Embarking on a camping adventure in Ireland offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore picturesque landscapes, and experience the warmth of Irish hospitality.
With its lush greenery, rugged coastlines, and serene lakes, the Emerald Isle boasts some of Europe’s most breathtaking camping spots.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best camping spots in Ireland, from coastal retreats to mountain hideaways, providing insights into Ireland’s diverse and enchanting camping experiences.
If you are interested in Wild Camping read my article on the best wild camping locations in Ireland and don’t forget to read my article on the laws of camping on beaches in Ireland.
Table of Contents
Best Camping Spots in Ireland
Hidden Valley, Co Wicklow
Amenities: Toilets, Showers, Laundry and Kitchen
Tent Pitches: 9m x 8m site
Hidden Valley Holiday Park, established in 2005 and owned by the Williams family, is a 4-star Failte Ireland-approved retreat in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow.
Transformed from a 2-star park in its early years, the family-run business offers modern facilities and exceptional value for couples and families.
The park provides a tranquil escape in Rathdrum, a historically significant town well-serviced by train and bus.
With a focus on Camping, Hidden Valley ensures a memorable holiday amidst scenic views, forest walks, and the cultural allure of Rathdrum. This is one of the best camping spots in Ireland
Visit the Hidden Valley Website for more information.
The Apple Farm, Co Tipperary
Amenities: Toilets, Showers and Laundry facilities
The Apple Camping & Caravan Park in County Tipperary, Southern Ireland, stands out as a premier camping destination, having been voted the best three-star park in Ireland.
A small, family-run site accommodating up to sixty people per night, it boasts spacious grounds on a fruit farm and orchard.
The welcoming atmosphere is complemented by a bottle of award-winning apple juice for guests.
The campers’ kitchen, converted from an Apple store, provides a unique charm, and amenities like a full-size tennis court, hot showers, and electrical connections are included.
Committed to environmental sustainability, the site utilizes solar-heated water and encourages recycling. All these features come at a reasonable price, making it an ideal base for exploring Munster and nearby Leinster counties.
Visit the Apple Farm Website for more information.
Jungle NI, Co Derry
Amenities: BBQ area, Toilets, Showers, Kitchen and Laundry facilities
Pitches: 8m x 10m
Immerse yourself in nature at The Jungle in Northern Ireland, where CampingCamping takes on new heights. Nestled amidst rivers, forests, rolling hills, ponds, and wildlife, the vast campsite offers 45 pitches with electrical hookups (first come, first served).
With idyllic rural views, the site provides easy access to toilets and showers. Guests enjoy a communal indoor kitchen/dining/lounge area with sinks, fridges, kettles, microwaves, a dishwasher, and laundry facilities.
A BBQ and picnic area and 4 unique BBQ Huts available for hire add to the camping experience. Basque in the glory of the great outdoors with all the comforts at The Jungle. The Jungle is one of the best camping spots in Ireland
Visit The Jungle website for more information.
Morriscastle Strand, Co Wexford
Amenities: Toilets, Showers, and Kitchen
Discover the coastal charm of Morriscastle Strand Holiday Park in Wexford, nestled beside a Blue Flag beach in Ireland’s Ancient East.
A four-star family-run haven since 1969, it caters to touring caravans, campervans, and tents. Situated along the soft sand dunes of Morriscastle, the park provides kilometres of Blue Flag beach for leisurely strolls and ample space for children to play.
Bask in the sunny South East’s excellent weather, enjoying a traditional seaside escape. With a serene atmosphere, Morriscastle offers a camping haven where guests can unwind, far removed from the stresses of city life.
Visit the Morriscastle Strand website for more information.
Castlewellan Forest Park, Co Down
Amenities: Toilets and Showers
Castlewellan Forest Park, spanning 450 hectares north of the Mourne Mountains, offers various outdoor activities, prominently Camping and touring.
The main site features tarmac-surfaced pitches with electric hookups, parking, and grassed areas for awnings. Separate male and female showers, accessible facilities, and convenient amenities like fresh water and dishwashing rooms enhance the camping experience.
