Wild camping in
Scotland - Highlands

A well-maintained MBA bothy in Glen Dessarry, west of Loch Arkaig in the western Highlands. The walk in along the north shore of Loch Arkaig is about 12 miles but relatively flat. The bothy sits in a beautiful position in the glen with views to the surrounding mountains. It sleeps about 8 with a fireplace and is in good condition. The area is rich in Jacobite history and wildlife. The bothy is a popular base for climbing the surrounding Munros and as a stopping point on the route to Knoydart. River crossings can be problematic after heavy rain. The sense of remoteness is genuine.

A small, independent camping and glamping site near Achnasheen in the Highland wilderness. Offering eco-friendly camping with woodburning hot tubs, campfire cooking areas, and rustic shelters. The site is deliberately kept small to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Set in native woodland with a burn running through, it feels genuinely remote despite reasonable road access. The Torridon mountains and Loch Maree are both within easy driving distance. Ideal for couples and small groups seeking a quiet Highland escape rather than a social campsite experience. Facilities are basic but thoughtfully provided. Open April to October.

The ancient pinewoods and mountains around Achnashellach in Strathcarron provide excellent wild camping in a mix of forest and open mountain. The area is quieter than nearby Torridon but equally beautiful. Camp in the forest clearings for shelter or on the open hillside for views. The forest tracks make access relatively straightforward. The Strathcarron Hotel provides food and refreshments after your trip. Fuar Tholl and Sgorr Ruadh are impressive mountains accessible from here. The pine forest habitat supports pine martens, red deer, and golden eagles. Water is abundant from the numerous burns flowing off the mountains.

An MBA bothy in the upper Glen Roy, famous for its Parallel Roads, three horizontal shorelines of an ancient glacial lake. The bothy is accessible by a short walk from the Glen Roy road, making it one of the more accessible bothies. It sleeps about 8 with a fireplace and is in good condition. The Parallel Roads are a nationally important geological feature. The surrounding mountains include the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve. Roybridge on the A86 provides the nearest supplies. The bothy is a comfortable size with a warm atmosphere. Good for families new to bothy culture. The Glen Roy road is scenic but narrow.

An Teallach is widely considered one of Scotland's finest mountains, with a dramatic pinnacled ridge rivalling the Cuillin. Wild camping on the eastern approaches gives access to this magnificent mountain. The corries hold water for camping and the terrain is typical Highland rough ground. Camp at Shenavall Bothy area or higher on the flanks for sunrise views. The traverse of the full ridge is a serious scrambling expedition. Access from the A832 at Dundonnell or Corrie Hallie. The mountain is very exposed to weather and conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Navigation skills are essential. Best attempted in settled weather between May and September.

A family-run campsite with stunning views across the Inner Sound to Raasay and Skye. Applecross is reached either via the dramatic Bealach na Ba pass (one of Britain's steepest roads) or the coastal road from Shieldaig. The campsite has basic but clean facilities and a relaxed atmosphere. The Applecross Inn is one of the Highlands' best-known pubs, famous for its seafood. The walled garden and heritage centre are worth visiting. Kayaking and wild swimming are popular in the sheltered bay. The dark skies here are exceptional. Open March to October with limited winter pitches. Pre-booking is advisable in peak season.

Situated near the most westerly point on the British mainland, this small campsite offers stunning views across to the islands of Mull, Coll, and Tiree. The site is intimate with around 20 grass pitches, a shower block, and a small shop. The Ardnamurchan peninsula is wonderfully quiet with single-track roads, otters, eagles, and some of the darkest skies in Britain. The lighthouse at Ardnamurchan Point is a short drive away. The beaches at Sanna Bay are Caribbean-white sand, if not Caribbean-warm water. Open April to October. The drive from the A830 takes about 90 minutes along a beautiful but slow single-track road.

A wonderfully remote campsite on the shores of Little Loch Broom near Dundonnell. Reached by a long single-track road, Badrallach rewards the journey with outstanding scenery and tranquillity. The campsite has basic facilities with a toilet, shower, and bothy-style accommodation option. Pitches are right on the loch shore with views to the An Teallach ridge, one of Scotland's finest mountains. Otters and seals are regularly spotted in the loch. The dark skies are exceptional for stargazing. There is a small bothy available for hire. Wild flowers carpet the area in spring and early summer. Genuinely off-grid and peaceful.

Britain's first national nature reserve, Beinn Eighe in Torridon protects some of the finest mountain and woodland scenery in Scotland. Wild camping on the mountain flanks provides access to the spectacular triple buttress ridge and the quartzite-capped peaks. The reserve contains fragments of ancient Caledonian pine forest with rare species including pine marten and Scottish crossbill. The Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre on the A832 has interpretive trails and information. Camp on the northern flanks above Loch Maree for the classic view. The terrain is rough, with quartzite scree on the higher ground. Kinlochewe provides supplies. The reserve is managed by NatureScot.

