Mountain Camping Near Ayr, Ayrshire

The coastal town of Ayr draws visitors an hour west of Glasgow with its long sandy stretch of beach and pretty esplanade. It’s also well-known for Ayr Racecourse, home of the Scottish Grand National. The biggest draw here, however, is the association with Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns, who was born in Alloway, just outside the town. Visitors can make the short trip to visit his birthplace and explore the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Basing yourself in Ayr is handy for exploring the southwest coast where activities include mountain biking, kayaking and white water rafting, and for heading to the offshore islands of Arran, Cumbrae and Bute.

92% (29) • 87 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ayr

Loch Katrine Eco Camping

1. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(113)

87km from Ayr · 13 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Showers

from

£12

/ night

St Conan's Escape

2. St Conan's Escape

100%

(13)

107km from Ayr · 2 units

Dog-friendly lodges on a Scottish mountainside with incredible loch views

Pets

Showers

Potable water

from

£144

/ night

Camping at Cardewlees

3. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

124km from Ayr · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

£16

/ night

Port nan Gael Campsite

4. Port nan Gael Campsite

95%

(11)

133km from Ayr · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull

Pets

Showers

Full hookups

from

£24

/ night

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

5. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

133km from Ayr · 2 units

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

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£210

/ night

Ewe Love Camping Pods

6. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

140km from Ayr · 3 units

Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra

Pets

Showers

Potable water

from

£90

/ night

Runach Arainn Glamping

7. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

37km from Ayr · 3 units

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

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£162

/ night

Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

8. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%

(3)

56km from Ayr · 1 unit

A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P

Showers

Campfires

Wifi

from

£100

/ night

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

9. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

58km from Ayr · 2 units

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

Pets

Potable water

from

£85

/ night

West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

10. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

61km from Ayr · 44 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

£30

/ night

Broom Fisheries Campsite

11. Broom Fisheries Campsite

100km from Ayr · 4 units

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Pets

Showers

Hot Tub

from

£167

/ night

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

12. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

105km from Ayr · 1 unit

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.

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£140

/ night

Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

13. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

109km from Ayr · 4 units

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

Showers

Campfires

Hot Tub

from

£140

/ night

Dod Mill Fishing Hut

14. Dod Mill Fishing Hut

127km from Ayr · 1 unit

Artistic riverside cabins in the grounds of a 17th-century watermill

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£150

/ night

Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

15. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

134km from Ayr · 3 units

100%

(3)

58km from Ayr · 2 units

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

Pets

Potable water

from

£85

/ night

West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

10. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

61km from Ayr · 44 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

£30

/ night

Broom Fisheries Campsite

11. Broom Fisheries Campsite

100km from Ayr · 4 units

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Pets

Showers

Hot Tub

from

£167

/ night

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

12. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

105km from Ayr · 1 unit

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.

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£140

/ night

Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

13. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

109km from Ayr · 4 units

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

Showers

Campfires

Hot Tub

from

£140

/ night

Dod Mill Fishing Hut

14. Dod Mill Fishing Hut

127km from Ayr · 1 unit

Artistic riverside cabins in the grounds of a 17th-century watermill

Pets

Showers

Campfires

from

£150

/ night

Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

15. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

134km from Ayr · 3 units

Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.

Showers

Hot Tub

Potable water

from

£165

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Joc

February 2026

3 nights at St Conan's Escape

St. Conan's Escape was such a beautiful area to disappear into! The property manager, Hazel, did such a phenomenal job of preparing the space--it was so beautifully-decorated and clearly well-maintained that I could see this as the perfect experience for other solo travelers or couples looking for a beautiful location to sink into. I found St. Conan's Escape when looking for a place to go off-grid for a couple of days in the midst of traveling, and it had everything I needed--all of the amenities including plenty of cookware, a bathroom and extremely comfortable bed, so that I could focus on my writing projects. What a beautiful scenery it's in, too! I woke up to a beautiful sunrise over the mountains in the distance and I was so sad to leave such a majestic view. I would absolutely return and recommend it to anyone looking for a new experience!

Callum

December 2025

1 night at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Great wee pods. Well stocked and well organized. Ideal for a wee break. Nice and warm too.

V

Virginia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.

MH 10 - Hard Standing non-serviced Pitch

J

Julia

August 2025

4 m Class B

1 night at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Lovely location right on the Loch. I would stay again if in the area and definitely have a ride on the steamship

C

Caitlin

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The view you wake up to is breathtaking! The pods themselves are immaculate and stocked with everything you need. You have your own private bathroom which is heated and again immaculately clean. Lovely and quiet!

