The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland's epic road trip, offering 516 miles of stunning coastal scenery, historic sites, and unforgettable camping experiences. Check out the best campsites along the route below!
Camping and Caravanning Club Sites
This membership gives you access to over 170 campsites across the UK, from small countryside sites to large holiday parks. As a member, you can enjoy a wide range of booking discounts, tailored insurance and friendly support and advice from the best. To use these benefits, you need to join the club by paying an annual or short-term membership fee.
Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club SitePrice: from £11.80 per night Booking Link: Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Located on the shores of the Moray Firth, this site is perfect for dolphin spotting. This pets-friendly site with all key facilities such as flushing toilets, showers and shop-on-site offers also club site WiFi, a parent and baby room and amazing service available any time of the day.
Enjoy stunning views, woodland walks to the Fairy Glen waterfall, and the charming village of Rosemarkie known for its Pictish history housed in the Groam House Museum. Modern amenities and a cosy friendly atmosphere make this a great stop.
RosemarkieJohn O'Groats Caravan and Camping Site
John O'Groats Caravan and Camping Site Price: from £12 per night Booking link: John O'Groats Caravan and Camping Site
As one of the most iconic locations on the NC500, John O'Groats offers a unique camping experience with views of the Orkney Islands. The site provides excellent facilities, including a shop, laundry, children's play area and fresh water points throughout the site.
Within a short walk of the site, you can visit a craft village, a souvenir shop and two cosy cafes in case the weather is not favourable. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to take a ferry to the Orkney Islands or visit the nearby Duncansby Stacks.
Orkney IslandsCaravan and Motorhome Club Sites
This membership provides access to over 2,700 campsites across the UK and Europe, with benefits like booking discounts, tailored insurance, and exclusive offers. Members enjoy flexible travel options, early booking privileges, and savings on ferry crossings, outdoor gear, and more. Membership starts at around £63 per year, offering a supportive community and well-maintained facilities
Altnaharra Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Altnaharra Caravan and Motorhome Club SitePrice: from £11.20 per night Booking link: Altnaharra Camping and Caravanning Club Site
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this site offers breathtaking views of Ben Klibreck and Loch Naver. It is truly a unique experience to get away from everything, as the nearest shops are 20 miles away. Providing 24 pitches, peaceful off-peak and evenings sitting and singing by the fire.
Perfect for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Within easy reach of the campsite, you can visit Cape Wrath by ferry and minibus to see Scotland's most north-westerly point, its spectacular lighthouse and the highest sea cliff on the British mainland at Clo Mor will take your breath away.
Cape Wrath LighthouseDunnet Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Dunnet Bay Camping and Caravanning Club SitePrice: from £22.70 per night Booking Link: Dunnet Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Situated by a beautiful sandy beach, this site is ideal for some peace and tranquillity. The site offers excellent facilities and a peaceful environment. It offers all key facilities, such as a laundry room, showers and private parking.
Located in Dunnet, Thurso, so you can island-hop the string of islands by both boat or coach. This site is ideal for families enjoying coastal walks, bird watching, and exploring the nearby Castle of Mey or Mary Anne’s Cottage, a museum detailing crofting life.
Castle of MeyBrora Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Brora Caravan and Motorhome Club SitePrice: from 20.80 per night Booking Link: Brora Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Located near a sandy beach, this site is ideal for seaside lovers. Enjoy cycling, fishing, and coastal walks. The site has all the essential facilities, such as a toilet block, a separate accessible shower room, WiFi and even BBQ spaces.
The charming village of Brora offers shops, pubs, and historical sites, adding to the experience. What’s more, you can play golf directly from the caravan site! The village of Brora is only a couple of miles away and has shops and a couple of dining options, and you can walk further down the coast to Golspie with additional eating and drinking establishments.
Brora Golf ClubKinlochewe Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Kinlochewe Caravan and Motorhome Club SitePrice: from £19.70 per night Booking Link: Kinlochewe Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Just at the foot of Beinn Eighe, this site offers stunning mountain views and is a gateway to the Torridon Hills. Ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts, it provides modern amenities and a peaceful setting. Pitches are all made of sturdy stone hardstandings. There is a licensed shop, small cafe, hotel and petrol station in the local village for your immediate needs.
For an unforgettable drive, take the A896 down Glen Torridon and through to Applecross - the views across to Skye are truly unforgettable. The Scottish Natural Heritage Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is just 0.75m away from the caravan site, giving you and your family an opportunity to spot golden eagles and deer by the beautiful Lochside.
