Dog-friendly camping in Rothiemurchus Forest

While summer is the most popular time to visit the Cairngorms, it brings crowds and booked-up sites. You can dodge the biggest crowds, while still enjoying good weather, by aiming for a late spring or early autumn visit. It’s a year-round destination, though, with plenty of winter sports on offer in Aviemore—winter is also the best time to visit the herd at the Cairngorms Reindeer Centre.

• Rothiemurchus is a 30-minute walk from Aviemore, which has rail and bus connections to much of the rest of Scotland.
• From groceries to camping gear, you’ll likely find everything you need in the well-stocked shops of Aviemore, 10 miles (16 kilometres) away.
• The weather is always unpredictable in Scotland. Even in summer you should bring warm, wet weather gear. 
• Midges are a persistent nuisance during summer in the Highlands. Bring insect repellant and long sleeves.
• When visiting any natural setting in Scotland, be sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.