Campsites near Dunure

·

South of Ayr, the small fishing village of Dunure merits a detour for the 13th-centure Dunure Castle, which stands in ruins on a rocky promontory on the Carrick coast. The pretty harbour, with its white stone fishing cottages, is the village’s focal point and keen-eyed Outlander viewers will recognise it from several scenes in season three. Dunure is well-placed for exploring coastal Ayrshire, and enjoying such activities as kayaking, white water rafting and mountain biking along the Ayshire Alps route. It’s also a handy base for those travelling to the islands of Arran, Cumbrae and Bute. 

93% (79) 211 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dunure

Troquhain Woods

1. Troquhain Woods

93%
(34)
56km from Dunure · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Cleghorn Farm

2. Cleghorn Farm

100%
(11)
70km from Dunure · 1 unit
*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR WEEKEND BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Loch Katrine Eco Camping

3. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%
(113)
94km from Dunure · 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
St Conan's Escape

4. St Conan's Escape

100%
(13)
111km from Dunure · 2 units
Dog-friendly lodges on a Scottish mountainside with incredible loch views
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Muiredge

5. Muiredge

100%
(17)
116km from Dunure · 8 units
Rural glamping in a converted railway carriage, shepherd's hut, or bell tent in blissful Scotland
Pets
Showers
Campfires
King Garth

6. King Garth

100%
(10)
123km from Dunure · 1 unit
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.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Port nan Gael Campsite

7. Port nan Gael Campsite

96%
(12)
133km from Dunure · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull
Pets
Showers
Full hookups
Howbeck Lodge

8. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
134km from Dunure · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

9. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
138km from Dunure · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Cairn Meadow Pods

10. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(43)
141km from Dunure · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Ewe Love Camping Pods

11. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(110)
142km from Dunure · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Runach Arainn Glamping

12. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%
(9)
30km from Dunure · 3 units
A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ayrshire Airstream

13. Ayrshire Airstream

100%
(2)
32km from Dunure · 1 unit
A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

14. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

60km from Dunure · 5 units
We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

15. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%
(3)
60km from Dunure · 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
Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

16. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%
(3)
61km from Dunure · 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
Collierhall Farm

17. Collierhall Farm

81%
(21)
65km from Dunure · 5 units
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.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Red Deer Village Holiday Park

18. Red Deer Village Holiday Park

66km from Dunure · 10 units
Red Deer Village Holiday Park in Scotland is a 5 star holiday park, conveniently situated on the doorstep of Glasgow, just off the A80, one of Scotland’s main arterial routes to the North. The Scottish holiday park is close to a number of public transport links, with regular buses and trains into Glasgow city centre. he level and spacious caravan and campsite near Glasgow is the ideal base for a holiday in and around West Central Scotland, or as a stopover for a few days whilst touring. There are 24 hardstanding pitches with electric hookup, suitable for touring caravans and motorhomes. Our grass area has a number of spacious tent pitches, which are well served by immaculate facilities.
Electrical hookup
Pets
West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

19. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%
(36)
70km from Dunure · 44 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Craigmarloch Lodge

20. Craigmarloch Lodge

100%
(2)
70km from Dunure · 1 unit
A high-end glamping cabin with a hot tub on the edge of the Highlands
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Dunure camping guide

Where to go

Culzean Castle

If castle bagging appeals, you can head 10 minutes south to Culzean Castle, which is dramatically perched atop a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde. You can explore the castle’s interiors and its sprawling grounds, which feature woods, beaches, a deer park and children’s play areas. Within the grounds, Culzean Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site has grass and hardstanding pitches for campers, as well as glamping-style safari tents.

Ayr

Twenty minutes north of Dunure, Ayr is known for its long sandy beach and associations with Robert Burns who was born in the suburb of Alloway. Campers can park or pitch a tent on the grounds of the Craigie Estate, which offers woodland walks and birdwatching within walking distance of the town centre.

Maybole

Yet another castle, the 16th-century Maybole Castle, is the main draw of Maybole, 15 minutes inland from Dunure. South of the town, The Walled Garden is set within woodland and has pitches for tents and tourers and especially appeals to families with its children’s play area and small putting green.

When to go

The summer months make the best conditions for visiting Ayrshire. Summer temperatures are typically warm, with the chance of a few hot days, and daylight hours are long. This is peak season, however, and its accessibility from Glasgow brings lots of holiday makers during the summer school holidays in July and August. You can avoid crowds and still enjoy mild temperatures by visiting in April/May or September.

Know before you go

  • Wild camping is possible throughout Scotland but campers are required to adhere closely to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Some campsites in the area are open seasonally. Check before travelling.
  • Dunure is a 20-minute bus journey from Ayr, where the railway station has regular connections to Glasgow.
  • There are limited options for shopping in Dunure but you’ll find plenty of supermarkets in Ayr, as well as  a handful of outdoor and camping shops.

Frequently Asked Questions

The summer months make the best conditions for visiting Dunure. Summer temperatures are typically warm, with the chance of a few hot days, and daylight hours are long. This is peak season, however, and its accessibility from Glasgow brings lots of holiday makers during the summer school holidays in July and August. You can avoid crowds and still enjoy mild temperatures by visiting in April/May or September.

Dunure is well-placed for exploring coastal Ayrshire, and enjoying such activities as kayaking, white water rafting and mountain biking along the Ayshire Alps route. It’s also a handy base for those travelling to the islands of Arran, Cumbrae and Bute.

South of Ayr, the small fishing village of Dunure merits a detour for the 13th-centure Dunure Castle, which stands in ruins on a rocky promontory on the Carrick coast. The pretty harbour, with its white stone fishing cottages, is the village’s focal point and keen-eyed Outlander viewers will recognise it from several scenes in season three. Dunure is well-placed for exploring coastal Ayrshire, and enjoying such activities as kayaking, white water rafting and mountain biking along the Ayshire Alps route. It’s also a handy base for those travelling to the islands of Arran, Cumbrae and Bute.

Twenty minutes north of Dunure, Ayr is known for its long sandy beach and associations with Robert Burns who was born in the suburb of Alloway. Campers can park or pitch a tent on the grounds of the Craigie Estate, which offers woodland walks and birdwatching within walking distance of the town centre. Some campsites in the area are open seasonally. Check before travelling. You can also explore different options for camping near Dunure on Hipcamp.

There are limited options for shopping in Dunure but you’ll find plenty of supermarkets in Ayr, as well as a handful of outdoor and camping shops.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Dunure holidays