An MBA bothy on the shores of Loch Pattack beneath Ben Alder, one of Scotland's most remote Munros. The walk in from Dalwhinnie is about 10 miles along a rough track. The bothy sleeps about 12 and has a fireplace. Ben Alder (1,148m) rises dramatically behind and the area is associated with Bonnie Prince Charlie's flight after Culloden. The setting is wild and beautiful with the remote Loch Ericht nearby. The bothy can be busy with Munro baggers in summer. Winter conditions are serious. The area is managed for deer stalking August-October. Dalwhinnie distillery is a good stop on the way in or out.

The north face of Ben Nevis provides dramatic wild camping beneath Britain's highest cliffs. The area around the CIC Hut approach offers relatively flat ground with views of the massive north face, a magnet for ice climbers in winter. Camp near the Allt a' Mhuilinn burn for water access. The standard tourist path from Glen Nevis is busy, but the north face approach from the north via Torlundy is quieter. Be aware of rockfall risk near the cliffs and avoid camping directly beneath them. Weather can change rapidly and cloud often obscures the summit. Snow lies on the north face well into summer.

A popular stopover on the West Highland Way in Kinlochleven, at the foot of the Mamores mountain range. The campsite is attached to a hostel and has showers, a drying room, and a small kitchen. Pitches are on grass beside the River Leven. Kinlochleven has a village store, restaurants, and the Ice Factor indoor climbing centre. The Mamores ridge above the village provides outstanding mountain walking. The village is also home to the aluminium smelter that powered it for decades. The Grey Mare's Tail waterfall is a pleasant walk from the village. Open year-round with basic winter facilities.

An MBA bothy in Glen Affric, often used as a stopover on the Affric Kintail Way long-distance route. The walk in from Affric Lodge takes about 5 miles through some of the finest Caledonian pine forest in Scotland. The bothy sleeps about 8 with a fireplace and is well-maintained. The surrounding forest is ancient and atmospheric, with gnarled Scots pines and clear mountain burns. Red deer, pine martens, and golden eagles inhabit the area. The bothy sits at the transition between the eastern forest and the western seaboard. Cannich is the nearest village for supplies. The Affric Kintail Way continues west to Kintail.

On the south coast of Skye, Camusunary sits in a dramatic bay beneath the Black Cuillin ridge. The 4-mile coastal walk from Elgol or the rough path over the moor from Sligachan leads to a beautiful sandy bay. The bothy is well-maintained with two rooms sleeping around 10. The views to Rum and the Cuillin are exceptional. Wild swimming in the bay is possible on calmer days, though the water is cold. The Cuillin ridge traverse often starts or ends here. Be aware that the Bad Step on the coastal path from Elgol requires scrambling above the sea. Midges are fearsome in calm summer conditions.

The far northwestern tip of mainland Britain offers wild, wind-blasted camping in one of Europe's least populated areas. Access is via a ferry across the Kyle of Durness followed by a minibus or 11-mile walk to the lighthouse. The area is an MOD bombing range (Parph), so check firing times before visiting. When accessible, the coastal cliffs host huge seabird colonies and the views across the Atlantic are extraordinary. Camp sheltered from the prevailing westerlies behind one of the rocky outcrops. Water sources are numerous but exposed. The Cape Wrath Trail, an unofficial long-distance route, terminates here.

A community-run campsite on the stunning Clachtoll beach in Assynt. The site overlooks a white-sand bay with the Split Rock sea stack as a dramatic centrepiece. Facilities include a modern shower block, washing up area, and chemical disposal. No electric hookups, keeping things simple. The beach is superb for swimming if you can handle the temperature. The surrounding coastline has excellent rock pools and coastal walking. Lochinver is 7 miles away for supplies and the excellent Lochinver Larder pies. Whales and dolphins are occasionally spotted from the shore. Booking is essential in summer. Open April to October.

The Coigach peninsula near Achiltibuie is a stunning area of the northwest Highlands with views to the Summer Isles and dramatic mountain scenery. Wild camping on the coast or among the hills offers solitude and incredible sunsets. The peninsula is reached by single-track roads from Ullapool. Stac Pollaidh, a small but spectacular mountain, offers a short but exciting scramble. The Achiltibuie area has limited facilities but the Piping School in Achiltibuie sells food and crafts. Boat trips to the Summer Isles run in season. The coast is indented with hidden sandy coves perfect for camping. Sea eagles are regularly seen.

A small MBA bothy in the Torridon mountains, used as a base for climbing Maol Chean-dearg and the surrounding peaks. The walk in from the A890 near Coulags is about 4 miles through a beautiful mountain valley. The bothy sleeps about 6 with a fireplace. The surrounding mountains are dramatic red Torridonian sandstone. The bothy is well-maintained and provides a comfortable base for exploring the eastern Torridon hills. The terrain is rough mountain country with some steep sections on the approach. Lochcarron is the nearest village for supplies. The area is quieter than the main Torridon valley but equally beautiful.

