Planning an adventure along the Scottish North Coast 500 comes with lots of excitement, but choosing the right NC500 campsites can feel overwhelming.
Whether you plan to camp in a tent or make your way around in a motorhome or campervan, this guide guide covers it all.
There’s no shortage of campsites along the route, so to make it easier to choose we’ve compiled a full list using our own experiences, as well as valuable feedback from fellow families.
We highlight the key information for each campsite along the route, along with any experiences that make it unique.
With everything you need in one place, this guide makes choosing the right NC500 campsites easy and hassle-free.
Why trust our NC500 campsites guide
We embarked on our own Scotland NC500 adventure in a motorhome with our two kids. You can read our detailed itinerary which includes every stop and the best things to see and do along the way.
We’ve personally visited many campsites along the route to use their motorhome service points.
Additionally, we’ve gathered extensive research from NC500 social media groups and feedback from families who have shared their experiences.
In this guide we provide both our own knowledge and recommendations as well as a wealth of insights and experiences from the wider community.
You can also be confident that we don’t include or recommend campsites with low ratings (less than 3⭐).
How to use this guide
In this guide we don’t delve into the NC500 route itself as we have a separate comprehensive route plan that you can use alongside this campsite guide. This means you can use our resources to plan your entire NC500 trip with ease.
The campsites are grouped by region and then location, and follow the NC500 route from Inverness in our recommended anti-clockwise direction.
Starting from Inverness, the campsites are listed under the following regions (you can jump to the campsites in these regions by clicking on the names below):
Scotland NC500 campsites list and prices
After each campsite name is the Tripadvisor or Google rating.
Then under each campsite name listed, we provide the following information:
- Summary – a short description of the campsite.
- Prices – based on 2 people per night.
- Camping – what type of pitches the campsite offers and any other accommodation available.
- Facilities – a list of facilities the campsite offers.
- Open – the dates in the year the campsite is open.
- Highlights – anything unique the campsite has to offer or positive themes from guests.
- Drawbacks – any negatives about the campsite or less favourable feedback from guests.
Book your NC500 campsites early
The NC500 has become an extremely popular road trip and as a result, campsites get booked up, particularly in peak seasons.
We recommend that you book your campsites as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Inverness-shire region
Known as the “Gateway to the North Coast 500” or the “Capital of the Highlands”, most will start their NC500 adventure here.
If like us and many others, you have a long journey to get to Inverness, you’ll want a good base here before embarking on your trip.
Inverness Campsites
Ardtower Caravan Park - 4.8⭐
Ardtower Campsite is an award winning campsite located in a relaxing setting close to Inverness and the Culloden Battlefield.
Prices: start from £16 (tent pitch) per night and £38 (motorhome/campervan – all hard standing pitches include electric hook up) per night. Glamping pods start from £75 per night.
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches), luxury glamping pods.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and dryers, waste disposal points, on-site food, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Superb cleanliness, cafe serving breakfast baps and pizza, exclusive privacy wet rooms available for a supplement. BBQ hut available to rent, children’s play park.
Drawbacks: Occasional noise from the road.
Bunchrew Caravan Park - 4.1⭐
Bunchrew Caravan Park is set in a serene location on the shore of the Beauly Firth.
It offers breathtaking views and a wide range of accommodation options.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch with car) per night and £30 (motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £5.10 for electric hook up. On-site chalets and caravans start from £125 per day.
Camping: Tent pitches, Motorhome/Campervan pitches (mainly grass and a few hard standing pitches), on-site caravans and chalets.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and driers, waste disposal points, on-site food, dog friendly, Wi-Fi.
Open: Middle of March to end of November.
Highlights: Bicycle hire, tourist information, catering van for breakfast and evening meals, shop, children’s play areas.
Drawbacks: Facilities a little dated and no designated spaces so recommended to get there early.
Torvean Caravan Park - 3.3⭐
Torvean Caravan Park is a tranquil, family-run campsite located along the banks of the Caledonian Canal.
As well as offering pitches for motorhomes, campervans and caravans, it also has self-catering lodges and motorhomes to hire.
