Discover the best river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campsites near Glencoe

The village of Glencoe is the gateway to the deep, haunting valley of Glen Coe and surrounded by some of Scotland’s most rugged and spectacular scenery. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here to go hiking through the valley or to bag a couple of Munros, mountain peaks higher than 3,000 feet (914 meters), of which there are eight in the area. Skiers, snowboarders and mountain bikers will also find plenty of action at the nearby Glencoe Mountain Resort. Campers have options, too, whether you prefer parking in a caravan site or wild camping in the Lost Valley.

Where to go

Glencoe Village

Steps from the shores of Loch Leven, a top spot for kayaking, Invercoe Caravan and Camping Park has lots of touring pitches for motorhomes, caravans and tents. A short walk from the Glencoe National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre, the Glencoe Camping and Caravanning Club Site offers plenty of grass and hardstanding pitches surrounded by woodland and mountain views. Close by and tucked away beside the River Coe, Red Squirrel Camping offers basic camping in its meadow and woodland pitches.

Kinlochleven

Three miles north of Glencoe and just outside the village of Kinlochleven, Caolasnacon Caravan and Camping Park offers unmarked grass pitches for camping and touring in an idyllic setting overlooking Loch Leven—the site has a limited number of electric hookups. A couple of miles farther north and close to the West Highland Way, Blackwater Glamping and Camping is an ideal choice for weary hikers. The site’s pitches are suitable for small tents only while their glamping pods offer a touch of relative luxury.

Glencoe Mountain

Twelve miles south of Glencoe Village, the Campsite at Glencoe Mountain Resort offers camping, caravan and campervan pitches in a wooded area on Rannoch Moor with views of the pyrmaidal peak of Buachaille Etive Mòr, as well as the possibility of spotting golden eagles soaring overhead. The site also has a selection of comfortable microlodges, which are especially popular with tired walkers, skiers and bikers.

When to go

For long and often sunny days, May to August is the best period to visit—in the height of summer it doesn’t get dark until close to 11 p.m. The summer months, however, see Glencoe fill up with a large number of tourists and families taking advantage of school holidays. September is a great month to visit as most of the large crowds have gone and the fall colors throughout the valley are beautiful, while spring is an especially good time to see wildlife. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts will not be daunted by winter’s chilly temperatures.

Know before you go

Not all campsites are open year-round: check opening dates before traveling.
If choosing to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
A convenient bus service connects Glencoe with Fort William, Glasgow and beyond. In summer it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance.
Biting midges are a common nuisance in the Highlands in summer. It’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and bring repellent.
You can buy basic provisions in Glencoe and there are a couple of larger supermarkets just outside the village.