Corrour is Britain's most remote railway station, accessible only by train on the West Highland Line. Rannoch Moor stretches away in every direction, a vast expanse of peat bog, lochans, and heather. Wild camping here is a genuine wilderness experience with the convenience of train access. Camp on the drier ground near Loch Ossian, a short walk from the station. The SYHA hostel at Loch Ossian provides a backup option. The moor is extremely exposed and navigation in mist is challenging. Deer stalking season (August-October) means checking access is wise. The area inspired scenes in Trainspotting and the landscape is hauntingly beautiful.

Situated at the southern end of the Lairig Ghru pass in the Cairngorms, Corrour Bothy is a vital shelter in one of Scotland's most exposed mountain environments. The walk in from either Aviemore or Braemar is around 8-10 miles through serious mountain terrain. The bothy has a ground floor sleeping area and a small upper level, sleeping around 12. There is a fireplace but finding wood in this treeless landscape is difficult, so carry fuel if you want a fire. The Devil's Point (1,004m) rises directly behind the bothy. The surrounding area can hold snow until June and winter conditions are genuinely Arctic.

The coastline around the Cromarty Firth offers sheltered wild camping on sandy beaches and grassy clifftops. This is a quieter, more accessible area of the Highlands without the dramatic mountain scenery but with rich wildlife. Bottlenose dolphins are resident in the Moray Firth and can be seen from the shore. The Black Isle between the Beauly and Cromarty firths has excellent birding. Camp on the raised beaches around Rosemarkie or on the Cromarty peninsula. Facilities are available in the small towns of Cromarty and Fortrose. The area has gentler weather than the west coast with less rainfall.

A small MBA bothy on the remote north coast of Knoydart, overlooking the Sound of Sleat to Skye. The walk in from Inverie is about 5 miles along the coast. The bothy is tiny, sleeping about 4, and basic even by bothy standards. However, the views across to Skye and the evening light on the mountains make it a magical spot. The coastline has otters, seals, and occasional dolphins. The remoteness of Knoydart combined with the coastal setting makes this a special location. Driftwood from the beach provides firewood. The approach path crosses rough terrain with some boggy sections.

A small MBA bothy on the shore of Loch Hourn, one of Scotland's most dramatic sea lochs. The walk in from Kinlochhourn along the north shore of the loch is about 4 miles along a rough coastal path. The bothy is tiny, sleeping about 4, but the setting overlooking the loch with mountains rising steeply on all sides is exceptional. The path involves some steep sections with exposure. The loch is narrow and deep, with a fjord-like character. Seals and otters are common. Access can also be made by kayak for those with appropriate skills. This is one of the most dramatically located bothies in Scotland.

The eastern shore of Loch Lomond, accessed from the village of Rowardennan, offers wild camping beneath the slopes of Ben Lomond. Under the Loch Lomond byelaws, camping is only permitted in designated areas between March and September, and permits may be required. Outside this period, the Scottish right to camp applies. The loch shore provides beautiful pitching spots among oak trees with views across the water. The West Highland Way passes through, so the area can be busy. Ben Lomond is a popular Munro summit and can be climbed from here. Balmaha on the western side has a village shop.

A small MBA bothy in Gleann an Dubh Lochain in the Mamores range near Fort William. Named in honour of the World War II battle, the hut sits in a dramatic mountain setting beneath the Mamores ridge. The walk in from Kinlochleven or Glen Nevis takes about 2-3 hours through mountain terrain. The bothy sleeps about 4 and has a fireplace. The Mamores provide a superb ridge walk, one of the finest in the Highlands. The bothy is in good condition and well-maintained. The approach from Kinlochleven involves a steep climb initially. The views along the ridge are stunning in clear weather.

Known as the Great Wilderness, Fisherfield is one of the most remote areas in mainland Britain. There are no roads, no buildings, and no mobile signal for miles. The area contains several Munros including A' Mhaighdean, often cited as the most remote Munro. Camp beside Lochan Fada or on the shores of Dubh Loch Mor for absolute solitude. Access requires a long walk-in from Poolewe, Dundonnell, or Kinlochewe, each taking several hours. This is genuine wilderness camping requiring full self-sufficiency, strong navigation skills, and respect for the terrain. River crossings can be impassable after heavy rain.

The Five Sisters of Kintail are a magnificent group of mountains above Loch Duich, near the famous Eilean Donan Castle. Wild camping on the approaches gives access to a classic Scottish ridge walk. The best pitches are in the corries on the north side of the ridge, sheltered from prevailing weather. The terrain is steep and grassy with rocky summits. The village of Shiel Bridge at the head of Loch Duich has a small campsite as a fallback option. The mountains are extremely popular and the ridge walk is one of the Highlands' finest outings. Access from the A87 is straightforward.

A small MBA bothy near Balmoral on the Lochnagar approach in the eastern Cairngorms. The walk in from the Spittal of Glenmuick takes about 3 miles through the Balmoral estate. The bothy sleeps about 4 and is one of the smallest MBA bothies. It provides a base for climbing Lochnagar, a dramatic mountain immortalised by Byron and painted by Queen Victoria. The surrounding pinewood is beautiful and the estate is well-managed. The bothy is closed during the stalking season and when the Royal Family is in residence at Balmoral. Ballater provides supplies. A well-maintained, accessible bothy in beautiful surroundings.