Please note that this site does not accept tents.
Prices: start from £32 (motorhome/campervan – all pitches come with electric hook up) per night. Self-catering lodges start from £130 per night.
Camping: Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches), self-catering lodges.
Facilities: Showers, heated toilet block, electric hook up, launderette, waste disposal points, on-site food, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: March to October
Highlights: On-site food hut, good sized site, within short walking distance to Inverness.
Drawbacks: Prices slightly more expensive than other campsites, no children’s play area but plenty of space, a little dated.
The Black Isle region (North East Peninsula)
The Black Isle is a beautiful peninsula located just north of Inverness on the east coast.
You’ll find long stretches of beach and plenty of wildlife, where you can often spot dolphins playing in the water.
The Black Isle Campsites
Fortrose Bay Campsite - 4.7⭐
Fortrose Bay Campsite is located in a tranquil beachside spot overlooking the Moray Firth.
Chanonry Point is just a short walk from the campsite and a great place to spot bottlenose dolphins – this was one of our NC500 highlights!
Prices: start from £25 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £6 for electric hook up
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and dryers, waste disposal points, onsite food, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: April to October.
Highlights: Shower shack for families and accessible wet room, peaceful, right on the seafront, friendly staff.
Drawbacks: Very few have negative comments, some mentioned the close proximity to the road not ideal. It also lacks shelter with it being so close to the shore.
Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site - 4.8⭐
Just across from Fortrose Bay Campsite, on the other side of Chanonry Point, is Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site.
Another beautiful beachside spot overlooking the Moray Firth. The beach here is long and sandy, so perfect for strolling and dolphin spotting.
Prices: start from £24.80 per night (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus approximately £7 for electric hook up. Please note that these are Camping & Caravanning Club member prices, non-member prices are more.
Book Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass pitches only).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines, waste disposal points, on-site shop, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: April to October.
Highlights: Beautiful sandy beach location, within walking distance to shops and amenities in Fortrose.
Drawbacks: Close to the busy road so not great for young children, more expensive if not a Camping and Caravanning Club member.
Easter Ross region (North East Coast)
Continuing further north on the east coast, you’ll find the Easter Ross region, the smallest of the NC500 regions.
Home to the Fyrish monument, an impressive landmark with views worth the 2 mile walk up to, as well as charming towns and rugged coastline.
Dingwall Campsites
Dingwall Camping and Caravanning Club Site - 4.6⭐
Dingwall Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a peaceful campsite located near the Cromarty Firth bay.
This is a great location for walking and enjoying nature, and is also near to the Fyrish Monument.
Prices: start from £22.60 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus approximately £7 for electric hook up. Please note that these are Camping & Caravanning Club member prices, non-member prices are more.
Book Dingwall Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid April to mid October.
Highlights: Clean facilities, friendly staff, within walking distance to Dingwall’s shops and amenities, lovely park-like setting.
Drawbacks: Location is near to both the Ross County Football Club and train station so noise can be heard at times. Some pitches are under trees which can sometimes mean falling debris and wet conditions. More expensive if not a Camping and Caravanning Club member.
Sutherland Region (North East Coast)
Sutherland is the largest region in the NC500. It stretches across the northernmost part of the Scottish Highlands from the east coast to the west coast, so you’ll actually pass through it twice.
The eastern part of Sutherland offers untouched coastline that is sparsely populated. There is an abundance of wildlife so it’s a great place to spot dolphins, seals, puffins and other seabirds.
Dornoch Campsites
Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park - 4.7⭐
Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park is a Traveller’s Choice Award Winning campsite located on the Dornoch coastline.
Families love its position being just a short walk to the beautiful golden sandy beach, as well as within walking distance to the town and its amenities.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night, or with electricity from £31.50 per night. Yurts from £80 per night.
Book Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass pitches only). Yurts.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, launderette, waste disposal points, dog friendly, Wi-Fi (extra cost).
Open: April to October.
Highlights: Kids adventure playground and crazy golf, games room, on-site shop, golden sandy beach and golf course on the doorstep.
