Can you wild camp in the Cairngorms?

Yes, you can wild camp in Cairngorms National Park, but you must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Wild camping is legal in Scotland, including in the Cairngorms, as long as you do so responsibly and respect the environment. When wild camping in Cairngorms National Park, follow these guidelines: Only camp for a short duration (usually one or two nights) in the same location. Set up your campsite well away from buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. Leave no trace: take all your litter, waste, and belongings with you when you leave. Respect the privacy and property of landowners. Avoid camping in enclosed fields with crops or animals. Minimize your impact on the environment by using a stove rather than an open fire. Keep in mind that some areas within the national park may have specific restrictions or require permits for wild camping. Always check local information and signage before setting up camp.

Camping in The Cairngorms National Park

United Kingdom
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Scotland
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The Cairngorms National Park

95% (67 reviews)

Popular camping styles for The Cairngorms National Park

Star Hosts in The Cairngorms National Park

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12 top campsites in The Cairngorms National Park

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The Loft Glamping & Camping

12 units · Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Kinloss, Scotland

The Loft Glamping & Camping site is situated at East Grange Farm. This is a working farm that has evolved into a Wigwam Glamping and Campervan and tent camping site and a Venue. The "wilderness" campsite offers pitches suitable for Tents and small campervans whilst the Stackyard area is suitable for Motorhomes and Mega tents. All motorhome pitches have electrical hook-up and we have a number of electric tent pitches. Unfortunately we do not take caravans. Onsite we also have Wigwam cabins which are wooden camping cabins (Pods) that offer all year round protection against the elements. With heating, electricity, fridge, kettle and toasters. For those wanting a bit more luxury there are also ensuite Wigwam Cabins onsite with wood fired hot tubs. We welcome families, groups, well behaved dogs and do allow campfires outside the wigwams and at pitches and can provide fire hubs on the campsite (this must be pre-arranged). The Loft Glamping & Camping looks forward to welcoming you throughout the year Please visit our website for availability and to book.

Bachilton Farm Holidays

2 units · Glamping1 acre · Central Scotland, Perth and Kinross

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

Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

5 units · Glamping, Motorhomes17 acres · Perthshire , Perth And Kinross

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

Muiredge

8 units · Glamping1 acre · Central Scotland, Perth and Kinross

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

Highland & Transylvania Glamp. Pod

2 units · Glamping1 acre · Roy Bridge, Scotland

Glamping pods in a large garden alongside the river Roy A 10-minute drive from Loch Lochy and 20 minutes from Fort William Seating in the garden and kitchen and ensuites provided Right on the side of the river Roy, the Highland and Transylvania Glamping Pods is a properly cosy base in the Scottish Highlands. The large garden has a terrace, river views and a seating area, but perhaps the best bit is that it’s located a short drive from lochs, glens, rivers and long-distance trails. What might you get up to? Climbing, hill walking, mountain biking and water-based sports are all on the agenda in this area, but especially in Fort William (20 minutes’ drive) and Lochaber, which have been ascribed as a capital for outdoor adventures. Scotland’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, is also 20 minutes’ drive away. Even closer is Loch Lochy (10 minutes’ drive), which has access to part of the 79-mile Great Glen Way (around 10 minutes’ drive). From Fort William, start off on another long-distance trail, the West Highland Way, which stretches for 96 miles across the banks of Loch Lomond and ends in Milngavie. The pods here have been named after the places where the owners spent their childhood and continue to live. Feel free to stop off while travelling to or from the Isle of Skye (two hours and 10 minutes) or stay for a good while… Fort William’s centre has a splendid selection of pubs, restaurants, shops and a bus and rail station. Plus, there are lots of links courses for golfers a day trip away, like the Royal Dornoch (two hours and 25 minutes). Both pods have a small double bed (a bit narrower than a standard double) with all bed linen provided. The kitchen areas are equipped with a fridge, microwave, kettle and toaster (crockery, cutlery and towels are handily provided). To keep things nice and tasty, the pods are also well insulated. The patio doors and the rear opening window are both double glazed and there are electric radiators to inject some extra heat into the kitchen and living area.