Often called the most beautiful glen in Scotland, Glen Affric combines ancient Caledonian pine forest with lochs and mountain scenery. Wild camping beside Loch Affric or Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin is magical, with red squirrels and pine martens for company. The Affric Kintail Way long-distance route passes through, making it ideal for a multi-day trip. Forest floor pitches offer shelter from wind and some relief from midges. The eastern end is accessible by car via Cannich, but the best spots are a 3-5 mile walk in. Scottish Natural Heritage manage the area and ask campers to use Leave No Trace principles.

The classic climbers' and walkers' campsite on Skye, sitting beneath the Black Cuillin ridge at the foot of Glen Brittle. The site is basic but functional with toilets, showers, and a small shop. Pitches are on grass with some sheltered spots. The beach at the foot of the glen is beautiful and the views of the Cuillin are outstanding. This is the main base for climbing the Cuillin Munros and the famous ridge traverse. The campsite has a convivial atmosphere with climbers and walkers sharing stories. Can get very wet and windy. Open April to September. No advance booking, first-come basis.

The area around Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye offers wild camping with views of the Black Cuillin ridge. The Fairy Pools walk is extremely popular during the day but evenings are quieter. Camp on the grassy areas along the glen, avoiding the car park area which gets congested. The mountain streams provide clear, cold water. The Cuillin ridge dominates the eastern skyline and is one of the finest mountaineering challenges in Britain. Be prepared for very wet weather - Skye averages over 1,500mm of rain annually. The midges in Glen Brittle can be among the worst in Scotland in still, warm conditions.

One of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes, Glen Coe offers wild camping amid towering ridges and glacial valleys. The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) is a classic high camp with shelter from prevailing winds. Pitch on the flat valley floor away from the river, which can rise quickly after rain. The area is exposed to Atlantic weather systems so waterproofs and a sturdy tent are essential year-round. Best visited May to September when daylight hours are long. Midges can be ferocious June to August, especially near still water. The A82 provides easy access but the best spots require a short walk in from layby car parks.

The single-track road down Glen Etive from the A82 leads to some of the finest accessible wild camping in Scotland. The river pools are perfect for wild swimming on warmer days, and the glen featured in the James Bond film Skyfall. Camp beside the River Etive at any of the numerous flat grassy areas along the road. The glen can get busy in summer, especially at weekends, so midweek visits are recommended. Deer stalking takes place August to October, so check with the Dalness Estate. The road ends at the head of Loch Etive where a pier offers dramatic views. Fires are tolerated in existing fire rings but please use dead wood only.

A well-equipped campsite at the foot of Ben Nevis, making it the perfect base for climbing Britain's highest mountain. The site sits beside the River Nevis with mountain views all around. Facilities include hot showers, a well-stocked shop, laundry, and electric hookups. The site can be busy in peak season as it draws Munro baggers and West Highland Way walkers. Fort William is a short drive away for supplies. The campsite is open March to October and pre-booking is recommended in July and August. There is a mix of grass pitches and hardstanding, with some sheltered spots among the trees.

A small MBA bothy at the head of Loch Morar on the remote coast of Lochaber. Loch Morar is the deepest freshwater loch in Britain and is said to have its own monster, Morag. The walk in from Bracorina on the north side of the loch is about 8 miles along a rough path. The bothy sleeps about 4 with a fireplace. The setting at the western end of the loch, near where it meets the sea, is beautiful. The remoteness is genuine and the walk is long. Mallaig is the nearest town for supplies. The area combines mountain, loch, and coastal scenery. Otters and eagles are regularly seen.

A relaxed, independent campsite attached to a bunkhouse in Glencoe village. The atmosphere is welcoming and the location is superb for accessing the Glen Coe hills and the Aonach Eagach ridge. Facilities include toilets, showers, a drying room, and the hostel bar. Pitches are on grass in a sheltered valley setting. The village has a small store and the Clachaig Inn, one of Scotland's most famous climbing pubs, is nearby. Popular with walkers, climbers, and West Highland Way trekkers. The Glencoe Ski Centre is a short drive away for winter sports. Open year-round with reduced winter facilities.

An MBA bothy at the head of Loch Glencoul in Assynt, accessible by boat from Kylesku or by a long walk along the loch shore. The bothy sits near Eas a' Chual Aluinn, Britain's highest waterfall at 200m (though it only flows impressively after rain). The setting is remote and dramatic with steep mountains rising from the loch. The bothy sleeps about 6 with a fireplace. The approach on foot is rough and pathless in places. The area is managed for deer stalking. Kylesku Bridge is the nearest access point with a small hotel and restaurant. The geological interest of the area is outstanding, lying on the Moine Thrust.

