Riverside camping near Aberfeldy
Take Robert Burns’ word for it when he writes, “Come let us spend the lightsome days, in the birks of Aberfeldy.
Popular camping styles for Aberfeldy
Star Hosts in Aberfeldy
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7 top river, stream, or creek campsites near Aberfeldy
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Riverside camping near Aberfeldy guide
Overview
Aberfeldy is a Perthshire gem and an excellent jumping-off point to explore the isolated valleys, remote peaks, sprawling lochs and rolling countryside of central Scotland. Just off the main railway line that stops in Dunkeld and Pitlochry, it’s easy enough to reach without a vehicle. Cyclists and hill walkers will find plenty to keep them busy for a few days in the region, and along with its caravan park, campgrounds can be found in surrounding villages.
Where to go
The Birks of Aberfeldy
In the woodland gorge above the Moness Burn, Scotland’s favourite poet Robert Burns drew his inspiration. Climb the steep pathway into the trees following the waterfalls, even sit on the same stone seat where Rabbie Burns was said to have written his poem, The Birks of Aberfeldy. The short walk begins right from the centre of Aberfeldy’s high street.
Loch Tay
The largest loch in Perthshire is hemmed in by the peak of Ben Lawers and the Tarmachan Ridge to the north. From the woodland walk along the Falls of Acharn to the Crannog Centre’s Iron Age settlement to the scenic byway and national cycle route of South Loch Tay road, the area is one of central Scotland’s delights. Campsites will mostly be found near the villages of Killin and Kenmore which book-end the loch.
Glen Lyon
The “longest, loneliest, and loveliest glen in Scotland,” as described by Sir Walter Scott, runs for more than 50 kilometres roughly between Keltneyburn and Bridge of Orchy. In Fortingall, what’s thought to be one of the oldest living things in Europe, the Fortingall Yew, sits in the village churchyard as it has for around 3,000 years. In Glen Lyon you’ll feel far removed from the busy villages of Perthshire. Campsites can be found in nearby Kenmore and the north side of Loch Tay.
When to go
Summer in Perthshire is hard to beat, but it can also be hard to escape the crowds. Timing your visit in late September or early October means fewer crowds and lots of autumn foliage. Visiting even later, as long as you’ve carefully planned your camping adventure around shorter daylight hours and colder, wetter weather, is an option.
Know before you go
- Public transport around Loch Tay and Glen Lyon is near non-existent. The best way to get around without a car is by local taxi, and many of the companies are used to offering pick-up and drop-off services for walkers.
- The weather in the remote stretches north of Loch Tay, especially around Schiehallion, can change abruptly. It’s always recommended to have a basic understanding of wilderness skills when hiking.
- Adventure tours in the area tend to book up quickly in summer months, so it’s best to book in advance.
