- Castle Douglas
Riverside camping near Castle Douglas
100% (39) • 67 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Castle Douglas
King Garth
1. King Garth
100%
(9)
59km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
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
from
£80
/ night
West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
2. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
82%
(36)
120km from Castle Douglas · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
£30
/ night
Cleghorn Farm
3. Cleghorn Farm
100%
(11)
85km from Castle Douglas · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
*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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
Hut in the Sheep Wash
4. Hut in the Sheep Wash
97km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
A shepherd’s hut in it’s own riverside field in Cumbria
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£100
/ night
Camping at Cardewlees
5. Camping at Cardewlees
99%
(47)
60km from Castle Douglas · 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
The Black Swan
6. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
112km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore.
The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members.
Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself).
We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay.
All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£136
/ night
Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash
7. Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash
88%
(4)
111km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Smardale Mill Shepods are the perfect place to escape, unwind and relax. These modern style shepherds huts are tucked away in an idyllic setting in Cumbria. Situated on a working family farm there is always plenty to see and do. Each shepod sleeps two comfortably with the option of a further two guests on the sofa bed.
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from
£77
/ night
Lake District Herdwick Huts
8. Lake District Herdwick Huts
100%
(1)
82km from Castle Douglas · 5 units · Glamping
You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper.
These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat!
You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper.
Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by.
Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Inside Out Yurts
9. Inside Out Yurts
100%
(9)
68km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Rustic yurt glamping with a riverside setting, fell views and an enviable Lake District location
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
£115
/ night
Garden Yurt in a hidden glen
10. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen
100%
(3)
33km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
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
Ayrshire Airstream
11. Ayrshire Airstream
100%
(2)
80km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£187
/ night
100% (39) • 67 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Castle Douglas
King Garth
1. King Garth
100%
(9)
59km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
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
from
£80
/ night
West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
2. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
82%
(36)
120km from Castle Douglas · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
£30
/ night
Cleghorn Farm
3. Cleghorn Farm
100%
(11)
85km from Castle Douglas · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
*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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
Hut in the Sheep Wash
4. Hut in the Sheep Wash
97km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
A shepherd’s hut in it’s own riverside field in Cumbria
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£100
/ night
Camping at Cardewlees
5. Camping at Cardewlees
99%
(47)
60km from Castle Douglas · 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
The Black Swan
6. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
112km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore.
The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members.
Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself).
We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay.
All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£136
/ night
Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash
7. Smardale Mill Shepods The Ash
88%
(4)
111km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Smardale Mill Shepods are the perfect place to escape, unwind and relax. These modern style shepherds huts are tucked away in an idyllic setting in Cumbria. Situated on a working family farm there is always plenty to see and do. Each shepod sleeps two comfortably with the option of a further two guests on the sofa bed.
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from
£77
/ night
Lake District Herdwick Huts
8. Lake District Herdwick Huts
100%
(1)
82km from Castle Douglas · 5 units · Glamping
You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper.
These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat!
You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper.
Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by.
Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Inside Out Yurts
9. Inside Out Yurts
100%
(9)
68km from Castle Douglas · 3 units · Glamping
Rustic yurt glamping with a riverside setting, fell views and an enviable Lake District location
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
£115
/ night
Garden Yurt in a hidden glen
10. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen
100%
(3)
33km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
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
Ayrshire Airstream
11. Ayrshire Airstream
100%
(2)
80km from Castle Douglas · 1 unit · Glamping
A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£187
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Andrew
November 2025
2 nights at Cleghorn Farm
Friendly and welcoming environment! Nice place if you’re needing to get off the grid a bit.
See more
E
Ellen
October 2025
Group trip
We absolutely loved our stay at King Garth! It is located in such a tranquil location beside the river and away from other houses, but with alpacas for company! The hot tub was perfect to relax in and we enjoyed a cosy, candlelit evening inside by the fire afterwards! It was fascinating to read about the history of the building too! Will definitely be back :)
See more
V
Virginia
October 2025
With pets
Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.
See more
S
Sean
August 2025
With pets
We stayed as a birthday treat for my 12 year old. 2 adults, 4 children and our dog. It was a truly fantastic stay from start to finish. Such a unique house and experience. The kids absolutely loved swimming in the river, looking after the alpacas, the hot tub and going back to basics. It was lovely seeing them enjoying themselves with no distractions of the modern world. Games by candle light and food over the bbq, what more could you ask for. Jane was fantastic and made sure we knew everything that was needed before we arrived. Can’t wait to come back.
See more
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.
See more
E
Elma
August 2025
With kids
Initially I wasn’t sure taking the lantern to do your (compost) toilet trip of 1.5 minutes but it worked as long as your mind doesn’t run wild in the dark when you’re on your own! But it all adds up to the whole experience of glamping without running water and electricity in the yurt. I loved the hot shower outside (I also used it to wash my hands after using the toilet), the sound of the stream, the hares who were very elusive, the log burner and the pub breakfast (included in the booking) and the pub food. I had to leave very early, it was still pitch black and I looked at the sky, it was magical with the stars and I even thought I could see 1-2 galaxies; I’m probably exaggerating but it was that clear without the light pollution. I loved the whole experience! Thank you!
