Camping on the Isle of Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit. It is known for its breathtaking views and sceneries. Portree is the capital of the Isle of Syke. The villages of Dunvegan, Edinbane, Uig, and Staffin are located in the north of the island. The island’s history is broad and covers a wide range of topics, including the discovery of dinosaur fossils, clan warfare, the Highland Clearances, the notorious “Bonnie Prince Charlie” and the Jacobite Rebellion.
Other than its historical importance, there are other awesome things to see, such as a huge variety of wildlife. One example is the sea eagles which are the reason why this isle is at the top of the list for all bird watchers. Also, hikers and climbers love this area for its many mountains and cliffs. There are both difficult and exciting climbs, so everyone can find something for themselves.
Wild camping: Is it legal on the Isle of Skye?
It is fully legal to wild camp in Scotland. Isle of Skye is the only nation in the UK where you can still wild camp. There are regulations prohibiting camping in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland unless you first get the landowner’s permission, but not in Scotland. Some of the famous spots for wild camping on the Isle of Skye are The Quirang, Coral Beach, Camasunary Bay, Loch Slapin by Torrin, etc.
“Skye is a fantastic place to visit, there are a number of places to eat at and lots of great walking and adventures to be had. A little plug for Skye Adventures too, I did an amazing “coasteering” trip with them over the summer that was easily my highlight of my visit.”
– Tabelz on Reddit
Best time for camping on the Isle of Skye?
You can always visit the island, but the peak season is from April to October. It’s impossible to predict the weather, but if we are looking at average weather, April and May have the most weeks with sun and clear skies. Usually, June and July are the warmest months, while December and February are the coldest.
Things you should bring with you:
- Windbreakers are usually a smart idea whenever you go to Scotland
- Strong tents and pegs because the ground is in most places uneven, so that you will need that additional security
Since there isn’t a big number of stores on the Isle of Lewis, you should stack up and prepare no-cook camping meals.
Camping in Isle of Skye – Best Campsites
1. Reraig Campsite
The Reraig campground is well situated for experiencing Scotland’s breathtaking West Coast. Ten minutes to the west is the Skye bridge, five minutes to the east is the castle at Eilean Donan, and fifteen minutes to the north lies the lovely town of Plockton. The park provides a genuinely lovely and peaceful setting for setting up a tent and taking pleasure in visiting this gorgeous region of Scotland. It is in a prime location on Loch Alsh’s shoreline and very close to Skye, Plockton, and Applecross.
Things to do around
- Visit the world-famous and iconic Eilean Donan Castle
- Explore wildlife in Bright Water Visitor Centre
- Enjoy lunch and dinner cruises
- Hiking
- Biking
Pricing:
Starts at £15 per night, check the official website here.
Address:
Balmacara, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DH, UK
2. Kinloch Campsite
Their objective is to uphold the longstanding heritage of hospitality and tranquility that has been this lovely location’s defining characteristic. The campsite is situated right on the lake’s coast, providing campers with fantastic views and making it the ideal place to observe the various and different birds that live in these tidal waters. Seals can be seen visiting the area as well. Dunvegan is a well-liked stop on the North Coast 500 and makes for a great camping site for exploring Skye’s northern region.
Things to do around
- Hiking
- Visit some unique art galleries and craft shops
- Go on boat trips
- Canoeing and kayaking
Pricing:
£21.50 per person per night
Address:
Kinloch Campsite, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye IV55 8WQ, UK
3. Glenbrittle Campsite
The campsite is located on the rugged west coast of the Isle of Skye, right at the foot of the famous Cuillin Mountains and the beaches of Loch Brittle. Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe is the perfect retreat for relaxation and a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Established in 1961, it was named the best campsite in Britain by The Daily Telegraph. Among other awards, it won the 2019 Golden Camp of the Year at the Great Outdoors Magazine Awards and was named “No. 1 of the 10 best cool coastal campsites” in the September 2020 edition of Coast magazine.
If you are a great hiker and if you are interested in hiking in the UK, this is the ideal campsite for you. It is also popular with nature lovers, as it offers a wild camping experience with the added benefit of excellent facilities nearby.
Things to do around
- Climbing
- Hiking
Pricing:
Pricing starts from £11.00 per night
Address:
Carbost, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA, UK
4. Portree Campsite
Portree campsite is located 1 mile North of Portree town center which is situated on the Isle of Skye. The location of this campground is ideal for seeing Portree and taking in the rest of the Island. There are 50 tent sites and 40 hard-standing electric hook-up spots for motorhomes or caravans. Beginning early March until the end of October, they are open.
Things to do around
- Have a picnic
- Take pictures of the stunning views of the Cuillin Mountain Range
- Visit popular tourist destinations such as Neist Point Lighthouse, The Fairy Pools, and more
- Enjoy stunning views of the starry nights
Pricing:
Pricing starts from just £16.00 per night
Address:
Portree Campsite Torvaig, Staffin Rd, Isle of Skye IV51 9HU, UK
5. Greshornish Campsite
Like any of these campsites, Greshornish Campsite is a family-friendly site ideally situated for touring North Skye. If you love outdoor activities and wildlife, you should definitely put this campsite on your list. You can rent a canoe and a bike there, and there’s also a store nearby that’s well-stocked with all the groceries you’ll need on your trip. If you bring your dog, you will be very satisfied with the facilities of this campsite as there is even a place where you can bathe your pet.
Things to do around
- Visit the museum
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Walk on a sandy beach
Pricing:
Pricing starts from just £30.00
Address:
Loch, Greshornish, Edinbane, Portree IV51 9PS, UK
Conclusion
Camping on Skye is often considered the “cheap option,” but it’s not such a bad option considering its incredible scenery. You could even call it the romantic option. If you want to hike or climb, camping will go hand in hand. Since you can camp in the wild legally and experience many beautiful spots, the Isles of Skye is one of our favorite camping spots.
