Why Scotland is a Wild Camper's Paradise
There’s a moment, just after sunset in the Highlands, when the wind drops, the lochs mirror the sky, and the sound of the land seems to breathe around you. It’s in that hush, the crackle of a small stove, the distant call of a curlew, that you understand why Scotland holds a special kind of magic for wild campers.
Few places in the world offer such freedom to roam. Thanks to Scotland’s right to responsible access, you can pitch your tent beneath ancient pines, beside remote loch shores, or on heather-clad hillsides and wake to views that seem borrowed from another age. Every night out here feels like a small rebellion against modern life, simple, raw, and completely your own.
As naturalist John Muir, the Scottish-born “Father of the National Parks,” once wrote:
“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
For wild campers, those words echo truest north of the border, where the call of Scotland’s wilderness is answered not in campsites or car parks, but in quiet places where the only neighbours are deer, mist, and the morning light on the hills.
Contents
What is Wild Camping? (And is it Legal in Scotland)
Choosing the perfect Wild Camping Spot
Essential Gear for Wild Camping in Scotland
Staying Safe in the Scottish Wilderness
Leave No Trace: Responsible Wild Camping Practices
Top Wild Camping Locations in Scotland
Final Thoughts – Respect, Freedom, and Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Camping in Scotland
What is Wild Camping? (And is it Legal in Scotland)
Wild camping simply means pitching your tent away from designated campsites, usually in remote, natural areas such as moorlands, forests, or mountains. It’s about self-sufficiency, leaving no trace, and experiencing the outdoors in its raw, unfiltered form. Unlike traditional camping, there are no facilities, marked pitches, or nearby amenities, just you, your kit, and the landscape.
In most parts of the UK, wild camping is restricted or requires landowner permission. Scotland, however, is different. Under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code campers have the legal right to access most land and inland water for recreation, including the right to wild camp responsibly.
That said, “responsibly” is the key word. You’re expected to follow the Access Code, which means:
• Camping in small numbers (ideally two or three tents at most)
• Staying only two or three nights in one place
• Avoiding enclosed fields with crops or livestock
• Keeping well away from buildings, roads, and historic sites
• Leaving absolutely no trace, take all litter, waste, and gear with you
Certain areas, such as parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, have specific bylaws that restrict camping during peak months. Always check the latest local guidance before setting out, the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Camping Management Zones page is a good place to start.
In short: yes, wild camping in Scotland is legal but it’s a privilege that depends on everyone treating the land, wildlife, and communities with respect.
Choosing the perfect Wild Camping Spot
Scotland’s landscape is wonderfully diverse, offering wild campers a choice of environments few other countries can match. From rugged Highland peaks to still loch shores and whispering pine forests, each setting brings its own atmosphere and its own challenges. Choosing where to pitch isn’t just about the view; it’s about understanding what kind of experience you want, and how to stay safe and comfortable while respecting the land.
1. Mountain Camps – The High Ground Experience
For many, camping high in the Scottish Highlands is the ultimate adventure. There’s nothing quite like unzipping your tent to a sea of clouds below and the first light spilling over jagged ridgelines. Mountain camping offers solitude and drama but it also comes with exposure.
• Pros: Incredible views, solitude, sunrise and sunset photography opportunities.
• Cons: Harsh winds, unpredictable weather, little natural shelter, and tricky water access.
When camping at altitude, pick a sheltered hollow or lee side of a ridge, and be prepared for quick weather changes Scotland’s summits can turn fierce even in summer.
2. Moorland and Glens – The Heart of the Highlands
The open moors and glens of central and northern Scotland offer wide horizons and soft, springy ground perfect for pitching. These vast spaces often have nearby burns (streams) for water and sweeping views that capture the essence of wild Scotland.
• Pros: Abundant flat ground, reliable water sources, easy access for backpackers.
• Cons: Exposure to wind, boggy patches, and depending on the season midges.
A small rise or knoll can make a huge difference here, keeping you drier and giving you a better morning view.
3. Lochside Camps – Mirror Views and Morning Mist
Few experiences rival waking up by a loch, with the water glassy and still, reflecting the hills above. Lochside camping is one of Scotland’s great pleasures but it’s also one of the most popular and sensitive environments.
