If you're planning a camping trip in Ireland for 2026, whether you want a family-friendly spot, a wild escape, or some glamping luxury, we've picked out some top camping sites for you. You'll find everything from rugged national parks to coastal retreats and boutique glamping pods, so there's something for every camper's style and budget. We've listed key features, pros and cons, and prices to help you choose the perfect spot for exploring Ireland's beautiful landscapes.
Quick Comparison: Top Ireland Camping Sites for 2026
- 1. Ballycroy National Park Campsite – Best for wild camping and nature lovers
- 2. Glenmalure Lodge & Campsite – Family-friendly with on-site activities
- 3. Seafield Holiday Village – Great for families and beach access
- 4. Ballyvaughan Bay Glamping – Upscale glamping with coastal views
- 5. The Burren Camping & Glamping – Mix of wild camping and luxury pods
- 6. Castlemaine Glamping – Boutique glamping near Killarney
- 7. Lough Allen Glamping – Lakeside tents perfect for families
- 8. Glencree Camping – Budget option near Dublin with wild spots
- 9. Lough Key Forest Park – Family activities and camping
- 10. Glendalough Camping – Wild camping with historic scenery
1. Ballycroy National Park Campsite
Located in County Mayo, Ballycroy National Park Campsite sits amid one of Ireland’s most remote wilderness areas, covering over 11,000 hectares of blanket bog and mountain terrain. The site caters to campers who want to disconnect fully and dive into raw nature. It’s just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic coastline and features multiple hiking routes, including the well-known Bangor Trail, which stretches for about 29 km through wild landscapes.
This campsite has very basic facilities—no electricity, no running water, and no shops on site. Campers should bring all essentials and be prepared for a rougher experience. It’s open year-round, but weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter months.
Point is, pros: Remote location perfect for solitude, breathtaking natural scenery, access to extensive hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities including red deer and rare birds.
Cons: Minimal facilities—no showers or toilets with running water, no electricity, and limited emergency services nearby.
Best for: Experienced campers, hikers, and nature photographers seeking a genuine wilderness experience.
Pricing: €12 per night for a tent pitch, payable on arrival. Group bookings may require advance notice.
2. Glenmalure Lodge & Campsite
Nestled deep in the Wicklow Mountains, Glenmalure Lodge & Campsite is a popular choice for families and casual campers. It operates seasonally from April 1st through October 31st and is known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. The campsite provides heated showers, toilets, a playground for children, and a small shop stocked with essentials.
Nearby, visitors can enjoy walking and cycling trails, including paths to Lugnaquilla, Wicklow's highest peak at 925 meters. Glenmalure is also close to the famous Glendalough monastic site, a short drive away, adding a cultural element to the outdoor experience.
Bookings are highly recommended from June through August, as the site fills quickly during peak season. Prices vary depending on the pitch type and group size, with discounts for longer stays.
Basically, pros: Excellent family facilities, scenic mountain surroundings, easy access to hiking and historic sites.
Cons: Can get busy in high season, limited Wi-Fi availability.
Best for: Families and casual campers wanting a balance of comfort and outdoor adventure.
Pricing: Tent pitches start at €20 per night; campervan spots €25 per night. Electric hook-ups available for an extra €5 per night.
3. Seafield Holiday Village
Located in County Wexford, Seafield Holiday Village is a sprawling family-friendly site boasting direct access to a Blue Flag beach. It offers many accommodation options, including tent pitches, caravan spots, and glamping pods. The site is open from March to October and features indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a kids’ club, and nightly entertainment during summer months.
Seafield is ideal for families who want a mix of beach time and camping. The beach itself stretches over 2 km and is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and sandcastle building. This site also has an on-site restaurant and shop, making it convenient for longer stays.
Pros: Full facilities including pools and entertainment, beach access, wide accommodation options.
Cons: Higher prices than more rustic sites, can be noisy during peak season.
Best for: Families looking for a lively holiday with plenty of activities.
Pricing: Tent pitches from €30 per night; glamping pods starting at €75 per night during summer.
4. Ballyvaughan Bay Glamping
This site in County Clare offers upscale glamping with spectacular coastal views over Galway Bay. Ballyvaughan Bay Glamping features luxury tents equipped with proper beds, heating, electricity, and private decks. The site is open from April through October and caters mostly to couples and small families seeking a comfortable yet close-to-nature experience.
Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren National Park, and various coastal walking routes. The site provides free Wi-Fi and access to communal kitchen and shower facilities. Booking in advance is essential as availability is limited.
Pros: Comfortable luxury tents, stunning views, close to major tourist sites.
