Campsites with swimming near Kelso, Scottish Borders

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, just a stone’s throw from the Scotland-England border, Kelso is a vibrant town set picturesquely at the meeting of the Tweed and Teviot Rivers. As is typical of border towns, Kelso is steeped in dramatic history, much of it centred around the now-ruined, though once powerful, Roxburgh Castle where James II met his fate. Today, the grand, and still inhabited, Floors Castle is the main attraction and is worth a visit to explore the fine art collection and wander the grounds’ woodland, riverside trail and Victorian walled garden or let the children play in the enclosed adventure playground.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, just a stone’s throw from the Scotland-England border, Kelso is a vibrant town set picturesquely at the meeting of the Tweed and Teviot Rivers. As is typical of border towns, Kelso is steeped in dramatic history, much of it centred around the now-ruined, though once powerful, Roxburgh Castle where James II met his fate. Today, the grand, and still inhabited, Floors Castle is the main attraction and is worth a visit to explore the fine art collection and wander the grounds’ woodland, riverside trail and Victorian walled garden or let the children play in the enclosed adventure playground.

100% (15)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Kip & Nook

100%

(8)

131km from Kelso · 6 units · Motorhomes · Darlington, England

Adult-only campervan site with hot tub pitches in North Yorkshire

2. Howbeck Lodge

94%

(27)

103km from Kelso · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Hesket Newmarket, England

A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District

3. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

117km from Kelso · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

Luxury woodland cabins, each with a private hot tub, in the grounds of a Scottish castle

4. Woodland Chase Glamping

100%

(1)

55km from Kelso · 2 units · Glamping · Felton, England

Romantic, two-person cabins with hot tubs in Northumberland

5. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

147km from Kelso · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Wasdale, England

Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.

6. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

143km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

7. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(11)

84km from Kelso · 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.

8. Bamburgh Under Canvas

90%

(5)

44km from Kelso · 5 units · Glamping · Northumberland, North East England

Luxury Lotus Belle tent glamping with sweeping views, within walking distance of Bamburgh town and castle (and beach)

9. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

70km from Kelso · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall

10. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

139km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

11. Cherish Glamping

100%

(5)

144km from Kelso · 7 units · Glamping · Hawes, North Yorkshire, North East England

Yurts with private bathrooms, hot tubs, and breakfast included, set in beautiful Wensleydale

12. Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod

137km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Croftamie, Scotland

Settled in the idyllic area with unrestricted panoramic views over the Arrochar Alps, Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod is set in charming grounds to the west of the popular small village of Croftamie. It has a wonderful situation with some outstanding views, over fields, towards the dramatic enveloping peaks of the Arrochar Alps and Ben Lomond. The perfect getaway for a romantic stay or honeymoon retreat or simply for exploring the wonders of the countryside and beauty of the local nature. Enjoying a snug open-plan studio layout, Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod has everything you need for a countryside break full of outdoor adventures. The kitchenette is compact yet well-stocked with all the essential appliances with an electric hob, microwave and fridge being all you need to wine and dine. To the rear of the pod is the snug double bed with fresh & crispy bedlinen, cosy blankets for indoor and outdoor use (extra ones in a wooden box in front of the bed), and under-bed storage for your clothing. Compact, yet sleek bathroom equipped with a toilet, basin and an electric shower. The Pod is equipped with a Smart TV, a mini–Portable Bluetooth Speaker along with excellent Wi-Fi so you can stay connected. LED lights inside and outside the pod including decking lights. Outside of the pod, head out for a relaxing dip in the hot tub and soak up the stunning scenery before going back inside and climbing into cosy bed and watching your favourite series on Netflix. With a decking area providing a stunning view of the mountains, ofuro style hot tub and gazebo sitting area with firepit & BBQ Grill, this charming rural retreat for two, Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod is offering a peaceful romantic escape. Dog friendly Not suitable for children Loch Lomond Sunset Pod lies just to the west of Croftamie Village and is only a couple of miles south of Drymen. The Sunset Pod is within a National Scenic Area and The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland’s first National Park. It is surrounded by rolling Stirlingshire countryside and hills and is approached via its long private, and gated, drive off a quiet country road. When you reach the pod, on the left side of the front door there is a key safe box (details will be sent on your booking) for self-check-in, just put the code in to access the keys to the pod and enjoy your stay admiring amazing mountains views. And if you are lucky, a deer may pay you a surprising visit. If you are a smoker, we kindly ask you to only smoke outside of the glamping pod within the gazebo area, where an ashtray is provided.

