Wildlife-watching campsites 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 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.

100% (4)

Top-rated campgrounds near Newton Stewart

1. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

91km from Newton Stewart · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.

2. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

142km from Newton Stewart · 22 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations

3. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

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

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

4. Broom Fisheries Campsite

75km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

5. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

115km from Newton Stewart · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

6. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

123km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

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

7. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

110km from Newton Stewart · 47 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

8. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

124km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

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

9. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

103km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra

10. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(11)

94km from Newton Stewart · 15 units · Tents, Glamping

*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

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

12. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

110km from Newton Stewart · 5 units · Tents

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

13. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

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

14. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

112km from Newton Stewart · 2 units · Glamping

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.

15. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

112km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping

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.

16. Garrison Shepherd's Huts

100%

(2)

81km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping

Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.

17. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

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.

18. Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash

88%

(4)

144km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

Smardale Mill Shepods are the perfect place to escape, unwind and relax. These modern style shepherds huts are tucked away in an idyllic setting in Cumbria. Situated on a working family farm there is always plenty to see and do. Each shepod sleeps two comfortably with the option of a further two guests on the sofa bed.

19. Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

102km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

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

20. Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

115km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

Camper favorites near Newton Stewart

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

136km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

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

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

112km from Newton Stewart · 2 units · Glamping

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.

Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

112km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping

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.

Garrison Shepherd's Huts

100%

(2)

81km from Newton Stewart · 4 units · Glamping

Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.

The Black Swan

100%

(26)

145km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

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.

Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash

88%

(4)

144km from Newton Stewart · 3 units · Glamping

Smardale Mill Shepods are the perfect place to escape, unwind and relax. These modern style shepherds huts are tucked away in an idyllic setting in Cumbria. Situated on a working family farm there is always plenty to see and do. Each shepod sleeps two comfortably with the option of a further two guests on the sofa bed.

Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

102km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

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

Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

115km from Newton Stewart · 1 unit · Glamping

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Andrew

November 2025

2 nights at Cleghorn Farm

Friendly and welcoming environment! Nice place if you’re needing to get off the grid a bit.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

E

Elma

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Black Swan

Initially I wasn’t sure taking the lantern to do your (compost) toilet trip of 1.5 minutes but it worked as long as your mind doesn’t run wild in the dark when you’re on your own! But it all adds up to the whole experience of glamping without running water and electricity in the yurt. I loved the hot shower outside (I also used it to wash my hands after using the toilet), the sound of the stream, the hares who were very elusive, the log burner and the pub breakfast (included in the booking) and the pub food. I had to leave very early, it was still pitch black and I looked at the sky, it was magical with the stars and I even thought I could see 1-2 galaxies; I’m probably exaggerating but it was that clear without the light pollution. I loved the whole experience! Thank you!

A

Ally

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Just returning from our first visit to Cardewlees and we could not of asked for a better stay. Cardewlees is an absolute little gem of a campsite and Johnny could not have been a better host if he tried. Toilet and showering facilities were more than adequate and the water was always nice and warm. Thank you for a perfect stay and we look forward to coming back soon. Ally and Lee x

E

Eleanor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!

a

alexander

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Really great campsite enjoyed our stay very much shower was a learning curve but worked and was good fun

C

Charlotte

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

We loved staying on Lynnes land, it was a lovely quiet campsite, the alpacas are so cute, and Lynne was a great host! Definitely recommend.

S

Stryczek

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Loved camping at snowdrop. Easy to park up and the pitch was ready for us on arrival. Very quiet and peaceful. Would highly recommend!

M

Mark

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Stayed for a couple of nights and had a great time, good facilities and one of the few campsites open to letting people enjoy a sensible camp fire. Staff were all friendly and helpful too

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Wildlife-watching campsites 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.