Our Guide to Camping on the Isle of MullI
Campsites on Mull
With its dramatic coastline, abundant wildlife and quiet, winding roads, the Isle of Mull is one of Scotland’s most rewarding islands to explore by campervan. Travelling at a slower pace suits Mull perfectly, allowing time to enjoy its beaches, lochs and ever-changing light.
In this guide, we look at the campsites on Mull, and share some practical advice about camping on Mull.
Why visit Mull?
Mull is the second largest of the Inner Hebridean islands, and the fourth largest island in Scotland. Yet, with a population of just over 3,000 it still feels spacious and refreshingly unspoilt. With a campervan you will have the freedom to explore different corners of the island without rushing, to linger when the weather is kind, and to change plans if the clouds roll in.
Mull offers a blend of very ancient history, island culture, wildlife and outdoor activities set against a stunning, and often dramatic, natural backdrop.
Mull Campsites
The Isle of Mull has a wide range of campsites on offer, from well-equipped touring parks to very simple campsites or park ups in scenic spots, many close to the coast.
Tobermory Campsite is just over a mile west of Tobermory, Mull’s capital. Set in peaceful countryside yet within easy reach of the colourful harbour, independent shops and cafes of Tobermory, this family-run site is a good balance between the convenience of its proximity to bars, shops and restaurants in town and the tranquillity of its setting. Its location makes it a practical base for exploring the north of the island. This is a well-cared-for site that still feels relaxed and low-key. Fires aren’t allowed, but BBQs are if they are off the ground.
The campsite itself offers a mix of hardstanding and grass pitches with electric hook-ups included, as well as free Wi-Fi, fresh spring water, and modern amenities such as hot showers and toilets. There is no laundrette on site, but you can find one in Tobermory Harbour.
Tobermory Campsite can accommodate vehicles up to 7.5 metres in length, with different pitch types available depending on size; campervans under 5.5 metres may use grass or hardstanding pitches, while larger vehicles are required to use hardstanding, and those over 6.5 metres should book a large hardstanding pitch. Check-in is from 1.30 pm to 6 pm, with late arrivals asked to contact the site in advance, and departure must be by 11 am on the day of departure. Facilities include electric hook-ups, hot showers and toilets. As one of the most popular campsites on Mull, booking ahead is strongly recommended, particularly during the summer months.
Port nan Gael Campsite on the Isle of Mull is a standout choice for campervans seeking a scenic spot to stay on Mull. The site lies above the shore of Loch Scridain on a raised shingle beach, facing west for watching the sunset and with uninterrupted views of Ben More. Every pitch has sea and mountain views.
Site facilities include electric hook-ups, fresh water, grey and black water disposal, WiFi, a laundry and dishwashing station. There is also a children’s playpark, dog run and dog washing station. The pub/restaurant onsite is open daily. There is also a very well stocked licensed shop, selling a wide range of provisions and local produce.
Another customer favourite, Salen Bay Campsite is a scenic hideaway that feels a world apart from everyday life. It is perched on a quiet hillside with truly panoramic 360° views over Salen Bay, the Sound of Mull and the surrounding mountains and just a short stroll from the heart of Salen village, where you’ll find a local shop, pub and cafés. This welcoming campsite offers a mix of hard-standing, grass and Astroturf pitches for tents and campervans, all making the most of the spectacular coastal backdrop.
Hot showers, accessible toilets, a sheltered washroom and the cosy ‘Bothy’ with charging points and drying facilities mean you’re well catered for practically. Direct access to over 100 acres of shoreline means you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding (equipment hire available) and wild swimming right from the site. With frequent visits from local wood-fired pizza and sauna huts, abundant wildlife and miles of natural beauty to soak up, Salen Bay Campsite makes an ideal base for discovering the wild charms of Mull.
Fidden Farm Campsite is located on the Ross of Mull, close to the ferry crossing to Iona. It is one of the most scenic places to camp on the island. Set beside a sweeping beach with pale sand and clear water, this large campsite feels open and spacious, and has uninterrupted views across the Sound towards Iona and the surrounding islands. Its coastal setting gives it a peaceful, almost remote feel, while still being well placed for exploring the south of Mull.
