Camping on the island of Ireland
Camping on the island of Ireland comes in many shapes and forms. From retro teepees and luxurious glamping pods to modern camper vans, there's something for everyone. And it's the best way to see Ireland's star attraction – its natural beauty – up close and personal.
Picture it: a cup of hot chocolate (or something stronger) in hand, marshmallows toasting on a stove, stars shining in the night sky above, and the promise of fresh adventure when you rise in the morning. It doesn't get much sweeter than that!
Camping is also a great way to travel sustainably in Ireland. By going off the beaten track, enjoying green environments, and supporting local businesses, you're taking part in the green travel revolution! Don't forget to clean up your campsite when you're moving on and leave no trace. Check out Rock Farm Slane in County Meath, which combines glamping and ecotourism on an organic farm in the ancient Boyne Valley. Or the eco-friendly pods at Pebble Pods, a luxury glamping resort on the tranquil shores of Strangford Lough in County Down.
Camping at Keem Bay, Achill Island, County Mayo
Happy campers
The great outdoors await. Pitch up at Inch Beach Campsite in County Kerry and make a splash on a beach holiday. Explore forest trails at Kilbroney Caravan Park in County Down. Go boating and fishing at Battlebridge Caravan and Camping Park in County Leitrim. It's time to set up camp!
For an excellent overview of the officially approved camping and caravanning parks on the island of Ireland, as well as information on camper van hires, equipment, special offers, and maps, visit Camping Ireland.
A great family-friendly option is the Lough Key Caravan & Camping Park in County Roscommon, where you can get active with a range of activities from zip lining through the forest to kayaking on the lake. Whereas the Dunmore East Holiday & Golf Resort in County Waterford is a perfect hub from which to explore nearby beaches, several playgrounds, tennis courts, and Dunmore Adventure.
If city slickin' is more your style, Blarney Caravan & Camping Park is a solid shout. It's only a few kilometres outside bustling Cork city and the iconic Blarney Castle is nearby, too. Another city gem is Dundonald Touring Caravan Park just outside Belfast. Uncover the Titanic city by day and chill out in the peaceful camp park by night – perfect!
Further.Space Ocean View Pods, Glenarm Castle Estate, County Antrim
Go glamping!
For those who like the more refined things in life, luxury camping is the way to go. A portmanteau of "glamorous" and "camping", glamping is a way to enjoy the raw beauty of camping without skimping on more luxurious amenities. We've previously rounded up 10 great places to go glamping in Ireland.
To glamp in stunning surroundings, see the Hidden Valley Resort in County Wicklow. Set amidst a valley of cascading waterfalls and a peaceful lake, this spot is something special. Similarly breathtaking is Further.Space's Ocean View Pods at Glenarm Castle Estate on the Causeway Coastal Route. Pod life for the win!
If you're after a quirkier stay, try Clissmann Horse Caravans in County Wicklow, which features horse and donkey experiences. Or check out Cabu by the Lakes in County Cavan, a selection of woodland and lake view cabins hidden deep in Killykeen Forest Park. It's a place to relax and recharge, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.
Mobile homes on a campsite in Ireland
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Home away from home
Love your home comforts? Hate the idea of sleeping in a tent at night? Don't fret, there are STILL great options to suit you. Several campsites and parks around the island of Ireland have strong and sturdy mobile homes available to rent.
Belleek Park Caravan & Camping in County Mayo is an ideal location to base yourself for a trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. The mobile homes here come fully equipped with all the mod cons you'd expect at home – fridge, TV, cooker, hot shower, the lot!
In Ireland's Ancient East, Nore Valley Park in County Kilkenny has mobile homes for hire on the same site that features a pet farm, crazy golf, go-karts, and more, making it a perfect camping vacation spot for busy families.
Camper van on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry
Van life
If you fancy hitting the open road and visiting several campsites around the island, then you'll want to hire a camper van or caravan. Thrilling road trips await.
Drive on the Causeway Coast and see sights such as the UNESCO World Heritage wonder that is the Giant's Causeway. Or power along the Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare and the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal. You're in the driving seat on this adventure, literally!
For camper vans, Bunk Campers provides a range of modern and well-maintained vehicles. Causeway Campers is also a good bet if you plan on road trippin' through Northern Ireland. Their selection of vans sleep between two and six people.
As for caravans that you can hitch to the back of your vehicle, check out Caravan Hire. They've got a fine array of four and six-berth options available. While Total Camping Ireland has information on campsites around Ireland where you can hire and pick up your home on wheels!
However you decide to travel and wherever you stay, you're in for an amazing camping holiday in Ireland. So, buckle up and let's go...