Visitor Information & Guidance for Loch Tay & Surroundings
Boating on Loch Tay
Boating activities on Loch Tay are currently subject to significant restrictions imposed by local landowners. The only permitted location for launching boats from a trailer is the official launch site at Taymouth Marina. All other sites are unavailable for this purpose, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Water Safety
Loch Tay’s waters remain cold throughout the year, requiring extra caution for anyone entering or swimming in the loch. In certain areas, the shoreline drops away steeply, which can pose a risk. Hidden hazards such as large rocks lie just beneath the water’s surface along the shore. It is important to note that there are no safety boats currently operating on Loch Tay, so individuals are responsible for their own safety.
Ticks and Lyme Disease
While enjoying the outdoors, it is essential to check yourself and your dogs for ticks, which are tiny and resemble spiders. If you discover any ticks, remove them carefully with tweezers, gripping as close to the skin as possible without squeezing the tick. Special tick removal tools can be obtained from local stores in Killin and Kenmore, online retailers, or nearby veterinary practices. Always follow the instructions provided for safe tick removal.
Public Toilets
- Kenmore Beach
- Mains of Taymouth Courtyard
- Killin Village
Camping Guidance
Whenever possible, use official campsites equipped with sanitation facilities. Parking should always be on hard ground or safe tarmac areas, and never in passing places on single-track roads to prevent damage to vegetation. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code recommends staying no longer than two to three nights in any one spot when camping informally by the roadside. Wardens regularly patrol the area, and any anti-social behaviour will be reported to Police Scotland.
Official Campsites
Aberfeldy Caravan Park – https://aberfeldycaravanpark.co.uk/
The Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) operates an official campsite at Kilvrecht on the south shore of Loch Rannoch https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/forest-parks/tay-forest-park/kilvrecht-campsite, approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) from Kinloch Rannoch. Roadside & Informal Camping.
Respecting the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
For comprehensive information, visit www.outdooraccess-scotland.com
It is crucial to observe the code at all times and act responsibly, as access rights do not permit anti-social or illegal behaviour.
Remove all fishing tackle, hooks, and similar items to protect wildlife.
Keep dogs under control at all times and do not disturb livestock, crops, or fences—always leave gates as you find them.
Be mindful of deer management, which is important for local employment; avoid disturbing deer, especially during certain times of the year.
Note that stalking does not occur on Sundays, and use the phone details provided to confirm access with landowners.
Lighting Fires
Whenever possible, use a camp stove since deadwood is vital for local insects and small animals.
Cutting down or damaging trees, including those grown for timber production, is a criminal offence.
Never light an open fire during dry weather, in woods, on farmland, or on peaty ground, and always follow local advice during periods of high fire risk.
If an open fire is necessary, ensure it is small and well controlled, never leave it unattended, and confirm it is fully extinguished before departure.
Remove all traces of the fire, as uncontrolled fires may cause substantial damage for which you could be held responsible.
Sanitation: Toilet Waste
Practising responsible sanitation outdoors is essential.
If public toilets are unavailable, dispose of human waste by digging a hole about 150 mm (6 inches) deep and 100 mm (4 inches) in diameter, at least 30 metres from water sources.
Bury faeces and replace the turf over the hole, remembering that children frequently play in these areas.
As the lochs and streams are often used for drinking water, always go to the toilet at least 30 metres away from open water, rivers, and streams.
Never empty chemical toilets in the countryside or any waterway – use official disposal sites or take chemical waste home.
Litter
Take all your rubbish with you and use bins where available. Consider picking up other litter you encounter, as there is no local litter collection service. Aim to leave no trace of your visit, helping to keep the countryside clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Avoiding Overcrowding
To minimise environmental impact, keep groups small and quiet, and stay well away from buildings, roads, and historic structures.