The campsite operates as a working farm and has a relaxed, informal atmosphere that tends to suit campervanners. Pitches are spread out across grassy fields close to the shoreline, allowing plenty of space between vehicles and a feeling of immersion in the landscape. Facilities are simple but well kept, typically including toilets and hot showers, but with no electric hook-ups and not much in the way of phone signal. Fires are not permitted, and campers are encouraged to respect the land and wildlife that surround the site.
Fidden Farm Campsite is an excellent base for outdoor activities and wildlife watching, with coastal walks, swimming spots and quiet bays all within easy reach. There are paths from the campsite to nearby villages and it is visited throughout the week by various food trucks.
Its proximity to the Iona ferry makes it a convenient place to stay before or after a day trip, and many visitors choose to spend several nights here to enjoy the slower pace of life on the Ross of Mull. Popular in good weather, the campsite can fill quickly during the summer months, but for those who value scenery, space and a low-key camping experience, it is often a highlight of a Mull trip. This year, it is open from March 25th to 30th September and they do not take advance bookings. There is lots of space simply turn up and pay at reception which is open between 8 am and 10 pm every day.
Calgary Bay Campsite
Calgary Bay Campsite is a small, council-run site set beside one of Mull’s most celebrated beaches on the island’s north-west coast. The setting is its defining feature, with white sand, clear water and open machair creating a sense of space and calm that feels far removed from busier parts of the island. The atmosphere is quiet and informal, appealing to campers who value landscape and simplicity over facilities.
Access to Calgary Bay is via a minor island road rather than a rough track, but the approach and the entrance to the campsite itself are relatively narrow. For this reason, the site is only suitable for small campervans, as larger ones won’t fit through the gate. Larger motorhomes are better suited to other campsites on Mull. Pitches are informal, and there are no electric hook-ups, so the campsite is best suited to short stays and self-contained vans.
Calgary Bay lies within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), making responsible camping especially important. Facilities are limited, consisting of basic toilets during the main season, and fires are not permitted.
When treated with care and respect, Calgary Bay Campsite offers a rare chance to stay in an exceptional natural setting, so it is important that campers leave no trace, avoid damaging the fragile machair grassland, and take all waste away with them.
Catchean Caravans & Pods has just 5 pitches for campervans on a small family croft just outside the village of Fionnphort on the Ross of Mull. The pitches are on hardstanding, have electric hook-ups and access to a toilet block. It’s just a short stroll to the shore where coastal walks, beach time and wildlife watching are all on offer.
The site is within easy walking distance of Fionnphort village, with a local shop, post office and welcoming pub. The village is also a gateway to boat trips to nearby islands such as Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, making Catchean Caravans a good base if you want to combine scenic touring with island day trips. The campsite also benefits from having an award winning seafood and game restaurant, The Ninth Wave, on its doorstep.
Given its small number of pitches and popularity in summer, booking ahead is advisable. Book by emailing the site on catcheanpods@gmail.com. The site is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs on leads. Other nice touches include picnic benches, a shore walk, and on-site barbecue fire pits.
This is a small, picturesque campsite set on a working farm in the heart of Glen Aros, close to Loch Frisa and surrounded by open countryside. The setting is calm and spacious, with wide views across the glen and spectacular sunsets. Thousands of acres of foresty for walking are right on the campsite’s doorstep. Although it feels rural and secluded, the site is only a ten-minute drive from Salen and well placed for exploring both the north and south of the island, as well as reaching the main ferry terminal at Craignure.
The campsite offers a limited number of hard-standing pitches with electric hook-ups, laid out with generous space between vehicles, making it a comfortable and easy stop for campervans and motorhomes. Facilities are well maintained and include hot showers and toilets, fresh drinking water, grey and chemical waste disposal, and covered areas for washing up and drying clothes. Wi-Fi is available at the pitches, and the overall feel is that of a thoughtfully run, low-key site that prioritises comfort while maintaining a personal feel.