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A
Ally
August 2025
Tent
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
See moreE
Eleanor
August 2025
Tent
A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!
See moreL
Lucy
August 2025
1 night at King Garth
A truly unique stay in a beautiful location. The lane was a little challenging in my picanto but we managed it and was well worth the trip! So much provided in terms of wood, charcoal, crockery candles! Would definitely stay again :)
See more
K
Kirsten
August 2025
2 nights at King Garth
We loved staying at the beautiful King Garth, the hot tub was perfect after getting the fire going and sitting in candle light, in front of the fire is the most comforting feeling in the world. A very quiet and peaceful sight with gorgeous views and riverside walks with a pub about 30 mins walk away. We did get lost on the way to the cottage so make sure to follow the map to cargo village and not the middle of a field on the other side of the river 🤣 We even got to feed alpacas and theyre very funny little characters and very friendly. We will be staying again and very recommended
See moreM
Megan
August 2025
Tent
With pets
The campsite had lovely views and the facilities were very accessible.
See more
H
Harrison
July 2025
Weekend Trip to King Garth
What an incredible piece of land. The house holds so much history and retains so much of the original charm. The privacy, quietness, and abundant nature was incredibly therapeutic and relaxing. Jane was great at communicating and we had no issues with anything.
See moreL
Lucy
June 2025
Weekend Trip to King Garth
Absolutely beautiful place to stay. Had everything we needed and sitting by candlelight was lovely
See more
H
HEATHER
June 2025
With kids
A lovely wee site with various accommodation options, the staff are super helpful.
See more
Pridie
June 2025
With pets
This is a very special place. A chance to step back in time and live simply - supper by candlelight, games played beside a roaring fire, dips in the river. We visited when the elder was full in blossom and the willows whispered full-leafed in the wind. Walking along the river edge was like exploring the mangroves in tropical rainforest - a magical experience for kids, dogs and adults alike! We feel like we've just slipped back into history, sat in the window watching the river, we half expected to see boats carrying cargo past to Carlisle...
Go prepared to step back in time and live simply. Everything you need is provided - candles, wood, crockery - there is a woodfired tub that you can heat yourselves, a beautifully simple kitchen set up with a water system that is carefully thought out, and a compost loo.
See more
K
Kyle & Sarah
April 2025
4 m Class B
It was amazing! The view of the surrounding fells and farms was so tranquil and peaceful. Andrew was a friendly and helpful host. The property was beautiful and there was a good community of campers there that socialized over breakfast. There were also trails on the property that we didn't get to. I would definitely recommend this campsite to anyone that is going to Scotland
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M
Mandi
April 2025
1 night at West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite
Very friendly staff. Easy to find. Great facilities. Lovely walks right at back of premises.
Only downside for me was the noise off other campers. People turning up and setting stuff up after 10 pm. Also loud group of lads. But I’m use to wild camping so maybe noise would be acceptable for most.
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J
Jodie
April 2025
Tent
With pets
Really friendly greeting from the owner and the pitch was excellent.
See more
Riverside camping near Castle Douglas guide
Where to go
Loch Ken
On the shores of Loch Ken, around a 15-minute drive north of Castle Douglas, Galloway Activity Centre offers a bounty of activities, from windsurfing and paddleboarding to zip lining, archery and mountain biking. The centre’s campsite has grass pitches for tents and tourers, as well as a variety of glamping options.
Dalbeattie
Around 15 minutes east of Castle Douglas, the charming town of Dalbeattie is rich in history and a handy base for the 7stanes Mountain Bike Trail in Dalbeattie Forest, known for its challenging granite slabs. Next to the town’s Colliston Park, Islecroft Caravan and Camping Park has sheltered pitches.
Galloway Forest Park
A 25-minute drive north of Castle Douglas, Galloway Forest Park offers a landscape of forest, hills and lochs that is ideal for hillwalking, mountain biking and rock climbing. It’s best-known feature, however, is its dark skies that are perfect for stargazing. On the western side of the park, Glentrool Camping and Caravan Site has a tranquil setting and pitches for tents and tourers.
When to go
From May through August long daylight hours means you can pack more activities into your day—this period also offers your best chance of enjoying dry, sunny weather. Some areas can get busy during the summer months, however, especially on weekends and during the school summer holidays. Those planning to do some stargazing in Galloway Forest Park should visit between October and March, when the skies are at their clearest and most crisp.
Know before you go
- Wild camping is legal throughout Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- Local buses can get you to most places of interest. The closest railway station is in Dumfries (40 minutes by bus) which has direct connections to Glasgow and over the border to Carlisle.
- There are plenty of places to buy groceries in Castle Douglas, including a Tesco Superstore to the east of town. Make sure to also visit independent shops and try some local produce for which the town is known.