Dog-friendly camping near Ardrossan, Ayrshire

The coastal Ayrshire town of Ardrossan is best-known as the main port for the ferry to the island of Arran, just under an hour’s sail away—the port also has seasonal services to Campbeltown on the Kintyre peninsula. While most visitors rush through on their way to the ferry and see little more than the waiting room, it’s worth lingering a while in this historic port town, set on a pretty bay, that boasts sandy beaches with good views over the Firth of Clyde. The town’s two beaches, Ardrossan South Beach and Ardrossan North Shore, are the perfect setting for coastal walks, while sailing enthusiasts will appreciate the facilities on offer at the Clyde Marina.

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Top-rated campgrounds

The coastal Ayrshire town of Ardrossan is best-known as the main port for the ferry to the island of Arran, just under an hour’s sail away—the port also has seasonal services to Campbeltown on the Kintyre peninsula. While most visitors rush through on their way to the ferry and see little more than the waiting room, it’s worth lingering a while in this historic port town, set on a pretty bay, that boasts sandy beaches with good views over the Firth of Clyde. The town’s two beaches, Ardrossan South Beach and Ardrossan North Shore, are the perfect setting for coastal walks, while sailing enthusiasts will appreciate the facilities on offer at the Clyde Marina.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Runach Arainn Glamping

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33km from Ardrossan · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

2. Garrison Shepherd's Huts

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127km from Ardrossan · 4 units · Glamping · Bowness On Solway, England

Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.

3. Pirnie Lodge Farm

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71km from Ardrossan · 3 units · Glamping · Slamannan, Scotland

Lodges with hot tubs in peaceful countryside near Falkirk

4. Dalaraban Luxury Pods

131km from Ardrossan · 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!

5. Broom Fisheries Campsite

120km from Ardrossan · 4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Stories from the community

S

Sally

July 2025

With kids

4 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Runach Arainn is even more lovely in person than in the photos. Great location for a peaceful and relaxing stay on Arann. The yurts are comfortable, the kitchen/fire-pit etc are well-equipped and the orchard setting is beautiful. It's just a short walk to the beach or to the Lagg Inn for dinner. Highly recommend.

Dan

January 2025

2 nights at Pirnie Lodge Farm

From the minute we arrived Anne was welcoming and gave us all the information to do with the lodge, the lodge itself was spotless and felt homely from the minute we walked in. Anne also left a welcome pack which was an added bonus, the hot tub was ready on arrival and Anne also shown us how to use this before leaving Anne gave us recommendations on places to visit and where we could go for days out, we were recommended the milk barn which was delicious, the ice cream and milkshakes were perfect! We would also recommend going there! Thank you Anne, we love our stays

Under £50

Loch Katrine Eco Camping

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70km from Ardrossan · 22 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations

Collierhall Farm

81%

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65km from Ardrossan · 5 units · Tents · Lanark, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

Very quiet and easily accessible from the motorway (1 mile) The farm is set in 100 acres and has a mixture of caravans, motorhomes and tents. There is a golf course across the road and the world heritage site of New Lanark only 7 miles away. Edinburgh and Glasgow are also easily reached by car or train.

Cleghorn Farm

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66km from Ardrossan · 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.

Available this weekend

Fernlea - Campsite & Pod

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131km from Ardrossan · 7 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Scotland