13. Laverock Law Cottages and Glamping

100%

(1)

30km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Bamburgh, Northumberland, North East England

We are perfectly situated to explore both the Northumbrian Coastal area, including Holy Island , Bamburgh etc but also great for those who wish to discover the amazing Cheviot hills. Our site is managed organically and has won awards for sustainable tourism, itself a true escape and nature paradise.

14. Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

125km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

15. Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

125km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Stockton On Tees, England

Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.

16. Old Rectory Howick

55km from Kelso · 2 units · Glamping · Alnwick, England

The Old Rectory is surrounded by farmland near to Howick Village. Close to the Northumberland Coast we are within walking distance of the Howick Hall Gardens and the seaside Village of Craster. Our Bell Tent and Shepherd's Hut allow you to get close to local wildlife including Hares and Rabbits. Roe deer, hedgehogs, pheasants and songbirds.

17. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

145km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Lochearnhead, England

When travelling in Scotland, you will want to have the confidence in the quality of your accommodation, knowing that it will play a big part in the whole pleasurable experience of your holiday. Our location in Lochearnhead provides an ideal base for walking, water-sports, cycling, with flora & fauna and wild life in abundance. There are many local historic places to inspire you and bring the history of the highlands to life. Or perhaps you'd simply choose to curl up with a good book and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a slower pace of life. Wester Auchraw is located on the A84, Cycle Route 7 and the much loved walk 'Rob Roy Way'. It sits amongst spectacular scenery in Highland Perthshire yet is only 1 hour's drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth.

18. Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

123km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

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

Camper favorites near Kelso

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Laverock Law Cottages and Glamping

100%

(1)

30km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Bamburgh, Northumberland, North East England

We are perfectly situated to explore both the Northumbrian Coastal area, including Holy Island , Bamburgh etc but also great for those who wish to discover the amazing Cheviot hills. Our site is managed organically and has won awards for sustainable tourism, itself a true escape and nature paradise.

Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

125km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands

Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

125km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Stockton On Tees, England

Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.

Old Rectory Howick

55km from Kelso · 2 units · Glamping · Alnwick, England

The Old Rectory is surrounded by farmland near to Howick Village. Close to the Northumberland Coast we are within walking distance of the Howick Hall Gardens and the seaside Village of Craster. Our Bell Tent and Shepherd's Hut allow you to get close to local wildlife including Hares and Rabbits. Roe deer, hedgehogs, pheasants and songbirds.

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

145km from Kelso · 1 unit · Glamping · Lochearnhead, England

When travelling in Scotland, you will want to have the confidence in the quality of your accommodation, knowing that it will play a big part in the whole pleasurable experience of your holiday. Our location in Lochearnhead provides an ideal base for walking, water-sports, cycling, with flora & fauna and wild life in abundance. There are many local historic places to inspire you and bring the history of the highlands to life. Or perhaps you'd simply choose to curl up with a good book and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a slower pace of life. Wester Auchraw is located on the A84, Cycle Route 7 and the much loved walk 'Rob Roy Way'. It sits amongst spectacular scenery in Highland Perthshire yet is only 1 hour's drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth.

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

123km from Kelso · 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

A

Andrew

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Cleghorn Farm

Friendly and welcoming environment! Nice place if you’re needing to get off the grid a bit.

n

natasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

We stayed in the yurt at Fairy Glen Wood and it was just perfect. It had everything we needed for a relaxing little retreat peaceful, comfortable, and surrounded by nature. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely love to come back!

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️

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

Sarah

August 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Howbeck Lodge

Good roomy level gravelled site especially suited to motorhomes but I was happy there in a camper. Facilities were clean with plenty of hot water. Christine v prompt in her comms.

L

Lisa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

This is a truly beautiful space. We've stayed in lots of yurts and this is the nicest by far. It's fab to have somewhere to sit inside if you need. But lovely spots outside too. The kitchen area is really useful and has everything you'd need. We followed the instructions for the shower and it worked perfectly. I loved the full length window to lay in bed and watch the sunset. Best of all if you're as anti social as me..... It's totally on it own! We re already planning our next visit.