Forestry and Land Scotland permits wild camping in their forests, and Glengarry Forest along Loch Garry is one of the more accessible options. The forest roads provide easy walking to numerous loch-side pitching spots. The mix of conifer plantation and native woodland gives some variety. Look for the viewpoint on the A87 where Loch Garry appears shaped like a map of Scotland. The forest is home to red squirrels, pine martens, and various raptors. Mountain biking on the forest tracks is excellent. The nearest facilities are in Invergarry village, a small settlement with a hotel and shop.

Run by the Cairngorms Camping and Caravanning Club, Glenmore sits on the shores of Loch Morlich in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The sandy beach on the loch is famous and the views to the Northern Corries are superb. The campsite has excellent facilities including showers, laundry, and electric hookups. Aviemore is 7 miles away for supplies and entertainment. The area is a hub for outdoor activities including skiing at Cairngorm in winter, water sports on the loch, and walking in the ancient Rothiemurchus Forest. The Cairngorm reindeer herd is a short drive away. Red squirrels are common on site.

An MBA bothy at the head of Loch Arkaig in the western Highlands, at the start of the route to Loch Morar and the west coast. The bothy sits in Glen Pean with mountains rising steeply on both sides. The walk in from the road end at Strathan is about 4 miles along a track. The bothy sleeps about 8 with a fireplace and is well-maintained. It serves as an important staging post on routes to Knoydart and the west coast. The surrounding mountains are dramatic and mostly unclimbed except by the most determined Munro baggers. Red deer are abundant. River crossings can be difficult after rain.

Situated in the Great Glen near Invergarry, this campsite provides a central Highland location for exploring both coasts. The site has a mix of tent pitches and touring pitches with electric hookups. Facilities include showers, a laundry, and a small shop. The Caledonian Canal and the Great Glen Way are nearby for walking and cycling. Fort Augustus and Loch Ness are a short drive away. The area is heavily forested with good walks directly from the site. The Invergarry Hotel provides meals. Fishing on the nearby lochs is available. A practical rather than spectacular site, but well-positioned for Highland touring.

An MBA bothy in the remote Cairngorm plateau near the head of Loch Avon. This is one of the most dramatically located bothies in Scotland, sitting in a granite bowl beneath the Shelter Stone and the cliffs of Carn Etchachan. The walk in from any direction is at least 5 miles over serious mountain terrain. The bothy sleeps about 6 and has no fireplace (too exposed and treeless). Snow can block access from October to May. The setting beside Loch Avon, with its turquoise water and granite slabs, is extraordinary. This is genuine mountain bothy territory requiring winter mountaineering skills in the colder months.

The Assynt region around Inchnadamph is a geological wonderland with some of the oldest rocks in Europe. Wild camping here places you among the isolated inselbergs of Quinag, Canisp, and Ben More Assynt. The terrain is exceptionally rough with limestone karst, peat bogs, and exposed gneiss. Camp near the numerous lochans for water. The Bone Caves above Inchnadamph are worth exploring, where bones of lynx, bear, and reindeer have been found. The area is sparsely populated and very peaceful. The Inchnadamph Lodge (a field centre) provides the only local facilities. Fishing for wild brown trout in the lochs is excellent with permission.

An MBA bothy at the head of Loch Arkaig in the western Highlands. The walk along the north shore of the loch from the road end is about 6 miles along a rough track through mixed woodland and open hillside. The bothy is well-maintained, sleeping about 6 with a fireplace. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife with pine martens, red squirrels, and golden eagles. Loch Arkaig was a hiding place for Jacobite gold after the 1745 uprising. The bothy is a good base for exploring the remote mountains of the area. The loch shore walk is scenic but long. Glenfinnan and Fort William provide supplies.

An MBA bothy near Cape Wrath, the most northwesterly point of mainland Britain. The walk in from the Kyle of Durness ferry and Cape Wrath minibus terminus is about 2 miles across open moorland to a stunning sandy bay. The bothy sleeps about 6 with a fireplace. The bay is spectacular with Atlantic waves and seabird-covered cliffs. The area is an MOD bombing range so check firing times. The isolation and raw beauty of the location are extraordinary. The Cape Wrath Lighthouse is visible from the bothy. Access depends on the ferry schedule. Durness provides supplies. A truly remote and atmospheric bothy experience.

A small, remote bothy in Glen Dessarry, west of Loch Arkaig. The walk in is around 8 miles along the north shore of Loch Arkaig and up the glen. The bothy sleeps about 6 and has a fireplace. It sits in a beautiful position with views up the glen towards Sgurr na Ciche. The area is rich in Jacobite history, with Bonnie Prince Charlie having passed through. The terrain is rough and boggy in places. This is a good base for climbing the surrounding Munros or as a stopping point on a traverse to Knoydart. River crossings on the approach can be tricky after rain.