• Pros: Scenic, peaceful, ideal for swimming or fishing.
• Cons: Midges can be intense in summer; avoid heavily used or private loch shores.
Stick to quiet, less-frequented lochs and pitch at least 50 metres from the water’s edge to prevent erosion and protect fragile vegetation.
4. Ancient Woodlands – Shelter and Seclusion
Scotland’s remnants of Caledonian pine forest and mixed native woodlands offer a magical setting for wild camping. There’s real comfort in being surrounded by trees they offer natural windbreaks, softer ground, and a sense of timelessness.
• Pros: Sheltered, atmospheric, good firewood collection if permitted and responsible.
• Cons: Uneven ground, roots, and potential for dampness.
Choose clearings to avoid damaging plants or tree roots, and never camp under dead branches (known as “widowmakers”).
5. Loch Islands – Tiny Worlds of Their Own
Some of Scotland’s freshwater lochs, like Loch Lomond and Loch Maree, have islands that can be reached by canoe or paddleboard. Wild camping on these islands offers a unique sense of isolation its just you, your tent, and the water all around.
• Pros: True solitude, beautiful wildlife encounters, sense of adventure.
• Cons: Requires water access, can be exposed to winds, and limited space.
Always check access rights and avoid nesting bird areas. Leave absolutely no trace, these fragile ecosystems are easily disturbed.
6. The Western Isles and Coastal Camps – Edge of the World
From the white sands of Harris and Lewis to the rugged cliffs of Skye, the west coast and island campsites are among the most dramatic in Europe.
• Pros: Stunning sunsets over the Atlantic, open beaches, and rich wildlife.
• Cons: Unpredictable weather, strong coastal winds, and ferry logistics.
Pitch above the high tide line and brace for sudden gales as the sea brings beauty and power in equal measure.
Essential Gear for Wild Camping in Scotland
Before heading into the Scottish wilderness, it’s important to have the right kit. For a solid overview of the general essentials - tents, sleeping systems, cooking gear, and ultralight packing advice make sure you check out our detailed guide: Best Lightweight Gear for Wild Camping
That article covers the basics for any wild camping trip, but Scotland’s unique and often unpredictable conditions demand a few specific considerations. Whether you’re pitching by a misty loch in July or high in the Cairngorms in February, local weather, terrain, and wildlife will influence your gear choices.
Below we’ll look at the most important items to tailor for summer and winter wild camping in Scotland.
☀️ Summer Wild Camping in Scotland
Summer in Scotland brings long daylight hours, lush landscapes, and unfortunately, midges. Temperatures are generally mild (10–20°C), but even on sunny days, wind and rain can roll in quickly.
Key Summer Gear Considerations:
Midge Protection:
A proper midge head net and repellent (like Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft) are absolute must-haves. Consider lightweight mesh shelters or inners that fully seal to keep the bugs out.
Lightweight, Waterproof Shelter:
A single-skin tarp tent or trekking pole shelter works well if it’s fully seam-sealed and stable in wind. Ensure your tent has good ventilation as condensation can be a problem in humid, still nights.
Compact Sleeping Bag & Mat:
A down or synthetic sleeping bag rated to 5–10°C is sufficient for most summer nights. Pair it with an inflatable sleeping mat for insulation against cool ground.
Rain Gear:
Always pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and overtrousers, even in July. Scotland’s “four seasons in a day” reputation is well-earned.
Footwear:
Choose quick-drying trail shoes or light boots. Wet bogs and moorland crossings are common and your feet will thank you for fast-drying kit.
Navigation & Safety:
A map and compass are vital, even if you’re using GPS. Mists can roll in quickly, obscuring trails in the Highlands.
❄️ Winter Wild Camping in Scotland
Winter camping in Scotland is a serious undertaking, best for experienced campers. Short daylight hours, heavy rain or snow, and sub-zero temperatures make preparation essential. However, the rewards of empty hills, frozen lochs, and crisp star-filled skies are unmatched.
