Motorhome Parks In Shetland -- Motorhome Sites

Quick Overview

The Shetland Islands stretch across the North Sea like scattered emeralds, where dramatic cliffs meet endless ocean and ancient stone circles dot windswept moorlands. These remote Scottish islands offer some of Europe's most spectacular coastal camping, where you'll wake to the sound of seabirds and fall asleep under skies that barely darken during summer months. The landscape shifts from rugged coastlines to rolling hills covered in heather, creating a camping backdrop that's both wild and welcoming.

Shetland's camping scene includes several motorhome sites and caravan parks, all of which are paid facilities reflecting the islands' premium location and imported amenities. You won't find any free camping options among the some available, but the quality of sites here justifies the cost with spectacular locations and solid facilities. Most parks cater to touring caravans and motorhomes with electrical hookups, though the emphasis is on location over luxury amenities.

From your pitch, you're positioned to explore Europe's northernmost settlements, where Viking heritage runs deep and wildlife encounters are extraordinary. Lerwick, the charming capital, sits just minutes from several campgrounds and offers excellent museums, local crafts, and the famous Up Helly Aa fire festival preparations. The islands' compact size means you can reach remote beaches, archaeological sites, and bird watching hotspots within a short drive from most camping bases. Sumburgh Head's lighthouse and puffin colonies make for incredible day trips, while the ancient village of Jarlshof reveals 4,000 years of human settlement.

Shetland camping appeals to adventurous RVers who prioritize unique experiences over resort-style amenities. These sites focus on providing essential services like electrical hookups and waste disposal while letting the natural setting provide the entertainment. Most campgrounds are family-run operations that offer local knowledge and genuine Highland hospitality. The camping style here is definitely more about connecting with nature and local culture than lounging by heated pools or playing mini golf.

Summer brings the famous "simmer dim" twilight that lasts nearly all night, making it peak season for both camping and wildlife viewing. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with limited daylight and fierce Atlantic storms. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of reasonable weather and fewer crowds, though you'll want to book ahead during festival seasons.

Our listings below showcase Shetland's complete range of motorhome sites and caravan parks, from coastal locations with stunning sea views to inland spots that offer shelter from the constant Atlantic winds.

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Getting Around Shetland by RV

Reaching Shetland requires planning since these islands sit 100 miles north of mainland Scotland. NorthLink Ferries operates the primary route from Aberdeen to Lerwick, with the overnight crossing taking 12-14 hours depending on weather conditions. The ferry accommodates motorhomes and caravans up to specific size limits, so check dimensions before booking. Summer sailings fill up months in advance, particularly during festival season in July.

Once on the islands, the A970 serves as the main spine road connecting Lerwick to the airport and northern settlements. Most roads are single-track with passing places, requiring patience and local driving etiquette. The narrow roads mean larger American-style RVs face challenges, while European-sized motorhomes and caravans navigate more easily. Fuel stations are limited to main settlements, so top off tanks in Lerwick before heading to remote areas.

Wind is the constant companion here, with gusts regularly exceeding 40mph. Secure all awnings, chairs, and loose items before leaving your pitch. The exposed landscape offers little wind protection, making this unsuitable for lightweight travel trailers or high-profile motorhomes during winter months. GPS can be unreliable in remote areas, so carry paper maps as backup.

Stock up on supplies in Lerwick, which has the islands' largest supermarkets and motorhome supply shops. Smaller settlements have basic stores, but selection is limited and prices reflect the remote location. The Co-op in Lerwick stays open latest and has the best fresh produce selection for island camping.

RV Parks Costs in Shetland

Motorhome sites and caravan parks in Shetland typically charge £15-25 per night for a standard pitch with electrical hookup, reflecting the remote location and imported supplies. Premium coastal locations with exceptional views command £25-35 per night, while more basic inland sites start around £12-18. All several camping facilities charge fees, with a portion% offering free access and a portion% requiring payment, making this one of Scotland's more expensive camping regions.

Summer pricing peaks during July and August when demand is highest and ferry space is limited. Shoulder seasons in May-June and September offer better value, with some sites reducing rates by 20-30%. Winter camping is possible at select year-round facilities, often at significantly reduced rates, though you'll face challenging weather conditions and limited daylight hours.

Camping club memberships like the Caravan and Motorhome Club provide discounts at some Shetland sites, typically saving £2-5 per night. However, the remote location means fewer participating campgrounds compared to mainland Scotland. Book directly with sites during peak season, as third-party booking platforms often don't cover these remote locations.

