Campsites in Nairn
Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery, sunny Nairn is a favorite Highland getaway.
- Nairn
Popular camping styles for Nairn
Campsites in Nairn guide
Overview
Said to be one of the sunniest and driest parts of Scotland, the little Highland town of Nairn is a favorite of holidaymakers for its three beautiful sandy beaches. Set on the Moray coast, Nairn is a handy base for exploring the Black Isle peninsula, just 10 miles over the Moray Firth, which is a great place to see dolphins and, sometimes, whales. Nairn has two championship golf courses, both close to the Moray Firth’s shores, and there are plenty of walking and cycling opportunities nearby. Campers can choose from glamping in a modern pod to pitching a tent near a beach.
Where to go
Around Nairn
Campers have a couple of options around the small town. Family-friendly sites sit close to the beach with plenty of serviced and non-serviced pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents. Elsewhere, working farms can be found on the banks of the River Nairn, some offering spacious hardstanding and grass pitches, as well as a couple of glamping pods and a communal bothy. Nestled within Highland forest are sheltered sites for caravans and tents, too.
Forres
Ten miles east of Nairn, the small town of Forres is steeped in history. It’s known for the 16th-century Brodie Castle, which has a beautiful garden, which, in spring, is carpeted with more than 100 types of daffodil. There are a number of craft shops and art galleries in Forres and there are plenty of opportunities for activities including sailing, white water rafting and canoeing. Overlooking Findhorn Bay, holiday parks offer easy access to golden beaches, coves and pine forests. As well as pitches for tents and tourers, sites may offer glamping pods, chalets, cabins and static caravans.
Culloden
Culloden is best-known as the site of the final Jacobite rising. The powerfully moving site, and its impressive visitor center, is a popular attraction 13 miles southwest of Nairn. Just minutes from the site, camping options feature views over the Nairn Valley and plenty of electric, non-electric, grass and hardstanding pitchers for campervans, caravans, motorhomes and tents.
When to go
For your best chance at getting good weather—and for taking advantage of long daylight hours— the best time to visit the area is from May through August. This is the busiest season, however, so it’s a good idea to make your bookings in advance, especially during school summer holidays in July and August. Although the weather will be cooler, you can avoid crowds by visiting in April or September.
Know before you go
- Not all sites in the area open year-round: check opening dates before traveling.
- If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- Nairn railway station has direct connections to Inverness, Dundee and Edinburgh.
- You will likely find everything you need in the well-stocked shops of Inverness, 10 miles away.