Key Winter Gear Considerations:
Four-Season Tent or Bivy Shelter:
Choose a robust, double-walled tent capable of handling strong winds and snow loading. Geodesic or tunnel designs (like the Hilleberg Nallo or Alpkit Kangri) are ideal for mountain environments.
Temperatures can easily drop below freezing, especially inland. Use a down or synthetic bag rated to at least -5°C, ideally with a liner for extra warmth.
A high R-value (4.0+) mat is essential to prevent ground chill from stealing your warmth overnight.
Layered Clothing System:
Go for base layers (merino or synthetic), mid layers (fleece or active insulation), and outer waterproof shell. Avoid cotton as once its wet, it won’t dry easily.
Cold weather shortens gas canister life. Bring a winter-rated stove or multi-fuel burner, and consider insulating your fuel. Melting snow for water can be viable, but always filter or boil it.
Lighting & Power:
With daylight fading by mid-afternoon, pack a reliable headtorch and backup batteries. Solar power is limited in Scotland, a small power bank helps keep navigation and phones running.
Emergency Gear:
Always carry an emergency bivy bag, map and compass, first aid kit, and personal locator beacon (PLB) if heading into remote terrain.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets over the lochs in summer or waking to a frost-dusted tent in winter, the right gear is what keeps Scotland’s wild places accessible and enjoyable. Plan carefully, pack for the conditions, and always expect the unexpected.
Staying Safe in the Scottish Wilderness
Scotland’s landscapes are breathtaking but can be unforgiving if you’re unprepared. The same elements that make wild camping here so special, the remoteness, open terrain, and unpredictable weather also demand a healthy respect for nature and good preparation. Staying safe means understanding the environment, planning carefully, and making sensible decisions on the ground.
1. Weather and Conditions
The Scottish weather is famously changeable, it’s not uncommon to experience sunshine, wind, and rain all within an hour. Always check the Met Office Mountain Weather Forecast or the MWIS (Mountain Weather Information Service) before you head out and plan accordingly.
• Always carry appropriate clothing - waterproof and insulated - even in summer the weather in Scotland is as unpredictable as anywhere in the world.
• Avoid pitching on exposed ridges or near rivers that could rise with heavy rainfall higher up the water table.
• Always be prepared with a backup plan to bail out to lower elevation if conditions deteriorate.
Remember that at Scotlands latitude daylight hours vary massively season to season, it can do dark at 3.30pm in the winter and never really go dark at all close to midsummer, plan routes with ample time to setup camp before you loose visibility.
2. Navigation and Communication
Alot of the wilderness areas in Scotland have little to no mobile phone coverage especially in the Highlands and Western Isles, while modern GPS devices are very reliable its important not to rely on them alone.
• Its important to always carry a map (OS Landranger or Explorer) and a compass, and know how to use them. The latter is very important, you may as well not carry one if you cant use it!
• A fully charged backup powerbank is handy to get your navigation device powered up in an emergency
• If your heading out into a particulary remote region such as Knoydart, or the Great Wilderness consider taking a Personal Locator Beacon or Satellite Messenger like a Garmin InReach.
3. Water and Food Safety
Water sources in Scotland are abundant but not always safe to drink untreated, agricultural runoff, wildlife and old mining areas can all contaminate even the most pristine looking streams or rivers.
• Use a good water filter, purifier tablet or boil water for at least 3 minutes to be safe.
• Take extra fuel in case you need to boil more water if you get caught out by the weather and have to hunker down till it clears
• Keep meals simple and calorie dense, freeze dried expedition meals or preprepared food pouches are good.
4. Wildlife and Insects
Scotland wildlife is generally safe and shy but there are still some things to consider.
• Midges and Ticks are a nuisance and in the case of the latter potentialy dangerous to your health, use insect repellent/nets, and try to make a habit of checking for ticks at rest breaks or when setting up camp at the end of the day, especially if you've been hiking through long grass or heather.
• Deer and livestock can often be inquisitive and wander up to your camp, give them space and never feed or disturb them.
• In coastal areas seal colonies and nexting birds are often protected, keep your distance and avoid breeding grounds/nests.