While tents can’t access electric hookups on the leading site, a nearby Dove Cote Yard provides more tarmac pitches. An adjacent all-grass site welcomes tents and touring vehicles, sharing facilities with the leading site.
Conveniently close to Castlewellan town, the park blends natural beauty with accessible amenities making it one of the best camping spots in Ireland.
Visit the Castlewellan Forest website for more information.
Eagle Point, Co Cork
Eagle Point Camping and Caravan site in West Cork, South West Ireland, offers stunning views of Bantry Bay and is a central hub for exploring the region.
Nestled on the water, the park boasts sheltered coastlines, pebble beaches, and rock pools, creating memorable family moments.
Ideal for water enthusiasts, the park provides access to the Ouvane & Coomhola river estuaries, offering a mix of calm waters for beginners and challenges for experienced paddlers.
Terraced pitches, including an adults-only area, utilize the natural terrain, ensuring the perfect spot for families or couples. Motorhome pitches feature hard standings, a 6-amp electrical hookup, and awning space for a comfortable stay.
Visit the Eagle Point Camping website for more information.
Anchor Caravan Park, Co Kerry
Anchor Caravan Park, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021, is a picturesque seaside holiday park near Castlegregory on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Nestled between the Slieve Mish Mountains and Tralee Bay, it immerses guests in Ireland’s finest landscapes—rugged mountains, green fields, golden beaches, and open waters.
Its prime location on the Wild Atlantic Way offers access to Castlegregory’s amenities and activities like watersports, horse riding, and hiking.
Perfectly positioned for exploring the Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry, Anchor Caravan Park caters to adventurers, those seeking relaxation, or families looking for a fun-filled getaway. Notably, it’s a dog-friendly destination.
Visit the Anchor Caravan Park website for more information.
Clifden Eco Beach, Co Galway
Clifden Eco Beach, Ireland’s first eco-certified carbon-neutral establishment, is a serene ecological park in Connemara’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Offering panoramic views from a private sandy beach, the campsite provides an authentic semi-wild eco-camping adventure.
Surrounded by untouched beauty, spacious pitches, and inviting campfires, visitors enjoy nature’s serenity, breathtaking sunsets, and star-studded skies. Positioned by crystal-clear waters, the campsite encourages maritime exploration.
With a commitment to sustainability and a zero-carbon footprint, Clifden Eco Beach is gold-certified by Sustainable Travel Ireland, offering a cluster-free, low-impact camping environment with green, hard standings for motorhomes and caravans.
Visit the Clifden Eco Beach website for more information.
Rosguill Holiday Park
Rosguill Holiday Park in County Donegal is a fully serviced Static Mobile Home Park and Four Star Failte Ireland-approved Caravan and Camping Park.
This family-owned retreat on the stunning Rosguill Peninsula along the Wild Atlantic Way welcomes Touring Caravans, Motorhomes, Campervans, and Tents.
With every pitch offering views of Mulroy Bay and the rugged surroundings, guests can explore the nearby Tra na Rossan and Murder Hole beaches.
The park serves as an ideal base for hillwalking, water sports, and photography, complemented by the convenience of the on-site Shoreline Coffee & Ice Cream Shop for a delightful beach day.
Visit the Rosguill Holiday Park website for more information.
Mannix Point Camping
Mannix Point Caravan Park, situated at Europe’s edge, boasts a spectacular location with 500 meters of waterfront, surrounded by hills and mountains, facing the Atlantic islands of Valentia and Beginish.
Since opening in 1984, the park has become a nature lover’s paradise, consistently praised by prestigious travel guides as “one of the best campsites in Ireland.”
The impeccably clean facilities contribute to the park’s charm, including a campers’ sitting room with evening music sessions, a kitchen, a BBQ area, and laundry.
With fifteen national and international awards, Mannix Point remains a special place dedicated to providing campers a unique and welcoming experience.
View the Mannix Point Caravan Park for more information.
Wave Crest Camping
Wave Crest Caravan Park, a 4-star family-run site in Caherdaniel on the Ring of Kerry, Ireland, offers a picturesque waterfront setting with panoramic sea views.
