Discover the best river, stream, or creek and dog-friendly campsites near Livingston, West Lothian

West Lothian’s biggest town, Livingston draws visitors 15 miles (24 kilmoeters) west of Edinburgh with its big shopping centers. But outdoor adventurers will find plenty of thrills beyond that of retail therapy. The town is surrounded by excellent golf courses, including Deer Park Golf and Country Club, and has a network of foot and cycle paths that lead through the Almond Valley. There’s also the Almond Valley Heritage Centre, a family-friendly attraction that is home to farm animals including Highland cattle, rare-breed sheep, and Clydesdale horses. From glamping in a cabin to pitching a tent in woodland, campers have plenty of options.

Where to go

The Union Canal

Running all the way from Falkirk in the west to Edinburgh in the east, the Union Canal offers waterside cycling and walking opportunities along its towpath. Next to the canal, and five miles west of Livingston, Linwater Caravan Park is set on farmland and has room for tents, caravans and motorhomes, and also has a selection of glamping pods, self-catering lodges and static caravan holiday homes.

Linlithgow

Just seven miles (11 kilometers) north of Livingston, Linlithgow pulls in visitors thanks to its historic Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. The town is also home to a lovely loch that is the setting for adventures from windsurfing to kayaking. A few minutes south of the town, the forested Beecraigs Country Park is home to lots of walking and mountain biking trails, along which you can spot red deer, Highland cattle and Shetland sheep. Within the park, Beecraigs Caravan and Camping Site has hardstanding pitches with electric hook-up as well as non-electric grass pitches.

Inland

The small village of Kirknewton lies seven miles (11 kilometers) south of Livingston. The village offers easy access to Pentland Hills Regional Park where you can hike, bike and horseback ride. Kirknewton is also handy for Jupiter Artland, a sprawling sculpture park and art gallery. To the south of the village, Hilly Cow Wigwams offers a fun glamping experience in wooden cabins surrounded by rural countryside.

When to go

For enjoying long daylight hours and your best chance of good weather, visiting between May and August is your best bet. This is also the busiest tourist season in Edinburgh, however, so you may have to contend with spillover crowds visiting for the Edinburgh Festival in July and August: be sure to make bookings in advance. Winters in West Lothian are typically mild, but daylight hours are short—the sun set around 4 p.m. in December.

Know before you go

Some private campsites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before traveling.
The weather in Scotland is changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
Livingston is served by two railway stations that offer quick connections to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten something, Livingston is known for its shopping so you’ll likely find anything you need in town.