Due to the Land Reform Act 2003 in Scotland, it is one of the few places where wild camping is legal. However, wild camping is only legal for pitching a tent, you can not go off road in a vehicle to camp.
Is wild camping allowed on NC500?
Whether you are looking to keep things minimal by wild camping on the NC500 or stay at the many available sites with full facilities – there is something for everyone.
Where can I camp on the NC500?
Best NC500 campsites for motorhomes: 10 places to spend the night
- Ardtower Caravan Park.
- Dornoch Camping and Caravan Park.
- Dunnet Bay Caravan and Motorhome Club Site.
- Sango Sands Oasis.
- Clachtoll Beach Campsite.
- Broomfield Holiday Park.
- Sands Caravan and Camping.
- Inverewe Gardens Poolewe Camping and Caravanning Club Site.
Where can I park for NC500 overnight?
Overnight Parking
- Nigg Ferry Hotel Carpark.
- Balintore Harbour Carpark.
- Lochinver Leisure Centre Carpark.
- Falls of Shin Carpark.
- Balnakeil Motorhome Stopover.
- Stoer Lighthouse.
- Sheigra Beach Honor Campsite.
- Loch Clash Kinlochbervie (Harbour)
Is it legal to wild camp in Scotland?
Wild camping is legal in Scotland but there are guidelines that all campers should follow. It really is quite a simple formula: respecting the countryside + being safe = happy wild camping!
Where is wild camping not allowed in Scotland?
There is only one area were wild camping in Scotland is restricted on a wider scale: the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
Do I need to book campsites for NC500?
Booking campsites is not always necessary. But, we would always encourage our customers to book ahead where possible. Booking is recommended in the summer as some campsites can get busy. This is especially so for sites like Sango sands, Applecross and Fortrose Bay.
What month is best for NC500?
The best time to drive the North Coast 500 for most people is between May and October as during this period you’ll find most attractions and restaurants open, the greatest variety of lodging, and the best chances for warmer weather.
Do you get midges on NC500?
Unfortunately, midges also thrive in these conditions, and small though they may be, a swarm of them can cast a cloud over even the best-planned day out. There are plenty of ways, however, to prepare for midge season, so follow our five top tips below for dealing with midges on the NC500 and keep the beasties at bay.
Is NC500 signposted?
Is the NC500 signposted? Yes! There are many brown tourist signs that direct the traffic around the North Coast 500. Besides, the route is straightforward as it runs along the coastline of North Scotland.
Are there toilets on the NC500?
It provides an essential toilet along the North Coast 500 route and has 5 toilets, 2 showers, and an Elsan point for motorhome waste. The toilet has a 50p charge.
Is NC500 free?
What is this? The popular adventure, with four seasons in one day, heading west from Inverness to the top of Scotland’s mainland, John O’Groats, and back down the east coast (or in reverse). This thorough and free NC500 route planner will get you on the road in no time.
Are there supermarkets on the NC500?
Larger grocery stores along the NC500 can be found in Inverness (several large supermarkets including Tesco, Lidl, Asda, and Morrisons), Thurso (Tesco, Lidl, and Co-op), and Ullapool (Tesco Superstore). These are good places to stock up on groceries if you are staying in self-catering lodging or camping. What is this?
Can you camp on the side of the road in Scotland?
Scotland is the only country in the UK where wild camping remains legal. This is down to the Land Reform Act (2003), which is the act of Scottish parliament that secures public access rights to access land in Scotland. It includes the right to camp in unenclosed land.
Can you be charged for wild camping in Scotland?
The short answer is yes: wild camping is legal in Scotland.
It is the only country in the UK where there remains a general rule in favour of wild camping. England, Wales and Northern Ireland all have laws to restrict camping – unless you seek the landowner’s permission first.
What happens if you get caught wild camping?
Promoted Stories. If caught wild camping without permission, you will be found guilty of trespassing, however, as this is a civil offence you cannot be arrested for, you will likely be asked to move on.
How do I get a wild camping permit in Scotland?
What you need to know
- Permits cost £4 per tent or motorhome/campervan per night.
- You can book a camping permit for up to three nights in one area.
- You can book up to 4 weeks in advance.
- A permit allows you to camp anywhere within your chosen permit area.
Can you park and sleep anywhere in Scotland?
You can enjoy wild camping in your motorhome in Scotland on private or public land as long as you have permission. Unfortunately, you don’t have the same access rights as a camper who is on foot or using a bicycle which means you can’t just park anywhere you like.
How long can I wild camp in Scotland?
three nights
The Access Code says: Access rights extend to wild camping. This type of camping is lightweight, done in small numbers and only for two or three nights in any one place.
How much of NC500 is single track?
around 200 miles
Narrow, winding, single track country roads are all that you’ll be travelling for around 200 miles across various sections of the route.
Is the NC500 a difficult drive?
The North Coast 500 is not a route to be driven quickly. Not only would it be unsafe to race along it, but you’ll want to drive it at a relaxed pace to take in the wonderful scenery! Our advice is to allow at least 5 days to drive the full route round-trip, although more days will obviously allow you to see more.