Drawbacks: Toilet block not heated and a few mention the inconvenience of needing a key code to access the toilets but this is to prevent wild campers taking advantage.
Dornoch Firth Caravan Park - 4.3⭐
Dornoch Firth Caravan Park is a family-owned holiday park with award winning facilities.
Near to the town of Tain, its coastal location offers beautiful, panoramic views across the Dornoch Firth.
Prices: start from £27.50 (tent pitch) per night and £30 (motorhome/campervan – all touring pitches come with electric hook up) per night.
Book Dornoch Firth Caravan Park
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (mainly grass pitches only).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry facilities, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: April to October.
Highlights: Clean and modern facilities, friendly staff, beautiful views.
Drawbacks: There used to be a children’s play area which has now been removed and not replaced so not as family friendly as used to be, sometimes the grounds can look a little overgrown and untidy, train line nearby can be noisy.
Brora Campsites
Brora Caravan Club Site - 4.4⭐
Brora Caravan Club Site is a sheltered, peaceful campsite located next to a golf course and just 300 metres away from the sandy Brora Beach.
Prices: start from £24.70 (tent pitch) and £25.90 (motorhome/campervan – all touring pitches include electric hook up). Please note that these are Camping & Motorhome Club member prices, non-member prices are more. Please note that these are Caravan & Motorhome Club member prices, non-member prices are more.
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry room, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid March to beginning of November.
Highlights: Green Tourism Silver Award, great for wildlife spotting (highland cows wondering by), close proximity to beach and golf course .
Drawbacks: Slightly dated toilet block.
Caithness Region (North Coast)
Caithness is the very northernmost region of the NC500 route and Scotland.
In fact, Dunnet Head is the most northerly point in Great Britain.
It has plenty to offer with dramatic cliffs and the iconic Duncansby Stacks, as well as historic castles and even more wildlife.
Wick Campsites
Inver Caravan Park, Motorhome Stopover & Campsite - 4.7⭐
Inver Caravan Park is a small, family-run campsite set in a peaceful and scenic location in Dunbeath.
Prices: start from £22 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night, and £29 with electric hook up. Dump and fill service from £4. Static holiday caravans from £200 (min 2 nights).
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches). Static holiday caravans.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and drying rooms, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Heated shower blocks, spotless facilities.
Drawbacks: Older reviews mention both unfriendly guests and owners but this is definitely not the case more recently with most visitors commenting on how welcoming and friendly the owners are.
Wick River Campsite - 4.8⭐
Wick River Campsite is a family-run site situated on the banks of the River Wick.
It’s set in a peaceful setting surrounded by trees, yet a convenient 10-minute walk from the charming, historic town of Wick.
Prices: start from £19 (tent pitch) per night, £23 (motorhome/campervan) per night, and £31 with electric hook up. NC500 services from £6.
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and tumble dryers, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Super modern and spotless toilet and facilities building which uses solar energy and heat pump with underfloor heating, family shower rooms, phone charging (£2), friendly staff and well maintained grounds. Campsite operates as a non-profit enterprise to fund community projects around Wick.
Drawbacks: There isn’t really much not to like about this site, it really is one of the best Scotland NC500 campsites.
John O' Groats Campsites
John O’Groats Caravan and Camping Site - 4.0⭐
John O’Groats Caravan and Camping Site is a family-run campsite located on the seafront overlooking the Pentland Firth.
Known as one of the milestones on the NC500 route, the campsite is located next to the John O’Groats Signpost, the northernmost corner of the British mainland.
Prices: start from £24 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £8.50 for electric hook up. Dump and fill service from £11.
Book John O’Groats Caravan and Camping Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and tumble dryers, waste disposal points, dog friendly, Wi-Fi (extra charge).
Open: March to October.
Highlights: Stunning views across the Pentland Firth and easy access for the ferry to Orkney, clean facilities, staff are very friendly and welcoming, close to hotel restaurants and takeaway options.
Drawbacks: There is no online booking as such, but a form to complete on the website, facilities a little dated, can be windy.
