Pitlochry is a hidden gem nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Perthshire, a county in the heart of Central Scotland. Travellers seeking an immersive experience there should bring their wild camping tents and explore its rugged beauty.
With its lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and majestic Munros, Pitlochry offers an unparalleled opportunity to become closer to nature. Before you set off on your adventure out in the Scottish countryside, picking the right camping spot is essential.
In this guide, we will share our recommendations for the best places to wild camp near Pitlochry. You will learn everything you need to know to guarantee a nice balance between safety and enjoyment during your trip.
The 7 best camping spots near Pitlochry
We have compiled in this section the seven campsites you should strongly consider if you’re wild camping in Pitlochry. From serene lakeside locations to remote forest clearings, there is truly something on our list for every camper. We will also highlight below the outstanding scenery, outdoor activities, and wildlife sightings you may expect if you choose to stay at that campsite.
1) Milton of Fonab Caravan Park
This family-run caravan park is situated on the banks of River Tummel. On the other side, you will be treated to the sights of the surrounding hills and greenery. With such incredible views, wild camping here can be pretty relaxing, especially if you try using the on-site sauna and steam room.
Explorers will also likely find this caravan park convenient. It is near several trekking and cycling trails that will take you around the nearby mountains, loch, and river. The Blair Drummond Safari Park is only a few minutes away from the campsite. Visiting this local attraction will give you the opportunity to experience the park’s interactive activities with lions, tigers, and elephants, to name a few.
2) Grandtully Station Campsite
This wild camping spot between Pitlochry and Aberfeldy will make it easier for you to explore Perthshire and the Grandtully rapids of River Tay, one of the top destinations for white-water rafting. Given its location, it’s also perfect if you want to go on a boat trip on the river for a relaxing tour of the Scottish countryside.
Grandtully Station Campsite welcomes backpackers and car campers alike. They have hard-standing pitches for heavy vehicles, while tent pitches are placed near the old station platform. We also appreciate how liveable it is. Guests can use the showers with hot water, wash clothes in the laundry room, and prepare meals in the kitchen and campfire area.
3) Blair Castle Caravan Park
Standing within the grounds of the 18th-century Blair Castle and Gardens, this wild camping spot in Pitlochry is steeped in history and charm. It caters to a wide range of travellers by offering camping pitches, caravan pitches, holiday homes, and lodges.
In addition to the tourist spots in Pitlochry, the Blair Castle Caravan Park serves as an excellent base for visiting the Cairngorms National Park, one of the largest of its kind in the UK. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers. You also don’t have to go far if you yearn for peaceful walks through beautiful landscapes because the Blair Castle Estate allows travellers to take strolls in its gardens and parkland.
4) Aberfeldy Caravan Park
The Aberfeldy Caravan Park is a family-friendly wild camping spot near the Pitlochry and its namesake, the town of Aberfeldy. Those who want to learn more about the culture should check out both towns to get a taste of the local cuisine and learn about the process of whisky distillery. However, if you prefer preparing and cooking your meals, you may do so at the campgrounds because it features a kitchen and a shared campfire.
We recommend staying in this campsite if you want to take on the challenge of the Rob Roy Way, a 128-kilometre walking trail that connects Drymen to Pitlochry. Along the way, you will get to admire the magnificent views of the rivers, lochs, and mountains, including the Schiehallion, which is the highest mountain in the area.
5) Glengoulandie Camping and Caravanning
Though smaller than most of the campsites on our list, Glengoulandie stands out because of its excellent location in the heart of Perthshire. It is a few miles from Pitlochry and almost in the middle between the Cairngorms National Park and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. That means you will have your pick of which walking, hiking or cycling trails to take on during your trip.
If you prefer doing something by the water, Glengoulandie is near the beautiful River Tay, where you can fish, swim, or paddle a canoe. The locals also provide boat tours, so consider booking one to get to know the area better. Campers seeking more thrills should also try white-water rafting in the Grandtully rapids.
6) Dall Cottage Camping
Dall Cottage is a small, rugged campsite near the banks of River Garry. Getting there can be a bit of a challenge because it can only be accessed by foot, bicycle, or 4×4 vehicles. When you arrive, you will find four tent pitches with fire pits, a hot shower, and a compost toilet. That said, take your time to pack for wild camping, ensuring that you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable camping trip in Pitlochry.
All this extra effort will be worth it because staying at the remote Dall Cottage campsite will give you access to various hiking and cycling trails. We particularly enjoyed the Lairig Ghru Trail and Route 7 cycle trail because it took us around the best spots in the Cairngorms. Returning at night allowed us a quiet, peaceful evening where we spent hours stargazing beside the river.
7) Glenshee Glamping
Glenshee is one of the top wild camping spots near Pitlochry, though most people probably know it more for glamping. Guests can choose from its accommodations, including charming pods, shepherd huts, and tipis.
Pitching your tent close to Glenshee will make Pitlochry and Cairngorms more accessible. During our stay, we would explore the natural beauty of the area while engaging in hiking, fishing, or boating.
Learning about various Scottish animals was also easier because the campsite is near the Highland Wildlife Park, which provides a home to red, wolves, lynx, and many more. Then, by nightfall, we would head back to town and enjoy its selection of restaurants and pubs.
Go Wild Camping in Pitlochry Now!
Scotland is a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. As such, it does not come as a surprise that Pitlochry has an abundance of picturesque campsites, historical landmarks, and cultural hotspots. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, you will likely find your dream wild camping spot in Pitlochry.
Don’t forget to bring your hiking boots and camera, as this Scottish county is teeming with breathtaking sights and diverse wildlife. With so much to do and see, you will surely have an unforgettable experience in Pitlochry. So, pack your camping essentials, grab your family and friends, and head out to these fantastic camping spots to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs about Wild Camping in Pitlochry
Pitlochry is aligned with the laws and regulations on wild camping in Scotland. That means you can pitch your tent in most unenclosed lands there. You are also expected to abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which specifies how you should show respect to the environment and its inhabitants. Following this code will also ensure you won’t get into legal trouble or anger the locals.
The answer varies from one camper to the other because, at the end of the day, this is a matter of our personal preferences. Fortunately, Pitlochry is home to various wild camping spots that will give you access to stunning landscapes and exciting outdoor activities. We recommend going through our list of the best camping locations near Pitlochry to find the one that best matches your expectations.