Cons: Higher price point, limited capacity.
Best for: Couples and small groups looking for a glamping experience with modern comforts.
Pricing: Luxury tents start at €120 per night, with discounts for stays longer than three nights.
5. The Burren Camping & Glamping
Located in County Clare, The Burren Camping & Glamping offers a mix of wild camping spots and luxury pods surrounded by the unique karst landscape of The Burren. The site is open from April to October, featuring both traditional tent pitches and pre-set glamping pods with heating and electricity.
The Burren is known for its rare flora and fauna and archaeological sites, making this an ideal base for nature lovers and history buffs. This campsite also runs guided tours and workshops focused on local wildlife and geology.
Pros: Variety of accommodation styles, educational activities, access to scenic walks.
Cons: Some areas are exposed to winds, limited on-site dining options.
Best for: Nature enthusiasts and campers wanting a balance of rustic and comfortable.
Pricing: Tent pitches €18 per night; glamping pods €70–€90 per night depending on season.
6. Castlemaine Glamping
Here's the thing — castlemaine Glamping in County Kerry offers a boutique experience with bell tents and safari-style accommodations near Killarney National Park. The site is open from May through September and features amenities like wood-burning stoves, comfortable beds, and private fire pits.
Its location provides easy access to Killarney’s lakes, mountains, and historic castles. Guests can enjoy guided hikes, fishing trips, and local craft markets just minutes away. The site limits the number of guests to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Pros: Stylish tents with heating, proximity to Killarney attractions, small and peaceful.
Cons: Seasonal operation, pricier than traditional sites.
Best for: Couples and small groups wanting boutique glamping near nature and culture.
Pricing: From €110 per night, with weekend surcharges during peak season.
7. Lough Allen Glamping
Lough Allen Glamping in County Leitrim offers lakeside canvas tents, perfect for families and groups who want a balance of nature and comfort. The site is open from April to September and provides facilities including toilets, hot showers, and a communal kitchen area.
The lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, with several walking trails nearby. The site hosts weekend events during summer, such as outdoor yoga and live music.
Pros: Lakeside location, family-friendly facilities, range of activities.
Cons: Limited electric hook-ups, busy during peak weekends.
Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for easy lake access.
Pricing: Tent pitches €25 per night; family tents €45 per night.
8. Glencree Camping
Glencree Camping, situated in County Wicklow near Dublin, offers an affordable option for campers wanting to stay close to the capital while still enjoying wild spots. The site operates year-round and has basic facilities including toilets and cold water taps, but no electricity.
It’s a popular base for hikers exploring the Wicklow Way and the nearby Glencree Valley. The site encourages campers to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
Pros: Budget-friendly, close to Dublin, access to hiking trails.
Cons: Minimal facilities, no showers or electricity.
Best for: Budget campers and hikers wanting proximity to Dublin.
Pricing: €10 per night for tent pitches.
9. Lough Key Forest Park
Look, located in County Roscommon, Lough Key Forest Park offers a mix of camping and family-friendly activities, including treetop walks, boat rentals, and playgrounds. The campsite includes electric hook-ups, hot showers, and a shop. It’s open from March through October.
The park’s walking trails wind through forest and lakeside scenery, with opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking. The site often hosts family events during summer holidays.
Pros: Extensive family activities, well-equipped facilities, scenic surroundings.
Cons: Can be busy during school holidays, limited Wi-Fi.
Best for: Families and groups looking for an activity-packed camping holiday.
Pricing: Tent pitches €22 per night; electric hook-ups €28 per night.
10. Glendalough Camping
Set in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough Camping offers wild camping near historic monastic ruins and two scenic lakes. The site is managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service and provides basic facilities like toilets and potable water but no electricity.
Open year-round, Glendalough is popular with hikers and history lovers alike. The area features marked trails of varying difficulty, including the Spinc ridge walk with panoramic views.
Pros: Historic setting, excellent hiking, accessible year-round.
Cons: Very basic facilities, limited space during peak times.
Best for: Hikers, history buffs, and wild campers.
Pricing: €15 per night for tent pitches.
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Ireland in 2026 offers camping for every taste — from wild escapes in Ballycroy National Park to family-friendly sites like Glenmalure and Seafield Holiday Village, and luxury stays at Ballyvaughan Bay Glamping or Castlemaine Glamping. Whether you want to hike remote trails, relax by a lake, or enjoy coastal views in comfort, these sites have you covered. Book early, especially for popular spots in summer, and prepare according to the facilities offered. Camping in Ireland remains one of the best ways to experience its stunning landscapes and rich culture.
This article was created with AI assistance.
