Campsites near Argyll and Bute
Camping in Argyll and Bute
As an area of outstanding beauty with diverse mountains, sea lochs, inhabited islands, and over 3000 miles of coastline to explore, camping in Argyll and Bute is an unmissable experience.
Whether you’re planning a solo camping break or one with the whole family, you’ll never run out of things to do in Argyll and Bute. Check out all of our campsites and their facilities below.
Argyll and Bute camping FAQs
Are there any one-night-only campsites in Argyll and Bute?
Can you wild camp in Argyll and Bute?
The rules for wild camping in the UK can be complex and vary depending on where in the UK you choose to camp. If you’re looking to wild camp in Argyll and Bute, our wild camping guide has all the information you’ll need for Scotland.
Last Modified: 28 Apr 2023
What are the best campsites in Argyll and Bute?
Oban Club Site and Glencoe Club Site are popular Club Sites in Argyll and Bute. Become a member today and discover more fantastic member-exclusive campsites in Argyll and Bute.
Last Modified: 28 Apr 2023
Exploring Argyll and Bute
If you’re looking to relax on a beach and soak in the summer sun, travel through time and explore castles or walk along Scotland's most beautiful coastline, camping in Argyll and Bute makes for the perfect base to set off on your adventure. Here’s a list of exciting things you can do whilst exploring the county.
Get your steps in with the great outdoors
It’ll come as no shock that Scotland is famous for its stunning outdoors. Here are some popular outdoor destinations for those who love walking, capturing great views or appreciating wildlife.
- Puck’s Glen
- Benmore Botanic Garden
- McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
- Dunadd Fort
- Ardkinglas Woodland Garden
- Arduaine Garden
A scenic walking trail where you’ll walk along a Victorian walkway up to a rocky gorge. On your journey, you’ll pass several stunning waterfalls and streams.
A 120-acre mountainside garden that’s surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Argyllshire. The Benmore Botanic Garden has the most magnificent wildlife creatures and unique plants.
If you’re looking for great views across Oban and beyond, McCaig’s Tower is the perfect spot. You can also watch ferries sailing in and out of the harbour.
A hillfort dating back to the Iron Age. It was believed that this was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Dal Riata. Now, you can explore Dunadd Fort and the surrounding areas on foot and take in all the rich history that comes with the spectacular grounds.
A family-friendly spot perfect for all campers. The Ardkinglas Woodland Garden has a dramatic view over Loch Fyne. What makes this garden truly magical is The Gruffalo and Fairy trail. This trail leads you to the homes of fairies and elves living in the woodland garden.
A perfect walk for plant lovers, the Arduaine Garden is full of colourful and fragrant plants, including rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, giant Himalayan lilies and forget-me-nots. On your walk, you can also discover the secret path that leads to a magnificent coastal viewpoint.
Enjoy sandy beaches and a breathtaking coastline
Argyll and Bute have a coastline that's over 3500 km long, and no matter what part of it you reach, you’ll never fail to see spectacular views. Along the coastline, you’ll find many beautiful beaches where you can enjoy relaxing in the sand, making sandcastles or participating in watersport activities like surfing. Beaches such as Machrihanish beach are super popular amongst surfers, and beaches like Ganavan Sands, where you’ll see views of nearby islands, make for a memorable camping trip.
For more beaches in Scotland, check out our list of the best beach campsites here.
Explore magical castles and stunning gardens
When staying at one of our campsites in Argyll and Bute, you’ll never be too far from a historic gem. Various castles are scattered around the county, and some brilliant museums too. So you can step back in time and relive Scottish history. Some popular castles in Argyll and Bute include,
- Inveraray Castle
- Dunstaffnage Castle
- Kilchurn Castle
- Castle Stalker
- Gylen Castle
- Royal Castle of Tarbert
- Minard Castle
It’s worth noting, some of these phenomenal castles are closed during the winter months but open up again in spring. Please check online for more information on each castle.
If you’re looking to delve into the history of Argyll and Bute, here are some great spots to visit.
- Inveraray Jail
- Oban War and Peace Museum
- Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds
- Bute Museum
- Campbeltown Museum
More things to do in Argyll and Bute
Mount Stuart House & Gardens
Opening in the spring months, Mount Stuart House and Gardens, is a charming 19th-century Gothic Revival-style mansion with an extravagant interior that you can explore alongside expansive wild gardens. The house is located on the east coast of the Isle of Bute but makes for the perfect day trip whilst camping in Argyll and Bute, as it can be easily accessed via car, public transport or on a bike.
Kintail Birds of Prey Argyll - Falconry Experiences
Get the chance to meet some of the majestic Scotland native birds of prey at the Kintail Birds of Prey Argyll. From Golden Eagles to snowy owls, the falconry centre has it all. You can even enjoy a private tour where you’ll get to personally handle the magnificent creatures.
Fynes Ales Farm Brewery
Fynes Ales is a Scottish-owned farm brewery that makes the best quality beer using water from the hills and brewing in converted farm buildings. You can book a visit to the 4500-acre estate, where you’ll find their brewery tap, shop and courtyard beer garden.
Cruachan Dam Visitor Center
Whether you’re intrigued by the mechanics behind Scotland's electricity, or you’re looking for the most fascinating views hidden deep in the mountains, the Cruachan Power Station is worth the visit.
If you enjoy horse riding, quad biking, or rock climbing whilst camping, then you can do it all in Argyll and Bute. There are numerous excursion sites in the county, so you’ll be able to take on all activities in a safe environment.