Campsites with campfires near Newton Stewart

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

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.

97% (30)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

110km from Newton Stewart · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Millom, England

Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep

2. Troquhain Woods

92%

(32)

31km from Newton Stewart · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Castle Douglas, Dumfries, South Scotland

Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland

3. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

123km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes

4. Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

116km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Melmerby, England

Travelling from site to site in a bow-top gypsy caravan, through Cumbria's stunning scenery

5. King Garth

100%

(9)

94km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Carlisle, England

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.

6. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

95km from Newton Stewart · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall

7. Social District

92%

(93)

123km from Newton Stewart · 30 units · Tents · Grizedale, Cumbria, North West England

Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.

8. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

115km from Newton Stewart · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

9. The Old Chapel Campsite

98%

(97)

139km from Newton Stewart · 30 units · Tents · Murton, England

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

10. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

94km from Newton Stewart · 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.

11. Beirhope Alpacas

98%

(137)

145km from Newton Stewart · 11 units · Tents · Kelso, Scotland

A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders

12. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

112km from Newton Stewart · 33 units · Tents · Cumbria, North West England

Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views

13. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

112km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

14. Grinsdale Campsite

96km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · England

Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.

15. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

124km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

16. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

17. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

110km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

18. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

19. Damson View Glamping

100%

(55)

127km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley

20. Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

112km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

Camper favorites near Newton Stewart

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

112km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

Grinsdale Campsite

96km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · England

Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.

The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

124km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

The Black Swan

100%

(26)

145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

110km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

Damson View Glamping

100%

(55)

127km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley

Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

112km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

Stories from the community

E

Ellen

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Garth

We absolutely loved our stay at King Garth! It is located in such a tranquil location beside the river and away from other houses, but with alpacas for company! The hot tub was perfect to relax in and we enjoyed a cosy, candlelit evening inside by the fire afterwards! It was fascinating to read about the history of the building too! Will definitely be back :)

Tom

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Lovely spot to camp. The little creek made for some tranquil background noise to fall asleep & the local hiking was very picturesque. Thanks!

V

Virginia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Great spot to camp. Ted is very friendly and accomodating!

D

Duco

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We loved camping at Hazel Mount Fellside. The view was stunning and it felt more like a piece of nature with some scattered campsites than the opposite, which you most often find. Ruth was a very nice and welcoming host.

n

natasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

We stayed in the yurt at Fairy Glen Wood and it was just perfect. It had everything we needed for a relaxing little retreat peaceful, comfortable, and surrounded by nature. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely love to come back!

K

Kinga

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Absolutely amazing stay at Beirhope Alpacas. You can tell that Lynne has set everything up with love and care. Alpacas are a cherry on top of everything else. My 4 year old twins cried when leaving because they wanted to live there. We definitely found a new yearly visit place ❤️

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

This Alpaca farm is an absolute must visit. Unfortunately we were only here for 1 night but what a visit! This specific pitch is the middle one 1 of 3 that are in front of the Alpaca/Sheep fields and we couldn't have asked for better neighbours. Lynne was extremely helpful upon our arrival and offered help with anything if it was needed...which it was when I realised I had the mattress but not the stopper to keep it inflated! She came to my rescue with cushions to sleep on which was over and above as far as I'm concerned. We were provided carrots to feed the animals that evening and my son (4yo) loved feeding Harry the goat and between him and his friends it was a game to see who could feed Houdini before Harry got in the way 🤣 This morning my son was scheduled to feed the alpacas and whilst he was initially nervous he warmed up on the walk and confidently clapped Deeno. This site is a bit off the road but take it easy and enjoy the scenery. Beirhope Farm is in a pretty stunning part of the country and I would 100% recommend a visit to anyone looking for everything you need on a camping trip. If you forget anything she has everything covered, including an honesty 'larder' for the snacks or bits and pieces that you've forgotten. Stunning! We will be back.

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️

K

Kathy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

We stayed in Phil’s Patch for just one night on our way north. Lynne offered us a warm welcome. We had our own private enclave in the trees. Posh composting toilets and everything well thought out. Wish we’d used the unique shower!

P

Paulette

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

The surroundings are truly beautiful, scenic, calm and peaceful. Lynne has ensured that everything a camper needs is close at hand. The pitches are well spaced out and on good solid terrain. Clean, accessible facilities, well maintained. Adorable alpaca herds literally over the fence. A wonderful retreat, we will definitely return. Lynne is simply lovely and has hit the nail on the head with this site.

S

Sean

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to King Garth

We stayed as a birthday treat for my 12 year old. 2 adults, 4 children and our dog. It was a truly fantastic stay from start to finish. Such a unique house and experience. The kids absolutely loved swimming in the river, looking after the alpacas, the hot tub and going back to basics. It was lovely seeing them enjoying themselves with no distractions of the modern world. Games by candle light and food over the bbq, what more could you ask for. Jane was fantastic and made sure we knew everything that was needed before we arrived. Can’t wait to come back.

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.

S

Suzy

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

What a beautiful place! Everything we could possibly need was there for us on arrival; the pod was lovely and cozy and it was great to be able to sit out around the firepit in the evening. Birdsong everywhere and plenty of wildlife to see around the place. Sadly it was a bit wet to try the boat out but will have to come back on a sunnier day!

Nova

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We were lucky enough to get the site for ourselves for this trip and it was absolutely magical. the land and its views are so beautiful, it’s the first campsite i’ve been to that felt connected to the land it was on :’) ruth’s passion for the place shone, and all of the animals are so cute and special and it was so peaceful being there

M

Maria

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Social District

The views were beautiful!! We camped next to the lake so my husband and boys spent most of the time fishing. Will definitely go again next year and bring the paddling board with us

R

Rimas

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

I had the most wonderful stay at this campsite over the weekend. It’s such a lovely spot, set on a farmyard where chickens, ducks, and geese wander around freely, which gives it a really peaceful and charming atmosphere. Each pitch comes with its own firepit, and wood is thoughtfully provided – such a nice touch that made the evenings really special. The host, Ted, is absolutely brilliant. He’s a genuinely lovely, well-spoken gentleman who takes the time to come around the site to check that everyone is happy and comfortable. You really feel looked after here. It’s rare to find a campsite that feels this welcoming and relaxed. Honestly, I can’t say a bad word about it – it’s perfect. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a cosy, friendly getaway.

H

Heather

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

Ted was so friendly and made sure we were as comfortable possible during our stay. He went above and beyond to help with anything we needed. We will definitely come back, thank you 😊

L

Laura

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

I loved staying at the old chapel! It was lovely with amazing views and not far from more amazing spots! Ted was a lovely host and made the stay even better, would 100% recommend.

E

Eva

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

We had a fantastic stay! Ted was an incredible host - welcoming, helpful, and made sure everything ran smoothly. The land itself is absolutely beautiful, well-maintained, clean and views are stunning. Even during a busy bank holiday weekend, there was plenty of space for everyone, so it didn’t felt crowded. A lovely bonus was the presence of ducks and chickens on the property, which meant we had access to delicious fresh eggs in the morning..such a treat! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and will definitely be returning. Highly recommended!

Dog-friendly getaways

Renison's Farm

100%

(1)

122km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Off-grid wagon glamping on a farm with views of Lake District fells

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

114km from Newton Stewart · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall

Dod Mill Fishing Hut

143km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping · Lauder, Scotland

Artistic riverside cabins in the grounds of a 17th-century watermill

Stone Raise Bells

92%

(6)

110km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Carlisle, England

Off-grid bell tents on a working farm in Cumbria’s Eden Valley

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

72km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with campfires near Newton Stewart 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.