Crannich Campsite is particularly appealing to those who enjoy quiet evenings and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Campers say they appreciate the layout of the spacious site – with pitches scattered across it, rather than laid out in regimented lines. Wildlife is often visible around the site, and the presence of farm animals adds to its rural character. Check-in is between noon and 8 pm, and check-out by 11 am. As there are only a small number of pitches, booking ahead is recommended during the busier months. The campsite is open 1st April to 31st October in 2026.
Pennygown Farm is a well-kept, family-run touring park centrally located on Mull near Salen, making it a very practical stop for campers planning to explore the island in any direction. Set alongside the River Forsa with views of the Sound of Mull, the site combines a rural feel with excellent facilities. Its stunning setting and central location make it a good choice as a base to explore Mull in any direction. Open all year round, it’s one of the few Mull campsites available outside the peak season, offering a base for spring and autumn visits as well as busy summer stays.
The touring area consists entirely of hard-standing pitches with electric hook-ups, many of which are spacious and take advantage of the views across the water. Alongside these, there are modern toilet and shower blocks with disabled access, a laundry room with coin-operated washing machines and tumble dryers, and a shared kitchen area with kettle, fridge, freezer and microwave. It has chemical waste disposal, fresh water points, Wi-Fi across the site and even a small shop which sells the farm’s own Highland beef.
Reception opening hours are generally in the morning and early afternoon, with arrivals outside these times arranged by prior contact, so it’s worth checking in advance if you expect a later arrival. The site is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs on leads. Other nice touches include picnic benches, a shore walk, and on-site barbecue fire pits.
Shieling Holidays is a well-established holiday park set right on the shoreline at Craignure, with sweeping views up the Sound of Mull towards Loch Linnhe and the mountains beyond. Its central location makes it a very practical base for exploring the island, whether you’re heading north to Tobermory or south towards Fionnphort and Iona, and the shorefront setting gives many pitches an impressive outlook over the water. The overall feel is welcoming and family-friendly. The campsite has plenty of space and easy access to local amenities, including the ferry terminal, shops, and cafés within walking distance.
The touring area at Shieling Holidays consists of hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups. The site also offers good visitor facilities, including clean hot showers, a laundrette, a kitchen/dishwashing area and free Wi-Fi. Facilities are open to non-residents for a fee. A common room with basic kitchen facilities and a solid-fuel stove offers a social space for guests, and there is a designated campfire area where you can relax in the evenings with sea views.
The reception at Shieling Holidays operates limited staffed opening hours, but it is open for longer for access to information. There is a self-check-in system outside staffed hours, with contact details provided for staff assistance if needed. Check out is by late morning, with exact check in times confirmed at the time of booking. Dogs are welcome by prior arrangement, and easy access to forestry and coastal walks will appeal to those travelling with their dogs.
Park-ups and Very Basic Campsites on Mull
Alongside Mull’s established campsites, there are a few other designated places to overnight with your van. Some of these are very basic and only suitable for self-contained. Facilities vary from basic hook-ups to almost none at all, so arrive well prepared. Many of these stops are in extremely scenic areas and they are special because of their unspoilt nature. If using them please, take all rubbish away with you and treat these places with the same care you would the open countryside.
Ulva Ferry Pontoon
At Ulva Ferry, there are just three spaces for motorhomes and campervans in a scenic waterside spot by the crossing point to Ulva. Hook-ups for water and electricity are available, along with a chemical toilet disposal point. The site operates from April to September, and pitches are £29.10 per night. There are no showers, toilets, or laundry facilities, but these are available at the nearby Ulva Ferry Community Hub. Booking is advised. Contact the site directly by phone or email. Mark Millward 07557 378953 or emailing markmillward@mict.co.uk
Ardalanish Motorhomes Overnight Parking
Ardalanish offers overnight parking for self-contained campervans and motorhomes in a designated field area on the farm, with superb views and easy access to the beach. This is a straightforward, low-key stop rather than a campsite, and it is open all year round. There is no electric hook-up, but there is a black-waste disposal point, and water top-ups can be supplied if needed. Booking is not necessary because there is plenty of space. The site charges £15 per vehicle per night with payment arranged on arrival. Contact the owners on 01681 700265 or e-mail info@ardalanish.com
Killiechronan Campsite
Killiechronan is a very simple campsite in a very quiet setting, with spectacular scenery, with abundant wildlife, including eagles and otters. Facilities are very limited – just a toilet block. There are no showers and no hook-ups, and pricing is just £7 per person per night. There is no need to book, just turn up.