5. Responsible use of fire
It wouldn't be camping without a good camp fire, but in Scotland, they must be handled responsibly.
• Use a camp stove for cooking whenever possible
• If you build a camp fire keep it small, controlled, and away from dry grass or peat(which can smoulder underground and cause wild fires)
• Always extinguish fires thoroughly and scatter cold ashes before leaving.
6. Emergencies and Mountain Rescue
If something goes wrong, dial 999 and ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. The volunteer Scottish Mountain Rescue teams are highly trained but rely on accurate information so knowing your location and remaining calm are vital.
Carry a whistle, torch, and bright clothing for signalling, and stay put once you’ve called for help unless it’s unsafe to do so.
By respecting Scotland’s wild terrain and preparing for the unexpected, you’ll not only stay safe but you’ll camp more confidently and sustainably. The more prepared you are, the more enjoyment you will get from the serene lochs, deep woodlands and rugged hills.
Leave No Trace: Responsible Wild Camping Practices
One of the privileges of wild camping in Scotland is the legal right to do so but that freedom depends on everyone acting responsibly. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code is built around the principle of “leave no trace”, meaning your presence should have as little lasting impact on the land as possible. Good camping ethics not only protect the landscape but also help ensure future generations can enjoy the same freedoms we have today.
1. Camp Lightly and Move Often
Wild camping is about small groups, short stays, and minimal impact.
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Pitch no more than two or three tents together.
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Stay only two or three nights in one spot.
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Avoid enclosed fields, crops, or land close to houses and roads.
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Moving frequently helps prevent visible wear on vegetation and reduces disturbance to wildlife.
2. Choose Your Pitch Carefully
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Select durable ground such as grass, gravel, or dry soil to avoid damaging fragile plants or peatland.
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Avoid pitching on moss or soft bog areas where footprints can leave scars for years.
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In wet weather, aim for slightly raised ground to avoid pooling water.
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Keep at least 50 metres from lochs, rivers, or streams, to protect water quality and prevent erosion.
3. Waste and Toileting
Nothing spoils a wild place faster than litter or human waste.
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Pack out everything you bring in, including food packaging and hygiene products.
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For toileting, dig a small hole 15–20 cm deep, at least 30 metres from water. Cover it thoroughly and pack out toilet paper or use biodegradable wipes.
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If camping in sensitive or high-traffic areas, consider a portable toilet bag system (widely available and lightweight).
4. Fires and Cooking
While campfires can add to the experience, they leave lasting marks on the ground if not managed properly.
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Use a camp stove for cooking, it’s cleaner and safer.
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If you must light a fire, keep it small, use an existing fire scar if one exists, and burn only dead, fallen wood.
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Always fully extinguish your fire and scatter cool ashes before leaving.
5. Respect Wildlife and Local Communities
Scotland’s wild areas are shared spaces for animals, farmers, and other visitors.
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Keep noise to a minimum and avoid disturbing livestock or nesting birds.
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Close gates behind you and follow local signage.
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Be considerate when camping near villages or crofts; avoid blocking paths or access tracks.
6. Take Only Memories, Leave Only Footprints
A simple phrase that can sound a little bit cliche, but it captures the essence of wild camping. The best campsites are the ones no one ever knows you used. By leaving no trace, you help preserve Scotland’s landscapes, from the remote lochs of Assynt to the rugged peaks of Glencoe, in their wild, natural state.
Following these principles not only protects the environment but deepens your connection to it. When you treat the land with care and consideration, every camp becomes more rewarding, and the wild remains truly wild.
Top Wild Camping Locations in Scotland
Scotland is a land built for wild camping, a place where the horizon seems to roll on forever, and the line between mountain, loch, and sky blurs into something timeless. Below are five of the most breathtaking spots to pitch your tent, each offering not just a campsite, but an experience that stays with you long after you’ve packed up and walked away.
1. Suilven, Assynt – The Sentinel of the North
Rising like a stone ship from a sea of lochs and moorland, Suilven is one of Scotland’s most distinctive peaks. The approach from Lochinver feels almost otherworldly, a winding journey through a patchwork of water, rock, and heather.
