Camping and campervans
Camping means different things to different people, for some it’s hiking alone into the wilderness where few venture (wild camping), while for others, it’s pitching your tent or parking your van in a campsite or caravan park with the wilderness nearby, but you can still access a toilet, shower, and kitchen.
Whether in a tent or campervan please be respectful when camping in the Cairngorms National Park, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. From 1 April to 30 September each year, fires and barbecues are not allowed in the National Park, with a maximum fine of £500. Find everything you need to know about the fire byelaw here.
Campsites and caravan parks
There are camping experiences for everyone in the National Park, from glamping cabins, eco-pods and large family-friendly campsites to intimate and quiet sites which are off the beaten track. It’s worth planning ahead and booking in advance as campsites are very busy all year round.
Alert
Featured
The new fire byelaw
How the Cairngorms National Park Authority and its partners are tackling the threat of wildfires, including details on the recreational fire management byelaw, in place from 1 April to 30 September each year.
Wildlife
The Cairngorms National Park is home to a quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered species. Its rich habitats are a haven for an array of wildlife, from iconic birds to elusive plants and flowers.
What we do
From pioneering conservation projects to community engagement and active travel, find out more about the range of work happening across the National Park.
Find your perfect pitch
Discover local campsites and your next adventure
Campervans and motorhomes
If you can’t get booked into a campsite or you are looking for something a bit more off-grid, there are some lovely overnight parking areas where motorhomes and campervans can stay for a small fee or donation.
Check out our online map for overnight parking locations, motorhome aires and facilities such as waste service points and toilets. You’ll also find some lovely small woodland campsites and locations where barbecues are permitted.
Going wild with your tent
Wild camping is carrying all your kit in a rucksack (or on your bike, horse or canoe) and camping in a remote location. Wild camping is in small tents, in small numbers and only for two or three nights in any one place. You may wild camp in the National Park if you do so responsibly. You should always remove all your litter and all traces of your tent pitch, not cause any pollution and always cook on a stove (no campfires please).
If you need more gear than you can carry on your back, want to camp with a large group of friends or want to have a flushing toilet on hand - this is an indication that wild camping isn’t for you and an official campsite will be a better option.
Relevant alerts
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There is an ongoing wildfire situation at Glenmore within the Cairngorms National Park. Click here for all the latest. We would encourage members of the public to follow current guidance and be aware that the situation may change.
Due to the this wildfire incident, the following paths and routes are closed:
- All the paths around Loch Morlich, Glenmore and Badaguish are closed.
- The Ryvoan pass is closed, this includes all access to the Green Lochan (Lochan Uaine).
- Routes providing access to Cairngorm, the Northern Corries, Meall a’ Bhuachaille, Strath Nethy and Bynack More should be avoided.
- The Abernethy Forest area to the south of Forest Lodge and towards Ryvoan bothy is closed.