With a friendly and informal atmosphere, it serves as an ideal base for a relaxing camping holiday. Owned by John and Brid, this well-maintained site is a favourite among couples and families, boasting an elevated position with unmatched views of beaches, coves, and majestic mountains.
Positioned for water activities, boat trips, beach days, and hillwalking on the Kerry Way, Wave Crest provides a welcoming and memorable coastal experience away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
View the Wave Crest Caravan & Camping website for more information.
Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park
Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park, a 4-star Failte Ireland registered site, is between Knockalla Mountains and Ballymastocker Bay in Portsalon, Co. Donegal.
Established in 1976 and family-run, the park boasts over 40 years of experience dedicated to providing a relaxing stay. Positioned along the Wild Atlantic Way, it enhances the natural surroundings, ensuring maximum privacy.
With continuous improvements, green areas, and a focus on client satisfaction, Knockalla is an ideal base to explore the North West Coast.
A short walk from the stunning Ballymastocker Beach, the park offers sandy beaches with blue flag status, a well-kept secret of beauty.
For more information, visit the Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park website.
Lakeside Holiday Park, Co. Clare
Lakeside Holiday Park is a unique family-oriented retreat in the heart of the countryside, surrounded by native woodland, mountains, and the stunning Lough Derg.
This tranquil park offers an idyllic holiday location with waterfront pitches, shaded areas, and open green tent spaces. Mobile holiday homes are available for those seeking more comfort.
On-site activities include fishing, kayaking, rowing, and woodland walking trails. Sunset views of Holy Island, a historic monastic site, create a picturesque setting. Mount Shannon Village, with shops, pubs, and restaurants, is a short walk away.
The park is pet-friendly, excluding mobile homes. Free Wi-Fi is accessible, and fire pits are available for an authentic camping experience.
Visit the Lakeside Holiday Park website for more information.
Wolohans Silver Strand Caravan Park, Co. Wicklow
Wolohan’s Silver Strand Caravan Park, located 4.3km from Wicklow town on Ireland’s east coast, offers a picturesque setting overlooking the renowned Silver Strand beach. Established over seventy years ago, the 22-acre site features stunning coastal views and a traditional all-grass mobile home park.
The Wolohan family has been hosting touring and motor caravans, providing peaceful sunny areas, spacious lawns, and sea views. The Silver Strand beach’s beautiful sandy shores and family-friendly atmosphere are a highlight.
The park offers new and pre-owned mobile homes, making it a charming and welcoming destination for a seaside getaway.
View the Wolohan’s Silver Strand website for more information.
Best Glamping Spots
Wildflower Glamping, Co Cavan
Amenities: Toilets, Showers and Kitchen Sheds
Wildflower Glamping, Cavan’s hidden gem, perches atop a hill, offering breathtaking countryside views just 4 miles from Cavan Town.
Available for individual rentals or exclusive family gatherings, the site promises tranquillity. Ideal for diverse occasions, from Hen Parties to Birthdays and Communion Parties, Wildflower Glamping provides a unique escape.
The site boasts panoramic views from Tents and Yurt, luxurious toilets, a private kitchen shed, a campfire area, and an all-weather ‘Lookout’ room for an uninterrupted glamping experience.
Explore the Cavan area’s attractions and activities, detailed on the ‘Things To Do’ page, for a memorable and peaceful countryside retreat.
Visit the Wildflower Glamping website for more information.
Killarney Glamping, Co Kerry
Amenities: Toilets, Showers and Kitchen with BBQ.
Killarney Glamping at The Grove offers couples a unique and romantic holiday in Ireland’s southwest, prioritizing privacy and relaxation.
Nestled with views of the Kerry Mountains, this self-catering getaway, less than a mile from Killarney Town and National Park, combines adventure with comfort. Romantic Glamping Suites feature a luxurious double bed, heated bedroom, and private en-suite bathroom.
The heated patio and outdoor self-catering kitchen, equipped with a BBQ, provide a creative retreat. Luxury Lodges boast central heating, king-size beds, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
The Cabins in a private meadow offer a unique hideaway for a romantic break.
Visit the Killarney Glamping at the Grove website for more information.