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Loch Katrine Eco Camping

22 units · Glamping, Motorhomes1 acre · Central Scotland, Stirling and Falkirk

Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations

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St Conan's Escape

4 units · Glamping4 acres · Dalmally, Argyll And Bute

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

100%

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Hillside Meadows

3 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Scotland

If you wish to visit the north-east of Scotland with sandy and rocky beaches, magnificent cliffs, old lighthouses and famous whisky distilleries, Hillside Meadows is the place to stay. You can enjoy near wild camping experience provided by hosts Michal and Gosia, who are developing on site fully off-grid permaculture family farm. Don't be surprised to be welcomed to your temporary home by a wired-haired dachshund Dubby or woken up in the morning by Pablo the Cockrell. There are usually fresh quail and hen eggs available. The site is handily located just off the A981 Strichen-Memsie road. It makes the site easily accessible for camper vans and caravans owners. There might be some noise from passing traffic, but it’s hardly a distraction from your surroundings, rolling hills, open fields and woodlands. It goes without saying that our 5-acres site is ideal for self-sufficient campers. There are just a handful of pitches, well distanced from each other, tucked among the high grass meadows, which gives campers plenty of space and sense of privacy. Park up or pitch your tent. Then you can just relax and concentrate on the important stuff – like getting that campfire going! The basic facilities, including composting toilet, tap water and shower, are available on site if needed. Our quirky camper van Alaska is ready to use as additional accommodation here on site, ideal for one person, couples or families up to 5. Just 3 miles away from our site lies Fraserburgh, a little coastal town with a sandy beach, Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, as well as a range of convenience stores, shops, cafés, restaurants and bars. Within 5 miles from our site, you'll also find Waters of Philorth Nature Reserve, New Aberdour beach, Rattray old lighthouse, Strichen stone circle, Aden Country Park and more.

Bankhead Croft

14 units · Glamping, Tents10 acres · England

I am a ten acre Croft. I have an on-site cafe. I rescue animals which surround the property. We are two miles from Gardenstown seaside. I offer camping, glamping B&B, and tiny home, cabins. Many properties have hot tubs and are set alone. It’s a quiet area and for those who want to chill on the countryside.

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West Highland Way Campsite

40 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · South Scotland, Lanarkshire, Glasgow

Boutique campsite on the West Highland Way and John Muir Way. Close to both Glasgow and Loch Lomond. Our campsite caters for caravans, motorhomes, backpacking tents etc. We also have Shepherds Huts and Safari Glamping Tents. Pet friendly. Camp fires allowed. Breakfast is included. Evening meals available.

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Badrallach Campsite

12 units · Motorhomes, Tents1 acre · Highlands, Ross and Cromarty

Where the end of the road is the start of your adventure

Pirnie Lodge Farm

3 units · Glamping8 acres · Slamannan, Scotland

Welcome to Pirnie Lodge Farm, home to two charming holiday lets near Falkirk, which allow you to get away from it all. Our lodges are well out of the way in Slamannan Plateau on the outskirts of a picturesque, quiet, non-working farm. The village itself is a mile away, and there are no major roads for 5 miles and all directions. ntroducing our two charming holiday lodges, Daisy’s Den and Poppy’s Place. Our holiday accommodation is dog friendly and has great views of the surrounding area. Our guests find this the perfect location to get away from the stress of everyday life, while remaining not too much of a journey from the major centres of Scotland. Our holiday lets near Falkirk sleep 4 people and 3 people respectively, so you to come and enjoy the area as a family or as a couple. Both lets have their own hot tubs, 55 inch smart televisions, and beautiful views from our 8 acre plot. However, the lodges themselves are within driving distance of Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling, and Falkirk, enabling people to see many of the great sites of Scotland at their convenience.

