Camping in Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve

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Forsinard Flows Nature Reserve lies at the heart of Flow Country, a sprawling, rolling expanse of peatland, wetland and mountains and Europe’s largest expanse of blanket bog. The reserve is maintained by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), which runs a visitor center where visitors can learn about the blanket bog, one of the world's rarest habitats, as well as the wildlife that thrives on it. Two marked trails of different lengths guide visitors through the peatland habitat and to see wildlife including red-throated divers, hen harriers and red deer. As this is a protected area, there is no campsite in the nature reserve but touring parks welcome campers a few miles north.

100% (1) 49 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve

Sinclair Bay Lodges

1. Sinclair Bay Lodges

100%
(2)
Wick, Scotland · 4 units
Luxury seafront glamping pods with private patio and jaccuzi. Fully equipped kitchenette with fridge freezer and en-suite shower room. All bedding, towels, cutlery and cookware are included. We have a bike shed on site and private parking for cars. Located on the John O'Groats trail and NC500 route.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub

Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve camping guide

When to go

The reserve is open year-round and worth a visit any time of year. April through June is best for seeing breeding peatland birds such as greenshanks, common sandpipers, dippers and teals, as well as the occasional hen harrier and short-eared owl. There are fewer birds around in fall and winter, but this is the best time to see the herds of red deer—an especially dramatic sight in the autumn when the landscape is ablaze in rich colours.

Know before you go

  • This nature reserve is important for wildlife so visitors should visit responsibly, following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Entrance is free, but joining the RSPB as a member or leaving a donation is encouraged.
  • The visitor centre is in the former station building at the Forsinard stop on the Wick-Inverness railway line.
  • The RSPB offers a few fee-based guided walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve is known for being the heart of Flow Country, Europe’s largest expanse of blanket bog. It is maintained by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and is home to rare habitats and thriving wildlife. The visitor center at the former station building offers information about the blanket bog and the wildlife that thrives on it.

Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve is open year-round and worth a visit any time of year. April through June is best for seeing breeding peatland birds such as greenshanks, common sandpipers, dippers, and teals, as well as the occasional hen harrier and short-eared owl. Fall and winter are the best times to see herds of red deer, especially in the autumn when the landscape is ablaze in rich colors.

Camping is not allowed at Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve. However, touring parks a few miles north welcome campers. You can also explore different options for camping near Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top regions near Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve