Campsites with swimming near Irvine, Ayrshire

Lying on the north coast of Ayrshire, Irvine is steeped in maritime history. The one time major west coast seaport is now home to the Scottish Maritime Museum, located in a former shipyard building and full of hands-on exhibits. There’s also a handful of golf courses and, just outside town, Eglingon Country Park, which has miles of paths and bridleways perfectly suited for walking, cycling and horse riding. The golden sands of Irvine Beach stretch north through Saltcoats to Ardrossan, from where you can take a ferry to the Isle of Arran.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Lying on the north coast of Ayrshire, Irvine is steeped in maritime history. The one time major west coast seaport is now home to the Scottish Maritime Museum, located in a former shipyard building and full of hands-on exhibits. There’s also a handful of golf courses and, just outside town, Eglingon Country Park, which has miles of paths and bridleways perfectly suited for walking, cycling and horse riding. The golden sands of Irvine Beach stretch north through Saltcoats to Ardrossan, from where you can take a ferry to the Isle of Arran.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Howbeck Lodge

94%

(27)

143km from Irvine · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Hesket Newmarket, England

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

2. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

95km from Irvine · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

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

3. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

57km from Irvine · 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.

4. Oystercatcher Caravan

100%

(1)

98km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Newton Stewart, Galloway

The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.

5. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

40km from Irvine · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

6. Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

17km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

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

7. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

142km from Irvine · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

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

8. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

89km from Irvine · 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.

9. Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

47km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

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

10. Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod

49km from Irvine · 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.

Camper favorites near Irvine

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Oystercatcher Caravan

100%

(1)

98km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Newton Stewart, Galloway

The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

40km from Irvine · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

17km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

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

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

142km from Irvine · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

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

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

89km from Irvine · 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.

Craigmarloch Lodge

100%

(2)

47km from Irvine · 1 unit · Glamping · Glasgow, Scotland

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

Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod

49km from Irvine · 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.

Stories from the community

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

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.

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.

J

Jason

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Oystercatcher Caravan

Super helpful host. Good location, a very quiet part of Scotland. Accommodation was very fairly priced and well cared for.

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....

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.

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!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with swimming near Irvine guide

Where to go

Saltcoats

A 15-minute drive north of Irvine, Saltcoats is joined to the port town of Ardrossan, from where regular ferries depart for the Isle of Arran. Saltcoats has a golden Blue Flag beach set around Irvine Bay, and is home to the North Ayrshire Museum. Here, Sandylands Holiday Park has electric or non-electric grass pitches.

Ayr

A 25-minute drive south of Irvine, the town of Ayr has another attractive stretch of sandy beach and is close to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Culzean Castle and Country Park. On the pretty wooded grounds of the Craigie Estate, and within walking distance of the beach and town centre, Ayr Craigie Gardens Club Site has pitches for tents and tourers.

Fairlie

A 30-minute drive north of Irvine, Fairlie’s top attraction is the street art-adorned Kelburn Castle—the setting for the Kelburn Garden Party, one of Scotland’s most colourful festivals. The castle grounds feature secluded forest and glens, as well as indoor and outdoor play areas for kids and pitches for tents and tourers; glamping yurts, and bell tents.

When to go

The area is best-visited during the summer months when temperatures range from mild to warm, occasionally hot, and daylight hours are long. This is peak season, however, and you may encounter booked-up sites during school holidays. Spring and autumn are both also good options as the weather is typically mild and there are few crowds. While the region doesn’t get too cold in winter, winter storms can occasionally disrupt ferry journeys to Arran.

Know before you go

Many campsites in the area are seasonal. Check opening dates if planning to travel outside of spring/summer.
Wild camping is possible throughout Scotland but campers must adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Irvine is on the Ayrshore Coast railway line and has direct links to Largs, Glasgow, and Ardrossan Harbour (from where Arran ferries depart).
Don’t worry if you forgot something. Irvine has plenty of well-stocked supermarkets.