Wildlife-watching campsites near Dunoon

Glaswegians have long daytripped and vacationed in Dunoon, located on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll and Bute. Visitors from near and afar still make the journey for the town’s attractive promenade, historic Castle Mound and large Victorian pier. The town is a great base to explore Argyll Forest Park (much of which lies within Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park) where the rugged mountains, dramatic glens, forests and moors form a natural playground that is perfect for walking, climbing, cycling and wildlife spotting. Visiting campers have plenty of options, from well-appointed caravan parks to wild camping under the stars.

95% (85)

Top-rated campgrounds

Glaswegians have long daytripped and vacationed in Dunoon, located on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll and Bute. Visitors from near and afar still make the journey for the town’s attractive promenade, historic Castle Mound and large Victorian pier. The town is a great base to explore Argyll Forest Park (much of which lies within Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park) where the rugged mountains, dramatic glens, forests and moors form a natural playground that is perfect for walking, climbing, cycling and wildlife spotting. Visiting campers have plenty of options, from well-appointed caravan parks to wild camping under the stars.

95% (85)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

44km from Dunoon · 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)

81km from Dunoon · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

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

3. Muiredge

100%

(16)

81km from Dunoon · 8 units · Glamping · Perth and Kinross, Central Scotland

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

4. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

62km from Dunoon · 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.

5. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

78km from Dunoon · 15 units · Tents, Glamping · Lanark, Scotland

*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR MIDWEEK AND WEEKEND BOOKINGS. CAMPING WILL RETURN IN SPRING 2026.* Cleghorn Farm is a mixed farm just north east of the market town of Lanark. Comprised of 250 acres of fields and woodland and bounded to the south by Mouse Water, it is a beautiful spot to get away from it all without having to leave it all behind if you don't want to. The fields are grazed and cultivated but the woodlands are much as they were at the end of the last ice age with spectacular walks along Cleghorn Glen with the chance to see badgers, bats, deer and all manner of birds among the towering pine and beech trees. The Mouse Water (pronounced moose) tumbles down along the edge of the farm and has some glorious pools for swimming, shallows for paddling and some spectacular water falls before it joins the River Clyde.

6. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

37km from Dunoon · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

7. The Snug at Logie Farm

100%

(7)

119km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Falkland, Fife, Central Scotland

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

8. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

14km from Dunoon · 2 units · Glamping · 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.

9. Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

107km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

10. St Conan's Escape

100%

(12)

49km from Dunoon · 4 units · Glamping · Dalmally, Scotland

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

11. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

60km from Dunoon · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

12. Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

38km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

Camper favorites near Dunoon

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Snug at Logie Farm

100%

(7)

119km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Falkland, Fife, Central Scotland

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

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

14km from Dunoon · 2 units · Glamping · 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.

Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

107km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

St Conan's Escape

100%

(12)

49km from Dunoon · 4 units · Glamping · Dalmally, Scotland

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

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

60km from Dunoon · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

38km from Dunoon · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

Stories from the community

P

Paul

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cleghorn Farm

The beautiful cabin is in a lovely quiet private space. There are nice views across to the hills particularly when sat by the firepit. Alex and Lauren made us feel very welcome.

MH 10 - Hard Standing non-serviced Pitch

J

Julia

August 2025

4 m Class B

1 night at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Lovely location right on the Loch. I would stay again if in the area and definitely have a ride on the steamship

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:)

F

Freya

August 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Absolutely stunning location - you worry when you arrive as it’s a really popular tourist attraction but the car park empties out and it’s very peaceful. Nice walk along the loch side or a boat ride on the loch plus good cafe

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.

S

Simon

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

Beautiful views up the Loch. Quite a steep climb but easily achievable. Fire pit, bbq and seating area ideal. Even the compostable toilet had a great view!

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.

S

Sally

July 2025

With kids

4 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Runach Arainn is even more lovely in person than in the photos. Great location for a peaceful and relaxing stay on Arann. The yurts are comfortable, the kitchen/fire-pit etc are well-equipped and the orchard setting is beautiful. It's just a short walk to the beach or to the Lagg Inn for dinner. Highly recommend.

E

Eva

July 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Absolutely fantastic spot! Yurt was so well equipped, they really had thought of everything. Beautiful location in such a peaceful area, and a lovely beach in walking distance! Couldn’t recommend enough

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

Meron

June 2025

2 nights at The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

The Charcoal Huts were so magical. We stayed in Birch and it had amazing views, was quite private and had everything we needed - including things we forgot. It was beautiful and cosy inside and the fire kept us so warm. I really loved this place.

k

kelly

May 2025

With pets

2 nights at St Conan's Escape

Amazing accommodation in a stunning location. Loved it so much we booked our return stay for 2026 whilst still there!

K

Kyle & Sarah

April 2025

4 m Class B

1 night at West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

It was amazing! The view of the surrounding fells and farms was so tranquil and peaceful. Andrew was a friendly and helpful host. The property was beautiful and there was a good community of campers there that socialized over breakfast. There were also trails on the property that we didn't get to. I would definitely recommend this campsite to anyone that is going to Scotland

M

Mandy

April 2025

4 nights at St Conan's Escape

St. Conan's Escape was lovely- the perfect place to stay during our venture to western Scotland. The accommodations were perfect, the view was excellent, and the host was very friendly and helpful. I will definitely be looking up this cute little Basecamp for our next adventure in Scotland! Thank you!

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.

P

Paul

December 2024

5 m Class B

With kids

1 night at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Quite basic - you're sleeping in a car park - but it's beautiful setting and the toilets were clean.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Wildlife-watching campsites near Dunoon guide

Where to go

Around Dunoon

A 10-minute drive north of Dunoon’s town center, Cot House Caravan Park offers a peaceful retreat at the head of Holy Loch, alongside the river Eachaig. The site can accommodate caravans and motorhomes with electric hookup and is well placed for those who want to sea fish on Holy Loch or go biking in the surrounding woods.

Along Loch Eck

North of Dunoon, and stretching seven miles through Argyll Forest Park, the freshwater Loch Eck has a number of sheltered beaches that are ideal for wild camping. You can access these sites by walking in from Benmore Botanic Garden (worth a visit for its avenue of Giant Sequoias) or by kayak/canoe.

Loch Lomond National Park

Wild camping is permitted in the park (per the Scottish Outdoor Access Code) but has been restricted in some areas over recent years. These areas still have at least 300 designated camping areas (some with basic facilities), where you can have an experience similar to wild camping, but from March through September a permit is required for each tent or motorhome/campervan. The park also has plenty of privately owned formal campsites.

When to go

For enjoying the great outdoors, spring, summer or early fall are best. The summer months are busy, though (especially when schools are out in July and August). You can avoid the biggest crowds by visiting in May, September or October. During the rest of the year, plan for cold and wet conditions and short days, with the sun setting before 4 p.m.

Know before you go

Some private sites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before traveling.
If you choose to wild camp, you can find out more about your rights and responsibilities on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code website.
Be aware that ticks (which can carry Lyme disease) are present in the National Park, especially in Spring and Summer.
Train services provide access from Glasgow to Dunoon and the National Park.