Ferry View Night Stop - 4.9⭐
Ferry View Night Stop is a small, family run eco campsite with a Green Tourism Award, located in between Thurso and John O’ Groats.
Our fellow family travellers love the welcoming and quirky vibe that this campsite has to offer.
Prices: start from £25 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £5 electric hook up. Pit stop – £7.50
Camping: Tent pitches, Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches). Note: they do not accept caravans. Pit stops also accepted between 10am & 4pm.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines, waste disposal points, on-site food, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Fire pit area, communal outdoor play area with giant games, midge-eater machine, Mr Eddy’s Pit Stop (takeaways), good selection of local beers.
Drawbacks: No real drawbacks, maybe more basic than other campsites.
Dunnet Head Campsites
Dunnet Bay Caravan and Motorhome Club Site - 3.2⭐
Dunnet Bay Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is located near Thurso and close to the northernmost point of Britain, Dunnet Head.
It offers close proximity to Dunnet Bay Beach and panoramic views over the Pentland Firth.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan – all pitches include electric hook up) per night. Please note that these are Caravan & Motorhome Club member prices, non-member prices are £15 more.
Book Dunnet Bay Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (mainly grass pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and dryers, waste disposal points, no on-site food but close to Dunnet local shops, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid March to early November.
Highlights: Heated shower blocks, short path to beautiful beach, local surf school nextdoor.
Drawbacks: Slightly dated, more expensive if not a Caravan & Motorhome Club member.
Little Croft Highlands Campsite - 5⭐
Little Croft Highlands Campsite is a small site on the Caithness coast near Scarfskerry.
Located in a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path location, this hidden gem gives you a real cozy and ‘at home with nature’ feel. And the resident pygmy goats and chickens will make you feel welcome!
Prices: start from £20 (tent pitch) per night, £24 (motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £7 for electric hook up.
Book Little Croft Highlands Campsite
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, waste disposal points, communal area, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid-March until autumn/winter.
Highlights: Super friendly owners and a home-like feel, animals are a great addition and fresh eggs available from the chickens are a must.
Drawbacks: If you love rural sites in the countryside then there’s not a lot not to like. The campsite is small which adds we think adds to the cozy feel and the facilities are more basic than others, but just what you would expect.
Sutherland Region (North West Coast)
We’ve already covered the eastern part of Sutherland.
The western part of Sutherland is beautifully rugged and remote, offering lush mountains and pristine beaches.
Whilst the whole of the NC500 landscape is stunning, in our opinion the west is perhaps the most breathtaking.
Strathy Campsites
Craigdhu, Bettyhill Caravan and Camping Site - 3.3⭐
Craigdhu, Bettyhill Caravan and Camping Site is a well established campsite that opened in 1959.
It lies between Strathy and Tongue, and is just a short walk to Farr Bay Beach.
Please note that the site is currently upgrading its amenities and is operating with just one toilet/shower and sink available. Keep an eye on the website for updates.
Prices: start from £21 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Static vans start from £120 per night. Small fee motorhome pit stop.
Book Craigdhu, Bettyhill Caravan and Camping Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (mainly grass pitches). Static vans.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, launderette, waste disposal points, dog friendly.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Great location near to Farr Bay Beach, lovely village store and top rated restaurant within walking distance.
Drawbacks: The site came under new ownership in 2023 and whilst still open, is under construction. The main negatives visitors have described is the poor facilities and disruption from the work. This may not be an issue if you are self-contained or staying in a static van.
The Halladale Inn & North Coast Touring Park - 4.6⭐
The Halladale Inn & North Coast Touring Park is an establishment located in Melvich, offering touring accommodation, camping pods and licensed café and bistro.
Prices: start from £23 (tent pitch) per night and £37 (motorhome/campervan – all touring pitches have electric hook up) per night. Camping pods start from £75 per night.
Book The Halladale Inn & North Coast Touring Park
Camping: Tent pitches (grass pitches), Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and tumble dryers, waste disposal points, licensed restaurant, cafe, on-site shop, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: March to November.
Highlights: Outdoor kids play area, on-site restaurant and cafe is convenient, friendly staff and clean facilities.