Welcome to Fernlea. We would love to have you visit us, either on our 5 pitch campsite for motorhomes and caravans, or in 2025 to our new luxury glamping pod. Fernlea is our home in the heart of an agricultural plain called “The Carse of Gowrie,” which runs for 20 miles or so along the River Tay between Perth and Dundee. It’s a beautiful area that we hope you will love too. We are a short walk from the village of Errol, with access to lovely walks along the Tay. We are adjacent to the local bus route (just stick your arm out!), the Sustrans cycle route 77, plus only a mile or so from the A90 Perth to Dundee / Aberdeen road. We are perfect for both a short stopover and a longer break with a fascinating local area to explore. All pitches have hard standing, water on each pitch, grey waste disposal adjacent to the pitch, and a 10 or 16 amp electric supply with a chemical toilet waste tank with rinsing tap behind our garage. We are also within easy access to Fife and the southern area of the Highlands. Walkers and bird watchers will find many footpaths by the River Tay and can climb the local hills to see buzzards, hawks, ducks, and migrating geese throughout the seasons. Any visitors requiring repairs or accessories for their van will find the large Perthshire Caravan dealership nearby. Every Sunday, one of Scotland’s largest car boot sales and markets is held less than a mile away. Facilities on the CL Site: - Dog walk from the site - Information room - Recycling facilities - Battery charging - TV reception: good - 16 amp electric on 4 pitches, 10 amp on 5th - Water on all pitches - Chemical toilet disposal point - Lawned site, with gravel hardstandings - Latest arrival time: 9:00 PM - Latest departure time: 12:00 PM Shop/village of Errol within 1 mile. Errol Village shop, Pub, Lass O’Gowrie Cafe, Fish and Chip Shop, Butchers. Nearby: Cairn O’Mohr Winery, Rait Antiques Centre, Errol Sunday Market, Lass O'Gowrie Cafe, Fruit Shack - Pick your own strawberries, We look forward to seeing you soon!

Troquhain Woods

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77km from Ardrossan · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Castle Douglas, Dumfries, South Scotland

Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland

West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

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49km from Ardrossan · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod

50km from Ardrossan · 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.

Grinsdale Campsite

142km from Ardrossan · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · England

Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.

Star Hosts in Ardrossan

King Garth

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139km from Ardrossan · 1 unit · Glamping · Carlisle, England

Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.

Port nan Gael Campsite

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110km from Ardrossan · 75 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pennyghael, Scotland

A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull

Camping at Cardewlees

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144km from Ardrossan · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly camping near Ardrossan guide

Where to go

Saltcoats

Ardrossan is part of a conurbation with Saltcoats and Stevenston, collectively known as the 'Three Towns'. To the south, the Saltcoats area is known for its picturesque harbour and golden beaches set around Irvine Bay. It’s also home to the North Ayrshire Museum, housed in a former church. Here, Sandylands Holiday Park enjoys a coastal location and has electric or non-electric grass pitches.

Fairlie

A 20-minute drive north of Ardrossan, Fairlie is world-famous for its graffiti-covered Kelburn Castle—the castle was given a colourful makeover by a team of Brazilian street artists. The Kelburn Castle estate is also the setting for one of Scotland’s liveliest music festivals, the Kelburn Garden Party, and is home to a secluded forest and glens, as well indoor and outdoor play areas. The estate has pitches for tents and tourers, as well as glamping yurts and bell tents.

Ayr

The Ayrshire countryside famously provided inspiration for Robert Burns and today visitors to Ayr can explore the Burns Heritage Trail and the Burns Heritage Centre to learn more. Ayr Beach’s long stretch of sand is another highlight in the area, as is Culzean Castle and Country Park to the south. A 35-minute drive from Ardrossan, Ayr Craigie Gardens Club Site has pitches for tents and tourers and sits on the grounds of Craigie Estate within easy walking distance of Ayr’s town centre.

When to go

Summer temperatures range from mild to warm, with the chance of the occasional hotter day. Add in the season’s long daylight hours and summer is the best time to explore Ardrossan and the surrounding Ayrshire’s towns, villages and countryside. Spring and autumn are both also good options: there will be fewer crowds and booked-up ferries compared to summer and the climate should be mild after April and through October/November. The area doesn’t get too cold in winter but winter storms can disrupt ferry journeys.

Know before you go

Wild camping is possible throughout Scotland but campers must adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Ardrossan is a 40-minute train journey from Glasgow. Regular local buses can get you to most places of interest in the surrounding area.
You can easily stock up on food supplies at Ardrossan’s well-stocked supermarkets.