Camping at Lochbuie
At Lochbuie, The Old Post Office has a simple camping area just beyond the café, suitable for motorhomes, campervans and tents. There are no on-site facilities, but the café loos are open 24 hours a day, and there is an external fresh water tap. It costs just £5 per night, payable at the café (card or cash) or via an honesty box (cash only). No booking is needed, as they say they usually have space. Café opening hours are 10.00 am–3.30 pm daily.
Things to Do while Camping on Mull
Mull is perfect for people who want to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors. There are numerous walks across the island, or you can explore Mull horseriding and pony trekking or from the coastline sea kayaking or paddle boarding. Coastal paths, quiet bays and wide sandy beaches provide endless treats for beach lovers.
Beaches on Mull
The Isle of Mull is home to some of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches, many of which feel wonderfully remote despite being relatively easy to reach. Calgary Bay is perhaps the best known, with its wide sweep of white sand and clear turquoise water set against open machair and low hills, giving it a distinctly Hebridean feel. On the Ross of Mull, the beaches around Fidden offer a more rugged charm, with pale sands, rocky outcrops and views towards Iona that are especially striking in good light. Laggan Sands, close to Craignure, provides a long, curving shoreline backed by woodland and hills. Smaller, quieter beaches can be found all around the coast, often discovered simply by following minor roads or footpaths.
Many of the campsites on Mull are close to or directly on the waterfront. For example, Calgary Bay Campsite is at one end of one of Mull’s most scenic beaches. Fidden Farm Campsite on the Ross of Mull has sea views and coastal walks that start almost from your pitch.
Wildlife on the Isle of Mull
The island offers some of the best opportunities in the UK to see a wide range of species in their natural habitats.
Often, the most memorable encounters happen while walking a beach, sitting quietly near a campsite or simply pausing on a single-track road to let an eagle pass overhead. For campervan travellers in particular, Mull offers the rare chance to stay close to nature and experience wildlife as a natural part of the journey rather than needing to book a scheduled activity.
There is a large Red deer population on Mull, so they are a familiar sight on hillsides and moorland, particularly in the quieter parts of the island.
Mull is also famous for its white-tailed sea eagles, often seen circling above lochs, glens and coastal cliffs. Watching these enormous birds soar overhead has become a highlight for many visitors, and you can experience this almost anywhere on the island, even while driving between campsites. Golden eagles, hen harriers and a wide variety of seabirds are also frequently sighted.
Otters can regularly be spotted along Mull’s rugged coast, especially in quieter bays and sea lochs during early morning or evening. Seals are also easy to spot on the rocks around the shoreline. Further offshore, you have a good chance of seeing dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks and several species of whale, particularly during the warmer months.
There are plenty of organised boat trips from places such as Tobermory and Fionnphort, but even from land, it is possible to sight whales passing close to the coast at certain times of year.
Island Life & Culture
For those interested in culture, local life and whisky, the north of the island is a natural focus. Tobermory is Mull’s main cultural hub, known for its colourful harbour, independent shops and relaxed atmosphere. The town is also home to the Tobermory Distillery, where visitors can learn about the island’s distilling heritage and sample both Tobermory and Ledaig whiskies.
Mull has a lively festival calendar that reflects the island’s strong sense of community. One of the best known is the Mull Music Festival, held each spring in Tobermory, where pubs and venues fill with traditional and contemporary music over several days. Throughout the summer, you are likely to find plenty of smaller local events offering visitors a chance to experience island community life.
Tobermory Campsite, located just outside the town, is the most convenient base for exploring this part of the island without needing to drive in the evenings.
History
One of the island’s most striking historic sites is Duart Castle, long associated with Clan Maclean, and dramatically positioned above the Sound of Mull. To the south, a short ferry crossing leads to Iona Abbey, one of Scotland’s most important religious sites and a place of pilgrimage for over a thousand years.