Drawbacks: Whilst the restaurant receives a 4.4⭐ rating, some have expressed dissatisfaction with their meals and the drinks a little pricey .
Tongue Campsites
Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite - 4.7⭐
The Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite is located near the village of Tongue and offers stunning views across the Kyle of Tongue (a shallow loch in West Sutherland).
You’ll find a range of accommodations in both the hostel and the campsite.
Prices: start from £22 (tent pitch) per night and £27 (motorhome/campervan) per night or £35 with electric hook up. Hostel rooms start from £75 per night. Motorhome service stop – £10.
Book Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and tumble dryers, waste disposal points, on-site shop and cafe, dog friendly.
Open: April to September.
Highlights: Delicious food served in the cafe, dedicated and friendly owners, exceptionally clean.
Drawbacks: Can get windy (although this helps keep the midges at bay), basic grounds but the views make up for it.
Durness Campsites
Sango Sands Oasis - 4.1⭐
Sango Sands Oasis Caravan & Camping Site is an award winning campsite located in Durness.
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Sango Bay, this campsite offers breathtaking sea views, access to pristine beaches and even the chance to spot whales, seals and dolphins.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £8 for electric hook up. Winter season, self contained camping only – £20 per night.
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry room, waste disposal points, on-site restaurant and bar, dog friendly.
Open: Main season: mid-March to October. Winter season: November to mid March.
Highlights: Many claim it as the most beautiful camping location they’ve stayed at, close to many beautiful beaches, clean and modern facilities, friendly staff, great bar and restaurant.
Drawbacks: Booking is required for pitches with electric hook up, otherwise it is based on availability and pitch location is on a first come, first served basis. Some visitors have felt their pitch to be in a less favorable position because of this, so be sure to arrive early (12-5pm) if not booking.
Scourie Campsites
Scourie Caravan and Camping Site - 4.6⭐
Scourie Caravan and Camping Site is located in the pretty village of Scourie and overlooks the bay from an elevated position.
It’s just a short walk to the sandy beach and close to the Handa Island where you can take a ferry trip to see the puffins.
Prices: start from £24 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £8 for electric hook up.
Book Scourie Caravan and Camping Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry facilities, fresh drinking water points, waste disposal points, on-site Spar shop and bar with takeaway service, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: All year.
Highlights: On-site bar, Spa shop and fish & chip van very convenient, amazing location and views, clean facilities.
Drawbacks: Tent pitches cannot be booked in advance and are based on a first come, first served basis. Bar can get a little noisy if pitched close by.
Lochinver Campsites
Clachtoll Beach Campsite - 4.8⭐
Clachtoll Beach Campsite is an award-winning site located just behind the pristine, golden Clachtoll Beach.
This beautifully positioned campsite is perfect for walking and wildlife spotting, including porpoise, dolphins, minke whales, otters and eagles.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night or £33 for electric hook up pitch per night. Motorhome service stop for £9.
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and astro turf pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry facilities, fresh drinking water points, waste disposal points, small on-site shop, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: April to October.
Highlights: Stunning location, friendly staff, showers always hot, extra special touches like GHD’s, nappies, wipes etc. Free use of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, wetsuits, kids beach games and firepit. BBQ area and open fires most nights, doggy bar.
Drawbacks: There really is not many negatives about the place and the high star ratings speak words. The only watch out is the narrow, winding road to the campsite. If you are approaching in a large vehicle, take your time.
Wester Ross Region (North West Coast)
The final region of our NC500 route, but by no means the least in any way.
Whilst the Wester Ross region has truly unspoilt natural beauty, you will be spoilt for choice with what it has to offer.
From stunning mountains to crystal clear lochs, sandy beaches and charming little villages (and we came across so many Highland Cows).
It’s also where the route takes you along the Bealach na Ba, one of the UK’s highest roads with incredible views.
Ullapool Campsites
Broomfield Holiday Park - 3.7⭐
Broomfield Holiday Park is located in the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool, just a 2-minute walk from the village.
