By Meike Burgess, Marketing Manager
Published: May 24, 2022More by Meike
By Meike Burgess, Marketing Manager
Published: May 24, 2022More by Meike
Imagine the satisfaction of pitching your tent with views down a magnificent glen, or somewhere in the woods amidst a green canopy of trees or even in the midst of your own sweeping beach panorama. Cooking a cosy dinner over a camping stove, taking in the scenery as you eat. Spending a relaxed evening gazing out over endless stars or reading by torchlight all snug and warm in your sleeping bag. Listening to the sound of light patter of rain on the overhead canvas or the chirping of birds in the morning. Wild camping in Scotland can be utterly idyllic, the ultimate getaway from a busy life if done right.
Scotland is a fantastic destination for wild camping, however, we acknowledge that people might have questions and look for some guidance on wild camping best practices, not just for you but also for the local community and environment. Even though wild camping is in theory possible just about anywhere in Scotland, there are things you should know before getting started. Read on for more information on what’s allowed and where, as well as wild camping best practices.
In short, yes. Scotland is a wonderful destination for wild camping because of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. In principle, everyone has the right to access Scotland’s outdoor spaces like hills, beaches, rivers, moorland, forests and lochs, as long as they do so responsibly.
It’s easier to answer where you can’t go camping in Scotland than where you can as the list is short due to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The Scottish Land Reform Act of 2003 established statutory public rights of access to land, effectively allowing access to all land (including privately owned land) to the public as long as people follow certain rules.
Legally, you can camp by the side of the road in Scotland as long as you do so responsibly and you find a suitable location. Ensure that you’re not in a passing place, parked dangerously, or blocking access. The Outdoor Access Code does stipulate you should camp away from roads, yet campervans do it all the time.
If needs must you could pitch your tent next to your car granted there’s no signage saying otherwise and you’re not restricting access. However, why would you want to? Aside from the convenience of not having to carry your equipment very far, roadside camping offers few other benefits. No privacy, road noise, lack of suitable surfaces, an absence of nature etc. We recommend finding an appropriate place to park and walking a bit to set up camp.
In general, no you don’t need a permit to wild camp in Scotland due to the Outdoor Access Code. However, it is required when camping in some specific areas. You do need a permit to camp between March and September at some sites in the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. These spots are called Camping Management Zone and exist to protect the areas from overcrowding and damaging the natural landscape. Permits are inexpensive, available for tents and motorhomes and available to buy online. If you camp in these zones without a permit you could be fined.
Follow the principles of Leave No Trace and you’re pretty set to be a responsible camper, however, there is more you can do whilst out and about.
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