The best campsites in Mabie with horseback riding

100% (61 reviews)

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.

Popular camping styles for Mabie

Top-rated campgrounds

100% (61 reviews)

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.

Popular camping styles for Mabie

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 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

2. 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.

3. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

4. 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.

Stories from the community

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.

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!

K

Ken

May 2025

3 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

If you are looking for peace and quiet, surrounded by beautiful countryside then this place is for you. Great location. Great communication - Ruth came to see us when we contactedher about the WIFI. Use of private bathroom and shower. Only thing for us is that those facilities were across a farm yard and the cabin didn't have its own supply. The bed was comfy and the cabin stayed at a good temperature (even when it was cold outside). Fire pit available. Would recommend

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.

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.

R

Reece

November 2024

3 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the log cabin, from the great atmosphere to the welcoming and helpful people close by, it was one of nicest glamping experiences. The cabin was such a cozy experience along with the beautiful view right outside of your cabin. If you are looking for some time away to relax or for long walks or even a little boat around the stream Ottermoss is the place to go.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites in Mabie with horseback riding 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.