Campsites near Helmsdale

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Surrounded by stunning coastline and hills, the little Highland village of Helmsdale is a perfect base for those who love to get outdoors. Whether you’re a walker tackling the 147-mile (237-kilometre) coastal trail from Inverness to John O’ Groats or you just want to soak up the atmosphere of a small Scottish fishing village, you’ll find plenty to do here. Helmsdale is well-known for its salmon fishing and is also home to such attractions as the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre and the Emigrants, a dramatic statue commemorating the Clearances. While B&Bs make up the majority of Helmsdale accommodation options, campers will find caravan and tent sites and even a yurt within easy reach.

100% (6) 67 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Helmsdale

The Loft Glamping & Camping

1. The Loft Glamping & Camping

93%
(15)
54km from Helmsdale · 12 units · Tents, Motorhomes
The Loft Glamping and 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 have been reppurposed 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. We also now take bookings for caravans. We do not have fully service pitches 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). New for Summer 2026: Two rapid EV charging points are now available on site, making it easy to recharge your electric vehicle during your stay. The Loft Glamping and Camping looks forward to welcoming you throughout the year!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Badrallach Campsite

2. Badrallach Campsite

92%
(44)
99km from Helmsdale · 12 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Where the end of the road is the start of your adventure
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

3. Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

95%
(62)
109km from Helmsdale · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Pitches and pods in the Cairngorms National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
The Hideyhole Campsite

4. The Hideyhole Campsite

52km from Helmsdale · 6 units
Explore the beautiful Moray Coast from the comfort of your caravan nestled in our award-winning family run Hideyhole Campsite here on Westfield Farm. Taking a maximum of only 6 caravans at any time, you’ll enjoy the peaceful setting here on the farm and appreciate the wealth of wildlife we are lucky to have. Enjoy exploring the ancient beech woodland and stunning farmland of Westfield. Dogs will love the peace quiet and space to run about. We have a tarmac tennis court available to book on-site for the sporty campers. Perfectly located for exploring the numerous beaches and seaside villages of the Moray Firth, all within a short drive from the site. Moray is famed for its many golf courses, distilleries, and coastline as well as some great local eateries and seafood. The National Cycle Route 1 from Dover to the North of Scotland runs through the farm, a short distance from the campsite. For those exploring the NC500, and wishing to continue the adventure, we are well placed for an extra stop off before or after you reach Inverness.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Caiplich Farm

5. Caiplich Farm

100%
(2)
92km from Helmsdale · 1 unit
Caiplich Farm is a working farm set high in the hills above Loch Ness. With mountain views, breathtaking sunsets, starry skies and the beauty of the northern lights we get the best of the big sky views.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Bankhead Croft

6. Bankhead Croft

93km from Helmsdale · 13 units · Tents, Glamping
I am a ten acre Croft. I have an on-site cafe. I rescue animals which surround the property. We are two miles from Gardenstown seaside. I offer camping, glamping B&B, and tiny home, cabins. Many properties have hot tubs and are set alone. It’s a quiet area and for those who want to chill on the countryside.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Mondhuie Chalets

7. Mondhuie Chalets

95km from Helmsdale · 1 unit
Just under an acre, close to Ancient Caledonia Forest , on the Speyside Way (which runs from Elgin to the South) Garden space for pets, kids and a run around! Our house and 2 Chalets (1 sleeps 5, 1 ideal for 2 or small family) are on the property. Not fully fenced from road. On the outskirts of NethyBridge. Private driveway, and car park
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Sunnyhill farm

8. Sunnyhill farm

109km from Helmsdale · 2 units
Off-Grid Rustic Glamping Experience on a Working Farm Escape the noise, unplug from the everyday, and reconnect with nature in our unique off-grid glamping retreat, nestled in the heart of a working farm. Wake to birdsong, grazing animals, and sweeping countryside views. Spend your days exploring peaceful walking trails, meeting the farm animals, collecting fresh eggs, or simply unwinding with a good book while the world slows down around you. Our handcrafted glamping accommodation offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and comfort. Thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings, comfortable beds, and all the essentials for a relaxing stay, you'll enjoy an authentic back-to-nature experience without sacrificing comfort. As an off-grid retreat, you'll experience a simpler way of living. Powered sustainably and surrounded by nature, it's the perfect place to disconnect from screens and reconnect with what matters most. Evenings are best spent around the fire pit under a canopy of stars, toasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and embracing the peace that only the countryside can offer. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a solo retreat to recharge, or a memorable adventure with family or friends, our working farm provides a truly authentic rural experience. Watch the rhythm of farm life unfold, breathe in the fresh country air, and discover the beauty of slowing down. Come for the peace. Stay for the experience. Leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
Aberdeenshire Airstream