A

Ally

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Just returning from our first visit to Cardewlees and we could not of asked for a better stay. Cardewlees is an absolute little gem of a campsite and Johnny could not have been a better host if he tried. Toilet and showering facilities were more than adequate and the water was always nice and warm. Thank you for a perfect stay and we look forward to coming back soon. Ally and Lee x

E

Eleanor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!

K

Kinga

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The atmosphere was cozy, the place spotless, and the hospitality truly warm. It was a pleasure to be your guest, and I look forward to returning , very recommend:)

F

Freya

August 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Loch Katrine Eco Camping

Absolutely stunning location - you worry when you arrive as it’s a really popular tourist attraction but the car park empties out and it’s very peaceful. Nice walk along the loch side or a boat ride on the loch plus good cafe

S

Simon

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

Beautiful views up the Loch. Quite a steep climb but easily achievable. Fire pit, bbq and seating area ideal. Even the compostable toilet had a great view!

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

Tracie

August 2025

With kids

4 nights at Loch Katrine Eco Camping

The pods were clean, comfortable, spacious and well equipped. Unfortunately the fly screen for our door was broken so it was a choice of being gnawed on by midges or being very hot- we chose the heat which was a bit uncomfortable but a fan had been provided which helped. The views were incredible of the loch and mountains and the walking and cycling just stunning. It's a little public with it being next to the main path but if you aren't looking for seclusion then it's fine and we found it vibrant and interesting watching the boats and people coming and going. The food in the cafe was excellent and we enjoyed the take away option, it does close fairly early so best to get there before 5:15pm. All in all it was a beautiful spot and very good accommodation and we had a brilliant time.

M

Megan

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

The campsite had lovely views and the facilities were very accessible.

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.

E

Eva

July 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Absolutely fantastic spot! Yurt was so well equipped, they really had thought of everything. Beautiful location in such a peaceful area, and a lovely beach in walking distance! Couldn’t recommend enough

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!

Nicholas

July 2025

4 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

Another brilliant stay. Can't fault it. Will be returning.

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....

H

HEATHER

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

A lovely wee site with various accommodation options, the staff are super helpful.

M

Meron

June 2025

2 nights at The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

The Charcoal Huts were so magical. We stayed in Birch and it had amazing views, was quite private and had everything we needed - including things we forgot. It was beautiful and cosy inside and the fire kept us so warm. I really loved this place.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountain campsites near Ayr guide

Where to go

In Town

On the banks of the River Ayr, the Craigie Estate has lovely wooded gardens that are ideal for a wander through. On the grounds you can spot wildlife such as owls, kestrels, sparrowhawks, and you may even see an otter or two down by the river. On the grounds of Craigie Estate, and within easy walking distance of the town centre of Ayr and beach, Ayr Craigie Gardens Club Site has pitches for tents and tourers.

Alloway

Just a few minutes south of Ayr, the suburb of Alloway is the heart of Burns heritage tourism. At the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum you can see the cottage where he was born, the Burns Monument and Memorial Gardens, the museum that holds important collections of work and places associated with Tam o’ Shanter, much of which was set here. Under three miles away (4.5 kilometres), Craig Tara Holiday Park has pitches for tourers, an indoor swimming pool and direct beach access.

Coylton

Heading inland, five miles (eight kilometres) east of Ayr, the small village of Coylton is known for its 14th-century Sundrum Castle. On the castle grounds, Sundrum Holiday Park is a top choice for families thanks to its ample facilities including a heated pool, crazy golf course and amusement arcade. It has plenty of room for tents and tourers.

When to go

Ayr is typically a summertime destination, particularly for short break holiday makers from Glasgow. In the summer months temperatures range from mild to warm, with the chance of the occasional hotter day, and daylight hours are long. Spring and autumn are both also good options for fewer crowds compared to summer and the weather is typicallly mild after April and through October. Winters don’t get too cold but you may encounter storms and closed businesses.

Know before you go

Wild camping is possible throughout Scotland but campers are required to adhere closely to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Ayr is a one-hour train journey from Glasgow. Regular local buses can get you to most places of interest in the surrounding area.
There are plenty of well-stocked supermarkets in Ayr and you’ll also find a handful of outdoor and camping gear stores.