The Ultimate Guide to Family Camping on the NC500: Top 10 Sites Revealed
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is the ultimate family road trip - a breathtaking route filled with rugged coastlines, stunning beaches and endless opportunities for adventure. But with so many places to stay along the way, how do you find the perfect campsite? Whether you’re looking for a beachfront pitch, family-friendly facilities, or a base for exploring the water with your kayak or paddleboard, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we reveal the top 10 family campsites on the NC500, helping you plan the perfect trip. Plus, we’ll share essential resources to make your adventure stress-free, including our NC500: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide - a must-have digital resource that takes the guesswork out of planning with a detailed 7-day itinerary, campsite recommendations, and expert tips on driving, timing, and extending your journey.
We’ll also link you to our best family-friendly campsites in Scotland, a detailed guide to finding the perfect campsite for kayaking and paddleboarding (which includes a free Google Map), and a midge survival guide - because no one wants these tiny pests ruining their adventure!
So, pack up your campervan, motorhome, or tent and get ready to experience Scotland’s most spectacular road trip with your family. Let’s dive in!
Location: Clachtoll, Lochinver, Sutherland, IV27 4JD
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Direct Beach Access: Clachtoll Beach Campsite offers immediate access to a pristine sandy beach, ideal for family fun and relaxation.
Family Facilities: This campsite boasts modern facilities, including hot showers and laundry amenities. They welcome touring caravans, campervans, motorhomes, tents, trailer tents and car campers. The campsite is also very dog and pet friendly.
Stunning Scenery: Wake up to stunning views of the coast and Suilven Mountain, making it a picturesque setting for your family camping adventure.
Location: Gairloch, Wester Ross, IV21 2DL
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Beachfront Beauty: Sands Caravan and Camping is situated right by Gairloch Beach, granting families immediate access to the golden sands and crystal-clear waters of the Gulf Stream.
Family-Friendly Services: The campsite provides electric hook-ups for campervans and motorhomes, modern washroom facilities, and a well-stocked shop for essentials. There is also a mini football pitch and play area.
Adventure Awaits: Families can explore nearby attractions such as the Gairloch Heritage Museum and the Gairloch Marine Life Centre, all within easy reach.
If you are tired of the endless research and uncertain route planning, we’ve got your covered. Check out our comprehensive travel guide, the "NC500 The Ultimate Road Trip Guide." This guide provides you with a suggested 7-day itinerary tailored specifically for families exploring the NC500 in their campervan or motorhome. It's packed with tips, recommendations, and all the information you need to make the most of your journey.
Location: Dornoch, Sutherland, IV25 3QD
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Convenient Location: Located in the historic town of Dornoch, this campsite offers easy access for campervans and motorhomes. It's a short stroll to both the beach and the town center.
Family-Friendly Facilities: Enjoy spacious pitches, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families of all sizes. There is a children’s play area and games room.
Historic Charm: Explore the picturesque town of Dornoch with its historic cathedral and sandy beachfront.
Location: Thurso, Caithness, KW14 8XD
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Dunnet Sands: This campsite is just a stone's throw from Dunnet Sands, a beautiful and expansive beach ideal for family outings.
Campervan Comfort: The campsite offers facilities tailored to campervan and motorhome travellers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Sightseeing Delights: Explore nearby attractions such as the Castle of Mey and the Dunnet Head Lighthouse. A ideal base for hiking and great dog walking too. If you're a keen birdwatcher, you can take a ferry trip around the Stacks of Duncansby to see a wealth of seabird life. Anglers are spoilt for choice with sea fishing by boat from Scrabster, fishing from the beach or freshwater fishing nearby. Sites of historic interest include the majestic Castle Mey and Mary Anne's Cottage, a museum detailing crofting life.
Why Not Add Orkney to Your NC500 Adventure?
Dunnet Sands is also the perfect base for a detour to the Isle of Orkney, a breathtaking alternative to Skye and a true hidden gem for campervan travellers. A short ferry ride from Scrabster takes you to a land of ancient history, dramatic coastlines and Viking heritage. Our blog post, Why the Isle of Orkney is a Hidden Gem for NC500 Campervan Families, provides a full guide to making the most of this incredible island, including must-visit locations and a Google Map of Orkney’s best campervan spots.
