Caravan and camping

Whether you’re sleeping in a tent, caravan or motorhome, camping gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore Shetland at your own pace.

There are a number of registered campsites dotted throughout the islands, all of which have on-site facilities. Wherever you stay, you can be assured of a warm welcome.

This page provides details of all the registered sites in Shetland.

Most sites are open all year and booking isn’t always necessary during quieter months. But, to avoid disappointment, we recommend you contact the campsites in advance to check pitch availability.

Wild camping

Shetland does welcome wild campers in tents, as long as you are mindful of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and seek permission from the landowner before setting up camp.

The easiest way to do this is to contact the nearest house, establish who the landowner is, and ask if you may camp there. Don't hesitate to ask their advice – they'll probably tell you whether the site is suitable or recommend an even better location for you.

Please wild camp for no more than 2-3 nights in one location and avoid fields with crops, livestock or nesting bird colonies. Also, avoid public water collection areas and reservoirs.

Toilet and waste disposal are the camper's responsibility, and these tasks should be carried out discreetly and responsibly.

Motorhomes and overnight parking in Shetland

Wild camping in a tent is permitted under Scotland’s access laws, but these rights do not extend to motor vehicles. If you are travelling by motorhome or campervan, please follow the guidance below to ensure you park responsibly and help protect Shetland’s precious natural environment.

1. Permission from landowners

Parking a motorhome or caravan on private land requires the landowner’s consent. Some land managers may be relaxed about short stays, while others are not. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to find someone to ask – even if the land feels remote.

2. Public laybys and car parks

Overnight stays in public laybys or designated car parks are sometimes tolerated, provided that:

• You remain inside your vehicle.
• No awnings, chairs, tables or other camping equipment are set up outside.
• You respect any signage such as “no overnight parking”.
• Access for other vehicles, farms or emergency services is never blocked.

Aim to arrive late, depart early, and leave no trace.

3. Be self-contained and responsible

Only self-contained vehicles (with onboard toilet and waste facilities) should consider overnight parking outside a site. All waste, including greywater, must be disposed of at proper facilities. Please note that the Shetland Islands Council does not provide disposal points for toilet or grey water waste. The best option, if you are staying outside a formal site, is to approach the nearest campsite and ask to use their facilities. Many sites will allow this for a small fee. Or you can contact Aquila, a waste management company based six miles north of Lerwick, which should be able to help (+44 (0)1595 840431).

You must take all rubbish with you, keep noise to a minimum and show consideration for nearby residents, livestock and wildlife. Open fires are strictly prohibited – Shetland’s moorland can ignite quickly, and even a small fire poses a serious risk.

4. Keep it short and sensible

Stay no more than one or two nights in the same location unless you have clear permission. Choose hardstanding surfaces such as gravel or tarmac, avoid soft ground, and never park in fields, on crops or near sensitive habitats.

5. Use campsites whenever possible

Shetland has several excellent caravan and camping sites with electric hook-ups, fresh water and waste disposal points. These sites also support local communities and businesses. If in doubt, please choose one of these formal sites.