Camping In The Outer Hebrides
Planning a camping trip around the Outer Hebrides doesn’t have to be difficult.
Camping in the Outer Hebrides is considered to be largely ‘wild camping‘ although there are campsites dotted around the islands that are available for those holidaymakers who wish to use them. Many of these campsites have been designed with campervans and motorhomes in mind, making them perfect for a road trip holiday.
Below is a list of campsites on each island that are suitable for all types of campers for your perfect camping in the outer Hebrides experience:
Electric Hook Up
No Electric Hook Up
Campsites in Isle of Lewis
Many people choose to drive around Lewis so they can admire the island’s natural beauty. This is especially popular with tourists who may spend their whole trip just taking in the landscapes across the island. Lewis has many scenic routes which are ideal for this kind of exploration, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find some stunning spots which you can enjoy up close.
There are many popular tourist attractions on Lewis. some of these are the Callanish Standing Stones, a stone circle built over 5,000 years ago. The Doune Broch Centre in Carloway, one of the best-preserved Iron Age brochs in Scotland and the Lews Castle which was built in 1836 with a castle museum. Visitors will also enjoy the many beaches in Lewis, including Reef Beach in Uig which is known for its white sands and clear waters.
Campsites in Isle of Harris
The Isle of Harris is one of the most scenic places to visit in Scotland with its breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, sandy beaches and an amazing range of wildlife, which includes golden eagles, porpoises, minke whales and red deer, amongst many others.
Some popular tourist attractions on Harris include the Isle of Harris Distillery, which is an award-winning distillery located in the village of Tarbert. It offers tours. There is also the Harris Tweed shop, where you can buy the world’s most famous tweed material. Finally, there is Luskentyre beach, which has a stunning coastline and beautiful golden sands.
Campsites in North Uist
North Uist is a lovely island in the Outer Hebrides that provides a range of services and amenities to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Things to see include the Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve, which features an abundance of birdlife, the Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre, and the Langass Woods
Many prehistoric structures may also be seen around North Uist, including burial cairns and stone circles.
Campsites in Benbecula
Benbecula is a tranquil island gem, nestled between the north and south of Uist.
The island’s population is just over 1,200, and it is surrounded by gorgeous white sand beaches and lush landscapes that are perfect for walks or cycling. Some popular spots in Benbecula include a climb up Rueval for a panoramic view of the island, its beaches, and mountains. On a clear day, you can see St. Kilda to the west and Skye to the east. Another popular spot is MacGillivrays Gift Shop, offering local produce and gifts.
Campsites in South Uist
South Uist is a narrow island with 20 miles of beach running down the west side of the island.
There are various things that tourists can do on the island, including a visit to Loch Druidibeg National Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to over 200 types of flowering plants, as well as many seabirds, otters, and seals. Keen golfers can also visit Askernish Golf Course, the oldest golf course in the outer Hebrides, laid out by Tom Morris in 1891.
Campsites in Barra
Barra is a beautifully remote and unique Scottish isle and home to one of the world’s most unique airport runways, where scheduled flights take-off and land on a tidal beach. Barra, a true pearl of the Hebrides, has many things to do, such as a Hebridean Sea Tour exploring Mingulay, St Kilda and the Southern Islands, or experience swimming in the turquoise waters with Barra Surf and Coastal Adventures.
Barra is connected to Vatersay by a causeway (the official starting point of the Hebridean Way), giving the maximum island experience.
For even more information check out this useful PDF guide for caravans, campervans and motorhomes. – (Visit Outer Hebrides PDF Guide)
The following ferry ports provide drinking water and waste disposal facilities: Eriskay, Berneray and Leverburgh.
Another useful reference is the Scottish Outdoor Access Code – advice and a practical guide for all exploring Scotland’s outdoors.
Don’t forget that you may wild camp anywhere….so if you come across a location that you think is paradise, just park up and take in the view!