Camping in Lewis and Harris

Name: Lewis and Harris
Address: Lewis and Harris

Often referred to as two separate islands, Lewis and Harris is actually a single island with the larger northern part called Lewis and the southern part, Harris. The island boasts spectacular scenery, from rugged mountains to stunning stretches of white-sand beach. Steeped in a strong Gaelic culture, the island also has a thriving cultural and food scene. Outdoor adventurers can find plenty to do, from hill-walking to kayaking and even surfing and paddleboarding. It’s a year-round destination notably most popular in summer, when the events calendar revs up, the beaches are at their most sparkling, and the machair is carpeted in blooming wildflowers.

Top-rated campgrounds in Lewis and Harris

Croft 5 - Exclusive Wilderness Camp

1. Croft 5 - Exclusive Wilderness Camp

Callanish, Scotland · 1 unit

Escape to nearly five acres of exclusive land on the west side of the Isle of Lewis. Croft 5 offers a true wilderness camping experience. Reserved for one booking at a time, so you can enjoy complete solitude and space. The land overlooks Little Loch Roag, perfect for eagle watching, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views. Guests can choose their own pitch—near the loch, beside the stream, or sheltered by the old blackhouse—creating a personalised camping experience. Facilities are minimal: an outdoor composting toilet, fresh water delivered to your pitch. There is no electricity or showers; guests should be self-sufficient and comfortable with wild conditions. Open fires are not permitted, but camping stoves are welcome. Croft 5 is especially suited to walkers, cyclists, backpackers, and self-sufficient adventurers seeking a restorative escape. Dogs may be allowed by prior arrangement. Access is easy, with nearby bus connections and parking for one vehicle, though most guests arrive without a car. The Isle of Lewis has changeable weather, and ferry cancellations can occasionally affect travel. We will always try to accommodate guests at alternative dates if availability allows. Camping is limited to 28 nights per year, this is a rare chance to enjoy a wilderness retreat with stunning views, abundant wildlife, and nearly five acres to yourself.

Pets

Potable water

Often referred to as two separate islands, Lewis and Harris is actually a single island with the larger northern part called Lewis and the southern part, Harris. The island boasts spectacular scenery, from rugged mountains to stunning stretches of white-sand beach. Steeped in a strong Gaelic culture, the island also has a thriving cultural and food scene. Outdoor adventurers can find plenty to do, from hill-walking to kayaking and even surfing and paddleboarding. It’s a year-round destination notably most popular in summer, when the events calendar revs up, the beaches are at their most sparkling, and the machair is carpeted in blooming wildflowers.

Top-rated campgrounds in Lewis and Harris

Croft 5 - Exclusive Wilderness Camp

1. Croft 5 - Exclusive Wilderness Camp

Callanish, Scotland · 1 unit

Escape to nearly five acres of exclusive land on the west side of the Isle of Lewis. Croft 5 offers a true wilderness camping experience. Reserved for one booking at a time, so you can enjoy complete solitude and space. The land overlooks Little Loch Roag, perfect for eagle watching, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views. Guests can choose their own pitch—near the loch, beside the stream, or sheltered by the old blackhouse—creating a personalised camping experience. Facilities are minimal: an outdoor composting toilet, fresh water delivered to your pitch. There is no electricity or showers; guests should be self-sufficient and comfortable with wild conditions. Open fires are not permitted, but camping stoves are welcome. Croft 5 is especially suited to walkers, cyclists, backpackers, and self-sufficient adventurers seeking a restorative escape. Dogs may be allowed by prior arrangement. Access is easy, with nearby bus connections and parking for one vehicle, though most guests arrive without a car. The Isle of Lewis has changeable weather, and ferry cancellations can occasionally affect travel. We will always try to accommodate guests at alternative dates if availability allows. Camping is limited to 28 nights per year, this is a rare chance to enjoy a wilderness retreat with stunning views, abundant wildlife, and nearly five acres to yourself.

Pets

Potable water

Lewis and Harris camping guide

Where to go

Around Stornoway (East Coast, Lewis)

Those arriving on Lewis and Harris by ferry from Ullapool or by plane from Glasgow or Edinburgh will arrive in the main town of Stornoway. Rather than rushing through, it’s worth staying a while to experience the charming cultural hub. Even within a short drive from the town center, campers can find self-catering glamping pods in tranquil spots near the beaches and Tiumpan Head, where you can spot birds, dolphins, and migrating whales.

West Coast, Lewis

Dotted with hills and lochs, the rugged landscapes of Lewis’ west coast are home to such attractions as the Callanish Standing Stones, built up to 5,000 years ago, and the 2,000-year-old Dun Carloway broch. In the crofting village of Shawbost, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, family-run campgrounds offer pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. Farther south and close to the sandy beach and azure waters of Mangersta, campers can find basic, informal sites to pitch in the grass.

West Coast, Harris

The west coast of Harris is home to some of the island’s most scenic gems, notably Luskentyre and Seilebost beaches. The West Harris Trust operates five sites suitable for caravans, motorhomes, and campervans, including small pitches with hookups and a handful of pitches on the Seilebost School. All sites are just a short walk from the shore.

East Coast, Harris

Harris’ less-trafficked east coast offers a tranquil getaway far from the crowds. Here you can find quiet camping grounds offering a range of options, from grass and hardstanding pitches for tents and motorhomes to yurt glamping. Also nearby on peaceful croft land, caravan parks offer scenic spots to spend the night.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some attractions on the west coast of Lewis?

Dotted with hills and lochs, the rugged landscapes of Lewis’ west coast are home to such attractions as the Callanish Standing Stones, built up to 5,000 years ago, and the 2,000-year-old Dun Carloway broch. In the crofting village of Shawbost, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, family-run campgrounds offer pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. Farther south and close to the sandy beach and azure waters of Mangersta, campers can find basic, informal sites to pitch in the grass. You can also explore different options for camping near Lewis and Harris on Hipcamp.

What is the main town of Lewis and Harris?

Those arriving on Lewis and Harris by ferry from Ullapool or by plane from Glasgow or Edinburgh will arrive in the main town of Stornoway. Rather than rushing through, it’s worth staying a while to experience the charming cultural hub. Even within a short drive from the town center, campers can find self-catering glamping pods in tranquil spots near the beaches and Tiumpan Head, where you can spot birds, dolphins, and migrating whales. You can also explore different options for camping near Lewis and Harris on Hipcamp.

What are some outdoor activities available on Lewis and Harris?

Outdoor adventurers can find plenty to do on Lewis and Harris, from hill-walking to kayaking and even surfing and paddleboarding. It’s a year-round destination notably most popular in summer, when the events calendar revs up, the beaches are at their most sparkling, and the machair is carpeted in blooming wildflowers. You can also explore different options for camping near Lewis and Harris on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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