Wild camping here rewards you with one of the most dramatic silhouettes in the Highlands. The best pitches lie in the glens below, near Loch na Gainimh or Loch Sionascaig, where reflections of Suilven’s ridgeline dance on the water at dawn.
Expect solitude, shifting light, and a sense of ancient wildness that defines the far northwest of Scotland.
For more info check out our detailed guide to Wild Camping Suilven
2. Sgùrr na Strì, Isle of Skye – The Finest View in Britain
Described by mountaineer Alfred Wainwright as offering “the finest view in Britain”, Sgùrr na Strì is a Skye classic. It’s not the island’s highest peak, but its vantage point over Loch Coruisk and the Cuillin Ridge delivers a panorama that feels almost unreal.
For wild campers, this is one of the most rewarding overnight spots in the country. Hike in from Sligachan or take the boat to Loch Coruisk, then climb high to find a flat patch of ground overlooking the jagged Cuillin skyline.
Bring extra water, steady nerves for the wind, and your camera, sunrise from this perch is one of those life changing moments you’ll never forget.
3. Ladhar Bheinn, Knoydart – The Rough Bounds
Knoydart, often called “Britain’s last wilderness,” is only reachable by boat or a long trek — and that’s what makes it so special. Ladhar Bheinn, the highest of Knoydart’s peaks, stands proud above deep glens and sparkling sea lochs.
Camping near Barrisdale Bay or Loch Hourn gives you access to wild beaches and sweeping views across to Skye. It’s a demanding journey down rough paths, some questionable river crossings, and long climbs. But the reward is unmatched solitude and the quiet rhythm of the tides lapping at your tent door.
4. A’ Mhaighdean, Fisherfield Forest – The Remote Queen
If true remoteness is what you seek, A’ Mhaighdean is your mountain. Hidden deep in the Fisherfield Forest, often called “the Great Wilderness,” this is one of the hardest Munros to reach, and one of the most beautiful.
A multi-day approach through glens and trackless bogs brings you to wild camp spots near Lochan Fada or Loch a’ Bhraoin, with A’ Mhaighdean rising like a fortress beyond. From its summit, the view across the northwest Highlands is pure, untouched Scotland, a vast land of endless lochs, peaks, and silence.
For experienced hill walkers, this is the ultimate wild camping pilgrimage.
5. Coire Mhic Fhearchair, Torridon – The Triple Buttress
Below the mighty cliffs of Beinn Eighe lies one of the most spectacular corries in Scotland: Coire Mhic Fhearchair. Its famous Triple Buttress towers over a deep, still lochan, a place of unmatched grandeur and reflection.
The walk in from Glen Torridon is steep but short enough for an overnight adventure, and the amphitheatre of rock and water makes for an unforgettable wild camp.
As dusk falls, the light lingers on the sandstone walls above, and the lochan turns to glass. Few places capture the raw beauty of the Highlands like this hidden bowl beneath Beinn Eighe’s towering ramparts.
Each of these wild camping spots embodies a different side of Scotland, the coastal quiet of Knoydart, the island drama of Skye, the wild untouched remoteness of Fisherfield, and the sculpted majesty of Torridon. Wherever you go, go lightly, tread carefully, and take the time to truly listen, because in these places, the land still speaks in the old language of the howling wind, rushing water, and the timeless majesty of stone.
Final Thoughts – Respect, Freedom, and Adventure
To wild camp in Scotland is to experience freedom in its purest form. Out there, under skies that never seem to end, life narrows down to the essentials - warmth, shelter, and the rhythmic beating of your own footsteps. It’s a stark reminder that adventure isn’t something you can buy or watch on YouTube, it’s something you live, have to experience in the moment, in the quiet company of the landscape.
But with greater freedom inevitably comes greater responsibility. Scotland’s right to roam is a rare and precious thing, earned through respect and trust between people and the land. Every time you pitch your tent, leave no trace, and move gently through the wild, you help protect that right for everyone who follows.
So plan carefully, pack well, and step out with purpose. Feel the rain on your face, the wind at your back, and the soft ground beneath your boots. Whether it’s a lone night beside a loch or a week wandering through the Highlands, the reward isn’t just in the view, it’s in the simplicity, the stillness, and the rediscovery of what really matters.