The Scottish Natural Heritage Beinn Eighe National Nature ReserveIndependent Campsites
Independent Campsites in the UK offer unique, often more affordable camping experiences in a variety of locations, from rural settings to scenic spots. These sites, which are not part of large chains, provide a more personalised atmosphere and range from basic pitches to glamping options. Without a membership fee, you pay per night, enjoying local charm and varied amenities, depending on the site.
Applecross Campsite
Applecross CampsitePrice: from £10 per night Booking Link: Applecross Campsite
This family-run campsite is famous for its scenic views and proximity to the Bealach na Bà, one of Britain’s most challenging roads. It is located on the road that slaloms down towards the village from the mountain pass. The campsite is relatively flat with a great view on Applecross Bay. The site also has a few static caravans, a B&B establishment and 11 camping huts.
Enjoy fresh seafood at the nearby Applecross Inn and explore the rugged beauty of the peninsula. With Applecross games, Bealach na Ba Cycle Challenge or Celtman Triathlon, you could never get bored here. Are you fancying something more relaxing? Then take a walk to the Applecross Walled Garden, or Attadale Gardens or discover local castles.
Bealach na Bà RoadClachtoll Campsite
Clachtoll CampsitePrice: from £10 per night Booking Link: Clachtoll Campsite
Clachtoll Beach Campsite, located in Sutherland, Scotland, is a family-run site ideal for touring caravans, campervans, tents, and more. Positioned on the Stoer peninsula, it offers a full package of golden sands, clear waters, and access to various wildlife and scenic trails. The campsite offers serviced and unserviced pitches, many with sea views. It is dog-friendly and a perfect base for exploring the region or engaging in activities like walking and fishing.
Sango Sands Oasis
Sango Sands OasisPrice: from £12.00 per night Booking Link: Sango Sands Oasis
Perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this site offers stunning panoramic views and direct access to sandy beaches. It's a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including the Smoo Cave and Cape Wrath. The site is equipped with modern facilities, including a campers' kitchen and new shower blocks. You can enjoy activities like surfing, golf, exploring Smoo Cave, and even a zip line. Ideal for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, the campsite is a perfect base for outdoor adventures and perfect relaxation.
Off-Grid Campsites
Off-grid camping is a type of camping where you are not connected to any utilities like water or electricity. This means that you will need to bring all of your own supplies with you and be prepared to camp in a more rustic setting. This simplicity enables an unplugged experience when you can deeply connect to the outdoors. Wild With Consent travelled to those places themselves and they now provide this wild opportunity to you. We chose just a small scope of them, but head to their website to explore more!
Portree Croft
Portree CroftPrice: from £40 per night Booking Link: Portree Croft
Portree Croft Off-Grid Campsite offers a unique, eco-friendly camping experience on the picturesque Isle of Skye. Located in the tranquil countryside near Portree, this campsite provides stunning views of the surrounding Cuillin mountains. You can enjoy a peaceful retreat with basic amenities, ensuring minimal environmental impact while soaking in the natural beauty of Skye. The off-grid setup means no hookups or WiFi, making it perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
In case you want some contact with civilisation, walk into the centre of Portree is only about one mile away, where you can stock up on groceries, visit the tourist information centre to find the best walks, pop into a cafe or the pub. There are boat trips from the pier, and the village hosts the Skye Highland Games in August, which is the Island's largest event.
Pleasance Farm Glen
Pleasance Farm GlenPrice: from £45 per night Booking Link: Pleasance Farm Glen
This campsite located on the scenic North East 500 route, offers a serene camping experience. The site is perfect for adventurers seeking to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Accessible by 4WD only, it ensures a secluded and peaceful stay. You can immerse yourselves in the stunning natural surroundings, with minimal facilities to keep the impact on the environment low. The campsite is ideal for those who appreciate solitude and pristine landscapes while exploring the iconic NC500.
The Croft, Fanagmore
The Croft, FanagmorePrice: from £30 per night Booking Link:The Croft, Fanagmore
Ready to swap the hustle and bustle for some Highland hilarity? The Croft in Fanagmore is your ticket to off-grid giggles and glorious scenery! Located in the wilds of Scotland, this hidden gem campsite offers jaw-dropping views of Loch Laxford. Perfect for those who love nature with a side of solitude and a dash of adventure, it's where you'll trade Wi-Fi for wildlife and stress for stargazing. Bring your campervan and your best campfire stories – this off-grid gem is ready to make your adventure as epic as the landscapes surrounding you.