On Mull itself, atmospheric ruins such as Aros Castle above Tobermory offer a glimpse into medieval island life, while scattered standing stones, old crofting settlements and burial grounds across the island remind us of Mull’s long and ancient history. Campsites in the central and eastern parts of the island, including those around Craignure and Pennyghael, provide good access to Duart Castle as well as to quieter historical features such as old crofting settlements, standing stones and ancient burial grounds.
Best Time to Visit Mull
The best time to visit the Isle of Mull largely depends on what you want from your trip, but for most campervan travellers, late spring to early autumn offers the most reliable balance of weather, daylight and open facilities. From May through September, days are long, wildlife is abundant, and most campsites on Mull are fully open. This is also when boat trips run most frequently, and ferry crossings are easiest to plan, although it is worth noting that July and August are the busiest months on the island.
Late Spring/Early Summer
Late spring, particularly May and early June, is often considered the ideal time to visit. The landscape is fresh and green, wildflowers are in bloom, and midges are usually less troublesome than later in the summer. Roads and campsites are quieter than during school holidays, making it an excellent time to explore Mull at a relaxed pace.
Late Summer/Early Autumn
Autumn brings its own appeal, with fewer visitors, softer light and the chance of dramatic skies and changing colours. September and early October can still offer mild days. However, some campsites will begin to close during this period, and ferry services shift to a winter timetable at the end of October.
Weather on Mull
As the weather on Mull is influenced by the Atlantic, it can be changeable at any time of year. For campervan travellers, this means being prepared for a wide range of conditions and being flexible with your plans to make the most of better weather when it arrives.
Even in summer, it is common to experience sunshine, showers and strong breezes all in the same day. Temperatures tend to be cooler than on the mainland, with summer highs usually sitting in the mid-teens to low twenties, while winters are generally mild but wet and windy.
Despite its unpredictability, Mull’s weather is part of its character. Clear days bring exceptional light and visibility, while mist, rain and cloud can add atmosphere and drama to the landscape. With the right clothing and expectations, the island can be rewarding to visit in almost any season.
Most people will reach Mull via CalMac Ferries, the main route runs from Oban to Craignure but there are also ferries from Ardnamurchan (Kilchoan) to Tobermory and Morvern (Lochaline) to Fishnish. The crossing will take around 45 to 60 minutes, depending which route you choose. In summer, vehicle spaces can fill up quickly, so booking the ferry to Mull in advance is strongly recommended, and essential if using the Oban crossing route. Ferries also run from Mull onwards to Iona.
Travelling to Mull in a Campervan
When taking a campervan to Mull, please plan ahead and travel responsibly:
Ferry Reservations
Book your ferry well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as spaces for vehicles, particularly larger ones like campervans, are limited.
Campsite Availability
There are a quite a number of campsites and official park ups on Mull. However, it does get popular in the summer months so reserve your campsite well ahead of travel.
Wild Camping Regulations
Scotland’s Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 permits wild camping, but this right does not extend to motor vehicles, including campervans. Do not park in car parks, laybys or on private land without permission. Always seek landowner consent if considering parking outside designated areas.
Road Conditions
Driving on Mull often involves narrow, single-track roads, so familiarity with the conventions of driving on them and a bit of patience are essential. Drive carefully and considerately, being prepared to reverse if necessary to allow oncoming traffic to pass. For more information about driving in Scotland, see our guide.
Protect the Environment
Mull’s unspoilt, natural beauty is what brings people to the island. Please do your bit to preserve this environment, always dispose of waste responsibly, use designated disposal points for waste, and avoid parking on fragile landscapes like machair (coastal grasslands).
Local Amenities
Stocking up on supplies before leaving the mainland can be helpful, as outside the main towns you will have limited options.
Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire
Scotland
Mull is an island that rewards slow, thoughtful travel. Whether you choose a well-equipped campsite or a simple beachside pitch, exploring Mull by campervan offers freedom, space and unforgettable scenery. With good planning and a flexible approach, a campervan trip to Mull can be one of the most memorable island adventures in Scotland.
Big Sky Campers are an independent campervan hire company based just outside Edinburgh. All our campervans for hire come fully equipped with everything you will need for your road trip in Scotland. Everything is included in the price, including extra sets of bedding if requested.
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