Best campsites for hikers near Rutherglen

Immediately south of Scotland’s biggest city, Rutherglen can be easily missed by visitors to Glasgow and the surrounding area. However, this attractive South Lanarkshire town set on the south bank of the River Clyde has a lot to offer visitors. The town’s broad Main Street is filled with interesting architecture, including Rutherglen Town Hall, which hosts arts and cultural activities, and Rutherglen also has a challenging moorland golf course, Cathkin Braes. It’s also a good base for heading into nearby countryside or starting the West Highland Way. Campers will find plenty of options within easy reach of the town.

The summer months are the best time to visit the area. While sunshine can never be guaranteed in this part of the world, you can, at least, long daylight hours. Winters can be chilly but relatively moderate: expect 4 p.m. sunsets, however. If planning to hike the West Highland Way, visiting in spring or autumn lets you avoid crowds.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Immediately south of Scotland’s biggest city, Rutherglen can be easily missed by visitors to Glasgow and the surrounding area. However, this attractive South Lanarkshire town set on the south bank of the River Clyde has a lot to offer visitors. The town’s broad Main Street is filled with interesting architecture, including Rutherglen Town Hall, which hosts arts and cultural activities, and Rutherglen also has a challenging moorland golf course, Cathkin Braes. It’s also a good base for heading into nearby countryside or starting the West Highland Way. Campers will find plenty of options within easy reach of the town.

The summer months are the best time to visit the area. While sunshine can never be guaranteed in this part of the world, you can, at least, long daylight hours. Winters can be chilly but relatively moderate: expect 4 p.m. sunsets, however. If planning to hike the West Highland Way, visiting in spring or autumn lets you avoid crowds.

95% (102)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Howbeck Lodge

94%

(27)

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

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

2. Loch Katrine Eco Camping

95%

(112)

47km from Rutherglen · 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

3. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

133km from Rutherglen · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

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

4. Loch Lomond Sunset Glamping Pod

29km from Rutherglen · 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.

5. Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

88%

(25)

61km from Rutherglen · 5 units · Glamping · Perthshire , Scotland

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

6. Muiredge

100%

(16)

59km from Rutherglen · 8 units · Glamping · Perth and Kinross, Central Scotland

Rural glamping in a converted railway carriage, shepherd's hut, or bell tent in blissful Scotland

7. Cleghorn Farm

100%

(10)

32km from Rutherglen · 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.

8. Beirhope Alpacas

98%

(137)

122km from Rutherglen · 11 units · Tents · Kelso, Scotland

A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders

9. West Highland Way Hotel & Campsite

82%

(36)

20km from Rutherglen · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Glasgow, Lanarkshire, South Scotland

A welcoming campsite on the West Highland Way

10. The Snug at Logie Farm

100%

(7)

89km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Falkland, Fife, Central Scotland

Luxury glamping pods with all mod cons, with an elevated position overlooking the River Tay.

11. Bachilton Farm Holidays

100%

(4)

73km from Rutherglen · 2 units · Glamping · Perth and Kinross, Central Scotland

A pair of yurts with hot tubs on a farm between Perth and Crieff

12. Otter Moss Accommodation

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(8)

142km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

13. The Nest at Loch Lomond

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(2)

32km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

This modern space can sleep up to 4. The Nest sits at the top of a 5 acre field. It has a full kitchen, smart TV and dining area. Views overlooking Loch Lomond. We are the perfect base for your adventures- so many hiking and mountain biking routes directly from The Nest. Covered veranda with outdoor seating with Bluetooth surround sound to enjoy your sundowners!

14. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

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(3)

58km from Rutherglen · 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.

15. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%

(42)

142km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines

16. Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

61km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

17. Laverock Law Cottages and Glamping

100%

(1)

143km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Bamburgh, Northumberland, North East England

We are perfectly situated to explore both the Northumbrian Coastal area, including Holy Island , Bamburgh etc but also great for those who wish to discover the amazing Cheviot hills. Our site is managed organically and has won awards for sustainable tourism, itself a true escape and nature paradise.

18. Pirnie Lodge Farm

100%

(2)

28km from Rutherglen · 3 units · Glamping · Slamannan, Scotland

Lodges with hot tubs in peaceful countryside near Falkirk

19. Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

76km from Rutherglen · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

20. Broom Fisheries Campsite

110km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Camper favorites near Rutherglen

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Nest at Loch Lomond

100%

(2)

32km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Stirling and Falkirk, Central Scotland

This modern space can sleep up to 4. The Nest sits at the top of a 5 acre field. It has a full kitchen, smart TV and dining area. Views overlooking Loch Lomond. We are the perfect base for your adventures- so many hiking and mountain biking routes directly from The Nest. Covered veranda with outdoor seating with Bluetooth surround sound to enjoy your sundowners!

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

58km from Rutherglen · 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.

Cairn Meadow Pods

99%

(42)

142km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines

Esk Yurt

100%

(5)

61km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Peebles, Scottish Borders

Adult only yurt glamping in the Scottish Borders with exceptional views, hiking trails, and wild swimming

Laverock Law Cottages and Glamping

100%

(1)

143km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Bamburgh, Northumberland, North East England

We are perfectly situated to explore both the Northumbrian Coastal area, including Holy Island , Bamburgh etc but also great for those who wish to discover the amazing Cheviot hills. Our site is managed organically and has won awards for sustainable tourism, itself a true escape and nature paradise.

Pirnie Lodge Farm

100%

(2)

28km from Rutherglen · 3 units · Glamping · Slamannan, Scotland

Lodges with hot tubs in peaceful countryside near Falkirk

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

76km from Rutherglen · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

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

Broom Fisheries Campsite

110km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Dumfries, South Scotland

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

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.