Britain's most remote mainland peninsula, Knoydart is accessible only by boat from Mallaig or a strenuous 16-mile hike from Kinlochhourn. This isolation makes it one of the finest wild camping destinations in the UK. Camp near Inverie Bay for relative shelter or head into the interior for complete solitude among Munros. The Old Forge pub in Inverie claims to be Britain's most remote pub and is a welcome resupply point. Weather is typically wet and windy, with over 2,000mm of annual rainfall. The terrain is a mix of rough moorland, rocky peaks, and sheltered glens. Midges are legendary here in summer.

The Lairig Ghru is a dramatic mountain pass cutting through the heart of the Cairngorms between Aviemore and Braemar. Wild camping in the pass offers a genuine wilderness experience at altitude. The Pools of Dee near the summit provide water but the area is extremely exposed to weather. Corrour Bothy sits at the southern end and provides emergency shelter. Snow can linger until June and conditions can be Arctic in winter. This is serious mountain terrain requiring navigation skills and proper equipment. The best camping platforms are in the Rothiemurchus Forest section approaching from the north.

An MBA bothy in the pass between the Grey Corries and the Mamores near Spean Bridge. The walk in from Corriechoille takes about 2 hours along a good track through forest before emerging into the open pass. The bothy is well-maintained, sleeping about 8, with a fireplace. It provides an excellent base for climbing the Grey Corries ridge, one of the finest high-level traverses in Scotland. The pass is dramatic with steep mountains on both sides. Snow can linger in the pass until June in some years. The bothy atmosphere is typically convivial with Munro baggers sharing stories. Spean Bridge provides supplies.

A tiny, charming campsite near Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms with just four tent pitches in a sheltered woodland setting. The site has composting toilets, a wood-fired hot tub (for hire), and a communal firepit area. The emphasis is on peace, quiet, and nature, with a maximum of 8 people on site. Red squirrels visit daily and the surrounding Abernethy Forest is one of the best wildlife areas in Scotland. The village of Nethy Bridge has a small shop and pub. Osprey watching at Loch Garten is nearby. This is glamping without the glam - just genuine, simple camping in a beautiful woodland setting.

A reservoir on the A87 road to Skye, Loch Cluanie offers straightforward wild camping with easy road access. The South Cluanie Ridge, a classic Munro-bagging traverse of seven peaks, starts from the loch shore. Camp on the grassy verges above the loch for views along the water. The terrain is open moorland and the area is very exposed to weather. The Cluanie Inn at the eastern end provides food and drink. This is a popular stopover for those heading to Skye or walking the ridges. The area is deer stalking country from August to October. Wind can funnel along the loch with force.

A reservoir on the A87 between Invergarry and the Kyle of Lochalsh, Loch Loyne offers easy wild camping with vehicle access. When the water level drops in summer, sandy beaches appear along the shore. The old road bridge stumps are visible at low water, adding an eerie atmosphere. The loch is surrounded by rolling moorland hills, not the most dramatic Highland scenery but peaceful and easily accessible. Camp on the grassy banks above the high-water line. The layby on the A87 provides parking. Good as a stopover point on the way to Skye or the west coast. Wind funnels down the loch so pitch carefully.

Considered by many to be Scotland's most beautiful loch, Loch Maree stretches through ancient Caledonian pine forest with islands dotting its surface. Wild camping on the southern shore offers stunning views to Slioch, a dramatic Munro rising straight from the water. The area is a National Nature Reserve managed by NatureScot. Camp on the grassy clearings between the pines along the lakeshore path. Otters, black-throated divers, and eagles are all present. The water is crystal clear for wild swimming, though cold. Access is from the A832 between Kinlochewe and Gairloch. Midges can be oppressive in sheltered loch-side conditions.

A modern, well-equipped camping and glamping site on the southern shores of Loch Ness. The site offers a mix of grass pitches, hardstanding, and luxury glamping pods. Facilities include modern shower blocks, a cafe, and a small shop. The loch views are lovely and there are water-based activities available including kayaking and paddleboarding. Urquhart Castle is nearby for history, and the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit covers the monster legend. Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch has the Caledonian Canal locks. A good base for exploring the Great Glen. Open March to November.

Accessed only by train to Corrour station, this remote eco-hostel on the shores of Loch Ossian has a small camping area. The setting is stunning, with the loch surrounded by mountains and forest. Facilities are basic but include a kitchen, drying room, and composting toilets. The hostel runs on renewable energy. Swimming in the loch is refreshing on warm days. The area is perfect for trail running, with routes across Rannoch Moor and to the surrounding Munros. Ben Alder, one of Scotland's most remote Munros, is accessible from here. Arrive by train on the West Highland Line for a genuinely car-free adventure.

A remote MBA bothy in Glen Licht near the head of Loch Hourn in Knoydart country. The walk in from Kinlochhourn or over the Bealach from Glen Quoich takes several hours. The bothy sits in a dramatic position beneath the mountains of the Knoydart approaches. It sleeps about 6 with a fireplace and sleeping platform. The isolation is profound - the nearest road is miles away. River crossings on the approach can be difficult after rain. This bothy is a popular stopover for those walking into Knoydart from the east. The surrounding scenery is magnificent with steep mountains and cascading burns.

