Escape into the fresh air at these top 7 spots for camping in Edinburgh!
I’ve always loved the great outdoors, and lucky for me, so do my husband and bairns. Planning a wee outdoor adventure is something we enjoy doing every now and then, and it didn’t take us long to discover that camping has become a firm family favourite.
There are many spots for camping in Edinburgh, whether you fancy pitching a tent on a grassy meadow or setting up by the seaside. There’s no shortage of options either—tents, caravans, motorhomes, or even cosy cottages for a bit of extra comfort!
If you’re looking to escape into the fresh air soon, here are a few top spots I’d wholeheartedly recommend that are just a stone’s throw from the city!
Mortonhall Caravan and Camping Park
– Media from meadowheadholidayparks
Address: 38 Mortonhall Gate, Frogston Road
Contact Details: +44 131 664 1533
Operating Hours:
Check In: 2:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 nn
Admission Fee: From £54 per night
Just a stone’s throw—well, 4 miles—from the city centre, Mortonhall Caravan Park is tucked into a sprawling country estate that feels a world away from the city’s buzz. Set in a sprawling estate, it’s easy to reach by bus yet feels like a peaceful escape.
With spotless facilities, caravan hook-ups, a cosy tent area, and stylish holiday homes, there’s something for everyone. The on-site bar, restaurant, and shop make life easy, and the working farm adds a touch of rural charm thanks to the friendly sheep!
Tips:
- For golf enthusiasts or those keen to try their hand at it, there’s a course conveniently located next door—perfect for honing your swing without venturing far.
- The best time to camp here is around the Edinburgh Fringe Festival where locals gather and celebrate art, music, and all things pop culture. You’ll find many residents parking their caravans and setting up tents while celebrating the festival in all sorts of costumes. It gets pretty crowded during this time, though, but the atmosphere is extra fun!
Slatebarns Caravan Park
– Media from kirsty.lafferty
Address: Chapel Loan, Roslin
Contact Details: +44 786 700 9915
Operating Hours:
Check In: 2:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 nn
Admission Fee:
From £35 per night from April to May
From £37 per night in June
From £40 per night in July
From £48 per night in August
Slatebarns Caravan Park is a proper treasure, nestled right on the edge of Roslin Glen. With a choice of hardstanding or grass pitches, all kitted out with electric hookups, it’s the perfect base for a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature and history.
What makes it special is that you’re practically neighbours with the world-famous Rosslyn Chapel and the Rosslyn Castle! Both places are steeped in so much mystery and history and deserve a visit if you love visiting landmarks.
Tips:
- Note that reservations in August require at least a minimum 2-night stay due to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival ongoing during that month. Payments should be made in full (instead of the usual down payment) during this month as well.
- Fancy a stroll? A quick five-minute wander up Chapel Loan lands you in Roslin village, where the local pub welcomes you with hearty meals, a warm atmosphere, and a big smile for your four-legged pals. You can purchase all your camping essentials in this village in case of emergencies, too!
Linwater Caravan Park
– Media from linwaterpark
Address: Clifton Rd, Linwater Lodges and Static Caravans, Newbridge
Contact Details: +44 131 333 3326
Operating Hours:
Check In: 12:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Admission Fee: From £33.50 per night for regular tent pitching
If you’re after a camping spot that’s open year-round, Linwater Caravan Park is well worth a look. This spacious site is great for tents, caravans, motorhomes, and campervans, with roomy grass pitches complete with water and electric hookups.
Perfect for families or couples on the go, it offers a peaceful countryside retreat just a stone’s throw from the city. And with its family-friendly vibe, it’s a great spot to bring the bairns along for a proper adventure!
Tips:
- Note that the campsite has very strict rules when it comes to the sizes of your tents. For small backpackers, you are only allowed a maximum of one parked vehicle and your tent should only be suitable for one to two persons. If your car and tent can’t fit within the camp dimensions, you will not be allowed to pitch and stay here.
- If you plan on staying here for a few weeks (you’re allowed to, by the way!), just remember that you’ll be asked to move spots around the lawn to preserve the grass. This will happen every 7 days, so be prepared to re-pitch your tents!
