Visitors urged not to camp in the National Park yet
People are being urged not to go camping in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park yet in line with Scottish Government guidance on travel and tourism.
While from today, Friday 3rd July, the five-mile restriction on travel has been lifted and some visitor facilities are reopening, this does not include National Park campsites and camping permit areas. The Scottish Government guidance is that there should be no camping in tents, where campers would have to rely on shared facilities, or in the wild, since this is not ‘booked’ in advance so numbers cannot be managed.
Those who want to camp in tents in the wild, or in campsites using shared facilities, are asked to wait until it is confirmed that Scotland’s tourism sector can re-open. The Scottish Government hope to do this on 15 July 2020.
Gordon Watson, Chief Executive of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “While the Scottish Government has confirmed that travel restrictions are easing and that some self-contained accommodation can open this does not include wild camping or campsites with shared facilities.
“All National Park campsites and camping permit areas remain closed for now. Camping Management Byelaws covering these areas are still in effect and are being enforced.
“I know with the school holidays and many people’s original holiday plans having to be cancelled camping is an appealing alternative option. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the National Park and when the time is right we will welcome new and returning campers and will provide helpful information on how to enjoy camping safely and responsibly.
“However now is not the time for that. Our provisional date for reopening our campsites and permit areas is 17th July if the Scottish Government confirm their proposed date for all tourism accommodation reopening from the 15th. Until then please be patient and do not come camping in the National Park yet.”
Visitors planning a trip to the National Park even just for a day trip are also being asked to take some time to ‘Think, Check and Plan’ before they go so they fully understand what to expect, what facilities are open where and what they may need to take with them.
Gordon Watson said: “A visit to the National Park this summer isn’t going to be what it was before. While some facilities and local businesses are beginning to reopen this won’t all happen at once. Extra measures are being put in place to keep people safe but it’s vital that everyone plays their part by following these as well as taking responsibility for their behaviour and what they bring with them.”
National Park car parks and some toilets are opening from today Friday 3rd July.
Public toilets should only be used if necessary so visitors are reminded to ‘go’ before you go.
If bins are full or where there are no bins please take litter home.
If car parks look busy, they are too busy, please go somewhere quieter.
National Park facilities including car parks and some toilets are reopening from Friday 3rd July but will not be operating as usual. Please check for more detailed information on our advice for visitors page.