An MBA bothy on the coast between Arisaig and Loch Morar, accessible by a 3-mile walk along the coast from the road end at Ardnish. The bothy occupies one of the houses in the abandoned village of Peanmeanach, overlooking a beautiful sandy bay with views to Eigg, Rum, and Skye. It sleeps about 8 with a fireplace. The setting is idyllic, combining mountain and coastal scenery. The bay provides wild swimming and the sunsets over the Small Isles are extraordinary. The walk in is scenic and not difficult. This is one of the most beautiful bothy locations in Scotland and can be busy in summer.

A well-run campsite in Glencoe offering a range of accommodation from tent pitches to micro-lodges. Set in birch woodland with views of Bidean nam Bian and the Pap of Glencoe. Facilities include modern showers, a drying room, electric hookups, and WiFi. The campsite bar serves food and local ales. It is an ideal base for the Glencoe mountains, the West Highland Way, and the Aonach Eagach ridge. Fort William and Kinlochleven are easily accessible. The atmosphere is friendly and social, popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Open year-round with heated facilities blocks in winter.

A peaceful lochside campsite on the shores of Loch Sunart in the Ardnamurchan peninsula. The site has excellent facilities including modern showers, a craft shop, and electric hookups, while retaining a natural feel with spacious pitches among birch trees. The views across the loch are lovely, and otters are frequently seen. Kayaking and paddleboarding on the sheltered loch are popular. The area is rich in Atlantic oakwood, one of Britain's rarest habitats. Strontian village is nearby (the element strontium was discovered in lead mines here). A good base for exploring the quiet Sunart and Ardnamurchan area.

An MBA bothy near Loch Stack in the Reay Forest of Sutherland. The bothy sits in open moorland with views of Arkle and Foinaven, two of Scotland's finest remote mountains. The walk in from the A838 is about 3 miles across rough moorland. The bothy sleeps about 6 with a fireplace. The surrounding landscape is some of the oldest and wildest in Britain, with Lewisian gneiss bedrock nearly 3 billion years old. The fishing in the nearby lochs is excellent for wild brown trout (with permission). Scourie and Durness provide limited supplies. The area is genuinely remote and sees few visitors. The geological interest is outstanding.

One of the largest remaining fragments of ancient Caledonian pine forest, Rothiemurchus offers sheltered wild camping beneath Scots pines that are hundreds of years old. The forest floor of heather, blaeberry, and moss provides comfortable pitching. Red squirrels, crested tits, and capercaillie inhabit the woods, though the latter are increasingly rare. Camp away from established paths to minimise disturbance. The area between Loch an Eilein and Loch Morlich offers the best combination of shelter and scenery. Water from burns should be treated. The forest is a starting point for approaches into the Cairngorms and the Lairig Ghru.

An MBA bothy in Glen Feshie in the western Cairngorms, set in beautiful Caledonian pine forest beside the River Feshie. The walk in from Achlean takes about 5 miles along the river through one of the finest remaining areas of old-growth pine forest in Scotland. The bothy sleeps about 8 with a fireplace. The Glen Feshie estate has been a pioneer in rewilding, with native woodland regeneration transforming the landscape. Red deer, pine martens, and wildcats inhabit the area. The river provides wild swimming in pools and the forest is magical. Kingussie and Kincraig provide supplies. One of the most beautifully situated bothies in Scotland.

A small, accessible MBA bothy in the Abernethy Forest near Aviemore in the Cairngorms. The walk in from Glenmore Lodge takes about 45 minutes through ancient Caledonian pine forest, passing the emerald-green An Lochan Uaine (the Green Lochan). The bothy sleeps about 6 and has a fireplace. The setting in the forest is sheltered and atmospheric. This is one of the more accessible bothies, making it a good introduction to bothy culture. Red squirrels and crested tits inhabit the surrounding forest. The Cairngorm plateau is accessible from here via the Ryvoan pass. Dead wood for fires is usually available from the forest floor.

A contender for the most beautiful beach in Britain, Sandwood Bay in the far northwest of Sutherland is a mile of pink sand backed by dunes and a sea stack (Am Buachaille). Reached by a 4-mile walk from the road end at Blairmore, it rewards the effort with stunning Atlantic sunsets. Camp in the dunes above the high-water mark for shelter from wind. The area is managed by the John Muir Trust. There are no facilities whatsoever, so bring everything you need. Water can be sourced from Sandwood Loch behind the beach. Visit in late spring or early autumn to avoid the worst midges.

Perched on cliffs above golden sandy beaches in Durness, this is one of the most dramatically located campsites in Scotland. Pitches overlook the beach and out to the Atlantic, with spectacular sunsets guaranteed on clear evenings. The site has good facilities with showers and a small shop. Smoo Cave, a massive sea cave, is a short walk along the coast. The area is the starting point for Cape Wrath and the end of the North Coast 500 route. Durness has a small village shop, craft village, and the famous Cocoa Mountain chocolate shop. Open April to October. Wind exposure can be significant.

