To say Scotland’s largest regional park, Clyde Muirshiel offers a lot to visitors is something of an understatement. With seven park sites set within the 108 square miles that the park covers, there really is something for everyone. You can marvel at the expansive views and historic Iron Age fort at Haylie Bray, climb a volcano at Muirshiel Country Park or go rock pooling or relax on the beach at Lunderston Bay, the nearest sandy beach to Glasgow. Both water sports enthusiasts and novices will both love this gorgeous part of Renfrewshire and can choose from rowing, sailing, kayaking and windsurfing.
Clyde Muirshiel is the perfect destination for families, couples and groups. It welcomes over 700,000 visitors a year and is host to a variety of campsites with a range of facilities for motorhome and campervan holidaymakers. Everyone wants something different from their trip so we have included a variety of campsite recommendations. From quiet rural sites to motorhome pitches with access to Scandinavian-style saunas and possibly the largest heated outdoor infinity pool in Scotland, we’re sure you’ll find your ideal campsite in the Clyde Muirshiel region.
1. South Whittlieburn Farm, Largs, Ayrshire
South Whittlieburn Farm is a charming, family-run campsite a ten-minute drive from Largs, a hidden gem of a town on the west coast of Scotland. Those wanting to channel their inner Viking can visit the town’s museum or even time their trip to coincide with the annual Viking Festival at the end of August. If your historical ambitions aren’t satisfied, enjoy a boat trip from Largs to the Isle of Cumbrae which boasts the smallest working cathedral in Britain. And if you fancy a few rounds there’s the local golf course complete with glorious sea views.
Back at the campsite, visitors can relax on the farm alternating between beautiful vistas of the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park or out to sea and the Firth of Clyde. Breakfast can be harvested in the form of fresh eggs from the free-roaming chickens while enjoying the calming company of grazing horses and ponies.
South Whittlieburn is a small site that offers pitches for small campervans for £22 per night for two people, hard standing with electric hook-up for £28 for two people. There are additional costs if your group is larger.
South Whittlieburn Farm, Brisbane Glen Road, Largs, KA30 8SN
55.828434, -4.846013
2. Portavadie, Loch Fyne
Even the hardiest motorhomer appreciates a little luxury sometimes. Portavadie, on the eastern shores of exquisite Loch Fyne offers just that. Originally earmarked as an oil rig site, Portavadie is a wonderful choice for those who want to get away from it all and soothe their aching bones. You can slip into the infinity pool after a day strolling by the lake or in the nearby forest or burn off some calories at the on-site fitness centre complete with a sauna. Kids will love the spacious pool which has plenty of water features and there’s the option to hire bikes too.
Nature lovers can catch sight of soaring buzzards, elusive otters, majestic golden eagles and even the occasional basking shark. Exploring a little further afield will take you to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs some 40 minutes drive away or to Ostel Bay, just a quarter of an hour's journey.
A motorhome pitch at Portavadie costs £35 for two people per night. Access to the swimming pool is not included in the rate. It is £12 per adult and £5 per child, chargeable for each session.
The site doesn’t currently allow outdoor fires onsite or for guests to camp in awnings (due to fire regulations).
Portavadie, Loch Fyne, Argyll, PA21 2DA
55.874056, -5.314254
3. Sandylands Holiday Park
If you’re looking for a Clyde Muirshiel motorhome site with plenty for the kids, and you, to do whatever the weather, Sandylands Holiday Park could be just the ticket. Visitors can enjoy splashing around or relaxing in the on-site heated indoor swimming pool (which is included in the price) or take part in a variety of organised activities at the kid’s club which caters for children up to the age of 11. If you don’t fit in that age group, no problem! Sandylands organise a daily and nightly entertainment program within the grounds which includes theme nights, competitions, music and cabaret.
Campervanners wanting to explore the local area, as well as a little further afield, will not be disappointed. A handy train line runs right alongside the holiday park. This will transport you to the cultural or culinary delights of Glasgow, the picturesque seaside town of Ayr or the historic delights of Larg. You can even take a trip to the gorgeous Isle of Arran.
As you can imagine for a family-orientated campsite near Clyde Muirshiel the rates vary depending on the time of year. Three nights in May start at £159, rising to £239 in the summer holidays. Check the website for more details.
Blakely Road Auchenharvie, Park, Ayrshire KA21 5JN
55.633829, -4.768601
4. Edenmill Campsite
Sandwiched between Glasgow and Loch Lomond, Edenmill Campsite is a truly scenic campsite near Clyde Muirshiel. Nestled in the hills between Campsie Fells, the aforementioned Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the site is an idyllic spot for motorhome holidaymakers who love being among nature. And speaking of which, alongside enjoying hikes along the nearby John Muir Way and West Highland Way visitors can arrange alpaca treks through the onsite farm shop, café and soft play centre. If you haven’t experienced the company of these adorable creatures, this is the perfect opportunity.
When you feel like dragging yourself away from the delights of the campsite, why not catch a train to Glasgow or wander up to Queen’s View, just a mile away, to bask in the stunning views across to Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond.
Prices for one night for four people start at just £20 for an unlimited pitch size. There is an additional charge of £5 for use of the shower.
Edenmill Campsite, Stockiemuir Rd, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9AX
55.983546, -4.382724
5. Glendaruel Caravan Park
Glendaruel Caravan Park is a genuine oasis of calm among Clyde Muirshiel motorhome sites. Set within 22 acres of mature woodland and located in the heart of the sublime Cowan Peninsular, a stay here will make you feel like you’ve woken up in the Garden of Eden. Visitors can choose to simply relax and unwind in these delightful surroundings, keeping an eye out for the resident red squirrels, or exploring the trails on the Cowal Circle Cycle Route. Wildlife enthusiasts might like to take the short trip to the Kyles of Bute where feral goats and a wide variety of native birdlife can be spotted. Alternatively, head over to Argyll and the Isles, or nearby historic Dunoon.
There isn’t a reception on-site so visitors must book in advance. Non-electric pitches start at £22 for one night, two adults and £24 with power.
Glendaruel Caravan Park, Glendaruel Argyll, PA22 3AB
56.033243, -5.211673
Before you hit the road…please take a look at the locations of the above campsites near Clyde Muirshiel when you are booking. Many of them are a half an hour or so drive from the Clyde Muirshiel parks but that’s not to say they’re not worth the journey. This is a fabulous region to explore whether you are travelling with or without children. The ability to enjoy both nearby Glasgow and the natural environment ticks so many holiday boxes.
Naturally, you’ll want to keep this beautiful area looking as wonderful as you found it, so please respect the local landscape and wildlife, and stick to marvelling at the inquisitive red squirrels rather than tempting them with treats.
We hope you enjoy getting back to nature during your trip to Clyde Muirshel. One of the best ways of immersing yourself in all Mother Earth has to offer is travelling in a motorhome. Check out campervan hire options in Scotland and find your dream van. Then it's time to hit the open road, next stop: Clyde Muirshel!