Camping in Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

In the Cairngorms, this nature reserve is home to one of Scotland’s finest native forests.

99% (44 reviews)

United Kingdom
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Scotland
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Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

99% (44 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

Community favorites in and near Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

A great campsite. We did not need to use the bathroom facilities as we were in a motorhome. Lovely and quiet which is exactly what we were looking for.

4 nights at Organic Welltree

I loved my 4 night break in the Bramble Yurt. The yurt was clean and cosy. I did have the stove burner on due to the weather being so good. The bathroom shed was clean and fresh. The fridge was a god send considering the temperature reach a high of 27 degrees. I had a relaxing time sitting in the fresh air watching the wild life and the world go by. I would highly recommend Organic Welltree. I shall definitely go back. I wish to thanks them for my time at Kirkland.

Weekend Trip to The Loft Glamping & Camping

Very good site very welcoming and helpful after a breakdown nearly made us have a very late arrival would highly recommend good facilities and clean enjoyed our stay

Andrew

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Aberdeenshire Airstream

Stuart really put thought and effort into making the Airstream and area into an amazing place to stay. With a deck, gas BBQ, firepit and lots of spots to sit outside it makes for a very relaxed time away. The area is very quiet but there is lots to see and do that's not very far. Truly a great host, it was a pleasure to stay there.

3 top campsites in Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

97%

(43)

Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

10 units · Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Strathdon, Scotland

Pitches and pods in the Cairngorms National Park

100%

(7)

The Loft Glamping & Camping

12 units · Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Kinloss, Scotland

The Loft Glamping & Camping is situated at East Grange Farm, Kinloss, Moray. It 's a working farm that has evolved over the years to include Wigwam Glamping and Camping for campervans, motorhomes and tents. A number of the old farm buildings are also perfectly appointed as venue spaces for Weddings, Events and Workshops. The "wilderness" campsite offers pitches suitable for tents and small campervans whilst the Stackyard area is suitable for motorhomes and mega tents. All motorhome pitches have electrical hook-up and we have a good number of electric tent pitches. Unfortunately we do not take bookings for caravans. Onsite, we also have Original Wigwam cabins which are wooden camping cabins (Pods) that offer all year round protection against the elements. With heating, electricity, fridge, kettle and toasters. For those wanting a bit more luxury there are also ensuite Wigwam Cabins onsite with wood fired hot tubs. We welcome families, groups, well behaved dogs and do allow campfires outside the wigwams and at pitches and can provide fire hubs on the campsite (this must be pre-arranged). The Loft Glamping & Camping looks forward to welcoming you throughout the year!

100%

(1)

Organic Welltree

2 units · Glamping3 acres · England

Welcome to Organic Welltree's beautiful eco-friendly yurts. Looking for a place to stay in the heart of Scotland, Perthshire for that perfect organic, vegetarian or vegan holiday? Come and enjoy our unique rooms in Scottish design or try luxury glamping and back-to-nature living in our well equipped yurts like a Home from home no matter where you’re from, a place to relax, enjoy nature and escape from the city.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve guide

Overview

Located on the eastern edge of Cairngorms National Park, Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve is home to towering Caledonian pine forest and rugged heather-covered moorland. Outdoor adventurers can follow a network of marked paths by foot, mountain bike, ski or horseback while wildlife watchers can keep an eye out for capercaillie, hen harrier, merlin, osprey and, perhaps, the occasional golden eagle. While there are no organized campgrounds within the reserve, wild camping is an option for respectful visitors following the Outdoor Access Code, and the Tarland Camping and Caravanning Site is a 20-minute drive away.

When to go

The reserve is open to visitors all year round and there’s always something special to see. Visit in spring for abundant birdlife; summer to see butterflies and bees fluttering between wildflowers; fall for a landscape draped in rich bold colors and rutting red deer, and winter for a snow-blanketed winter wonderland. Summer is peak season in Cairngorms National Park, which can bring crowded trails and booked up campsites.

Know before you go

The Braeloine Visitor Centre has a permanent exhibition with information about the reserve and rangers on hand to answer questions.
Small biting midges are a common summertime nuisance in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a good idea to bring insect repellent.
Getting to Glen Tanar, and around, is difficult without your own transport.
Even in summer, the weather can quickly change. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy walking boots are essential.