Bushcraft in Scotland’s National Parks

Scotland, renowned for its rugged landscapes and wild beauty, is home to two officially designated national parks: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Cairngorms National Park. These parks not only preserve Scotland’s natural heritage but also provide incredible opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including bushcraft practitioners.

Bushcraft—an ancient skillset encompassing wilderness survival, foraging, shelter-building, and fire-making—thrives in Scotland’s national parks, where varied terrains, ecosystems, and a deep sense of remoteness set the stage for immersion in nature. This article explores these two national parks, their unique features, and why they are ideal for bushcraft enthusiasts.

1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Situated just north of Glasgow, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is Scotland’s first national park, established in 2002. Spanning 1,865 square kilometers, it features a dramatic mix of lochs, mountains, forests, and glens. The park is named after its centerpiece, Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest inland water body.

Why It’s Great for Bushcraft

1. Diverse Ecosystems

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is home to woodlands, wetlands, open moorlands, and freshwaters, providing an array of habitats to explore bushcraft skills.

Forests: Ancient oak and birch woodlands, such as those in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, are perfect for shelter-building and learning tree identification.

Lochs and Rivers: With over 22 lochs and numerous rivers, the park offers abundant opportunities for fishing, wild swimming, and learning water purification techniques.

(Both national parks are covered with small lochs like this one)

2. Accessibility

Being close to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, the park is easily accessible, making it a great destination for beginners and experienced bushcrafters alike. There are numerous bus routes and even train lines that run through or close to the park, and campsites always come with somewhere to park.

3. Foraging Opportunities

Loch Lomond’s rich biodiversity makes it a prime spot for foraging. Depending on the season, you can find:

Wild berries such as brambles, elderberries, and rowan berries.

Edible mushrooms like chanterelles and puffballs.

Medicinal plants including nettles and yarrow.

4. Shelter and Fire Resources

The park’s woodlands provide abundant materials for building shelters and practicing fire-making techniques, from dry kindling to larger logs.

5. Remote Wilderness

While parts of the park are popular tourist destinations, less-visited areas like the Arrochar Alps or Glen Finglas offer solitude and the wild environment essential for authentic bushcraft experiences.

2. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park, established in 2003, is the largest national park in the UK, covering 4,528 square kilometers. Located in the Scottish Highlands, it’s characterized by its towering mountains, ancient forests, and vast moorlands. This park is an exceptional setting for bushcraft enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness experience.

Why It’s Great for Bushcraft

1. Rugged Terrain and Biodiversity

The Cairngorms are known for their remote, untamed landscapes, which present challenges and opportunities for honing bushcraft skills.

Caledonian Forests: These ancient pine forests, such as Glenmore Forest, are among the few remaining examples of Scotland’s original woodlands. They provide an excellent environment for learning shelter-building, navigation, and tree identification.

Mountain Plateaus: The park’s high-altitude plateaus, like those in the Cairn Gorm and Braeriach areas, teach survival techniques in harsher conditions.
Rivers and Lochs: Rivers like the Spey and Dee and countless lochs offer fishing, water purification, and wild swimming opportunities.

2. Unique Wildlife

The Cairngorms host rare species such as red squirrels, pine martens, and golden eagles. While observing wildlife enriches any bushcraft experience, the presence of animals like deer also offers lessons in tracking and understanding natural habitats.

3. Extreme Conditions

The Cairngorms are known for their unpredictable weather, including strong winds and snow, even in summer. Practicing bushcraft in such conditions hones essential survival skills like weather-proof shelter-building and fire-starting in damp environments.

4. Foraging and Edible Resources

The park’s natural abundance makes it a forager’s dream:

Edible Plants: Wild garlic, sorrel, and bilberries are commonly found.

Mushrooms: Autumn is ideal for hunting species like boletus and hedgehog mushrooms.

Fishing: Rivers and lochs are rich with trout and salmon.

5. True Wilderness

Cairngorms National Park is far less developed than Loch Lomond, offering unparalleled opportunities for solitude and immersion. Remote areas like Glen Feshie or the Lairig Ghru feel genuinely wild and untouched, ideal for advanced bushcrafters.

While Scotland’s national parks are perfect for bushcraft, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines:

1. Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Scotland’s “Right to Roam” law allows responsible access to most land, but you must:

Respect wildlife, vegetation, and other visitors.

Avoid damaging trees, disturbing wildlife, or littering.

2. Minimize Impact

Leave No Trace: Pack out all waste, and avoid overharvesting plants or fungi.

Use Established Fire Pits: If building a fire, do so only in designated areas or use a portable stove to minimize ground damage.

3. Stay Safe

Plan Ahead: Check weather conditions and carry maps, compasses, and safety gear.

Inform Someone: Let someone know your plans if venturing into remote areas.

Stay Within Limits: Build skills gradually before tackling advanced techniques in challenging environments.

4. Respect Local Rules

Some activities, like fishing or gathering certain plants, require permits. Always check park regulations before proceeding.
Bushcraft Activities to Try in Scotland’s National Parks

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these bushcraft activities are perfect for Scotland’s national parks:

Shelter Building: Use natural materials to construct debris shelters or lean-tos.

Fire-Making: Practice fire-starting techniques using flint and steel, bow drills, or foraged tinder.

Foraging: Identify and collect edible plants, berries, and mushrooms.

Fishing: Learn to fish in lochs and rivers, a vital survival skill.

Tracking and Navigation: Hone your skills by following animal tracks and navigating using maps, compasses, or natural landmarks.

Wild Cooking: Cook foraged foods over an open fire, experimenting with wild herbs for flavor.