Oakbank Farm Campsite

Oakbank Farm Campsite is a small, family-run site in the rolling countryside of Dumfries and Galloway, around ten miles from Dumfries. Its relaxed character suits tent campers and campervan travellers, with families, dogs, walkers and motorcyclists welcome. Pitches are a mixture of hardstanding and flat grass, with 14 electric hook-up pitches available. Toilets and showers provide the practical essentials for a stay centred on exploring the surrounding countryside.

Drumlanrig Castle, around four miles away, offers a change of pace from days on the trails. Its gardens extend over 40 acres, with features including the Duchess’ Garden and historic heather huts, while the adventure playground gives children space to climb and slide. For woodland outings, the Forest of Ae has waymarked walks beside the Water of Ae as well as longer routes into the hills. It is also one of the 7stanes mountain-biking centres, with green-, blue- and red-graded trails, making it worth considering whether you favour gentler riding or more technical terrain. These routes are at the forest rather than starting from the campsite.

The area’s literary history adds another option at Ellisland Museum and Farm beside the River Nith. Robert Burns built the farmhouse for Jean Armour and their family, and wrote Tam o’ Shanter during his time there. The farmhouse, museum collection and riverside and woodland paths offer different ways to explore his life beyond the familiar poems and songs.