Best Woodland Camping in Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve

As the ice of the last Ice Age melted away, rivers gouged deep clefts into soft sandstone where oak, ash, rowan and hazel woodlands have thrived ever since. Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve is made up of six different woodlands, each set in its own dramatic river gorge. Paths through the woodlands follow the route of the River Clyde, from the Falls of Clyde to Chatelherault Country Park, passing through Cleghorn Glen, Cartland Crags, Lower Nethan Gorge and Maudslie Woods along the way. While there are no campsites within the reserve, Clyde Valley Caravan Park is located just outside.

94% (95)

Top-rated campgrounds

As the ice of the last Ice Age melted away, rivers gouged deep clefts into soft sandstone where oak, ash, rowan and hazel woodlands have thrived ever since. Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve is made up of six different woodlands, each set in its own dramatic river gorge. Paths through the woodlands follow the route of the River Clyde, from the Falls of Clyde to Chatelherault Country Park, passing through Cleghorn Glen, Cartland Crags, Lower Nethan Gorge and Maudslie Woods along the way. While there are no campsites within the reserve, Clyde Valley Caravan Park is located just outside.

94% (95)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

7. The Nest at Loch Lomond

100%

(2)

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. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

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)

1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

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

10. Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

Camper favorites in and near Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

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.

Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

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.

West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

The Nest at Loch Lomond

100%

(2)

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!

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

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)

1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

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

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

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.

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

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

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

Woodland campsites in Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

The best time to visit the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve is from May to October. Spring sees the area carpeted with woodland flowers, such as bluebells and primrose, and the air filled with the song of birds including wood warblers and long-tailed tits. In summer you may see great spotted woodpeckers, tawny owls, badgers and roe deer. Autumn sees the leaves on the trees turn to beautiful shades of orange, yellow and red.

Know before you go

The main visitor facilities are at Chatelherault and the Falls of Clyde.
Most trails are wide and well paved but can get muddy after rain. All paths have steps and steep gradients.
The reserve is walking distance from Lanark town centre, which is connected to Glasgow by train.
Be sure to follow Scottish Outdoor Access Code while visiting the reserve.