M

Mandy

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cairn Meadow Pods

Loved our first pod experience. Very warm and cozy. Facilities were great! Directions were a little confusing at the start as the sat-nav took us to the house a little distance up the road but once we knew our place it was absolutely fine. Would stay again and will be recommending to family & friends.

K

Kinga

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Absolutely amazing stay at Beirhope Alpacas. You can tell that Lynne has set everything up with love and care. Alpacas are a cherry on top of everything else. My 4 year old twins cried when leaving because they wanted to live there. We definitely found a new yearly visit place ❤️

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

This Alpaca farm is an absolute must visit. Unfortunately we were only here for 1 night but what a visit! This specific pitch is the middle one 1 of 3 that are in front of the Alpaca/Sheep fields and we couldn't have asked for better neighbours. Lynne was extremely helpful upon our arrival and offered help with anything if it was needed...which it was when I realised I had the mattress but not the stopper to keep it inflated! She came to my rescue with cushions to sleep on which was over and above as far as I'm concerned. We were provided carrots to feed the animals that evening and my son (4yo) loved feeding Harry the goat and between him and his friends it was a game to see who could feed Houdini before Harry got in the way 🤣 This morning my son was scheduled to feed the alpacas and whilst he was initially nervous he warmed up on the walk and confidently clapped Deeno. This site is a bit off the road but take it easy and enjoy the scenery. Beirhope Farm is in a pretty stunning part of the country and I would 100% recommend a visit to anyone looking for everything you need on a camping trip. If you forget anything she has everything covered, including an honesty 'larder' for the snacks or bits and pieces that you've forgotten. Stunning! We will be back.

K

Kathy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

We stayed in Phil’s Patch for just one night on our way north. Lynne offered us a warm welcome. We had our own private enclave in the trees. Posh composting toilets and everything well thought out. Wish we’d used the unique shower!

P

Paulette

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

The surroundings are truly beautiful, scenic, calm and peaceful. Lynne has ensured that everything a camper needs is close at hand. The pitches are well spaced out and on good solid terrain. Clean, accessible facilities, well maintained. Adorable alpaca herds literally over the fence. A wonderful retreat, we will definitely return. Lynne is simply lovely and has hit the nail on the head with this site.

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.

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

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.

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!

a

alexander

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Really great campsite enjoyed our stay very much shower was a learning curve but worked and was good fun

C

Charlotte

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

We loved staying on Lynnes land, it was a lovely quiet campsite, the alpacas are so cute, and Lynne was a great host! Definitely recommend.

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:)

J

Jonathan

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Beirhope Alpacas

Perfect spot in the Borders for a peaceful night. Friendly welcome from Lynne who was most helpful. Clean,good facilities. Alpacas are an added bonus,cheeky with it. Book it!

K

Katie

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Beirhope Alpacas

Beirhope was a beautiful location, we were greeted by Lynne who was brilliant. The site had everything you might need. Will definitely be back!

G

Gary

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Spent 3 fab nights on Phil’s Patch with my 12 year old son. Lynne’s hospitality was as great as ever and look forward to returning again soon. We had great weather and clear skies giving us fantastic views of the night sky. Magical!!

J

James

August 2025

Tent

6 nights at Beirhope Alpacas

Lynne was so accommodating and always strived to help us out. She gave great recommendations and was always there to provide unparalleled customer service. The site was equipped with a private kitchen space including knifes, chopping board, and cooking utensils, as well as a private toilet. The water was fed from a private spring so it was always so fresh and refreshing. The alpacas, horses, sheep and goats were always great to watch and the woodland surrounding the site had become home to Golden Eagles. This site is definitely a place for nature lovers and those trying to get away from cities. The only thing I would change about this experience would be to install running water in the shower, but the existing set up involving a bucket-pulley system and a hose with shower head works surprisingly well! We are looking forward to our next stay in this campsite!

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

Dog-friendly getaways

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

133km from Rutherglen · 2 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

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

Dod Mill Fishing Hut

97km from Rutherglen · 1 unit · Glamping · Lauder, Scotland

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

Garrison Shepherd's Huts

100%

(2)

116km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Bowness On Solway, England

Shepherd’s hut glamping near Hadrian’s Wall and the Solway Firth.

St Conan's Escape

100%

(12)

82km from Rutherglen · 4 units · Glamping · Dalmally, Scotland

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

Mongolian Yurt in Stunning Highland

62km from Rutherglen · 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites for hikers near Rutherglen guide

Where to go

Strathclyde Country Park

A 15-minute drive south of Rutherglen, kayakers and windsurfers flock to Strathclyde Country Park to get in on the action at the Watersports Centre and on Strathclyde Loch. Within a short walking distance of the park, Strathclyde Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club site has room for tents and tourers.

Stepps

Northeast of Glasgow City Centre, and a 20-minute drive from Rutherglen, Red Deer Village Holiday Park enjoys a countryside setting on the city’s doorstep. The site is well-placed for exploring the nearby Seven Lochs Wetland Park and has hardstanding pitches for caravans and motorhomes, a grass area with spacious tent pitches, and chalets and static caravans for hire.

West Highland Way

Travelers wishing to embark on the 96-mile (154-kilometer) West Highland Way trail can set up camp in the West Highland Way Campsite, situated directly on the route, 35 minutes north of Rutherglen. The site has grass and hardstanding pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents, as well as a hut and furnished bell tents for hire.

Know before you go

Some campsites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before traveling.
Wild camping is permitted throughout Scotland, as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
The weather in Scotland is changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
Frequent trains connect Rutherglen with Glasgow in under 10 minutes. Glasgow itself is well-connected to the rest of Scotland (and England) by rail and bus.
From groceries to camping gear, you’ll find anything you need in Glasgow’s shops. Start on Buchanan Street and the intersecting Sauchiehall Street.