Available this weekend

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Hillside Meadows

3 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Scotland

If you wish to visit the north-east of Scotland with sandy and rocky beaches, magnificent cliffs, old lighthouses and famous whisky distilleries, Hillside Meadows is the place to stay. You can enjoy near wild camping experience provided by hosts Michal and Gosia, who are developing on site fully off-grid permaculture family farm. Don't be surprised to be welcomed to your temporary home by a wired-haired dachshund Dubby or woken up in the morning by Pablo the Cockrell. There are usually fresh quail and hen eggs available. The site is handily located just off the A981 Strichen-Memsie road. It makes the site easily accessible for camper vans and caravans owners. There might be some noise from passing traffic, but it’s hardly a distraction from your surroundings, rolling hills, open fields and woodlands. It goes without saying that our 5-acres site is ideal for self-sufficient campers. There are just a handful of pitches, well distanced from each other, tucked among the high grass meadows, which gives campers plenty of space and sense of privacy. Park up or pitch your tent. Then you can just relax and concentrate on the important stuff – like getting that campfire going! The basic facilities, including composting toilet, tap water and shower, are available on site if needed. Our quirky camper van Alaska is ready to use as additional accommodation here on site, ideal for one person, couples or families up to 5. Just 3 miles away from our site lies Fraserburgh, a little coastal town with a sandy beach, Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, as well as a range of convenience stores, shops, cafés, restaurants and bars. Within 5 miles from our site, you'll also find Waters of Philorth Nature Reserve, New Aberdour beach, Rattray old lighthouse, Strichen stone circle, Aden Country Park and more.

100%

(5)

Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

10 units · Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Scotland

We have 10 non-electric pitches in a spectacular setting, surrounded by hills and the River Don. We also have Critter Corner, an area where you can get up close with our friendly animals. We have alpacas, pygmy goats, a donkey and more. We also have a couple of kids play areas. This is all included in the price. For £5 per person we have Cairngorms Kwidditch (a 9-hole disc golf course). You can also go alpaca trekking - £10 per child (16 or under) and £15 per adult. Children will need to be accompanied by a paying adult.

Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

5 units · Glamping, Motorhomes17 acres · Perthshire , Perth And Kinross

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

The Loft Glamping & Camping

12 units · Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Kinloss, Scotland

The Loft Glamping & Camping site is situated at East Grange Farm. This is a working farm that has evolved into a Wigwam Glamping and Campervan and tent camping site and a Venue. The "wilderness" campsite offers pitches suitable for Tents and small campervans whilst the Stackyard area is suitable for Motorhomes and Mega tents. All motorhome pitches have electrical hook-up and we have a number of electric tent pitches. Unfortunately we do not take caravans. Onsite we also have Wigwam cabins which are wooden camping cabins (Pods) that offer all year round protection against the elements. With heating, electricity, fridge, kettle and toasters. For those wanting a bit more luxury there are also ensuite Wigwam Cabins onsite with wood fired hot tubs. We welcome families, groups, well behaved dogs and do allow campfires outside the wigwams and at pitches and can provide fire hubs on the campsite (this must be pre-arranged). The Loft Glamping & Camping looks forward to welcoming you throughout the year Please visit our website for availability and to book.

Muiredge

8 units · Glamping1 acre · Central Scotland, Perth and Kinross

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

Under £50

Booked 1 time

Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages

1 unit · Tent15000 acres · Scotland

Glen Dye Cabins & Cottages offer visitors unique and varied self catering rental properties in the heart of the 15,000 acre Glen Dye Estate. From cosy cottages with Swedish wood fired hot tubs to The Saw Mill site which offers the very best of outdoor living combined with luxurious indoor spaces - all of the properties are equipped to the highest standard and each has it's own unique appeal. Perfect for a romantic couples getaway, big family celebrations, holidays with friends, a relaxed chill out with your nearest and dearest - 100% dog friendly too! A short walk from the properties will find you out on the hills of Glen Dye with spectacular views and miles of glorious country to explore; or a short drive will take you to the local surrounding towns with cafes, restaurants and shops galore. Castles to visit, galleries to browse, and the great outdoors.

Loch Katrine Eco Camping

22 units · Glamping, Motorhomes1 acre · Central Scotland, Stirling and Falkirk

Loch-side sleeping and exploring in one of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park's most historic locations

Cairngorms Glamping and Campsite

10 units · Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Scotland

We have 10 non-electric pitches in a spectacular setting, surrounded by hills and the River Don. We also have Critter Corner, an area where you can get up close with our friendly animals. We have alpacas, pygmy goats, a donkey and more. We also have a couple of kids play areas. This is all included in the price. For £5 per person we have Cairngorms Kwidditch (a 9-hole disc golf course). You can also go alpaca trekking - £10 per child (16 or under) and £15 per adult. Children will need to be accompanied by a paying adult.