Wild Camping Spots
Wild camping takes it to entirely another level. While off-grid camping offers a supported transition to disconnect from all the amenities, wild camping demands self-sufficiency. These spots are usually tucked out of sight, away from civilisation and also free and often unlawful without land permissions.
Sandwood Bay
Sandwood BayPrice: Free Booking Link: None is required, just turn up!
Looking for a wild camping experience that takes you off the beaten path? Sandwood Bay is your perfect escape! This remote beach, accessible only by a 4.5-mile walk from John Muir Trust car park in Blairmore (it is well signposted, so you can’t get lost), offers stunning views of pink-hued sands, dramatic sea stacks, and rolling dunes. Located in the far northwest of Scotland, it's a paradise for hikers, surfers, and solitude seekers. With no facilities on-site, it's all about embracing nature and the raw beauty of the Highlands. Pack all your essentials, enjoy the untouched landscape, and experience one of Scotland’s most iconic wild camping spots. Remember to leave no trace! (hihi)
Daviot Woods, Inverness
Daviot Woods, InvernessPrice: Free Booking Link: None is required, just turn up!
Daviot Wood, located just a few miles south of Inverness, offers an ideal escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This woodland area features a 5K "Fitness Trail" perfect for walking, running, and cycling, complete with distance markers to keep you motivated. With a mix of Scots pine, larch, and spruce, it's a great spot for spotting wildlife like roe deer, dragonflies, and frogs. Enjoy the wide, level paths suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a fun and accessible adventure close to the city.
Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath
Salmon Bothy, DunbeathPrice: Free Booking Link: None is required, just turn up!
Salmon Bothy is a quirky wild camping spot that's perfect for adventure lovers and history buffs alike. This off-grid gem, housed in a 19th-century building, offers a glimpse into the past with its historic bunk beds and foreman's quarters. Located near the picturesque Dunbeath Harbour, it's an ideal spot for coastal hikes, fishing, and simply soaking up the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Embrace the wild, bring your camping gear, and experience the charm of living like a 19th-century fisherman, but don't forget your modern comforts!
Glamping Sites
Glamping or so-called “glamorous camping” allows people to experience high-quality accommodation in natural settings without needing to completely give up on comforts and activities not typically associated with traditional tent camping.
The Highland Bothies Glamping
The Highland Bothies GlampingPrice: from £190 per night Booking Link:The Highland Bothies Glamping
Highland Bothies Glamping in Ullapool offers a luxurious outdoor experience with stunning views of the North West Highlands. Each bothy is well-equipped for absolute comfort, perfect for both weekend getaways and extended stays. You can explore local attractions, hike nearby trails, kayak on Loch Broom, or simply unwind in nature. Ideal for families, friends, and couples seeking a unique glamping adventure, the bothies provide an excellent base for discovering the scenic beauty and outdoor activities of the Scottish Highlands.
North Coast 500 Pods
NC500 PodsPrice: from £119 per night Booking Link: North Coast 500 Pods
Experience luxury glamping along Scotland's iconic North Coast 500 at NC500 Pods. Located in Achmelvich and Brora, these deluxe pods offer stunning coastal views, fully equipped kitchens, ensuite bathrooms, and even voice-activated Alexa lighting. Whether you're looking to hike, explore local attractions like Dunrobin Castle and Clynelish Distillery, or simply relax by the beach, these pods provide a perfect base for your adventure. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable stay in the Scottish Highlands.
Clynelish DistilleryBlack Isle Yurts
Black Isle YurtsPrice: From £95.00 per night Booking Link:
These luxurious yurts offer comfort and disconnection with cosy interiors and stunning views. Perfect for a romantic getaway, you can enjoy nearby activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring charming local villages. For a touch of local culture, you can visit nearby attractions or indulge in the delicious local cuisine.
If you want a little bit of fun, there are plenty of activities prepared for you, such as horse riding, paintball, mountain biking or visiting a farm. Don’t miss delicious Black Isle’s only wood-burning pizza at Sutor Creek, Cromarty. For the large selection of beer, whisky and locally produced food, visit The Anderson Bar and Restaurant in Fortrose.
From luxurious glamping sites to off-the-grid adventures, the North Coast 500 has a campsite for every type of traveller. So pack your bags, hit the road, and make unforgettable memories on Scotland’s most scenic route. We hope you’re gonna make unforgettable memories!
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Hey! I'm Lenka, and I've been solo travelling for over 5 years. I enjoy learning languages and visiting new cultures. I'm currently based in the UK, but we shall see what's my next destination.