Lothian Bridge Caravan Park
– Media from lothiancaravanpark
Address: Caravan Park, Lothian Bridge, Craigesk, Newtongrange, Dalkeith
Contact Details: +44 131 663 6120
Operating Hours:
Check In: 12:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Admission Fee: Send an enquiry for rates
If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Lothian Bridge Caravan Park is just the ticket. It’s got that lovely countryside feel while keeping the city’s attractions within arm’s reach.
The park sorts you out with electric hookups, spotless shower and toilet facilities, and even a wee spot nearby if you fancy leaving the cooking to someone else for the night.
Tucked near the River Esk, the views here in the morning are pure magic. And if you’re a fan of history, you’re in luck! The Scottish Mining Museum is just down the road, making it a cracking blend of nature and culture.
Tips:
- If you want extra peace and quiet, I recommend pitching your tent far away from the A7 Road. This is usually when traffic piles up, and it can get pretty loud in this area. You should also avoid camping under the bridge if you want to avoid the noise.
- Washers and dryers are also available for your convenience if you need to do some washing. Just make sure to drop by the staff quarters for assistance!
Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite
– Media from candmclub
Address: 35-37 Marine Dr
Contact Details: +44 131 312 6874
Operating Hours:
Check In: 1:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Admission Fee:
Starts at £21 per night, per person
Children below 5 years old: Free
If you’re looking for a campsite that lets you pitch a tent next to the sea, then the Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite may just be your thing. The camping ground offers easy access to the sea and all sorts of landmarks.
The site offers lots of space for outdoor activities, laundry facilities, a dog walk, Wi-Fi, and areas for barbequing—everything you basically need to host a great family outing with your kids, grandparents, and even furry friends!
Tips:
- There is a specific area dedicated to campers arriving late to their check-in. The pitch site has electric hookups, so don’t worry about missing out on any connection to electricity!
- Note that the campsite sits very close to the airport’s flight path. You’ll hear a lot of planes landing or taking off nearby, which may cause noise or inconvenience to some people. I personally don’t mind and actually enjoy watching the planes (so do my kids!). I suggest pitching your tent or caravan far from the flight path if you want to avoid the noise!
Bonaly Scout Centre
– Media from 77thgds
Address: 71 Bonaly Road
Contact Details: +44 131 441 1878
Operating Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Admission Fee: Enquire for accurate rates
Bonaly Scout Centre is one of my favourite spots to escape and reconnect with nature. At first, you might think it’s just for scouts, but trust me, it’s open to everyone—whether you’re in a group or just looking for a simple, back-to-basics family camping experience.
You get direct access to the Pentland Hills which is great for cycling, hiking, and spending afternoons doing all sorts of fun activities. I’ve spent many afternoons here just enjoying the views, the outdoors, and the company of my friends and family.
Tips:
- If you’re bringing a large group, renting a cabin is a great option. These cabins come equipped with an open kitchen, a picnic area, and their own campfire spot. Just keep in mind that the cabins don’t have built-in toilets, and the restroom facilities are located a short walk away. If you don’t mind stretching your legs, the cabins offer extra comfort and convenience for your stay.
- There are so many activities you can do here, either self-led or instructor-led. Since the site is designed for scouts, you can expect lots of obstacle courses and a few outdoor skills training activities like camouflage tracking. They even have some traditional Highland games!
Belhaven Bay Caravan Park
– Media from meadowheadholidayparks
Address: Edinburgh Rd, West Barns, Dunbar
Contact Details: +44 136 886 5956
Operating Hours:
Check In: 2:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 nn
Admission Fee: Enquire for accurate rates
Situated with John Muir Country Park, Belhaven Bay Caravan Park is another solid camping site that gives you access to historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and miles of sandy beaches.
I like to camp here whenever I get the urge to go surfing. The access to the beach makes this site an ideal spot for people who want to take a dip in the water, and luckily, you don’t have to go too far from your own tent to enjoy the sea!
Plus, if you have the extra budget for it, you can book the seaside cottage if you really want extra privacy and comfort by the sea.
Tip:
- Note that the campsite has strict silent hours starting at 11:00 pm. If you feel like barbecuing at night or starting a campfire, make sure to keep the noise levels really low. You don’t want to risk any fines or an unpleasant experience from other campers!
- You’ll find plenty of bins dotted around. Just check the map for their locations. If you’re looking to recycle, head over to the overnight car park next to the reception building where the recycling facilities are set up.