Campsites near Newton Stewart

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Lying on the banks of the River Cree, the town of Newton Stewart is often dubbed the “Gateway to the Galloway Hills.” As well as enjoying the walking opportunities on the hills and climbing the Merrick, South West Scotland’s highest mountain, visitors can tackle varied mountain biking trails in nearby Galloway Forest Park, explore the nearby RSPB nature reserve Wood of Cree, and fish for salmon and trout in the River Cree.

98% (32) 348 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Newton Stewart

Troquhain Woods

1. Troquhain Woods

93%
(34)
31km from Newton Stewart · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Cleghorn Farm

2. Cleghorn Farm

100%
(11)
94km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR WEEKEND BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
King Garth

3. King Garth

100%
(10)
94km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Howbeck Lodge

4. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
97km from Newton Stewart · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Ewe Love Camping Pods

5. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(109)
103km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

6. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(150)
110km from Newton Stewart · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Hazel Mount Fellside

7. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%
(49)
110km from Newton Stewart · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cairn Meadow Pods

8. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(43)
111km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Moss Side Farm Campsite

9. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(133)
112km from Newton Stewart · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

10. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
114km from Newton Stewart · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Stock Park Lakeside Camping

11. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

92%
(93)
123km from Newton Stewart · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Woodman's Huts

12. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
123km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Damson Shepherd's Hut

13. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%
(60)
124km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood

14. Fairy Bell Wood

100%
(11)
136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
The Old Chapel Campsite

15. The Old Chapel Campsite

97%
(99)
139km from Newton Stewart · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Loch Katrine Eco Camping

16. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%
(113)
142km from Newton Stewart · 13 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
The Black Swan

17. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Beirhope Alpacas

18. Beirhope Alpacas

98%
(137)
145km from Newton Stewart · 9 units
A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

19. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

24km from Newton Stewart · 5 units
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Oystercatcher Caravan

20. Oystercatcher Caravan

100%
(1)
25km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment

Lying on the banks of the River Cree, the town of Newton Stewart is often dubbed the “Gateway to the Galloway Hills.” As well as enjoying the walking opportunities on the hills and climbing the Merrick, South West Scotland’s highest mountain, visitors can tackle varied mountain biking trails in nearby Galloway Forest Park, explore the nearby RSPB nature reserve Wood of Cree, and fish for salmon and trout in the River Cree.

98% (32) 348 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Newton Stewart

Troquhain Woods

1. Troquhain Woods

93%
(34)
31km from Newton Stewart · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Cleghorn Farm

2. Cleghorn Farm

100%
(11)
94km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR WEEKEND BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
King Garth

3. King Garth

100%
(10)
94km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Howbeck Lodge

4. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
97km from Newton Stewart · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Ewe Love Camping Pods

5. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(109)
103km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

6. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(150)
110km from Newton Stewart · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Hazel Mount Fellside

7. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%
(49)
110km from Newton Stewart · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cairn Meadow Pods

8. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(43)
111km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Moss Side Farm Campsite

9. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(133)
112km from Newton Stewart · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

10. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
114km from Newton Stewart · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Stock Park Lakeside Camping

11. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

92%
(93)
123km from Newton Stewart · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Woodman's Huts

12. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
123km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Damson Shepherd's Hut

13. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%
(60)
124km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood

14. Fairy Bell Wood

100%
(11)
136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
The Old Chapel Campsite

15. The Old Chapel Campsite

97%
(99)
139km from Newton Stewart · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Loch Katrine Eco Camping

16. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%
(113)
142km from Newton Stewart · 13 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
The Black Swan

17. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Beirhope Alpacas

18. Beirhope Alpacas

98%
(137)
145km from Newton Stewart · 9 units
A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

19. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

24km from Newton Stewart · 5 units
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Oystercatcher Caravan

20. Oystercatcher Caravan

100%
(1)
25km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit
The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment

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Newton Stewart camping guide

Where to go

Around Town

Newton Stewart is home to a wide range of shops and restaurants, making it a convenient place to base yourself with exploring the area. Just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, and attractions such as the Newton Stewart Museum, Creebridge Caravan Park has pitches for tents and tourers.

Galloway Forest Park

Keen stargazers flock to Galloway Forest Park,a designated Dark Sky Park.  The park also has varied biking and walking trails through its forests, hills and lochs, and the long distance Southern Upland Way passes through. Glentrool Camping and Caravan Site is situated inside the park while Balloch O’ Dee is just outside and has converted barns, a vintage caravan and a roundhouse for hire, as well as tent and touring pitches. Both are around a 15-minute drive from Newton Stewart.

Wigtown

A 10-minute drive south of Newton Stewart, Wigtown is Scotland’s National Book Town and gateway to the Machars peninsula. A little further south, Drumroamin Farm Caravan and Camping Site is a peaceful spot, with views of Wigtown Bay, pitches for tents and tourers, and static caravans for hire.

When to go

May to August is the best time to visit for making the most of Scotland’s extended summer daylight hours. However the season can bring crowds and booked-up campsites. If planning to visit in the summer, try to avoid travelling during the Scottish school holidays in July and early August. For stargazing, however, the long nights of October to March are the best time of year to head into Galloway Forest Park (a designated Dark Sky Park).

Know before you go

  • Wild camping is legal throughout Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Local buses can get you to most places of interest. The closest train station is in Barrhill and has direct connections to Glasgow.
  • There are several shops in Newtown Stewart and you should have no trouble finding the essentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors to Newton Stewart can enjoy walking opportunities on the Galloway Hills, climb the Merrick, South West Scotland’s highest mountain, tackle varied mountain biking trails in nearby Galloway Forest Park, explore the nearby RSPB nature reserve Wood of Cree, and fish for salmon and trout in the River Cree.

May to August is the best time to visit Newton Stewart for making the most of Scotland’s extended summer daylight hours. However, it is recommended to avoid travelling during the Scottish school holidays in July and early August. For stargazing, the long nights of October to March are the best time of year to head into Galloway Forest Park.

Yes, wild camping is legal throughout Scotland, including Newton Stewart, as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

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

Popular Newton Stewart holidays