Woodland camping near Killin
Killin sits on the precipice of a national park and Perthshire, a perfect jumping-off point for days of adventure.
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Woodland camping near Killin guide
Overview
In the northeastern reaches of the Trossachs fronting the western end of Loch Tay, Killin is perched on the edge of Stirlingshire, with direct access to the National Park and Highland Perthshire. The village is a beacon of activity amongst the smaller hamlets in the area. Once you cross into town over the impressive Falls of Dochart, Main Street is lined with plentiful cafes and pubs, outdoor shops, and homely cottage rentals. A string of motorhome and caravan sites, along with tent camping parks, lead out of town along the A827 and the north side of Loch Tay.
Where to go
Falls of Dochart and Killin surrounds
You don’t have to work hard for a view over the whitewater rapids of the Falls of Dochart—you simply need to look out over the tiny bridge at the heart of the village. The falls make for a memorable entrance, and the short pilgrimage of sorts to the Island of Inchbuie (in the middle of the River Dochart) brings you to the ancient burial home of Clan Macnab. Just beyond, the Dochart Viaduct spans the river before emptying into Loch Tay. To the west of Killin, a short, challenging hike up Sron A’ Chlachain rewards with epic views across the Trossachs and Loch Tay.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
A short drive south, the national park can keep the avid cyclist, walker, or forest bather occupied for days. At its southern reaches close to Glasgow, Loch Lomond is the main destination. Scotland’s most famous walking route, the West Highland Way, follows the shores of the Loch, and next to it, Ben Lomond is one of the most accessible munros to hike in the country. In the west of the park, the Rob Roy Way weaves up from Callander through Strathyre to Killin, with the peak of Ben Vorlich and Loch Earn to the left. Campsite and wild camping permit areas are scattered throughout the park.
Loch Tay
From Killin, the Rob Roy Way continues over the hill along forestry roads to the hilltop Lochan Breaclaich before descending to Ardtalnaig along Loch Tay. Perthshire’s largest loch is hemmed in by the peak of Ben Lawers and the Tarmachan Ridge to the north. Campsites are mostly on the north side of the loch.
When to go
Summertime in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is peak season and your best shot at good weather. You’ll also be able to adventure well into the night when the sun goes down after 10pm in June. Unfortunately, everyone has the same idea, so prepare for crowds. A late September or October visit is one of the most enjoyable times to visit the area, with crisp autumn weather and as much hope for a dry day as in July.
Know before you go
- A bus service runs from nearby towns with train access, but you’ll be well served with your own set of wheels in this far corner of the Trossachs.
- Killin has plenty of places to get a decent meal, along with a small co-op grocery store.
- Many campsites shut down from late October through March, so be sure to check for openings before you travel.