L

Louise

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

Absolutely everything about the site was immaculate and so carefully thought out. Beautiful yurts, beautiful surroundings and the most amazing glamping trip.

T

Tim

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

It was an outstanding stay at Jo's place. It was everything we wanted - quiet, peaceful, and very pretty. This was the ideal Lakes location.

F

Finlay

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Howbeck Lodge

Beautiful campsite on a working farm. Facilities are clean and effective. The animals that we ran into were friendly, especially a little black cat that was very eager to say hello. The location was great, site was peaceful and there was very little wind, even with the poor weather that we got on our trip.

J

Jon

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

Caroline was fantastic! She made the check-in and check out so easy and ensured our comfort throughout, and the yurt and its facilities were perfect! This place is a gem! External cooking facilities were great, as was the wood fired hot tub!....perfect for a just needed getaway! Would certainly stay here again and again!...the yurts décor and cleanliness was exceptional. Top tip...order the pizza oven...its really worth it. Thanks again Caroline....

L

Lisa

May 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

What a delightful little find. Absolutely lovely little hut in total isolation. Everything you need to get away from it all. Perfect evening sitting outside by the fire listening to the countryside. But equally great tucked up inside with the log burner on listening to the pouring rain.

T

Tim

May 2025

2 nights at Bamburgh Under Canvas

Beautiful quiet site. The tent felt entirely private/separate from the few others on the site. Well equipped and comfortable. Perfectly located for exploring the North East coast. Campbell was really helpful and made our stay great. Couldn't recommend more!

Charles

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

Cosy hut in a perfect location, I would highly recommend.

Pitch and view of surrounding countryside

Lyle

May 2025

5 m Class B

2 nights at Howbeck Lodge

Lovely spot in the farmland, close to the lakes district. Good hot showers and clean toilets. Would recommend.

J

John

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

Beautiful little hut, on an incredibly picturesque plot of land. We had everything we needed (including the weather) to make for a great couple of days. Jo was amazing. Thank you

C

Claire

April 2025

1 m Class B

1 night at Howbeck Lodge

Fantastic rural location but only 15 mins for M6 set on a working farm in a valley. So quiet and scenic Walking distance to village with community pub!

H

Hannah

November 2024

6 m Class B

2 nights at Kip & Nook

Think we will struggle to top this campsite experience!! Facilities, setting, location and service was a solid 10/10 for us! Lovely to meet such welcoming staff and owners, we will definitely return in the near future 😊

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with swimming near Kelso guide

Where to go

Jedburgh

A 20-minute drive southwest of Kelso, Jebdurgh is another historic border town that’s worth a visit for its picturesque town centre and association with Mary Queen of Scots. Just outside of the town, the small Jedburgh Camping and Caravanning Club Site has pitches for tents, caravans and campervans.

Hawick

West of Jedburgh, Hawick is famed for its textile heritage, particularly its knitwear and cashmere. It’s equally famed for the Common Ridings, a spectacle of horsemanship held annually in early summer. Between Hawick and Jedburgh, Wild Woods Camping Ruberslaw offers a variety of pitches for tent campers, including semi-wild pitches and pitches inside the site’s walled garden.

Lauder

A 30-minute drive north of Kelso, the small village of Lauder sits on the edge of the Lammermuir Hills, providing walkers and cyclists opportunities to explore the network of paths around the hills. The Southern Upland Way long distance walking route also passes by the town. The Lauder Camping and Caravanning Club Site has pitches for tents and tourers, as well as a selection of timber chalets.

When to go

The Scottish Borders is a great region to visit all year-round: unlike better-known destinations, such as Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, it rarely suffers from crowds in the summer months. It also doesn’t experience as harsh climates as more northerly parts of the country. July and August are ideal for enjoying long days and (hopefully) sunny weather. This is also the time of the Common Ridings, which take place in several border towns.

Know before you go

If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Note that while wild camping is permitted in Scotland, it is illegal just over the border in England.
While you can get around by using public buses, having your own transport offers more flexibility. The closest train station is Tweedbank, which is a 45-minute bus journey away.
There are a few small supermarkets in Kelso where you will find the essentials. For bigger purchases, head for Tweedbank.