Vanlife in Scotland: Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to the Stay The Night Scheme

Imagine waking up to misty forests, the sound of rustling leaves, and the freedom of Scotland’s open roads—all from the comfort of your campervan. For vanlife enthusiasts, the Stay The Night Scheme Scotland is a game-changer, offering affordable, scenic overnight parking in some of the country’s most breathtaking forest car parks. Managed by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS), this initiative is perfect for vanlife travelers seeking sustainable, off-grid adventures without breaking the bank.


In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Stay The Night Scheme—how it works, top car parks to visit, insider tips, and why it’s a must for your next Scotland road trip. Whether you’re a vanlife newbie or a seasoned nomad, this post will equip you with the tools to thrive on the road. Ready to unlock Scotland’s hidden gems? Let’s hit the road!

What is the Stay The Night Scheme Scotland?

The Stay The Night Scheme is a brilliant program by Forestry and Land Scotland that lets self-contained motorhomes and campervans park overnight in designated forest car parks across Scotland. Launched as a trial in 2020, it’s grown into a vanlife staple, blending convenience with eco-friendly travel. For just £7 per night (payable via the RingGo app), you get access to stunning locations—think lochs, dark sky parks, ancient woodlands and beach park ups—all while supporting sustainable tourism.


Why It’s a Vanlife Dream:

  • Affordable: At £7, it’s a fraction of the £25-£40 charged by traditional campsites.
  • Scenic Stops: Wake up to nature, not crowded lots.
  • Responsible Travel: Strict rules ensure minimal environmental impact, aligning with 2025’s eco-travel trends.


Only self-contained vehicles with internal toilet facilities qualify—no tents or pop-up campers allowed. Stays are limited to one night (6 pm to 10 am), and you can’t return to the same spot for 48 hours. It’s first-come, first-served, so planning ahead is key.

A white van is parked on gravel near a lake

How Does the Stay The Night Scheme Work?

Ready to park under Scotland’s starry skies? Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Check Eligibility: Your van must have built-in toilet facilities. This keeps waste contained and forests pristine.
  2. Find a Spot: Visit the Forestry and Land Scotland Stay The Night page for an interactive map and full list of car parks.
  3. Pay the Fee: Most spots charge £7 via the RingGo app. Some, like Achnabreac, cost £10 with chemical waste disposal included. Blue Badge holders park free with a valid badge displayed.
  4. Follow the Rules: No generators, no fires, and keep noise low—especially from 10 pm to 7 am. Leave 4 meters between vans and take all your litter with you.
  5. Plan Your Stay: Arrive after 6 pm, leave by 10 am, and explore nearby trails during the day.

Pro Tip: Download the RingGo app before you go—some rural spots have spotty signal, but you’ve got 72 hours post-stay to pay.


Why Vanlifers Love the Stay The Night Scheme

This scheme isn’t just parking—it’s a lifestyle enabler. Here’s why it’s a must-do:

  • Cost Savings: Save hundreds compared to campsites over a month-long trip.
  • Flexibility: No bookings mean spontaneous travel freedom.
  • Sustainability: Rules like no generators align with eco-conscious vanlife trends.
  • Unique Experiences: From stargazing in Galloway Forest to biking at 7Stanes, every stop offers adventure.
A camper van is parked under a starry night sky

Top Stay The Night Car Parks for Your 2025 Scotland Road Trip

Scotland’s forest car parks are more than pit stops—they’re gateways to adventure. Here are five standout locations, optimised for your vanlife itinerary:


1. Kirroughtree Visitor Centre (Galloway Forest Park)

  • Why Visit: Europe’s largest dark sky park—perfect for stargazing. Perfect for mountain bikers to.
  • Facilities: Showers (£3), toilets, water tap, and space for 30 vans.
  • Nearby: Hiking trails and Newton Stewart’s quaint shops.
  • Best For: Astronomy buffs and social vanlifers.


2. 7Stanes Dalbeattie (Dumfries and Galloway)

  • Why Visit: World-class mountain biking trails.
  • Facilities: Toilets and parking for four vans.
  • Nearby: Coastal Kippford and historic castles.
  • Best For: Adventure seekers.


3. Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre (Galloway Forest)

  • Why Visit: Loch views and epic stargazing.
  • Facilities: Chemical waste disposal and free parking.
  • Nearby: Galloway Forest’s wildlife trails.
  • Best For: Nature lovers and photographers.


4. Achnabreac (Argyll)

  • Why Visit: Ancient rock art and serene forests.
  • Facilities: Chemical waste disposal (£10) for six vans.
  • Nearby: Argyll’s rugged coastlines.
  • Best For: History buffs.


5. Bridge of Orchy (Argyll)

  • Why Visit: Stunning Highland vistas.
  • Facilities: Chemical waste disposal (£10) for six vans.
  • Nearby: West Highland Way trails.
  • Best For: Hikers and solitude seekers.


What’s the best Stay The Night car park? Kirroughtree offers space for 30 vans, showers, and stargazing in Galloway Forest—ideal for a memorable vanlife stop.

There is a house in the middle of a field with a lake in the background.

Insider Tips to Master the Stay The Night Scheme

Maximise your experience with these expert hacks:

  1. Plan for Peak Seasons: April to October is prime time—arrive early to snag a spot.
  2. Pack Smart: Bring layers for Scotland’s unpredictable weather and a star map for dark sky parks.
  3. Waste Management: Use CAMPA’s map for disposal sites beyond car parks.
  4. Daytime Exploration: Pair your stay with apps like AllTrails for nearby hikes.
  5. Cash Backup: Some facilities need coins—be ready.


We’ve learnt the hard way: no signal meant a delayed RingGo payment. Lesson? Pre-download the app and screenshot your spot’s code.


Must-Visit Attractions Near Stay The Night Spots

Your vanlife adventure isn’t complete without daytime detours. Here’s what to explore:

  • Galloway Forest Park (Black Loch): Stargaze or hike in Europe’s largest dark sky park.
  • Ardentinny Beach: Walks galore and access to the beach and water.
  • West Highland Way (Bridge of Orchy): Tackle iconic trails.
A lake with mountains in the background and a sandy beach in the foreground.

Conclusion: Your 2025 Vanlife Adventure Awaits

The Stay The Night Scheme Scotland is your golden ticket to affordable, sustainable vanlife in 2025. With £7 parking, jaw-dropping locations, and a focus on eco-travel, it’s no wonder vanlifers can’t stop raving about it. Check the FLS website for updates, pack your van, and share your journey below—what’s your favourite car park? Let’s get rolling!

  • Can you stay overnight in car parks in Scotland?

    Yes with the Forestry Land Scotland car parks. With around 30 participating car parks and £7 per night these are the answer.

  • How much is stay the night scheme scotland

    £7 per night, 6pm till 10am and no return for 48 hours.

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