Set on the banks of Loch Broom, the park offers stunning views across the water to the Summer Isles and the Hebrides.
Prices: start from £26 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £8 for electric hook up. Please note there is no online booking, you can email or call to book your stay – see website below.
Booking enquiry for Broomfield Holiday Park
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (mainly grass pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and dryers, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid April to end of September.
Highlights: Outstanding beauty spots, close to Ullapool’s bars, restaurants and shops, friendly staff.
Drawbacks: Outdated facilities and sometimes not the cleanest.
Poolewe Campsites
Inverewe Gardens Camping and Caravanning Club Site - 4.6⭐
Inverewe Gardens Camping and Caravanning Club Site is peaceful campsite overlooking Loch Ewe.
The site offers a tree lined haven with easy access to the village and of Poolewe and the renowned Inverewe Gardens, known for their tropical plant collections.
Prices: start from £18.60 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus approximately £9 for electric hook up. Please note that these are Camping & Caravanning Club member prices, non-member prices are more.
Book Inverewe Gardens Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches).
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: Mid April to mid October.
Highlights: Scenic location and well-maintained facilities, lots of lovely walks.
Drawbacks: Dated facilities, more expensive if not a Camping & Caravanning member.
Gairloch Campsites
Sands Caravan & Camping - 4.7⭐
Sands Caravan & Camping is a family-run campsite with a prime beachfront location and a wide variety of camping and accommodation options.
You can choose anywhere to set up and with a large, spacious site and views across to the Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.
Prices: start from £28 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night, pitches with electric hook up from £35 per night. Camping pods from £150 (per minimum two nights). Caravan holiday homes from £475 (per minimum three nights).
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches). Camping pods, caravan holiday homes.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, washing machines and dryers, waste disposal points, on-site cafe and shop, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: End of March to end of October.
Highlights: Beautiful location, heated toilet and shower blocks, games/TV room, outdoor play area, licensed cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, well stocked shop, close to sandy beach.
Drawbacks: Whilst some see the large campsite with no defined pitches a positive, it can also mean a less organised set up. With is being a busy site, it can also be noisy at times. Pick your spot wisely – behind sand dunes is less windy but sheltered spots are more prone to midges (if you want to keep the midges at bay, Smidge repellent spray is an absolute must).
Torridon Campsites
Torridon Campsite - 4.4⭐
Torridon Campsite is a tent only site located at the entrance to the Torridon village.
This is a free campsite but donations are welcome. There are good basic facilities and a pub within 4 miles.
There is no way to book in advance, just turn up and see if there is space – see map location.
Camping: Semi-wild, open field camping for tents only.
Facilities: Showers, dog friendly.
Open: All year.
Highlights: Many love the idea of a free area to camp with basic facilities with optional donation.
Drawbacks: Can get muddy in wet weather, which then attracts the midges.
Applecross Campsites
Applecross Campsite - 3.6⭐
Applecross Campsite is located above the village of Applecross, offering over six acres of open-field camping with stunning views of the Inner Sound sea.
Prices: start from £24 (tent pitch, motorhome/campervan) per night. Plus £6 for electric hook up. Camping huts from £65 per night. Static caravans from £356 (per minimum three nights).
Camping: Tent pitches, Caravan/Motorhome/Campervan pitches (grass and hard standing pitches). Camping huts, static caravans.
Facilities: Showers, electric hook up, laundry facilities, waste disposal points, dog friendly, free Wi-Fi.
Open: March to October.
Highlights: Stunning location, close to Applecross village, super friendly staff, deer often close by, Applecross Inn nearby recommended.
Drawbacks: Facilities can sometimes not be of the highest cleanliness, which could be due to there not being a path leading to them and the site not always well maintained. Hot water availability can been an issue.
Final thoughts on our NC500 Campsites Guide
The North Coast 500 is a journey of a lifetime, and finding the perfect campsites is an important part of the adventure.
Whether you’re seeking peaceful spots surrounded by nature, family-friendly locations with lots of amenities, or unique experiences, we hope our guide helps you find the perfect campsites.
Take the hard work out of planning and let your adventure begin!
