camping in the Cairngorms National Park

Campsites in the Cairngorms

Camping in the Cairngorms offers some of the most iconic campsites in Scotland or, even, the world; the kind of picture-perfect scene you see adorning magazine covers 

Like most things, Britain’s biggest National Park doesn’t do camping by halves. You can have all manner of camping experiences here: glamping, camping pods, castle or loch side or mountain views or, even, a night in a gypsy caravan or restored rail wagon! Regardless of where you camp, every site has the privilege of witnessing super starry nights thanks to incredibly low light pollution. Booking in advance is definitely recommended, so get planning your trip now!

Blair Castle Caravan Park
Blair Castle Caravan Park
Scientists, naturalists, poets & more have all talked about the magical benefits of sleeping out in the fresh air, surrounded by trees and covered by stars.

There's no doubt there's something uniquely restorative and enlivening about camping, especially in the Cairngorms where you can do it surrounded by ancient pine forest, or by the side of the River Spey or Dee or at the foot of a mountain.

Camping here is genuinely coming back to nature. Yet, if you want to be near home comforts and modern facilities, you can be.

There are so many unique camping in the Cairngorms experiences, you'll find the perfect one for you.

If you want to camp like a King (or Queen!) you can, in the grounds of Blair Castle. If you want to camp right next to the River Dee you can, at Ballater Caravan Park. If you want to be enveloped by forest in your tent, you can, at Dalraddy Holiday Park or Badaguish Centre or Glenmore Caravan and Camping Site. If you want a glamping option, there are pods and cabins galore, or even the Lazy Duck's site, complete with hot tub and sauna! (check out the dedicated glamping page too).

The options are vast, just scroll down to the listings below for more inspiration!

Rothiemurchus Campsite

FAQs

Is it necessary to book into campsites in the Cairngorms?

Yes, it is advisable. Camping is extremely popular in the Cairngorms National Park and sometimes sites get fully booked, particularly in school holidays.

Which are the most unique, unusual campsites?

Each campsite has its own charm and unique characteristics, depending on what experience you are after. For instance, you can camp in the grounds of a majestic castle like Blair Castle. Or you can camp in the middle of a forest as at Dalraddy Holiday Park. Or you can set up camp right next to the stunning River Dee at Ballater Caravan Park.

Which campsites are best if you want to be next to the snowsports / mountains?

Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Site is on the ‘ski road’ which leads directly to Cairngorm Mountain. Badaguish Campsite and Glenmore Caravan and Camping Site are located on the same road. Braemar Caravan Park and Camping Pods are on Glenshee Road, a short drive from Glenshee Ski Centre. The Smugglers Campsite in Tomintoul is well located for accessing The Lecht Ski Centre.


camping in the Cairngorms National Park

#VisitCairngorms to join locals and visitors on their own journey of discovery!

Join our Mailing List

Sign up to get notified of the latest deals, news and all the latest information direct to your inbox.