Woodland camping in Isle of Arran
From golden sands to dramatic mountains, the Isle of Arran has a little bit of everything.
- Isle of Arran
Popular camping styles for Isle of Arran
Woodland camping in Isle of Arran guide
Overview
One of Scotland’s most accessible islands (an easy trip from Glasgow), Arran is often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature” due to its diverse landscapes. The Highland-Lowland dividing line passes through the small, bean-shaped island, which means that you'll find mountains and glens in the north and a gentler landscape with golden beaches in the south. The island is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts who can enjoy camping, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, wildlife spotting, and climbing Goatfell, Arran’s tallest mountain. After working up an appetite, campers can refuel with some of the island’s famed produce and sample the offerings from its whisky distillery and brewery.
Where to go
Lochranza
On Arran’s north coast, Lochranza is home to a whisky distillery, a nine-hole golf course, and a strikingly located ruined castle. A stone’s throw from the Lochranza Centre—which offers outdoor activities from abseiling and canoeing to archery—Lochranza campsites typically enjoy a quiet setting surrounded by mountain scenery. Expect mostly grass sites suitable for tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes, plus some camping pods with heaters.
Blackwaterfoot
In the southwest of the island, the small village of Blackwaterfoot is set around a harbour and sandy beach. Set on the “string” circle-island road, it’s a good base for exploring Arran, the nearby standing stones of Machrie Moor, and the coastal walk to King’s Caves. Near town, look for grass and hardstanding pitches for tents, motorhomes, and caravans. Campers can also expect some self-catering glamping accommodations in barrel pods.
Lagg
Lagg is a small, secluded, southern coast hamlet home to a whisky distillery and a naturists’ beach. The area houses campsites offering spacious yurts for a glamping experience in a quiet, rural setting with the comforts of double beds and wood-burning stoves.
Kildonan
On the southern coast of Arran, Kildonan has an excellent sandy beach and incredible views toward the offshore island of Pladda, its prominent lighthouse, and the granite volcanic plug of Ailsa Craig. Wildlife thrives in the area, from otters, dolphins, seals, and basking sharks to gannets soaring overhead. Camping spots typically offer electric and non-electric pitches for motorhomes, caravans, and tents.
Lamlash
On the east coast, the village of Lamlash is just three miles south of Brodick, making it a convenient base close to the ferry terminal. The village sits on a bay facing Holy Isle and offers good access to walking trails and watersports. Just south of the village, area campsites may be set on the beach with quiet, flat pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes.
