Campsites in Argyll and Bute

A spectacular coastline and rugged scenery makes Argyll the perfect backdrop for a camping holiday.

100% (5 reviews)

United Kingdom
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Scotland
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Central Scotland
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Argyll and Bute

100% (5 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Argyll and Bute

2 top campsites in Argyll and Bute

Booked 1 time

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

2 units · Glamping8 acres · Scotland

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

100%

(7)

St Conan's Escape

4 units · Glamping4 acres · Dalmally, Scotland

Dog-friendly lodges on a Scottish mountainside with incredible loch views

Campsites in Argyll and Bute guide

Overview

Immediately west of Glasgow, Argyll offers an easy escape into nature and some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. The sprawling region has a long and diverse coastline, with numerous peninsulas and islands, each with their own character. Outdoor enthusiasts can tackle a long-distance walking route and go windsurfing, kayaking and mountain biking. Wildlife lovers can spot golden eagles, puffins, otters, seals, puffins and red deer. And after a day exploring, you can unwind with some of the region's famous whiskies and seafood. From beachside caravan sites to wild camping on a small island, there’s plenty of options for pitching a tent in spectacular nature.

Where to go

North Argyll

Many rush through the northern part of Argyll on their way to the northern Highlands or the islands but it’s well worth slowing down and spending time. The area is home to possibly Scotland’s most photogenic castle (the ruined Castle Stalker, which is perched on a tiny island) and is a hub for cyclists and water sports enthusiasts. Convenient camping bases can be found in the area’s main town, while other sites are set in Benderloch close to Loch Creran and Loch Etive, where you can go canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

South Argyll

The windswept coastline of southern Argyll’s mainland and islands is some of Scotland’s most spectacular coastal scenery. The Cowal Peninsula is home to diverse landscapes, from towering mountains in the north to the sparkling sea lochs of the south's “secret coast:” the perfect setting for such outdoor adventures as kayaking, sailing and hiking. The long, narrow Kintyre peninsula draws active travellers who hike the 100-mile (161-kilometre) Kintyre Way from Tarbert to Machrihanish. On the Cowal peninsula, farms and holiday parks offer tranquil campsites and glamping pods.

The Islands

Argyll is home to 23 inhabited islands, all of which have their own distinct identities, histories and cultures. Some of the most appealing for visitors include Islay for its smoky whiskies and sandy beaches; Jura for hillwalking and wildlife, and Mull for whales, eagles and rugged mountains.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Rugged mountains, dramatic glens and misty lochs draw plenty of outdoor enthusiasts to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, part of which lies within the Argyll and Bute region. There is a wide range of private campsites in the park, including the basic campground on Inchcailloch island on the loch. Visitors following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code may also wild camp, although there are some areas where campers are restricted to designated sites and need permits from March through September.