Scotland has some of the most generous access rights in the world, which makes it a wild camper's dream. With that freedom comes responsibility. Here is how to do it legally, safely and respectfully.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code, underpinned by the Land Reform Act 2003, gives everyone a 'right to roam' across most of Scotland's land. It rests on three principles: respect the interests of others, care for the environment, and take responsibility for your own actions.
Where You Can (and Can't) Wild Camp
You can camp on
- Most unenclosed land
- Forestry and Land Scotland land
- Beaches and coastal land above the high tide line
- Roadsides with parking or passing places
You cannot camp on
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park management zones (March to September, permits required)
- Land within sight of houses
- Cultivated or enclosed fields
- Golf courses, airfields and military land
- Areas with 'No Camping' signs
The Golden Rules
1. Leave No Trace
Take everything away with you. Leave your spot exactly as you found it, or better.
2. Respect Privacy and Communities
Camp away from homes and be considerate of the people who live and work in these places.
3. Move On
Stay no more than 2 to 3 nights in one spot, then move on to spread the impact.
4. Use Proper Toilet Facilities
Use your van's chemical toilet and dispose of waste at proper disposal points only.
5. Respect Wildlife and Livestock
Take extra care during lambing (March to May) and bird nesting season (April to July).
Finding the Perfect Spot
What Makes a Good Spot
- Level ground
- A safe, firm surface
- Shelter from the wind
- Safety away from hazards
- A good view, if you are lucky
- Out of sight of homes and roads
Best Wild Camping Areas on the NC500
- The Achmelvich Beach area
- Clashnessie
- The Durness area
- The Applecross coast
- The East Sutherland coast
Apps & Resources
- Park4Night
- iOverlander
- OS Maps
- The Scottish Outdoor Access Code website
Practical Tips
Off-Grid Living
Conserve water, manage your power carefully, and take all your waste with you. Our vans are built for several days off-grid, but a little discipline goes a long way.
Safety Considerations
- Tell someone where you are going
- Check the weather before you set off
- Carry emergency contacts
- Be aware of carbon monoxide and ventilate when cooking