© John Ferguson (CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph)

Estate Use uncertain

Backhill of Bush

Southern Scotland · Galloway

3 published sources

Current access or overnight use is not confirmed. Carry independent shelter and check locally.
Sleeps
Many
Elevation
265 m
Grid ref
NX480842
Estate
Forestry Commission
Coordinates
55.1295, -4.3845
Partly verified The guide is sourced, but some details still lack reliable current evidence.

Approach

The eastern approach starts at the forestry parking area beyond Craigencallie House. Follow the forest road northwest, cross the River Dee and take the branch towards Backhill of Bush. The journey is about 10.5km each way and is often cycled. Public vehicles must not be taken onto the forest roads. The MBA stopped maintaining this shelter in 2010 after repeated vandalism. Recent reports describe poor hygiene and rubbish, so carry a tent and do not rely on the building.

Official mountain conditions

Broad-area links only. Howff does not import a live avalanche rating. Check issue and valid times on the official page. Area coverage reviewed 2026-07-25.

Facilities

Indoor fireplace / stove
Raised sleeping platform
Toilet (spade)
Water nearby
Electricity
Shower
Boat / ferry access
Stalking notice

Nearest Munro

Ben Lomond · 974 m · 119.0 km away

History

Backhill of Bush was a remote shepherd's home until the mid twentieth century. An entry in its visitors' book proposed a group to save derelict hill shelters; that proposal helped lead to the Mountain Bothies Association in 1965. The MBA later maintained the building but withdrew in 2010 because repeated vandalism and vehicle misuse made the arrangement unworkable.

MBA history; Needle Sports approach guide; UKHillwalking 2024 condition discussion · Updated 2026-07-25

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