Dog-friendly camping near Helensburgh

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For well over 100 years, the elegant resort town of Helensburgh has been a popular retreat from Glasgow, less than an hour away. The town draws visitors with its handsome mansions (including the Charles Rennie Mackintosh-deisgned Hill House); long seaside promenade, and pretty parks and gardens. It’s also a favourite of outdoor enthusiasts for its easy access to the Argyll Kayak Trail, cycling trails and hiking trails including the John Muir Way and Three Lochs Way, which links Loch Lomond, the Gareloch and Loch Long. From parking in a comfortable caravan site to wild camping in spectacular scenery, campers have plenty of options.

94% (107)

Top-rated campgrounds near Helensburgh

4. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

126km from Helensburgh · 5 units · Glamping
We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£166
 / night

For well over 100 years, the elegant resort town of Helensburgh has been a popular retreat from Glasgow, less than an hour away. The town draws visitors with its handsome mansions (including the Charles Rennie Mackintosh-deisgned Hill House); long seaside promenade, and pretty parks and gardens. It’s also a favourite of outdoor enthusiasts for its easy access to the Argyll Kayak Trail, cycling trails and hiking trails including the John Muir Way and Three Lochs Way, which links Loch Lomond, the Gareloch and Loch Long. From parking in a comfortable caravan site to wild camping in spectacular scenery, campers have plenty of options.

94% (107)

Top-rated campgrounds near Helensburgh

4. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

126km from Helensburgh · 5 units · Glamping
We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£166
 / night

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Dog-friendly camping near Helensburgh guide

Where to go

Balloch

Six miles east of Helensburgh’s town centre, and close to Loch Lomond, Lomond Woods Holiday Park is ideally placed for embarking on cruises and kayaking adventures on the loch. The site has touring pitches suitable for caravans and motorhomes, as well as a selection of glamping pods and static caravans (including one with a hot tub).

Luss

Nine miles northeast of Helensburgh, the pretty village of Luss is one of the main gateways into Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and a typical departure point for sightseeing cruises on the loch. Just outside the village, and away from the crowds but within walking distance of a pub and shops, Luss Caravan and Campsite is set on the western banks of Loch Lomond and offers a selection of grass and hardstanding pitches. 

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

A landscape filled with steep mountains, lush valleys and shaded woodland trails makes Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park a magnet for outdoor adventurers. There is a wide range of private campsites in the park, including the basic campground on Inchcailloch island on Loch Lomond, accessed by boat from Balmaha, 20 miles east of Helensburgh. Visitors following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code may also wild camp, though in some areas campers are restricted to designated sites where permits are required from March through September.

When to go

For long and often sunny days, May through September is the best period to visit, although the area does get crowded with tourists in July and August. September is a great month to visit as most of the large crowds have gone and the autumn colours and blooming heather make Loch Lomond especially beautiful.

Know before you go

  • Not all campsites are open year-round: check opening dates before traveling.
  • If choosing to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Helensburgh is easily reached by train from Glasgow. Buses from Helensburgh can take you into the national park.
  • Biting midges are a common nuisance in the summer. It’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and bring repellent.