Best Woodland Camping in Mabie

Just 20 minutes south of Dumfries, Mabie Forest is one of the area’s most popular destinations for walkers and mountain bikers. The forest is home to a 7stanes mountain biking centre, which has a variety of trails for everyone, from beginners to expert riders who can tackle an extreme downhill section. There are also several walking trails that take visitors through the woods and over hills to viewpoints that take in the surrounding landscapes. Wildlife lovers also flock to Mabie Forest to spot red squirrels, badgers, roe deer and foxes, as well as ospreys and 20 species of butterfly.

100% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

Just 20 minutes south of Dumfries, Mabie Forest is one of the area’s most popular destinations for walkers and mountain bikers. The forest is home to a 7stanes mountain biking centre, which has a variety of trails for everyone, from beginners to expert riders who can tackle an extreme downhill section. There are also several walking trails that take visitors through the woods and over hills to viewpoints that take in the surrounding landscapes. Wildlife lovers also flock to Mabie Forest to spot red squirrels, badgers, roe deer and foxes, as well as ospreys and 20 species of butterfly.

100% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall

2. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

3 units · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra

3. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

15 units · Tents, Glamping · Lanark, Scotland

*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR MIDWEEK AND WEEKEND BOOKINGS. CAMPING WILL RETURN IN SPRING 2026.* Cleghorn Farm is a mixed farm just north east of the market town of Lanark. Comprised of 250 acres of fields and woodland and bounded to the south by Mouse Water, it is a beautiful spot to get away from it all without having to leave it all behind if you don't want to. The fields are grazed and cultivated but the woodlands are much as they were at the end of the last ice age with spectacular walks along Cleghorn Glen with the chance to see badgers, bats, deer and all manner of birds among the towering pine and beech trees. The Mouse Water (pronounced moose) tumbles down along the edge of the farm and has some glorious pools for swimming, shallows for paddling and some spectacular water falls before it joins the River Clyde.

4. Broom Fisheries Campsite

4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

5. Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

6. Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

7. Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

8. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

5 units · Glamping · Stranraer, Galloway

We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.

Camper favorites in and near Mabie

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Broom Fisheries Campsite

4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

5 units · Glamping · Stranraer, Galloway

We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.

Stories from the community

V

Virginia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.

P

Paul

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cleghorn Farm

The beautiful cabin is in a lovely quiet private space. There are nice views across to the hills particularly when sat by the firepit. Alex and Lauren made us feel very welcome.

A

Ally

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Just returning from our first visit to Cardewlees and we could not of asked for a better stay. Cardewlees is an absolute little gem of a campsite and Johnny could not have been a better host if he tried. Toilet and showering facilities were more than adequate and the water was always nice and warm. Thank you for a perfect stay and we look forward to coming back soon. Ally and Lee x

E

Eleanor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!

M

Megan

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

The campsite had lovely views and the facilities were very accessible.

S

Saskia

July 2025

3 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

We had a wonderful little getaway here, exactly what we needed nice and quiet and surrounded by nature, the pod was clean and cosy and provided everything you need for a stay. The bbq was really nice and worked well. Can was really wonderful and helpful especially with a little mishap we had. 10/10 I would recommend going here and we will definitely be back!

Nicholas

July 2025

4 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

Another brilliant stay. Can't fault it. Will be returning.

A

Alex

May 2025

2 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

A lovely stay, with excellent facilities and a great view! Would recommend to anyone looking for a destination in the Keswick area.

J

Jodie

April 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Really friendly greeting from the owner and the pitch was excellent.

E

Eleanor

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Ewe Love Camping Pods

An amazing stay, amazing location with an even better view! The pods were well equipped and the underfloor heating was amazing. I will definitely be returning. Perfect location for our hike up Blencathra.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Woodland campsites in Mabie guide

When to go

While Mabie Forest is a great destination all year-round, summer offers the best weather conditions and long daylight hours. Summer especially appeals to wildlife lovers who can spot ospreys fishing on Lochaber Loch. The autumn is also an attractive time to visit for the sight of the forest ablaze in rich reds and oranges. If tackling the trails in winter, be sure to take care and dress in warm, weatherproof gear.

Know before you go

Families travelling with children will find an adventure playground nestled in the trees next to the car park.
The closest railway station is in Dumfries, from where regular buses travel to Sandyhills and stop close to the forest entrance.
Public toilets, accessible facilities, picnic tables, and barbecues are available near the main car park.