Because the wild places of Scotland don’t just offer escape, they offer perspective. And once you’ve stood beneath their skies, you’ll understand what the explorer John Muir meant when he said:
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”
So go, answer the call of the wild. Take life by the reins, chase the horizon, and find your own small piece of wild freedom. Scotland is there, and its waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Camping in Scotland
Is wild camping legal in Scotland?
Yes. Wild camping is legal in most of Scotland thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. These laws allow responsible access to most land and inland water, including the right to camp. However, certain areas — such as parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park — operate seasonal bylaws that restrict camping during peak months.
Where can you wild camp in Scotland?
You can wild camp on unenclosed land across much of the Highlands, islands, glens, and moorlands. Popular areas include Assynt, Torridon, Skye, Knoydart, Cairngorms, and the Fisherfield Forest. Avoid enclosed farmland, private gardens, and land close to buildings.
Do I need permission to wild camp in Scotland?
Generally, you do not need permission if you’re camping on unenclosed land and following the access code. For private estates, car parks, or areas with restrictions (like managed zones), you may need to seek permission or use designated camping areas.
What is the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for wild camping?
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides guidelines for responsible camping, including:
• Camp in small numbers
• Stay no more than 2–3 nights in one place
• Keep away from roads and buildings
• Leave no trace • Take all litter home
• Avoid lighting fires unless absolutely safe and appropriate Following the code ensures continued access for everyone.
Is it safe to wild camp in Scotland?
Yes, wild camping in Scotland is generally very safe if you plan well. Risks mainly come from weather, midges, river crossings, and remote terrain. Proper gear, good navigation, and checking the mountain weather forecast (MWIS) will greatly reduce risks.
What equipment do I need for wild camping in Scotland?
You’ll need the standard wild camping essentials — tent, sleep system, cooking kit, food, and navigation tools. For a full breakdown, see our guide: Best Lightweight Gear for Wild Camping. Additionally, Scotland-specific essentials include:
• Midge protection (head net + repellent)
• Waterproof tent with a high hydrostatic head
• Extra insulation for cold nights
• Waterproof maps and compass
• Winter kit if travelling between November–March
Can you wild camp next to a loch in Scotland?
Yes, wild camping beside lochs is allowed and very popular — especially in the Highlands. Choose durable ground, stay away from popular daytime areas, and avoid creating fire scars. In the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, camping may require a permit during spring and summer.
Can you wild camp on the Isle of Skye?
Yes, wild camping on Skye is permitted, but the island is extremely busy in peak season. Stick to remote glens or high-level camping spots such as Sgùrr na Strì. Avoid camping close to roads, laybys, or tourist hotspots.
Are midges a problem when wild camping in Scotland?
Yes — in summer (May to September), midges can be relentless in still, damp conditions. Carry:
• A midge head net
• Strong repellent (Smidge or DEET)
• A tent with good mesh
• A willingness to pitch in breezier spots
When is the best time to wild camp in Scotland?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best months. You’ll get fewer midges, stable weather windows, and quieter trails. Winter camping is possible but requires specialist gear and experience.
Can you have a campfire while wild camping in Scotland?
Open fires are discouraged unless conditions are safe and you are confident it will leave no trace. Many areas now request that campers use stoves only. Never light fires during dry periods or near forest, peatland, or long grass.
Is wild camping allowed on Scottish islands?
Yes. The Outer Hebrides, Inner Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland offer spectacular wild camping opportunities. Stick to remote stretches of coastline, machair plains, and high ground, avoiding crofting land and private property.
How do I go to the toilet when wild camping in Scotland?
Follow leave-no-trace principles:
• Dig a cat-hole at least 30 metres from water
• Cover it properly
• Pack out toilet paper In fragile ecosystems (e.g., high corries, beaches), packing out all waste is the responsible option.
Can beginners wild camp in Scotland?
Yes — Scotland is beginner-friendly if you choose accessible routes and lower-level terrain. Start near established trails, in glens, or beside lochs before advancing to remote peaks and multi-day adventures.