Hawkrigg Campsite

Hawkrigg Campsite is a small, quiet site in the Galloway Forest, on the A713 between St John’s Town of Dalry and Carsphairn. Its five hardstanding pitches accommodate campervans and caravans, while tents have a separate grass area; electric hook-up is available on all pitches. Facilities include a toilet, shower, washing-up area, laundry building and waste disposal. Dogs are welcome, and the campsite opens all year, with bookings taken directly by phone or email. The setting is rural and remote in character, though the local villages are a short drive away.

For an outing combining woodland and local history, Polmaddy lies along the same stretch of the A713. Here, a waymarked trail explores the remains of a traditional Galloway farming settlement beside the Polmaddy Burn. Interpretation panels explain the ruins, which include an inn, watermill and corn-drying kilns. The circuit is 1.1km long, but its uneven grassy surface, muddy sections, short steep slopes and narrow bridge mean sturdy footwear is sensible.

Dundeugh Forest offers a longer walking option, with a published 7km circuit following forest tracks through Glenhoul Glen towards Kendoon Loch and returning beside the Water of Deugh. Birch, oak and Scots pine break up the conifer woodland along the loch, with views towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and Beninner. These are separate outings with their own access points, rather than routes described as starting from the campsite.