So, if you are road-tripping this part of Scotland, don’t miss the chance to explore beyond the mainland - Orkney’s magic awaits!
Location: Dunbeath, Caithness, KW6 6EH
Why is it Perfect for Families:
Scenic Beauty: Nestled in the picturesque Caithness countryside, Inver Caravan Park offers a tranquil setting with stunning views.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The campsite provides electric hook-ups, spotless washrooms, and a well-stocked shop for your convenience. The campsite also has static caravans suitable for families looking for a little more space.
Historic Excursions: Families can explore the nearby Whaligoe Steps, Dunbeath Castle, and other historic sites.
Location: Laide, Gairloch, IV22 2ND
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Beach Paradise: Situated on the shores of Gruinard Bay, this campsite offers families direct access to a sheltered beach, where children can safely play and explore.
Campervan Convenience: Enjoy electrical hook-ups for campervans and motorhomes, along with well-maintained facilities.
Natural Adventures: Families can go wildlife spotting, embark on coastal walks, or simply savor the serenity on your NC500 journey.
Location: Tongue, Highland, IV27 4XH
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Scenic Setting: Nestled in the heart of Tongue, this campsite offers a serene setting with stunning views of Ben Hope and the Kyle of Tongue.
Campervan and Motorhome-Friendly: It provides facilities tailored to campervans and motorhomes, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Outdoor Adventures: Families can indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the nearby hills and lochs.
8. The Wee Campsite:
Location: Loch Eriboll, Tongue, IV27 4EL
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Scenic Splendor: The Wee Campsite is set in a picturesque location overlooking Loch Eriboll, providing a tranquil atmosphere.
Campervan Comfort: Campervan and motorhome travellers will appreciate the spacious pitches and easy access to facilities.
Wildlife Encounters: Families can spot local wildlife, including seals, otters, and a variety of bird species along the loch's shores.
Location: Fortrose, Highland, IV10 8SE
Why it is Perfect for Families:
Seaside Serenity: Fortrose Bay Campsite is located near the Chanonry Point, known for its dolphin watching opportunities.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The campsite offers well-maintained facilities and spacious pitches suitable for families.
Historic Charm: Explore the historic town of Fortrose, with its cathedral and charming high street.
Location: Inverness, Highland, IV2 4BQ
Why it is Perfect for Families:
City and Nature: Ardtower Caravan Park offers a unique blend of city amenities and natural beauty. It's just a short drive from Inverness and surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Campervan Convenience: With electric hook-ups and modern facilities, it's a convenient choice for campervan and motorhome travelers.
Historic Exploration: Families can explore nearby attractions, including Culloden Battlefield and Fort George.
Top Tips for Family Camping on the NC500:
Book in Advance. Popular campsites along the NC500 can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Planning ahead ensures you secure the best spots for your family.
Pack for All Weathers. Scotland’s weather is famously unpredictable - sunshine one minute, rain the next! Even in summer, bring waterproofs, warm layers and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable on your adventure. Check out our top autumn/winter vanlife essentials here for extra tips on keeping warm and dry on the road.
Respect the Environment. Help protect the stunning landscapes of the NC500 by following Leave No Trace principles. Dispose of waste properly, stick to designated camping areas, and respect local wildlife.
Road-Tripping the NC500 with Kids
Exploring the NC500 as a family is an unforgettable experience, but keeping little ones entertained on the road takes some planning! Our guide, Navigating the NC500 with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities, is packed with must-visit attractions, interactive stops and outdoor adventures to make the journey fun for all ages. Plus, if you’re wondering what to pack for your tiny travellers, check out our Vanlife Essentials for Kids for top gear recommendations to keep them happy and comfortable on the road.
With the right preparation, family camping on the NC500 can be an adventure of a lifetime - filled with breathtaking views, outdoor fun, and lifelong memories.