Culdees Castle Estate Glamping

5 units · Glamping, Motorhomes17 acres · Perthshire , Perth And Kinross

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

The Loft Glamping & Camping

12 units · Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Kinloss, Scotland

The Loft Glamping & Camping site is situated at East Grange Farm. This is a working farm that has evolved into a Wigwam Glamping and Campervan and tent camping site and a Venue. The "wilderness" campsite offers pitches suitable for Tents and small campervans whilst the Stackyard area is suitable for Motorhomes and Mega tents. All motorhome pitches have electrical hook-up and we have a number of electric tent pitches. Unfortunately we do not take caravans. Onsite we also have Wigwam cabins which are wooden camping cabins (Pods) that offer all year round protection against the elements. With heating, electricity, fridge, kettle and toasters. For those wanting a bit more luxury there are also ensuite Wigwam Cabins onsite with wood fired hot tubs. We welcome families, groups, well behaved dogs and do allow campfires outside the wigwams and at pitches and can provide fire hubs on the campsite (this must be pre-arranged). The Loft Glamping & Camping looks forward to welcoming you throughout the year Please visit our website for availability and to book.

Camping in The Cairngorms National Park guide

The U.K.'s biggest national park, the sprawling Cairngorms National Park encompasses lush native forest, lochs, waterfalls, and five of the country's highest mountains set alongside 55 mountains over 3,000 feet (914 metres)—known in Scotland as Munros. This wild mountainous landscape is a magnet for wildlife lovers who come to spot eagles, snow buntings, ptarmigan, capercaillie, and red deer. From snowsports to hiking and water activities on Loch Morlich, outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty of thrills. One of the best ways to experience the landscape and get closer to nature is by pitching a tent in Rothiemurchus Forest, glamping in a camping pod, or parking your motorhome or campervan in the heart of the Cairngorms.

Notable Campgrounds

Best for families: Glenmore Caravan and Camping Site is one of the park’s largest, with electric hookups available and bbq grills allowed.
Best for caravanning and snowsports: Braemar Caravan Park is minutes from Glenshee Ski Centre.
Best for pristine surroundings: Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park in Coylumbridge has sheltered pitches surrounded by Caledonian pine trees.

Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation

Booking is recommended for all campgrounds in the national park.
Most sites allow booking many months in advance, so make your reservations as soon as you know travel dates.
Advise ahead of time if you will be arriving late.

When to Go

Summer is the most popular time to visit Cairngorms National Park, but the season does bring crowds and booked-up campsites. If planning to visit in the summer, it’s a good idea to at least avoid school holidays and weekends—if unavoidable, be sure to book sites well in advance. In spring, Scots enjoy water sports, hiking, and climbing, while late February through March is the best time for skiing and other winter sports.

Know Before You Go

If you choose to wild camp, be sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which applies to all wild camping.
The park offers dozens of car parks, with the largest at Balmoral Castle, Linn of Dee, and Glenmore.
Cairngorms stretches into parts of Aberdeenshire, Banffshire, and Inverness-shire.
Small biting midges are a common summertime nuisance in the Cairngorm Mountains and wider Scottish Highlands. It’s a good idea to bring insect repellent.
Much of the park and its facilities are wheelchair accessible.
You’ll find plenty of places to buy food and camping gear in Aviemore or Blair Atholl.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, wild camping is not allowed at Loch Morlich. Loch Morlich is located near Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. While wild camping is generally allowed in Scotland under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, some areas have specific restrictions due to environmental concerns or high visitor numbers. Cairngorms National Park is one such area with restrictions in place, and wild camping is not permitted around Loch Morlich.

However, there is a designated campsite at Glenmore Campsite near Loch Morlich, which offers camping facilities and a beautiful setting for visitors. It is recommended to book a pitch at a designated campsite in the area to enjoy the stunning surroundings responsibly.

Yes, you can wild camp in Cairngorms National Park, but you must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Wild camping is legal in Scotland, including in the Cairngorms, as long as you do so responsibly and respect the environment. When wild camping in Cairngorms National Park, follow these guidelines:

Only camp for a short duration (usually one or two nights) in the same location.
Set up your campsite well away from buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
Leave no trace: take all your litter, waste, and belongings with you when you leave.
Respect the privacy and property of landowners.
Avoid camping in enclosed fields with crops or animals.
Minimize your impact on the environment by using a stove rather than an open fire.

Keep in mind that some areas within the national park may have specific restrictions or require permits for wild camping. Always check local information and signage before setting up camp.