Lake camping near Aviemore
Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of thrills in this Highland resort town.
- Aviemore
Popular camping styles for Aviemore
2 top lakeside campsites near Aviemore
Culdees Castle Estate Glamping
West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
Lake camping near Aviemore guide
Overview
Located within the Cairngorms National Park, the resort town of Aviemore is the perfect base for exploring the spectacular surrounding scenery. Those setting up camp in the Aviemore area will enjoy close proximity to mountain trails, secluded lochs and dense, ancient forest. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep an eye out for eagles, capercaillies and ospreys, while outdoor adventurers can enjoy a range of activities, from kayaking and white water rafting to skiing and snowboarding. Campers have plenty of options, from caravan parks and cosy glamping pods to pitching a tent in a forest.
Where to go
Around Town
Visitors overnighting in Aviemore can enjoy the feel of a wilderness getaway while having easy access to the town’s shops, pubs and restaurants. Nestled in a quiet, wooded area but just a 20-minute walk from the center of town, Oakwood Caravan and Camping Park has hard standing pitches for caravans/motorhomes, as well as three small tent areas. Those (such as tired skiers) looking for a more comfortable, upscale experience can stay in a heated pod at Eriskay B&B and Glamping, close to the centre of town.
Rothiemurchus
A 12-minute drive south of town, the Rothiemurchus estate contains one of Britain’s largest areas of natural forest. At the heart of the estate is a campsite with sheltered tent pitches as well as level pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes, all with electric hook-up. The site offers a wilderness experience, surrounded by Caledonian pine trees, with the convenience of modern facilities.
Loch Morlich
Less than a 20-minute drive southeast of Aviemore, freshwater Loch Morlich is home to a watersports centre from where you can embark on kayaking, sailing and windsurfing adventures. Glenmore Campsite has direct access to the loch’s shores and has plenty of pitches suitable for tents, caravans, campervans and motorhomes.
When to go
Aviemore is a year-round destination, though most visitors arrive in summer when the days are long and relatively warm. Spring and summer are best for enjoying water sports and hiking. Snowfall is typically heaviest from late February through March, making it the best time for skiing and other winter activities (if possible try to avoid the school half-term holidays in February).
Know before you go
- Not all campsites in the area are open all year: check opening dates before travelling.
- The weather is changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Small biting midges are a common summertime nuisance in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a good idea to bring insect repellent.
- Scotrail train services link Aviemore with Aberdeen, Glasgow and beyond. If travelling during summer or school holidays, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance.