Grocery costs run 15-25% higher than mainland Scotland due to transport costs, so budget accordingly for extended stays. Fuel prices are also elevated, making it worth filling up before taking the ferry. Many campers find the higher costs worthwhile for the unique island experience and spectacular natural settings you simply can't find elsewhere in the UK.

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Best Time to Visit Shetland by RV

❄️

Winter

December-February

35-42°F

Crowds: Low

Limited Caravan site availability with fierce storms and minimal daylight, but dramatic winter seascapes reward hardy campers.

🌸

Spring

March-May

40-50°F

Crowds: Low

Most campgrounds reopen with milder weather and extending daylight, though booking ahead recommended for Easter holidays.

☀️

Summer

June-August

52-60°F

Crowds: High

Peak season with simmer dim twilight and warmest weather, requiring advance bookings and ferry reservations months ahead.

🍂

Fall

September-November

45-55°F

Crowds: Medium

Excellent value season with fewer crowds and dramatic autumn storms, though some campgrounds close by October.

Explore Shetland

Clickimin Broch Caravan Site in Lerwick offers the best combination of location and facilities, sitting within walking distance of the town center while providing views across the loch. The site's sheltered position makes it ideal during windy weather, and you can easily explore Lerwick's shops, restaurants, and museums on foot. Book well ahead for summer stays, as this popular site fills quickly.

Boondockers should know that wild camping is technically allowed under Scotland's Right to Roam, but finding suitable spots for larger rigs is challenging due to the terrain and private land restrictions. Most visitors find the paid sites offer better value when you factor in the harsh weather conditions and limited services elsewhere.

Shetland's bird watching opportunities are legendary, particularly at Sumburgh Head where puffins nest from May through August. Bring binoculars and visit early morning or late evening for the best viewing. The RSPB reserves at Loch of Spiggie and Fetlar offer excellent wildlife photography opportunities within easy driving distance of most campgrounds.

For authentic local dining, try the Scalloway Hotel for fresh seafood or Peerie Shop Cafe in Lerwick for homemade soups and local specialties. Many campgrounds are located near small harbors where you can sometimes buy fresh fish directly from returning boats. Stock up on local lamb and beef at Lerwick's butcher shops for excellent caravan site cooking.

Dogs are welcome at most sites, but keep them leashed around nesting seabirds and sheep. The constant wind can be stressful for some pets, so bring familiar bedding and toys to help them settle into the unique island environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About RV Parks in Shetland

What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Shetland?

Clickimin Broch Caravan Site in Lerwick offers the top combination of location, facilities, and weather protection. The site provides electrical hookups, modern amenities, and walking access to Lerwick's shops and restaurants. Its sheltered position beside the loch makes it ideal during Shetland's frequent windy conditions, while still offering scenic water views.

Is there free motorhome camping near Shetland?

No designated free camping facilities exist among Shetland's {{stationCount}} motorhome sites and caravan parks. While Scotland's Right to Roam technically allows wild camping, the harsh weather, terrain challenges, and limited suitable locations make paid campgrounds the practical choice. Most visitors find the paid sites offer essential wind protection and services worth the cost.

What is the best time of year to camp in Shetland?

June through August offers the warmest weather and famous simmer dim twilight, but requires advance bookings and higher rates. May and September provide excellent value with fewer crowds and still-reasonable weather. Winter camping is possible at select sites but challenging due to fierce storms and limited daylight hours.

Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Shetland?

Most Shetland campgrounds provide electrical hookups and water access, but full American-style hookups with sewer connections are rare. Sites typically offer electrical points, communal water taps, and waste disposal facilities rather than individual pitch connections. The emphasis is on essential services rather than luxury amenities, reflecting the remote island setting.

Can I bring my motorhome on the ferry to Shetland?

Yes, NorthLink Ferries accommodates motorhomes and caravans on the Aberdeen to Lerwick route, but size restrictions apply and advance booking is essential. Summer sailings fill months ahead, particularly during festival season. Check your rig's dimensions against ferry limits before booking, and arrive early at Aberdeen for vehicle loading procedures.

What wildlife can I see while camping in Shetland?

Shetland offers incredible bird watching opportunities, particularly puffins at Sumburgh Head from May through August. Seals are common around most coastal areas, while otters can be spotted in quiet lochs near several campgrounds. The islands host over 200 bird species, making it one of Europe's premier wildlife destinations for nature-loving campers.