The Best Campsites in the Scottish Borders

A scant few miles beneath Edinburgh and stretching to the border with England, the Scottish Borders present a softer side of Scotland, one that’s filled with gently rolling hills, tranquil rivers and picturesque villages. It’s a destination where life moves slowly, which is perfect for a leisurely escape. And yes, for families or for less adventurous travellers hoping to get back to nature, it is the ideal camping destination. 

You’re not so remote that you can’t return to civilisation when you fancy, but you can still get lost in the middle of nowhere easily. Whether you’re pitching a tent or arriving in a campervan, the Borders is a scenic and low-key place to relax outside.

The Scottish Borders’ dramatic beauty, laid-back pace, and border country offer a little bit of everything. Picture forested glens, open moorland, and riverside meadows all within striking distance of both Edinburgh and northern England. It is the perfect halfway house for travellers; you get the loveliness of the Highlands without the longer drive north. Campsites here are quiet and spacious, making them ideal for families who want to spend quality time together and a safe place for kids to roam.

You’ll also never be far from history and culture, from ruined abbeys and stately homes to small towns full of independent shops and tearooms. And when the sun shines, there’s no better way to savour it than under canvas, with a barbecue on the go and birds singing in the background. Whether it’s just a weekend away or a much longer summer adventure, the Borders provide a laid-back but stunning base for any camping trip.

Bordered by a tranquil estate near Denholm, Ruberslaw Wild Woods Camping mixes wild-style seclusion with home comforts, a unique combination that you won’t often find elsewhere. You can pitch up in the woods for a proper back-to-nature feel, or go for a spot in the walled garden if you’d rather be nearer to facilities. There’s a communal hub featuring hot showers, toilets and a log-burning stove. Little ones will be excited about swinging through the trees, and grown-ups will enjoy the stunning views over the Border hills.

Visit: Pitchup – Ruberslaw

Coldingham Bay is situated just inland from the Berwickshire coast, offering a delightful blend of countryside tranquillity and seaside charm, on a beautifully maintained site with level pitches, lovely showers, and a very warm welcome. Families are in for a treat, with a playground on site and plenty of space for kids to safely wander. Best of all, you’re just a five-minute drive to Coldingham Bay, great for beach picnics, rock pooling and a quick surf.

Visit: Pitchup – Coldingham Bay

This small, community-run site is ideal for low-key campers seeking a centrally located base with a friendly atmosphere. It’s beside the market town of Lauder and within walking distance to shops, cafés and a fabulous bakery. The site, meanwhile, has level pitches, immaculate loos and a laid-back vibe that suits couples and families alike. The surrounding countryside is excellent for walking, and Thirlestane Castle is just down the road for a day out.

Visit: VisitScotland – Lauder Campsite

Tweedside is located directly on the River Tweed in the picturesque town of Innerleithen, and is a favourite home for both cyclists and families alike. Facilities at the site include grass and hardstanding pitches with hook-ups, a small children’s play park, and clean toilet blocks. It’s an easy walk into town for shopping, coffee, or dinner, and there are also trails and riverside walks, as well as nearby attractions such as Traquair House.

Visit: VisitScotland – Tweedside

If your gang just loves to be on the go, this woodland campsite near Peebles is an absolute dream. Adjoining the Glentress 7stanes mountain bike hub, it offers camping, pods, lodges, secure bike storage, and hire. Hearty breakfasts and post-ride treats are served in the café, and forest trails are just metres from your pitch. It’s a family-friendly prospect too, with easygoing walks, wildlife-watching and all the amenities of Peebles a short drive away.

Visit: Campsites – Glentress

Located near Ettrickbridge, Honey Cottage is a quiet, no-nonsense campsite, down to the fact that it’s not really about the campsite at all. Facilities are basic but clean, and where the appeal lies is the setting, birds in song, hills and a gently babbling river to paddle in. It’s perfect for families who want to get out in the mud and away from screens, or for walkers or anglers in search of a little less pace. Prepare for restful nights and starry skies.

Visit: Pitchup – Honey Cottage

Lilliardsedge Holiday Park is a more established site near Jedburgh, ideal for families seeking a higher degree of organisation and entertainment. Pitches with hook-ups are spacious, toilet blocks are modern, and there’s an on-site bar and restaurant. Kids are free to troll the expansive outdoor play area or participate in seasonal activities, while a round of golf may entice the big kids. It’s a social and friendly place, great for summer holidays and multi-generational getaways.

Visit: VisitScotland – Lilliardsedge

Camping in castle grounds? Yes please. Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park provides generous pitches beneath the walls of one of Scotland’s oldest and most inhabited castles. The facilities are modern and clean, and the setting couldn’t be more dramatic. There are nature trails, open parkland for games and seasonal family events at the castle. It is a special blend of history, nature and fun that makes it a firm family favourite and a draw for heritage lovers.

Visit: VisitScotland – Thirlestane Castle

You might catch a glimpse of glorious summer sun in the Scottish Borders, but be sure to bring a few layers and waterproofs too, as the weather can change quickly. Places ease up over the school holidays, so plan, particularly for family-friendly spots or those with scarce pitches. Most campsites prefer online booking.

Wild camping is legal in Scotland under right-to-roam laws, but it’s not without responsibilities. Stay in small groups, keep away from farmland or private gardens, and follow Leave No Trace: Don’t pick flowers, break branches, or start fires. Fires aren’t always allowed, so check signs or ask permission if uncertain.

Many sites are seasonal, open from April to October, so please call in advance. Prospective campers with pets and large campervans, please note that your chosen spot must be suitable for your needs. And even at those times when you do have access to facilities, it’s helpful to have a backup system in case of full sites or bad weather. Knowing where the nearest town or sheltered spot might be can come in handy.

If you’re camping with children, the Scottish Borders has no shortage of distractions for them. Ruberslaw Wild Woods is a safe woodland setting for wild play, and Lilliardsedge Holiday Park is complete with an on-site restaurant and kids’ events, as well as acres of open space for wide-open games. Family events and tours create a lively environment for younger visitors at Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park.

Find a campsite with play areas, local walking trails or close to attractions like Abbotsford House or the Borders Railway. Many are a short drive from lovely towns with cafes, ice cream stops, and rainy-day activities.

Top tip: Pack a few outdoor games and torches for night-time fun, and don’t forget the bug spray. A portable toilet seat or step stool may make things easier with small children. And never forget to scan for sites that offer baby-changing facilities or family bathrooms, not all of them do!

Do pack for all weathers, with everything from cosy layers to waterproofs and sun cream (Scottish summers are unpredictable). Observe campsite quiet hours and minimise noise overnight. Most sites are dog-friendly, but it’s best to verify pet policies in advance.

Towns like Peebles, Kelso, and Jedburgh have local shops and small supermarkets, making them convenient for top-ups or when you’ve forgotten something. Valuable resources to look up site reviews, features and availability are VisitScotland and Cool Camping. And don’t forget a power bank or two, as not every campsite has electric hookups. A well-prepared trip is a relaxed trip.

Camping in the Scottish Borders offers the best of both worlds – peaceful surroundings with family-friendly charm. Whether you’re chasing adventure or looking to unwind under the stars, there’s a campsite to suit. It’s a region that turns simple moments into memorable ones. Pack up, pitch up, and enjoy.