In short: The best camping cocktails use minimal ingredients and simple preparation — think highballs, hot drinks, and pre-batched serves. With a few essentials, you can make great whisky cocktails anywhere.

There’s something magical about sipping a cocktail outdoors, surrounded by nature, with the scent of pine in the air and the crackle of the fire close by. Whether you’re tucked into a luxury glamping retreat or pitching up in a remote woodland hideaway, the right camping drinks can make your evening feel even more special.

The key to camping cocktails isn’t complexity — it’s simplicity. A good spirit, a handful of ingredients, and a few easy techniques go a long way.

The Glenlivet’s smooth single malts are made for moments like these—whether you’re mixing up something light and refreshing for a sun-drenched afternoon or pouring a rich, smoky dram to warm you through after dark. 

Here are some of our favourite camping cocktails to elevate your next escape to the wild.

Before you start mixing, a little preparation makes everything easier.

• Pre-batch where possible – combine spirits, syrups and bitters at home so you only need to pour and serve
• Keep ingredients simple – citrus, soda, ginger beer and honey go a long way
• Use multipurpose tools – a mug works as a mixing glass, and a spoon is all you need for stirring
• Bring small bottles or flasks – ideal for bitters, syrups or liqueurs
• Prep garnishes in advance – dried citrus or herbs travel well and add a finishing touch

If you’re planning drinks for a group, preparing a few serves ahead of time using techniques like these batch whisky cocktails can make things much easier once you’re on site.

Zingy and refreshing, the Scotch Whisky Mule brings together the smoothness of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve with the fiery kick of ginger beer and the brightness of lime.

Served over ice in a sturdy camping tumbler, it’s perfect for unwinding after a hike or enjoying with friends around a glowing lantern. Keep it casual and let the flavours do the talking.

When the evening chill sets in, nothing beats the comfort of a Whisky Hot Chocolate.

This rich, creamy cocktail is the ultimate fireside indulgence, blending velvety chocolate with The Glenlivet’s signature smoothness. Ideal for curling up in a blanket and stargazing or sharing stories in the tent, it’s a winter glamping must-have.

The Old Fashioned is practically made for evenings by the fire, especially when you add two dashes of smoky whisky.

With its bold profile and gently peated finish, it mirrors the earthy, smoky atmosphere of your surroundings. Stir one up as the sun sets and savour it slowly—this is the kind of drink that rewards a moment of stillness.

There’s no need to complicate things. A simple pour of The Glenlivet 12 Year Old on the Rocks brings pure, unadulterated flavour.

Its creamy, fruity character speaks for itself, making it a great match for quiet moments by the fire or after a long walk through the woods. All you need is a good glass and a solid ice cube.

A classic Highball of scotch and soda is a crisp, easy-to-make classic that suits any camping moment.

It’s light, bubbly, and effortlessly refreshing—ideal for sipping during setup, serving before dinner, or enjoying as a sundowner with views over lochs or glens.

Whatever the weather, the Toddy is always welcome. Serve it hot from a camping stove with a cinnamon stick when the temperature drops.

Or enjoy it chilled for a bright, citrusy refresher on a sunny afternoon. It’s the ultimate versatile serve.

If you’re glamping in the Scottish Highlands, the Raspberry Cranachan is a natural fit.

Inspired by the traditional Scottish dessert, it combines fresh berries and whisky for a vibrant, layered cocktail that’s full of flavour and heritage. Serve after dinner with a view and raise a toast to where you are.

If you’re glamping in style or bringing a few extra ingredients, you can experiment with more layered drinks.

Rich and warming with smoky undertones, the Weathered Axe is a bold cocktail for cooler nights under the stars.

With layers of whisky, orange liqueur and ginger syrup it’s a drink that pairs effortlessly with the dusky backdrop of a mountain view or a long evening by the campfire. If you’re planning a night of storytelling and slow sipping, this one sets the tone.

A tribute to wildflowers and native botanicals, the Valley of the Bees is bright and lightly spiced, with honey and lemon notes that sing of Scottish summertime.

It’s perfect for garden glamping setups, or as a welcome drink before you light the fire and start dinner.

Inspired by nature and full of layered flavour, this whisky and lemon cocktail has a calming pour of chamomile tea.

Refreshing yet grounding, it’s a peaceful cocktail to enjoy as you settle into your surroundings.

Simple to shake up and packed with bold, rich flavour, the Maple Red Wine Float brings together the warmth of maple syrup with a tart red wine float.

It’s a rustic twist on the classic sour—ideal for late-night card games.

Whether you’re glamping deep in the forests, high in the hills, or lakeside under a star-filled sky, the right whisky cocktail can bring a little luxury to the wild. The Glenlivet’s range offers the smoothness and versatility you need to make every drink memorable—wherever your next adventure takes you.

Explore more recipes and plan your next elevated escape with The Glenlivet whisky cocktail collection, including our best whiskies to take camping.