10 of the Best Campsites in the Outer Hebrides
Camping in Scotland is a bucket list experience for many, offering unbeatable views, unspoiled beauty, abundant wildlife and endless opportunities for adventure. But if there’s one place that truly encapsulates the magic of camping in Scotland, it has to be the Outer Hebrides - a chain of more than 70 idyllic islands off the northwest coast. With only 15 of these islands inhabited, it’s likely you’ll start your journey in the north on the Isle of Lewis, or further south on the Isle of Barra.
If you are planning a campervan or motorhome adventure in Scotland, be sure to check out our guide to 10 of the Best Family-Friendly Campsites in Scotland to help plan your route. And if you’re venturing further, why not explore the Isle of Skye Ultimate Road Trip Guide for more epic Scottish landscapes? If you love paddleboarding or kayaking, don’t miss our dedicated list of campsites with great access to the water!
How do you get to the Outer Hebrides?
There are several ferry options to take your vehicle or campervan across, with services running seven days a week during summer (with a reduced timetable from October to March). The most common Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferry routes are:
Uig (Isle of Skye) to Tarbert (Isle of Harris)
Oban to Castlebay (Isle of Barra) - a nearly five-hour journey, but one that’s absolutely worth it! Read more about why you should explore Barra in your campervan or motorhome as part of your Outer Hebrides adventure.
For those wanting to include Inner Hebridean islands in their itinerary, you can sail from Castlebay in Barra to Tiree once a week. Be sure to check out our Coll & Tiree Ultimate Travel Guide for everything you need to know about these stunning islands.
What are the best campsites on the Outer Hebrides?
The campsites in the Outer Hebrides vary widely between more formal campsites with lots of facilities, to back-to-basics sites with limited facilities, however something they all have in common is the stunning location and (nearly always) stunning ocean views. You will not regret a camping holiday in the Outer Hebrides!
The hospitality from Angus and his family at this stunning campsite in Barra is unforgettable. Located in the north of the island, it offers spectacular views and a peaceful setting. For opening times, local events, tantalising photos and regular updates, follow them on their active Facebook page.
Situated on the west coast of Barra, Wavecrest offers prime Atlantic views, making it an ideal location to pitch your tent, or park your campervan whilst you explore what the island an has to offer.
Buy your Google Map guide to the Outer Hebrides here. It includes:
Campsite recommendations, overnight parking/community wild camping spots, chemical disposal points, must-see attractions and towns, beaches, hikes, food and drink recommendations, driving routes and blog post links.
Situated on the west of Barra with stunning views, Borve Camping and Caravan campsite is only two miles from Castlebay. Located next to the main, curricular road that wraps around the whole island makes it an ideal base to easily explore the Isle of Barra.
A family-run campsite on the west coast of North Uist, set next to a beautiful white sandy beach. Perfect for kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and breathtaking sunsets. It offers plenty of space for tents and campervans, as well as a range of facilities, including a small shop selling snacks, soft drinks, ice cream, small gifts, postcards and stamps.
Located on the Isle of Lewis, this campsite is situated with stunning views of Traigh na Beirigh Bay. This community run campsite, is approximately 35 miles from the main town of Stornoway.
A back-to-basics campsite (without EHU) located on a stunning beach on the west coast of Harris. Horgabost Campsite (or sometimes referred to as Traigh Horgabost Caravan Park) is among several family-friendly campsites on the Isle of Harris.
Huisinis Campervan / Motorhome Site
This ‘campsite’ is almost too good to share. The term ‘campsite’ has been used loosely because it’s operated on a first come, first served basis and has room for only five campervans/motorhomes with EHU. However, there are also more non-electric pitches closer to the beach, along with facilities. A £15pn donation should be made via the on-site honesty box for EHU pitches, £10pn for non EHU.
The most formal campsite in the Outer Hebrides, this family run campsite is just 1.5 miles for the town of Stornoway. Whilst the facilities are modern, the campsite manages to retain the traditional friendly atmosphere that is typical of the Islands. Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and with a population of around 6,953, it is by far the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, as well as the third largest island town in Scotland!
Situated on the Isle of Harris, this back-to-basics campsite offers a peaceful haven, surrounded by stunning views. Please note there is no chemical disposal point, but one can be found in nearby Tarbert.
Located at the southern end of the Hebridean island of South Uist. The campsite looks out across a small bay with white shell-sand beach and enjoys magnificent views, with its sparkling turquoise seas. There is an adjoining café, with a good range of facilities, including a washing machine and tumble dryer.
Planning an Epic Scottish Road Trip?
If you are road-tripping through Scotland, consider adding these destinations to your itinerary:
Why the Isle of Orkney is a Hidden Gem for NC500 Campervan Families - an alternative to Skye with stunning history and landscapes.
The Ultimate Guide to Family Camping on the NC500: Top 10 Sites Revealed - plan your perfect North Coast 500 adventure.
Exploring the Isle of Harris and Lewis with a Campervan - a must-read for those heading north.
In summary, the Outer Hebrides islands offer an unforgettable camping experience, with spectacular landscapes, stunning beaches and plenty of adventure. If you’re heading to the Hebrides, be sure to check out our Google Map guide to the Outer Hebrides, which includes campsite recommendations, overnight parking spots, wild camping locations, must-see attractions, and driving routes.
