Camping in Rum National Nature Reserve

One of the Small Isles, in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, the entire island of Rùm is a national nature reserve. The island is home to extinct volcanoes, rugged mountains, beautiful beaches, soaring sea cliffs, misty glens and plentiful wildlife that includes one of the world’s largest colonies of Manx shearwater. You can explore Kinloch Castle, join a guided wildlife walk, hike along a nature trail, kayak along the coast, spot otters and seals along the shores of Loch Scresort, or climb the mountain ridges of the Cuillin Peaks. On Loch Scresort, Kinloch Village Campsite is a basic campsite run by the Isle of Rum Community Trust. There are also cabins on the island, as well as a couple of bothies.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds

One of the Small Isles, in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, the entire island of Rùm is a national nature reserve. The island is home to extinct volcanoes, rugged mountains, beautiful beaches, soaring sea cliffs, misty glens and plentiful wildlife that includes one of the world’s largest colonies of Manx shearwater. You can explore Kinloch Castle, join a guided wildlife walk, hike along a nature trail, kayak along the coast, spot otters and seals along the shores of Loch Scresort, or climb the mountain ridges of the Cuillin Peaks. On Loch Scresort, Kinloch Village Campsite is a basic campsite run by the Isle of Rum Community Trust. There are also cabins on the island, as well as a couple of bothies.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Port nan Gael Campsite

95%

(11)

75 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pennyghael, Scotland

A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull

2. Cosy Caravan in Roshven

1 unit · Glamping · Scotland

This self-contained trailer has been a well loved part our home since 2010. We’re happy to welcome friends and visitors to stay in it from time to time. A beautiful, wild and remote setting on the West Coast of Scotland. Peace and quiet! A useful stopover on the way to the Skye ferry. Cars/bikes and wellington boots are recommended. Eggs from our free range hens are available to buy. It is a drive to reach the small local shops/pubs. Walks to beaches and woods. We look forward to welcoming you. The vintage caravan is a cosy, quiet, self-contained space positioned close by our house. It is surrounded by honeysuckle and clematis. Through the windows you can glimpse mountains and trees. There’s a small double bedroom and another small bedroom that can be arranged either with a generous single or small twin beds that are ideal for young children. The living area has couches and a dining table. The kitchenette has all the basics, fridge, microwave and a gas cooker. The bathroom has a shower, washbasin and toilet. This self-catering accommodation has its own private lockable entrance. Guests have access to the caravan, garden, and driveway. Nearest shops/pubs are a 20-30min DRIVE away - it's a good idea to bring everything you need as the road is long and you may not feel like going out again! Please let me know in advance if you require the small twin beds made up. From the last week of May through to early September it is midge season in the Scottish Highlands, so be prepared to encounter these tiny biting flies - however, a light breeze and a stick of citronella incense is usually enough to disperse them! On still nights I strongly recommend that you keep the windows closed, otherwise you may find clouds of midges invade your space. There is a cooling fan to make warm evenings more comfortable. A haven for creatives! During April and October we host artists’ residencies specially for socially engaged practitioners who would benefit from some time to rest and reconnect with nature. When you book via Hipcamp, a small community fee is added to your daily booking charge and this goes to support these residencies by helping to pay for logs for the wood stove during the artists' visits.

3. Dalaraban Luxury Pods

2 units · Glamping · Scotland

Situated above Loch Linnhe with uninterrupted views towards Corpach and Treslaig, you can watch the sea and golden eagles above from the decking of these pods, as well as the roe deer visiting you in the morning. Unlike other pods, our pods are equipped with a full-size shower, a wood burner, a kingsize bed, a sofa bed for two children and a kitchen with a mini fridge and freezer. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the area with many activities and attractions within driving distance. Dalaraban Luxury Pods are located on farmland to the South side of Fort William beside the road that climbs above the town. This gives marvellous clear views to Loch Linnhe and the hills beyond. Whether you are seeking thrilling outdoor pursuits, exploring historical landmarks, or simply soaking in the breath-taking scenery, there’s something here for everyone. From hiking the iconic Ben Nevis to cruising on Loch Linnhe or discovering the rich culture of the area, here there are some of the best activities and experiences Fort William and its stunning surroundings have to offer. Start planning your Highland adventure today!

4. Sanday Cabin

1 unit · Glamping · Sandy, Scotland

The Sanday Cabin is an open plan space with a lovely French style double bed (separate toilet / shower room) that sits at the top of a croft on the Isle of Sanday, right next door to Canna. The cabin has views out over the bay of Canna harbour to the Cuillins of Skye and across to the Isle of Rum. You can even see the famous Sanday Puffin Stacks from the cabin and take a stroll along the Puffin Trail. The cabin has its own decking area and a wooden fenced garden area - so you can enjoy looking at cows without them getting too close! Fully equipped kitchen, all linen towels provided and luggage transport provided.

Stories from the community

S

Siobhan

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Port nan Gael Campsite

Absolutely loved our stay! Despite the almost constant rain we had haha. Beautiful location with views out over the water where we saw some seals one night. Great facilities on site, and a fab shop and restaurant too! Will 100% be back 😃

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Rum National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit for enjoying long daylight hours; your best chance of good weather, and spotting wildlife, from birds of prey including golden eagles, white-tailed eagles and merlin soaring overhead to Manx shearwater rafting offshore.Summer is an especially good time to see red deer in their summer coats. Fall is also a good option: the landscape is ablaze with rich colors and you can see the spectacle of rutting red deer.

Know before you go

Wild camping is permitted as long as you adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. If you plan to stay in a bothy, check the bothy code in advance.
The weather conditions can change dramatically. Be sure to bring warm, wet-weather gear and sturdy footwear.
Roads are unpaved and only locals are permitted to bring cars onto the island. Expect to walk almost everywhere. Hiring a bicycle is possible, but pedaling along the rough and steep tracks is not for the fainthearted.
There is no restaurant on the island, and the village shop sells a limited selection of groceries. It’s a good idea to bring at least some supplies with you.

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