9. Aberdeenshire Airstream

100%
(3)
114km from Helmsdale · 1 unit
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Nestled in the tranquil rolling foothills of the Cairngorms in beautiful northeast Scotland is this tastefully renovated 1979 Airstream Argosy. Unwind in the peaceful landscape of Aberdeenshire where you can enjoy hiking and cycling trails straight from your door, relax on one of the two big decks or lounge in the hammocks. Surrounded by fields and woodland and situated off the beaten tourist track, this is a perfect place to truly kick back.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Miry Park TinTents

10. Miry Park TinTents

100%
(1)
141km from Helmsdale · 8 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We have 2 x 4 berth tin tents both can sleep 4 adults or 2 adults and 2 children room for a travel cot both have full bathrooms with chemical toilets both have full kitchens and lounge areas THE BYRE has a double island bed & THE BEACHCOMBER has a French Double bed all supplied with bedding and towels we have an indoor hot tub .wifi .lots of animals to interact with llamas alpacas pygmy goats calves lambs etc our campsite has a shower ..toilets & a indoor eating area ...we accept bbqs and firepits and has amazing sea view fridge & freezer are also available ..we also have new for 2026 a safari tent contains 1 double & 4 singles which sleeps 6 ...minimum 2 night booking and must be booked in advance
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cragdhu Log Cabin

11. Cragdhu Log Cabin

146km from Helmsdale · 1 unit
Escape to the tranquility of Cragdhu, a charming two-bedroom self-catering log cabin perched high on a scenic hillside, offering breathtaking 360° mountain views. With a private setting and rustic charm, Cragdhu is a favorite among returning guests who come for the peace, comfort, and natural beauty. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests, with two bedrooms - a cosy double with ensuite shower room/WC and a twin bedroom - plus a fold-down single futon in the living room for additional flexibility. Inside, you’ll find an open-plan living and dining area with comfy sofas, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. The fully equipped kitchen includes a hob with fan oven and grill, microwave, full-size fridge/freezer, washing machine, kettle, toas
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Helmsdale camping guide

Where to go

Around Helmsdale

A 10-minute drive south of the village and a stone's throw from the coast, Crakaig Loth Campsite is a relaxed and basic site for tents, caravans and motorhomes and ideally situated for walkers and cyclists exploring the surrounding area. Just outside the village, Tall Pines Yurt is a sole-use site with private garden and sea views.

Brora

Farther south, around 15 minutes from Helmsdale, the Brora Caravan Club Site offers sites for tents, caravans and motorhomes set in a sheltered location just steps from a sandy beach. It’s a great location for those who want to get out into nature and to enjoy the water, whether by swimming, fishing or spotting seals and dolphins. Nearby Green Park Caravan Site offers similar facilities. 

Dunbeath

A 20-minute drive north of Helmsdale, Inver Caravan Park is just north of the village of Dunbeath in southern Caithness and within walking distance of Dunbeath Castle, which is picturesquely perched on rocky cliffs. This small, quiet and friendly site has plenty of facilities, as well as hardstanding pitches for motorhomes and caravans and smooth grassy pitches for tents. 

When to go

For the best chance of good weather and long daylight hours, summer is your best bet. Note, however, that the Highlands get very busy in the summer months (especially July and August) with people touring the North Coast 500 driving route. May and September offer a good alternative for fewer crowds. If visiting in August, don’t miss Helmsdale's annual Highland games, held in a dramatic setting overlooking the village.

Know before you go

  • Many sites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before travelling.
  • If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. 
  • Helmsdale is walkable and you can get to most nearby places (including Inverness) by bus. However, having your own transportation is ideal.
  • You can find basic supplies in Helmsdale’s shops. Dornoch (30 miles/48 kilometres south) offers more variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Helmsdale, you can visit attractions such as the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre and the Emigrants, a dramatic statue commemorating the Clearances.

You can find camping options near Helmsdale at Inver Caravan Park, Crakaig Loth Campsite, Tall Pines Yurt, Brora Caravan Club Site, and Green Park Caravan Site. You can also explore different options for camping near Helmsdale on Hipcamp.

For the best chance of good weather and long daylight hours, summer is your best bet. Note, however, that the Highlands get very busy in the summer months (especially July and August) with people touring the North Coast 500 driving route. May and September offer a good alternative for fewer crowds. If visiting in August, don’t miss Helmsdale's annual Highland games, held in a dramatic setting overlooking the village.

Helmsdale is walkable and you can get to most nearby places (including Inverness) by bus. However, having your own transportation is ideal.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top towns near Helmsdale