Country parks
Country parks give people convenient opportunities to enjoy the countryside and open-air recreation close to urban areas.
Country parks have been established in many parts of Scotland.
View a map of country parks in Scotland on the Scotland’s Environment website.
Selection and designation
Local authorities may designate country parks where they see a need, using powers under Section 48 of the Countryside (Scotland) Act 1967.
Some private landowners also use the country park name.
Protection and management
Local authorities provide and manage most of Scotland’s 40 country parks. The National Trust for Scotland manages Brodick and Culzean.
Country parks may provide a range of facilities and services including a countryside ranger service. Local authorities can make by-laws to regulate inappropriate behaviour within country parks.
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