to explore. All pitches have hard standing, water on each pitch, grey waste disposal adjacent to the pitch, and a 10 or 16 amp electric supply with a chemical toilet waste tank with rinsing tap behind our garage. We are also within easy access to Fife and the southern area of the Highlands. Walkers and bird watchers will find many footpaths by the River Tay and can climb the local hills to see buzzards, hawks, ducks, and migrating geese throughout the seasons. Any visitors requiring repairs or accessories for their van will find the large Perthshire Caravan dealership nearby. Every Sunday, one of Scotland’s largest car boot sales and markets is held less than a mile away. Facilities on the CL Site: - Dog walk from the site - Information room - Recycling facilities - Battery charging - TV reception: good - 16 amp electric on 4 pitches, 10 amp on 5th - Water on all pitches - Chemical toilet disposal point - Lawned site, with gravel hardstandings - Latest arrival time: 9:00 PM - Latest departure time: 12:00 PM Shop/village of Errol within 1 mile. Errol Village shop, Pub, Lass O’Gowrie Cafe, Fish and Chip Shop, Butchers. Nearby: Cairn O’Mohr Winery, Rait Antiques Centre, Errol Sunday Market, Lass O'Gowrie Cafe, Fruit Shack - Pick your own strawberries, We look forward to seeing you soon!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly camping 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.