Few things compare to the freedom of the great outdoors, the fresh air, the crackle of a campfire, and the satisfaction of pitching your tent in a stunning location.
Across Ireland, an incredible variety of camping spots offer breathtaking scenery, adventure-filled activities, and unforgettable nights under the stars.
From coastal retreats to secluded forest hideaways, from family-friendly havens to luxury glamping escapes, here’s a curated list of the 20 best camping destinations in Ireland.
Best Family-Friendly Campsites
1. Hidden Valley Holiday Park, Co. Wicklow
Tucked into the Wicklow hills, Hidden Valley is the perfect mix of tranquility and adventure. This award-winning campsite offers kayaking, laser tag, and cinema nights, making it ideal for families with kids of all ages. A highlight is Splash Valley Aqua Park, an inflatable water course for thrill-seekers.
💡 Bonus: Just a short drive from Wicklow National Park, making it a perfect base for nature lovers.
🔗 Details: irelandholidaypark.com
2. The Apple Farm, Co. Tipperary
Imagine camping in the heart of an orchard—that’s the experience at The Apple Farm. Pitches sit among rows of apple, pear, and plum trees, creating a picturesque getaway. Guests can sample fresh-pressed juice and take part in farm activities.
💡 Bonus: Upon arrival, guests receive a bottle of the farm’s award-winning apple juice!
🔗 Details: theapplefarm.com
3. Jungle NI, Co. Derry
A paradise for adventurous families, Jungle NI offers activities such as ziplining, zorbing, and llama trekking. The site also has cozy BBQ huts, perfect for evening relaxation.
💡 Bonus: If you’re just passing through, you can opt for pay-as-you-go activities instead of staying overnight.
🔗 Details: thejungleni.com
4. Morriscastle Strand Holiday Park, Co. Wexford
Known as “Ireland’s longest beach”, Morriscastle Strand is perfect for beach lovers. This family-friendly site boasts direct access to golden sands, making it a fantastic spot for swimming, beach games, and evening walks.
💡 Bonus: There’s an on-site ice cream parlour serving the legendary Tayto Swirl!
🔗 Details: morriscastlestrand.com
5. Castlewellan Forest Park, Co. Down
Nestled in the Mourne Mountains, this historic park offers a mix of lakeside camping and woodland trails. Families can enjoy orienteering, fishing, and adventure play areas.
💡 Bonus: The Peace Maze—one of the world’s largest hedge mazes—is a must-visit!
🔗 Details: castlewellancastle.org
Best Camping Spots for Couples
6. Wildflower Glamping, Co. Cavan
For a romantic retreat, this boutique glamping site offers charming yurts, vintage caravans, and hobbit huts, surrounded by wildflowers and rolling meadows.
💡 Bonus: Close to Killykeen Forest Park, ideal for kayaking and scenic hikes.
🔗 Details: wildflowerglamping.ie
7. Killarney Glamping, Co. Kerry
Nestled along the River Flesk, this adults-only retreat is the definition of romantic camping. Expect luxury tents, private outdoor kitchens, and stargazing opportunities.
💡 Bonus: Upgrade to a Prosecco package for a little extra indulgence.
🔗 Details: killarneyglamping.com
8. Finn Lough, Co. Fermanagh
Experience Scandinavian-style luxury in the wilds of Northern Ireland. These transparent dome cabins offer panoramic views of the night sky while ensuring complete comfort.
💡 Bonus: Each dome includes a private telescope for stargazing.
🔗 Details: finnlough.com
Best Glamping Destinations in Ireland
9. Lough Mardal Lodge, Co. Donegal
Nestled in the heathery wilds of Donegal, this eco-friendly retreat offers beautifully decorated Mongolian yurts overlooking mountains, lakes, and forests.
💡 Bonus: One yurt is pet-friendly—perfect for dog owners!
🔗 Details: loughmardalglamping.ie
10. Teapot Lane, Co. Sligo
One of Ireland’s pioneering glamping sites, Teapot Lane offers luxury treehouses, vintage caravans, and cozy yurts, all tucked away in a peaceful woodland.
💡 Bonus: Herb workshops and Sligo food trails are available nearby.
🔗 Details: glampingireland.ie
11. Glamping Under the Stars, Co. Laois
This charming boutique site offers everything from wood cabins to hobbit huts, making it one of Ireland’s most magical glamping experiences.
💡 Bonus: Ideal for hen parties and group getaways.
🔗 Details: glampingunderthestars.ie
Best Eco-Friendly Camping Spots
12. Blackstairs Eco Trails, Co. Carlow
For a completely unplugged escape, this eco-site offers shepherd’s huts, foraging workshops, and birdwatching trails.
💡 Bonus: Geothermal heating and solar-powered facilities keep it truly sustainable.
🔗 Details: blackstairsecotrails.ie
13. Pure Camping, Co. Clare
Located on Loop Head, Pure Camping is an off-grid sanctuary powered by solar energy and rainwater harvesting. Activities include yoga, sauna sessions, and fire-making classes.
💡 Bonus: Private biodiversity walks available.
🔗 Details: purecamping.ie
Best Nostalgic Camping Experiences
14. Clissmann Caravans, Co. Wicklow
Slow travel meets old-world charm in horse-drawn caravans that allow you to explore Wicklow at a leisurely pace.
💡 Bonus: Donkey-walking treks are also available!
🔗 Details: clissmannhorsecaravans.com
15. Lazy Days Campers, Co. Galway
Vintage VW campervans give a retro twist to road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way.
💡 Bonus: Fully equipped for off-grid adventures.
🔗 Details: lazydays.ie
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer pitching a tent, rolling up in a campervan, or sleeping under the stars in a luxury dome, Ireland’s diverse camping scene offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the wild, and camp like a champ!
For more travel inspiration, visit Secret Ireland.
About the Author
