Wild camping Scotland: complete guide for motorhomes

Ah, Scotland. The breathtaking country at the tip of the British Isles, home to Lochs, Glens and Bens (no, not the locals at the pub), is one of the finest places in the world to see from a van. Thanks to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code which gives everyone the right to enjoy the wilderness of Scotland, travellers have a huge array of places they can take their van and spend the night.

Let’s take a look at the ins and outs of wild camping in Scotland , some of the best places in the country to spend the night, and some other handy tips and tricks.

Just what is the outdoor access code?

Glad you asked! Unlike most countries around the world, where camping is limited to designated areas and paid campsites, Scotland places the trust of enjoying and respecting the outdoors in the hands of visitors and locals. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code allows unfettered access to the many hills and forests, moors and beaches, rivers and lochs, coastline and parks, and some types of farmland.

There are common sense exceptions to the code, such as houses, gardens, schools, private buildings and places that charge a fee for entry. One very important aspect of the code is that **this does not necessarily mean vehicle access is allowed. **

The code exists to promote the responsible use of the Scottish countryside for activities such as walking, cycling, kayaking, camping and many others.

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code is based on three key principles. Respect the interests of others, care for the environment, and take responsibility for your own actions. It is important to stress that this incredible access does not mean travellers have the right to regard the land in any way they want, it is still vitally important to treat the local areas with the utmost respect.

Ok, but what about camping in a van?

Even more glad you ask! After all, that’s what we’re here for. Campervan and motorhome camping in Scotland is generally legal on most roads, however you must still observe no parking signs , private garages and driveways and **throughways. **

It’s good practice to stay out of the way when wild camping. There’s no reason to park for the night on the side of a busy road when there are numerous quiet roads and pull-off zones that will be more private for you and less obtrusive for locals.

As a rule, it’s also advised not to stay in the same spot for more than three days , camp in small numbers , and of course, leave no trace behind. If you’re camping near a private home and you feel you may be too close, there’s no harm in asking for permission before you set up. Scottish locals are notoriously friendly and proud of their unique landscape.

Some of our favourite wild camping spots for campervans and motorhomes

Silver Sands Beach, Aberdour

If you’re starting your campervan trip from Edinburgh, Silver Sands Beach makes for a great first night close to the sparkling city. Overlooking the Firth of Forth , a quiet road runs along the coast and up to Ha Lighthouse , where there are a handful of spots legal to park your van for the night. A top spot to watch the sunset, walk along the cliffs to spot wild rabbits and seabirds. Silver Sands Beach has a quaint cafe with beach showers attached.

Callander Crags Car Park

On the outskirts of Loch Lomond National Park , the village of Callander is a gorgeous example of a quintessential Scottish town. The Crags Car Park lies underneath towering trees, with long ferns creating a thick canopy to park under. Hikes start from the car park, so expect it to liven up in the morning.

Loch Long Car Park & Picnic Area

The town of Arrochar lies at the head of Loch Long , the start of the indomitable rise of the Scottish Highlands. The car park in town welcomes campervans and motorhomes for a modest fee, and it’s well worth it. The views across the Loch are nothing short of spectacular, with dramatic hills rising on either side to create a splendid valley view to wake up to. Try the fish and chips in town. You know you want to.

**Tall Trees Trail **

A quiet parking area at the start of the Tall Trees Trail at Loch Awe is a perfect spot to pull up for a night or two in the region of Oban in Western Scotland. The trails here are beautiful, taking you through woodland with a distinctly ancient rainforest feel before winding along the Loch itself. The parking area is cosy and protected on three sides by the trees.

Tips & tricks for campervan and motorhome travel

Camping off-grid comes with more challenges than simply pulling up to a campsite loaded with amenities. Before you set off, make sure you’re fully prepared for a night among the wilderness.

• Have everything you need - Scotland, and particularly the Highlands, can be very remote and empty. If you’re looking to camp off the beaten path make sure you are loaded up on food, water and essentials before finding your hidden gem.

• Leave no trace - we all want Scotland to preserve it’s natural beauty, and the quickest way for no parking signs to come up is for travellers to abuse the gift of the outdoors. Take everything with you! (Does not include taking wild animals, please leave them.)

• Arrive late, leave early  - it’s always best to stay discreet when wild camping, and the best way to do this is to limit the time you’re staying in a particular spot. No one wants to see a van hogging a gorgeous view for weeks on end!

What van should I choose?

The eternal conundrum. We’re lucky at Camplify to have a huge fleet of vans of all sizes in Scotland , so you’re not limited when choosing how you want to get around. There are a few things to consider, if you’re looking to do a lot of off-grid camping in remote areas, a small campervan that won’t draw too much attention might be best. If you’re wanting the luxury of campsites and amenities, a larger motorhome is the way to go. For everything in between, we’ve got you covered too.

Right, when do I go?

That’s the spirit! How about right now? There’s no bad time to visit Scotland , although camping in winter will throw up some more challenges than the warmer months. July - September are the busiest months, and for good reason. Sunny days and blue skies permeate through the summer, however the nights can still get chilly, especially in the Highlands. It’s best to prepare for all kinds of weather in Scotland , as it can change quickly.

*****Interested in a Scottish road trip? Want to test out your bagpipes skill and haggis-eating ability? Let’s go! Check out our huge fleet of vans located all across the country at Camplify. *****