Finn Lough, Co Fermanagh
Facilities: Luxury Bubble Domes, Suites and Villas
Finn Lough in County Fermanagh has been a tranquil haven for over 30 years, initially nurtured by Bobby and Rosie Beare in 1983. Returning in 2013, their children have dedicated themselves to preserving and enhancing this lakeside paradise.
Finn Lough is committed to responsible stewardship, offering a serene escape in the heart of Ireland’s wilderness. Grateful for their upbringing, the Beare family invites guests to share in the magic of Finn Lough. The ongoing endeavour includes:
- The development of Bubble Domes.
- Blending nature immersion with luxury.
- Ensuring a peaceful retreat amidst the ever-moving world.
Visit the Finn Lough Website for more information.
Lough Mardal Lodge, Co Donegal
Facilities: En Suite Compost Toilet, Wood-burning stove, and Kitchen available in the lodge.
Lough Mardal Lodge’s Glamping accommodation features enchanting Skydome Yurts inspired by Central Asian nomadic homes.
Adapted for the Irish northwest coast, these Yurts offer 5-star comfort with a super king bed, luxe linens, and insulation against the weather. Secluded for privacy, each Yurt provides a magical escape.
Inspired by traditional shepherd cabins, the Shepherd’s Hut boasts a king-size bed, a wood-burning stove, and a porch with stunning lake views.
Off-grid and romantically lit with lanterns, this cosy retreat offers a proper break from modern life, complete with a private toilet. Lough Mardal Lodge invites guests to experience Ireland’s rustic charm and natural beauty.
Visit the Lough Mardal Lodge Website for more information.
Teapot Lane, Co Sligo
Facilities: Communal Kitchen, domes have Communal Toilets and Showers, while the cottage and treehouse have their own facilities.
Teapot Lane Glamping offers the ultimate couples’ escape with modern glass wood stove-equipped woodland Domes and luxurious super king beds, accommodating 2-4 guests per Dome.
A dreamlike Treehouse, pet-friendly, complements the three stunning Domes and Bluebell cottages for larger groups or those less inclined towards Glamping.
Nestled in a wooded 5-acre haven on the borders of Sligo, Leitrim & Donegal, Teapot Lane, a pioneering Irish Glamping site since 2010, promises unique breaks.
Explore sandy beaches, local hikes, and the iconic Benbulben mountain range. Ideal for romantic getaways or relaxing girlie trips, Teapot Lane specializes in hosting Hen party groups and creating memorable glamping experiences.
Visit the Teapot Lane website for more information.
Chléire Haven Cape Clear
Chléire Haven on Cape Clear Island offers unique and peaceful glamping holidays, providing an adventurous escape from the mainland. Located as Ireland’s most southerly Irish-speaking inhabited island, just 8 miles off the West Cork coast, it offers a memorable holiday experience.
Accommodation options include luxury yurts, stylish bell tents, or bringing your tent (limited pitches available). Whether you choose Glamping or Camping, the island promises a distinctive and memorable retreat, immersing you in this extraordinary destination’s tranquillity and unique culture.
For more information, view Chléire Haven website.
Portsalon Luxury Camping
Portsalon Luxury Camping in Donegal, Ireland, provides an exclusive glamping experience for adults in a stunning coastal setting.
Open from June to September, the site features five luxurious yurts with cosy interiors, king-size beds, and wood-burning stoves.
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it offers couples and solo travellers a tranquil escape. The adult-only site overlooks Ballymastocker Bay, near the charming village of Portsalon.
Guests can enjoy a three-mile-long blue flag sandy beach, The Olde Stores Bar, and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. With lockable doors, wood-burning stoves, outdoor seating, and scenic views, it’s a perfect retreat from the hectic pace of life.
Visit the Portsalon Luxury Camping website for more information.
Legan Castle, Co Kilkenny
Legan Castle Farmhouse invites guests to indulge in Ireland’s most luxurious Glamping experience.
Situated in Thomastown amidst 10 acres of picturesque Kilkenny countryside, the idyllic glamping tents are pitched beside Connemara ponies, offering an intimate escape for families, friends, and couples alike.
