The North Coast 500 is a breathtaking road trip through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
With its dramatic coastlines, charming villages, and rich history, this route has become a must-visit for travelers.
One of the best ways to immerse oneself in this scenic journey is by staying at the diverse campsites scattered along the way.
From modern campgrounds with full amenities to quirky independent sites run by local crofters, the North Coast 500 boasts a variety of camping options.
Whether it’s glamping in a cozy yurt or parking a campervan near the beach, there’s something for everyone.
This guide will help you discover the top campsites along the route, ensuring a memorable stop on your epic Scottish adventure.
1. Applecross Campsite
Applecross Campsite offers a tranquil setting for campers seeking a balance between nature and convenience. Located a short walk from the Applecross Inn, it features basic amenities like showers and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Campers can enjoy stunning views of the Isle of Skye while deer roam freely nearby. This medium-sized site serves as a perfect pit stop for adventurers exploring the captivating landscapes of the North Coast 500.
With its blend of serenity and easy access to local attractions, Applecross Campsite is a must-visit destination for travelers.
2. Achmelvich Bay The Shore Caravan Site
Achmelvich Bay The Shore Caravan Site offers an ideal coastal retreat on the North Coast 500. This pet-free site features 40 pitches, including options for electric hookups.
Campers enjoy hot showers, laundry facilities, and surprisingly fast WiFi. It’s located right next to stunning Achmelvich Beach, making it perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Campers can indulge in onsite fish and chips, ensuring a delightful culinary experience after a day of exploring. Prices start at £16.50 per night for electric pitches, making it an affordable option for travelers.
3. Clachtoll Beach Campsite
Clachtoll Beach Campsite is tucked away along the breathtaking North Coast 500, offering captivating views and excellent facilities.
Campers can choose from various pitches: unserviced at £20 per night or serviced at £25 per night for one adult.
Activities abound with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach games. Clachtoll also features modern showering facilities, baby-changing amenities, and a lovely café.
This pet-friendly site is perfect for beach lovers looking for an unforgettable camping experience amidst stunning landscapes.
4. Scourie Campsite
Scourie Campsite offers a picturesque setting on the stunning Sutherland coast. This campsite features ample flat pitches for tents and campervans, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Campers can enjoy modern facilities, including hot showers and a well-maintained toilet block. Located near the village of Scourie, it provides easy access to local hiking trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.
With prices starting from £20 per night, it’s a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the North Coast 500.
5. Sango Sands
Sango Sands Oasis Camping and Caravan Site offers stunning cliff-top views over award-winning beaches on the NorthWest tip of Scotland, in Durness.
This campsite caters to both tents and campervans, with electrical hook-ups available by pre-booking. Campers can enjoy delicious meals at the nearby Oasis restaurant and bar while spotting dolphins from the cliffside.
With activities like wild swimming, surfing, and scenic walks nearby, it’s a prime destination for nature lovers. Prices start at £12 per adult, and non-electric pitches operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
6. Thurso Caravan and Campsite
Thurso Caravan and Campsite offers a welcoming atmosphere for travelers along the North Coast 500. Located close to the bustling town of Thurso, it features spacious pitches for both tents and motorhomes, along with essential amenities like laundry facilities and hot showers.
Campers can appreciate easy access to beautiful beaches and scenic walks along the coastline. With prices starting at £15 per night, it’s a budget-friendly option perfect for families and solo adventurers seeking a relaxing stay in this picturesque part of Scotland.
7. Ardtower Caravan Park
Ardtower Caravan Park is an award-winning site nestled close to Inverness. It offers tent pitches and motorhome options, with prices starting at £16 per night for a tent and from £32 for hardstanding motorhome pitches.
Campers can enjoy modern facilities, including showers, a laundry room, and free WiFi. The site’s proximity to the historic Culloden Battlefield makes it a great base for exploring. Ardtower is also dog-friendly, welcoming furry companions, making it perfect for family adventures.
North Coast 500 Wild Camping
Wild camping along the North Coast 500 offers an exhilarating way to immerse oneself in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s generally legal to camp in many areas, but campers should always adhere to local regulations and the Leave No Trace principles.
Camping Gear List
Before hitting the NC500, it’s crucial to prepare your gear. Here’s a list of essential items to consider:
- A quality tent that’ll protect from wind and rain
- Warm layers for varying temperatures
- Waterproof jacket and overtrousers
- Comfortable footwear, such as hiking shoes
- Personal hygiene products and sunscreen
- Portable cooler for food storage
- Extra phone battery packs, essential for navigation
- A bag for collecting rubbish—leave no trace behind
- Cash for gas, food, and other necessities
The Best Time For Camping
Weather can be unpredictable in this region, often showcasing multiple seasons in a single day. May is an excellent month for camping before the midges become more active.
Early September can also bring sunnier days compared to the peak summer months of June, July, and August.
During summer, long daylight hours—approximately 16 hours—allow ample time for exploration. Conversely, winter can be dark with heavy snow, causing many campsites and attractions to close until spring.
North Coast 500 Motorhomes
Not everyone prefers tent camping. Hiring a motorhome or campervan for the NC500 is a popular option and offers convenience, especially on single-track roads. There are plenty of passing places to allow for smoother traffic flow.
Seeing multiple campervans parked together does not indicate a great stop; instead, it often suggests it’s time to move on.
Traveling by motorhome provides flexibility with travel plans, helps avoid quickly booked hotels, and offers more comfort than traditional tent camping.
Motorhome sites usually align with camping sites, and the facilities provided at each location have already been discussed in the article.
Alicia Richards