Mountain Camping Near Thornhill, Dumfries

In the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, Thornhill is a small town with a long history, having been founded in the 1600s. The town is home to attractive broad streets and Victorian villas. Just north is Drumlanrig Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest 17th-century renaissance buildings, which, although a private residence, is open to the public. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as exploring waymarked walking trails, cycling on mountain bike trails and golfing on Thornhill’s 18-hole golf course. Land Rover tours of the Nithsdale countryside and wildlife spotting are other popular activities.

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Top-rated campgrounds

In the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, Thornhill is a small town with a long history, having been founded in the 1600s. The town is home to attractive broad streets and Victorian villas. Just north is Drumlanrig Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest 17th-century renaissance buildings, which, although a private residence, is open to the public. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as exploring waymarked walking trails, cycling on mountain bike trails and golfing on Thornhill’s 18-hole golf course. Land Rover tours of the Nithsdale countryside and wildlife spotting are other popular activities.

100% (41)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

118km from Thornhill · 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

2. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

113km from Thornhill · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Millom, England

Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep

3. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

120km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes

4. Broom Fisheries Campsite

41km from Thornhill · 4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

5. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

85km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

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

6. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

121km from Thornhill · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

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

7. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

65km from Thornhill · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

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

8. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

112km from Thornhill · 33 units · Tents · Cumbria, North West England

Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views

9. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

91km from Thornhill · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

10. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

124km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

11. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

113km from Thornhill · 2 units · Glamping · Scotland

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.

12. Damson View Glamping

100%

(55)

118km from Thornhill · 5 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley

13. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

122km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

14. Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

101km from Thornhill · 5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

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.

15. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

95km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

16. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%

(3)

5.4km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · England

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

17. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

73km from Thornhill · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

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

18. Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

131km from Thornhill · 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.

19. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

77km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Hesket Newmarket, England

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.

20. Dod Mill Fishing Hut

88km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · Lauder, Scotland

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

Camper favorites near Thornhill

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

122km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

101km from Thornhill · 5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

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.

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

95km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%

(3)

5.4km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · England

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

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

73km from Thornhill · 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

131km from Thornhill · 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.

Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

77km from Thornhill · 3 units · Glamping · Hesket Newmarket, England

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.

Dod Mill Fishing Hut

88km from Thornhill · 1 unit · Glamping · Lauder, Scotland

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

Stories from the community

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.

n

natasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

We stayed in the yurt at Fairy Glen Wood and it was just perfect. It had everything we needed for a relaxing little retreat peaceful, comfortable, and surrounded by nature. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely love to come back!

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!

E

Elma

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Black Swan

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!

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!

M

Mark

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Stayed for a couple of nights and had a great time, good facilities and one of the few campsites open to letting people enjoy a sensible camp fire. Staff were all friendly and helpful too

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

L

Lisa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

This is a truly beautiful space. We've stayed in lots of yurts and this is the nicest by far. It's fab to have somewhere to sit inside if you need. But lovely spots outside too. The kitchen area is really useful and has everything you'd need. We followed the instructions for the shower and it worked perfectly. I loved the full length window to lay in bed and watch the sunset. Best of all if you're as anti social as me..... It's totally on it own! We re already planning our next visit.

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.

J

Jennifer

August 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Really nice campsite with good facilities. It was quite busy but it wasn't too noisy. Staff were friendly. I was on a hardstanding pitch and my only gripe was, the grass that we had allocated for the pitch wasn't really quite wide enough to secure my awning as well as I would have liked. The awning just about fit on. We had some sandwiches made by the guy in the cafe to take on our walk which were good. Lacking veggie options though.

Natalie

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

I can not recommend Baystone enough. THE VIEWS ARE AMAZING! I was not expecting them from the pictures shown by stunning the wash facilties are clean and maintained access to onsite fridge and freezer. Good pitch sizes with fire pit. I will be back as soon as possible. Camp warden was lovely super friendly. I explained my dog prefers space and she was more willing to accommodate. The on lead rule is followed by all guests which was a reason I picked the sight. There is alot of live stock so your dog does need to be okay with horses and sheep around. Noise levels were quiet by 10pm every night. Cafe on site was lovely and have a small shop with some goodies avaliable (tecos 8 min drive away) beautiful beaches, peaks near by. I loved it

L

Leann

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

A well-kept campground with responsive and friendly staff. No frills but well-kept shower block with small communal fridge and washing up sinks. Kids will love seeing animals on the farm, too.

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.

E

Ellen

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Really lovely place! Very peaceful vibe and the babbling brook was a calming companion. Enjoyed the fires and the hot showers too 💚

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountain campsites near Thornhill guide

Where to go

Around Town

Staying in Thornhill puts you within easy reach of such attractions as Caerlaverock Castle and Ae Forest. Just south of town, set amid rolling hills and minutes from the 7stanes mountain biking centre, Oakbank Farm Campsite has pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as a self-catering cottage.

Dumfries

A 30-minute drive south of Thornhill, attractions in the busy town of Dumfries include the Robert Burns Centre, home to the poet’s manuscripts and belongings, and Sweetheart Abbey where he composed some of his best poems. Just a few minutes west of the town centre, Barnsoul Caravan Park offers camping, glamping and touring in wildlife-filled woodland.

Wanlockhead

Under a 30-minute drive north of Thornhill, Wanlockhead is Scotland’s highest village. The Southern Upland Way long distance footpath passes through the village as it travels from Portpatrick in the west to Cockburnspath in the east. A few minutes north of the village, the small campsite at Lettershaws Farm has pitches set in rolling hills.

When to go

The long daylight hours and promise of good weather of the April through August period makes it the most popular time to visit Thornhill and the surrounding Dumfries and Galloway region—make site reservations in advance if travelling during school summer holidays. If you are planning to hike the Southern Upland Way, which passes nearby, spring or autumn is best for avoiding the biggest crowds.

Know before you go

Wild camping is legal throughout Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
There is a train station in Dumfries (15 miles or 24 kilometres away) with direct connections to Glasgow and over the border to Carlisle.
The weather in Scotland is always changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
Don’t worry if you forgot something, Thornhill has plenty of well-stocked shops. You’ll find bigger supermarkets and a few outdoor gear shops in Dumfries.