Waterside campsites in Republic of Ireland
Coastal road trips, natural wilderness, and Guinness-fuelled camping adventures await on the Emerald Isle.
Popular camping styles for Republic of Ireland
Waterside campsites in Republic of Ireland guide
Overview
It’s small enough to drive your campervan across in a day, but Ireland packs in so much scenery that every turn becomes an epic road trip. Experience the craic in Dublin or Galway, drive the Wild Atlantic Coast, and hop out to hike to rugged headlands, paddle around misty loughs, and explore enigmatic castle ruins. Spring through autumn is the best time for an Irish camping trip, but prepare to face the elements—rain and wind can hamper plans even in summer. It’s worth the effort, though: even if you don’t believe in shamrocks and leprechauns, Ireland’s spectacular views are a pot of gold all on their own.
Where to go
Dublin & East Ireland
With the verdant hills of the Wicklow Mountains and the glacial valley of Glendalough right on the doorstep of Dublin, urban campers will find it easy to escape the crowds. From the capital, head south along the Irish Sea coast to Wexford, where you’ll find family-friendly campgrounds within a short walk of the beach, then venture inland to discover the mediaeval castles and ancient abbeys of Kilkenny.
Cork & County Kerry
Some of Ireland’s best campsites and most thrilling coastal views can be found in the southwest, whether road-tripping around the Dingle Peninsula or hiking and camping along the wild Beara Peninsula. Base yourself in Cork or Limerick, then set out for a road trip along the Ring of Kerry, stopping to go mountain biking in Killarney National Park, hike through the Gap of Dunloe, or cruise out to Skellig Michael.
West Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way curls along Ireland’s entire west coast for more than 1,600 miles—the ultimate coastal road trip. Stop on route to walk the Cliffs of Moher, go glamping in a yurt or bell tent in Galway, or pitch your tent along the wild heathlands of Connemara National Park. To the north, the County Mayo coastline is peppered with blue-flag beaches and fishing villages.
Northwest Ireland
Only the most intrepid campers make it up to Ireland’s far north, where the Gaelic-speaking county of Donegal is dotted with ancient castles, craggy peaks, and windswept beaches. You’ll find motorhome and caravan parks around Londonderry and Portsalon Beach, but adventurous types can also seek out a remote tent pitch in the Derryveagh Mountains.
Northern Ireland
Pastoral farmlands roll over the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland, but while the landscapes remain the same, you’ll soon notice the difference. Swap your Euros for Pounds (you’re in the UK now) before you head to Belfast to discover the Titanic Museum and the Belfast murals, take a road trip through fantastical Game of Thrones filming locations, then head up to the north coast to hike the Giant’s Causeway.
