Campervan Sites Scotland

Campervan Sites Scotland

Here at Scottish Tourer, we are huge advocates for wild camping. Nothing compares to the freedom of being able to sleep wherever you want without crowds or extra costs. 

Fortunately, we've had the pleasure to spend 30 years of holidays traveling in our campervan, spending nights in all manner of campsites in Scotland. So, when it comes to places you can settle down for the night, we know where to find the best. 

Our pre-planned motorhome driving routes all have great suggestions for places to spend the evening, but we know some of our customers will want the ultimate freedom of the great unknown.  

If you’re keen to explore Scotland in your campervan the old-fashioned way, then let us offer some suggestions for caravan parks and overnight parking spots. That way, no matter where you end up, you can find a safe and pleasant place to rest for the night no matter which part of Scotland you might find yourself in.  

Wildcamping in a campervan in Scotland 

Before you know the best spots to settle in, here are some campsite tips you may need to make your campervan holiday in Scotland more comfortable.   

• If in doubt, ask. If you're unsure that it's ok to be staying on someone else's land, just ask. It never hurts to spark up a friendly conversation. It also never hurts to be ready to leave quickly, just in case you are asked to move.

• Be prepared. You know the saying; prepare for the worst. Enough to eat and drink is essential for staying comfortable on your trip. This is especially recommended if travelling to remote areas where you never know when you'll hit the next shop. Alternatively, you could think about creating a meal plan or following a pre-made route, so you know exactly where and when you'll be at all times.

• Safety. Flashlights, locked doors and keeping an eye on the fuel gauge are always good ideas when travelling. 

• Less time-wasting. Unless you're specifically seeking out a campsite to stay and relax for longer periods, it's always best to arrive later and leave early. This way, you are just eating and sleeping before getting back on the road to cram as much sight-seeing and fun into your trip.

• Be respectful. Whether you're on someone else's land or not, be kind and courteous. Leave no litter or traces of fires, and don't ruin any foliage.
   

Free campervan sites in Scotland 

Now that you know some essential tips, here are some of the best places we know about for overnight parking absolutely free. We've included their GPS coordinates so you can just pop them into your navigation system and be on your way in a dash.

Bowencraig East Car Park in Largs 
(N 55.77709, W 4.85782; N 55°46'38", W 4°51'28")

A fantastic little spot near the marina where you can relax with stunning views of the water. A short walk or bike from Largs itself you stay the night or longer to see the sights of the Pencil Monument and Great Cumbrae Island.

Mull of Galloway Lighthouse in Drummore 
(N 54.63525, W 4.86014)

Another spot with fantastic views of the water, ideal if you want to visit the lighthouse itself. With a visitor centre nearby you have open toilets, a cafe and a shop close by during the daytime.

Parking Stoer Lighthouse in Clashmore
(N 58.23783, W 5.40086)

The second lighthouse on our list and another great camping spot. Despite having limited facilities, you can still enjoy stunning views and, if lucky, get the chance to spot some dolphins.

Inchree Falls Car Park in Onich
(N 56.72037, W 5.22159; N 56°43'13", W 5°13'18")

Waterfalls, hiking trails and views across the valley all make this spot perfect for a relaxing night's stay. The parking spots are surrounded by trees and isolated enough for peace and quiet, but not too much so you're far from the road. 

Parking Loch Garten Osprey Centre in Boat of Garten
(N 57.24454, W 3.69599)

You'll want to avoid arriving before sundown at this spot to avoid the crowds. When you do arrive, however, you won't regret it. Surrounded by wildlife and foliage, you'll be sure to have a peaceful stay.

Parkview Terrace in Latheronwheel
(N 58.27045, W 3.38093) 

Sea-views and short walks to restaurants are what make this stops special. Everything you'll need for a pleasant night's rest before hitting the road again. 

These are just suggestions for free overnight parking you can find dotted around Scotland.  

If you find yourself in an area not mentioned, there are useful websites like CamperContact which can help you find one close by.   
 

Paid campervan sites

If you don't mind paying a small fee for a stay in a professional camping site, then we can help you there too. Here are some suggestions for sites across Scotland if you're looking to take the stress out of finding a campsite.

Loch Lomond Holiday Park
(N 56.244406, W -4.712091) 

Loch Lomond should be on anyone's Scotland bucket list. There may be no myths of fantastical creatures living in its waters like Loch Ness, but the views are breathtaking, and the camping spots are idyllic. Close to the Trossachs National Park and a range of activities to fill days, it's a fantastic place to stay a night or two.
 

Machrihanish Holiday Park
(N 55.423618, W -5.715618)

If you're looking to explore Kintyre, then this is the spot for you. With shops, launderettes and kitchen facilities on-site you'll be comfortable during your stay. You can hike, visit the local golf courses or take a boat trip while here to make it a memorable stop on your road trip. 

Lauder Camping and Caravanning Club Site
(N 55.773601, W -2.784095)

A beautiful site nestles on the bank of a river that runs along the Scottish borders. A short drive from Edinburgh and lots to see and do in the local area it's a welcoming place to stay. You can also make the most from the site's facilities which include showers, wi-fi and washing machines. 

There you have it, a list of some of the best camping sites you can stay in when traveling Scotland by campervan. This is by no means a complete list, and we're sure there are some fantastic places out there that even we don’t know about!
 

Motorhome holidays with Scottish Tourer 

Our goal is to provide the best motorhome hires, the best advice, and all the information necessary for our customers to make the most of their campervan holiday in Scotland. 

If you are interested in hiring a motorhome from Scottish Tourer, or you would like to find out more information about camping spots, driving routes, and the motorhomes we have to offer, please don't hesitate to get in touch.  

We very much look forward to helping you kickstart your motorhome holiday in Scotland!