One of Scotland's most spectacularly located bothies, Shenavall sits beneath the towering cliffs of Beinn Dearg Mor in the Fisherfield Wilderness. The 6-mile walk in from Corrie Hallie on the A832 includes a river crossing that can be impassable after rain. The bothy sleeps around 15 on wooden platforms and has a fireplace. There is no bridge over the Abhainn Strath na Sealga, so timing your crossing carefully is essential. The setting, with the mountains reflected in the river, is breathtaking. Maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association, it operates on a first-come basis with no booking. Carry out all rubbish.

Located on the shores of Loch Nevis at the head of the most remote sea loch on the British mainland, Sourlies is a magical bothy reached by a long walk from Strathan or by boat. The approach crosses rugged terrain with river crossings. The bothy sits on a sandy beach with views across to Knoydart. It sleeps around 6 and has a fireplace with driftwood usually available. The sunsets over the loch are among the finest in Scotland. This is a key stop on the Cape Wrath Trail and can be busy in summer. The isolation and beauty of the setting make the effort of reaching it thoroughly worthwhile.

An MBA bothy in the Grey Corries area between Fort William and Loch Treig. The walk in from Corriechoille near Spean Bridge takes about 2-3 hours through the forest. The bothy sits in a dramatic mountain setting with the Grey Corries ridge visible above. It sleeps about 8 with a fireplace and sleeping platforms. The surrounding mountains are among the finest in the Highlands. The bothy is popular with Munro baggers targeting the Grey Corries, Stob Ban, and the Easains. The path in is well-defined through commercial forestry initially, then opens onto mountain terrain. The area can hold snow well into spring.

A long, quiet glen northwest of Inverness, Strathconon is less visited than its more famous neighbours but offers excellent wild camping among native woodland and along the River Conon. The glen has a mix of planted forest and native birch and pine. Camp beside the river pools for swimming opportunities. The surrounding hills are Corbetts rather than Munros, so see less traffic. Red deer are abundant and golden eagles patrol the ridges. Access is via a single-track road from Marybank. The glen is particularly beautiful in autumn when the birch trees turn gold. A peaceful alternative to the busy tourist areas.

An MBA bothy in the Oykel valley of central Sutherland, used as a base for climbing Ben More Assynt and surrounding mountains. The walk in from Inchnadamph takes about 3 miles along the river. The bothy sleeps about 6 with a fireplace and is in good condition. The surrounding Assynt landscape is extraordinary, with isolated mountains rising from a platform of ancient gneiss. The geology here tells the story of continental collision at the Moine Thrust. Fishing in the river and nearby lochs is excellent. Inchnadamph Lodge provides the nearest alternative accommodation. Lochinver and Ullapool are the nearest towns for supplies.

Suilven's distinctive sugarloaf shape rising from the Assynt moorland is one of Scotland's most iconic mountain profiles. Wild camping in the Inverpolly area beneath Suilven, Cul Mor, and Stac Pollaidh offers an experience of raw, primeval landscape. The approach from Lochinver or Elphin is long but not technically difficult. Camp by the numerous lochans that dot the landscape for water and wind shelter. The area is managed by the Assynt Foundation as community-owned land. Midges are fierce in summer; the exposed moorland offers little shelter from them. Autumn colours in September are spectacular against the grey gneiss rock.

A National Trust for Scotland campsite in the shadow of Liathach, one of Scotland's finest mountains. The site is compact with around 20 pitches, a toilet block, and limited facilities. What it lacks in amenities it makes up for in location - the views of the Torridon mountains are extraordinary. The Torridon village has a shop, the excellent Torridon Inn for food, and the luxury Torridon Hotel. This is a base for climbing Liathach, Beinn Alligin, and Beinn Eighe, three of Scotland's most dramatic mountains. Deer and eagles are regularly seen. Open Easter to October.

The Torridon hills are some of the oldest mountains in the world, with Liathach and Beinn Eighe providing spectacular wild camping on their flanks. Camp on the grassy platforms above Loch Torridon for morning views across the water. The terrain is rugged Torridonian sandstone with quartzite caps, making for dramatic scenery but rough underfoot conditions. Access is via single-track roads from Kinlochewe or Shieldaig. Water is plentiful from burns but treat it as deer graze heavily. Wind exposure can be severe on higher ground. The NTS car park at the Torridon village makes a good base for shorter walks to camp spots.

The area around Braemar and upper Deeside in the eastern Cairngorms offers wild camping in beautiful Caledonian pine forest and mountain terrain. The Mar Lodge Estate, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, has extensive ancient pine forest. Camp beside the Linn of Dee, where the River Dee narrows into a dramatic gorge, or further into the hills for more solitude. This is the eastern approach to the Cairngorm plateau and mountains including Ben Macdui, Britain's second-highest peak. Braemar hosts the famous Highland Games in September. The area gets less rainfall than the west coast but can be bitterly cold in winter.