Campsites near waterfalls in Taynish National Nature Reserve

On the west coast of Scotland, the beautiful Taynish National Nature Reserve is an often-overlooked gem. The reserve covers almost the entirety of Argyll and Bute’s Taynish peninsula and is one of the largest original oakwoods remaining in Britain. Between the oak woods are scattered pockets of grassland glades, heath, saltmarsh and shoreline. Visitors can spend their time strolling along woodland paths and spotting wildlife, including roe deer, red squirrels and otters. While there are none within the reserve, private campsites within an hour’s drive include Tarbert Holiday Park, which has spacious touring pitches and heated glamping pods, and the small Ardfern Motorhome Park, which is exclusively for motorhomes and campervans.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Port nan Gael Campsite

95%

(11)

75 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pennyghael, Scotland

A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull

On the west coast of Scotland, the beautiful Taynish National Nature Reserve is an often-overlooked gem. The reserve covers almost the entirety of Argyll and Bute’s Taynish peninsula and is one of the largest original oakwoods remaining in Britain. Between the oak woods are scattered pockets of grassland glades, heath, saltmarsh and shoreline. Visitors can spend their time strolling along woodland paths and spotting wildlife, including roe deer, red squirrels and otters. While there are none within the reserve, private campsites within an hour’s drive include Tarbert Holiday Park, which has spacious touring pitches and heated glamping pods, and the small Ardfern Motorhome Park, which is exclusively for motorhomes and campervans.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Port nan Gael Campsite

95%

(11)

75 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pennyghael, Scotland

A lochside campsite on the Isle of Mull

Stories from the community

S

Siobhan

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Port nan Gael Campsite

Absolutely loved our stay! Despite the almost constant rain we had haha. Beautiful location with views out over the water where we saw some seals one night. Great facilities on site, and a fab shop and restaurant too! Will 100% be back 😃

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near waterfalls in Taynish National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

Taynish National Nature Reserve is open to visitors all year round. May and June are the best months for seeing wildlife. In spring the landscape is carpeted with purple bluebells and yellow primroses and abundant birdlife includes migratory birds from Africa. In summer visitors can discover why Taynish is one of the best places in Scotland to see butterflies: more than 20 species have been seen there, including the rare, and threatened, marsh fritillary.

Know before you go

The closest public transit access is the bus stop in Tayvallich (30-minute walk), served by buses from Lochgilphead.
The nearest public restrooms are in Tayvallich.
Even in summer, the weather can quickly change. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy walking boots are essential.
If wild camping in the surrounding area, be sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.