Right to roam is a thing. It means go where you like and camp where you want, as long as you’re not a dick about it. However, there are a few rules around it. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Wild Camping in Scotland.
For more of this style of content feel free to check out my other articles on SCOTLAND. Or check out my HIKING GUIDES and TRAVEL TIPS!
Is Wild Camping Legal in Scotland
Scotland is one of the few countries in the world that allows people to go where they like under the ‘Freedom to Roam’ Act. Sure it does have rules to it (more on that below) but this act means to countryside is your oyster.
This means that you are allowed to camp on most unenclosed land almost anywhere in Scotland.
Rules to Wild Camp in Scotland
These are pretty straight forward and most are common sense but make sure you follow them when you go wild camping in Scotland.
- Don’t Litter – This is an obvious one
- Clean up after yourself – You should be doing this anyway.
- Leave no trace – Make sure any fires are put out
- Stay off private land – Land reform means you can walk on private land however you can’t camp on it.
- Don’t be a dick – Pretty straight forward. Don’t rock up next to someone and blast loud music.
Where to go Wild Camping in Scotland
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park have certain bylaws in place, meaning you can’t necessarily camp anywhere. However anywhere else in the country is perfectly fine.
From hiking into a national park with just your pack, or pitching your tent next to your car, it is up to you how adventurous you want to get.
Can I Wild Camp from a car?
Yes, certainly! Be wary of camping in public car parks or rest areas as these might be frequented by undesirable people. However, feel free to pitch a tent in any National park or Forest.
My Experience Wild Camping in Scotland
I fucked up my accommodation pretty bad this year. So much so that I was sitting in a cafe and my Airbnb host messaged me asking why I hadn’t checked out yet. It was December and let’s face it, not the ideal time to wild camp in Scotland. However, being peak period and not wanting to drop 400 pounds on last-minute accommodation, I was glad I had a tent in the car.
I was in the isle of Skye with my partner Erin for a few days between Christmas and New Year’s, battling short days and lots of rain. We were jamming in as much as possible each day in the short daylight hours. Suddenly, were stuck with the prospect of also finding a campsite.
The sun was setting and we had just wrapped up the Old Man of Storr Hike and were in a hurry to find our spot. I was certain it would be by the side of the highway somewhere. However, 5 minutes up the road from the hike I pulled over to investigate a waterfall.
The waterfall was also the site of an old sealing station which had a rather treacherous path down a cliff side to the station ruins. Knowing our level for adventure I made the call. Quickly checking the weather forecast, we packed our bags with everything we needed for the night.
Setting up Camp
We made our way down the path in the setting sun with a crisp winter night setting in to arrive at the ruins at dusk. We found our little tent platform and instantly made ourselves our home for the night before opening a bottle of wine.
The ocean lapped away a few metres from our tent and boy did it get cold, but that night was the first time in months we’d seen stars in the UK. We had an amazing night with wine, noodles and laughter before sliding into our sleeping bags.
Yes, it was cold, but not the coldest we’d camped in, and we woke to the most beautiful sunrise I’d seen in a long time.
Being able to camp anywhere is an absolute privilege and one that must be utilised if you’re in the area for an unforgettable experience!
For more of this style of content feel free to check out my other articles on SCOTLAND or check out my HIKING GUIDES and TRAVEL TIPS!
