Mountain campsites in Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve

·

At the southeastern end of Loch Lomond, and reached by a short boat trip from the village of Balmaha, Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve is spread across the islands of Inchcailloch, Clairinsh, Torrinch, Creinch and Aber Isle. Straddling the dividing line of the Highland Boundary Fault, the reserve’s landscapes reflect both that of the Highlands and the Lowlands, with rugged mountains to the north and gentler, rolling hills to the south. Its wide range of habitats include woodlands, open water, grassland and wetlands and is a popular spot for keen naturalists, who can spot osprey fishing in the loch. There is a small and basic campsite on Inchcailloch. As the island is a nature reserve, occupancy is limited and visitors may only stay up to two nights and permits are required.

88% (82)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

5. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%
(3)
2 units · Glamping · Scotland
Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
£85
 / night

At the southeastern end of Loch Lomond, and reached by a short boat trip from the village of Balmaha, Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve is spread across the islands of Inchcailloch, Clairinsh, Torrinch, Creinch and Aber Isle. Straddling the dividing line of the Highland Boundary Fault, the reserve’s landscapes reflect both that of the Highlands and the Lowlands, with rugged mountains to the north and gentler, rolling hills to the south. Its wide range of habitats include woodlands, open water, grassland and wetlands and is a popular spot for keen naturalists, who can spot osprey fishing in the loch. There is a small and basic campsite on Inchcailloch. As the island is a nature reserve, occupancy is limited and visitors may only stay up to two nights and permits are required.

88% (82)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

5. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%
(3)
2 units · Glamping · Scotland
Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
£85
 / night

Stories from the community

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

Mountain campsites in Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

From April to September is the best time to visit to see woodland wildlife, fishing ospreys and the rich wetlands of Endrick Mouth as they burst with flowers and insects. In the fall you can see wintering geese arriving from Greenland and Iceland, as well as other waterfowl; come winter you’ll see thousands of geese roosting on the reserve. Spring brings a brightly colored carpet of wildflowers and plentiful birdlife.

Know before you go

  • The Inchcailloch campsite is open only from March through September.
  • There is a ranger service on Inchcailloch, which offers guided walks.
  • Due to the deer population, ticks are present in the reserve. Long pants and sleeves are recommended.
  • The weather can be changeable, even in summer. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.