Nestled within the courtyard of the 16th Century ruins of Legan Castle, the 200-year-old farmhouse adds historic charm to the setting.
Positioned strategically for exploring Ireland’s Ancient East in Leinster and the “Sunny South East,” Legan Castle Farmhouse ensures a truly unique, high-quality glamping experience.
With hotel-style beds, luxurious linens, renovated farm buildings, and gourmet food options, the campsite guarantees a comfortable and opulent retreat for every guest.
Visit the Legan Castle Farmhouse website for more information.
Glamping Under the Stars, Co Laois
Glamping Under the Stars in Co. Laois, Ireland, is an award-winning destination offering family glamping holidays and exclusive Hen Party Glamping experiences.
The Mountain Under The Stars site features enchanting grass-roofed ‘hobbit houses’ with unique themed interiors and private gardens, providing a fairytale stay.
Alternatively, the Meadow Under The Stars site offers classic Glamping in bell tents, wood lodges, and shepherd’s huts.
Guests can enjoy BBQs, campfire marshmallow toasting, landscaped gardens and wildflower meadows.
Ideal for magical family adventures or private events, Glamping Under the Stars is conveniently located an hour from Dublin, making it a perfect meeting point.
Visit the Glamping Under the Stars website for more information.
Pure Camping, Co Clare
Pure Camping offers “Cosy Camping” and “Glamping” experiences in self-catering Wooden Lodges, off-grid cabins, and canvas Bell Tents. Nestled in a fairy tale woodland, guests wake up to the sounds of country life and enjoy the tranquillity.
The Querrin shore, just 15 minutes away, invites a refreshing plunge, while a 20-minute bike ride leads to Kilkee for additional exploration. The site encourages relaxation with options like Yoga and meditation, featuring weekly drop-in classes and retreats throughout the year.
Pure CampingCamping provides an authentic getaway experience, blending nature, comfort, and wellness for an idyllic escape.
Visit the Pure Camping website for more information.
Rock Farm, Co Meath
Rock Farm Slane Glamping, nestled in a grove of sculpted sycamore, aged oak, ash, chestnut, and hawthorn, provides a natural retreat with yurts and shepherd’s huts.
Surrounded by an undulating wild meadow and overlooking the iconic Slane Castle, the site offers a tranquil escape. Guests can explore the ancient land with a secret bathing spot on the River Boyne below.
Accommodating single travellers, couples, families, and groups of up to 30 people, the yurts, shepherd’s huts, and holiday homes create a relaxing environment for eco-friendly tourism.
Rock Farm Slane invites guests to unwind and discover the beauty of this inspiring glamping experience.
Visit Rock Farm Slane’s website for more information.
Camping Touring holidays
Lazy Days Campers, Co Wicklow
Lazy Days Camper Hire, Ireland’s premier VW Camper rental since 2008, offers a family-run business that provides top-notch campers and exceptional service.
The vibrant Volkswagen campervans, known for their character, warmth, reliability, and economy, make for trouble-free touring.
These campers are manoeuvrable and easy to drive on Ireland’s more minor roads and serve as the perfect passport to off-the-beaten-track adventures, connecting with locals and embracing Ireland’s relaxed camping culture.
The Lazy Days team assists in planning unique and adventurous holidays, offering trip ideas, recommended routes, and campsite suggestions.
With a Lazy Days van as your base, explore Ireland’s beautiful landscapes at your own pace for a truly memorable experience.
Visit the Lazy Days VW Camper hire website for more information.
Clissmann Caravans, Co Wicklow
Clissmann Horse Caravans offers a charming woodland retreat where guests can immerse themselves in authentic experiences with friendly horses and donkeys.
Nestled in nature on the family farm, this cosy hideaway allows for a peaceful escape, offering the magic of starlit skies and the freedom to roam.
Take a unique journey through Wicklow’s countryside on a vibrant horse caravan tour powered by 1 horse. Alternatively, explore off the beaten path with a companionable donkey.
Reconnect with loved ones, breathe in nature, and create unforgettable memories on the day or overnight tours, discovering the natural beauty of Wicklow with a four-legged friend by your side.
Visit the Clissman Horse Caravans website for more information.
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