Northern Ireland’s lush green countryside, deep blue sea and impressive geological formations like the Giant’s Causeway, make it an ideal place to visit for camping enthusiasts.
In fact, Northern Ireland is best explored by car or campervan, giving you the freedom to decide when to stop for a quick lunch, where to pitch up for a couple days or where to drive to for breath-taking views over the ocean. So, if you’re after an active holiday, going camping in Northern Ireland makes for an exciting, adventure-packed holiday perfect for the whole family.
Ready for your camping trip? Here’s our guide to the best camping sites in Northern Ireland to suit any taste:
Best Luxury Camping Sites in Northern Ireland
If you want all the benefits of going camping, minus the uncomfortable sleeping bag, shaky tent or cold wet morning run for tea or coffee, then fret not, Northern Ireland has plenty of excellent luxury camping sites on offer!
One of our favourite glamping sites in Northern Ireland can be found in County Antrim. Stay at the Glenarm Castle Ocean View glamping site, where you can book one of their four luxury pods fitted with shower rooms, comfy double beds, wi-fi and charging stations. Plus, you’ll get fantastic ocean views and a plethora of hiking routes nearby.
Alternatively, stay at the Carrowmena Family Glamping site in Limavady Derry, right by Mount Binevenagh – where you can stay in glamorous pods or luxury bell tents. Perfect for a weekend break in the wilderness.
Best Caravan Parks in Northern Ireland
Want to explore Northern Ireland in the comfort of your own caravan or motorhome? You can take your caravan on ferry crossings into Northern Ireland, simply book our Cairnryan to Larne ferry and don’t forget to check out our deals: if you travel with your caravan midweek, you could save up to 50%.
Stay at the Ballyleese Town and Country Caravan Park in Portstewart, it’s right by the famous Giant’s Causeway but also close enough to the seaside resort towns of Portstewart and Portrush, meaning there are plenty of exciting activities nearby. The park is also kitted out with a large recreation room, playground and a laundrette.
Looking for motorhome sites in Northern Ireland fully immersed in the lush greenery? Then stay at the Clare Glen Caravan Park, ideally located on the banks of the Cusher River and in the heart of the stunning Clare Glens woodland.
Best Camping for Groups in Northern Ireland
Planning an active holiday with your friends or the whole family? Some camping sites are best kitted out for large groups and include family-sized tents and bigger facilities.
Secure a tepee for your group at the Tepee Valley Luxury Glamping site in County Armagh, their range of quirky tepees sleep up to 5 people and are fitted with plush sheepskin blankets, proper comfy mattresses and a small kitchen. It’s a winner both with adults and children and offers plenty of outdoor activities for all ages.
If you and your group prefer to pitch up in the wilderness, then stay at the Crom Campsite in County Fermanagh. This site is conveniently located right by Lough Erne, where you can go for a swim, practice kayaking or try your luck at fishing.
Best Camping for Couples in Northern Ireland
If you’re organising a romantic getaway, Northern Ireland offers plenty of postcard-perfect locations, ideal for idyllic excursions through the countryside or fairytale-like walks in historic towns and seaside resorts.
Surprise your partner by booking the Fair Head Glamping Pods in Ballycastle. This luxury camping site offers fully equipped pods with a private patio, garden, ensuite bathroom with shower and toiletries, as well as comfy double mattresses and a lounge. Plus, you’ll get air-con in summer and heating in winter.
Looking for camping sites in Northern Ireland that are fully immersed in nature? Stay at the Finnlough Bubble Domes in County Fermanagh, a refreshing take on traditional camping that lets you sleep in 180° transparent domes with incredible views of the forest and starry sky.
Best Beach Camping in Northern Ireland
Wild camping in Northern Ireland is not allowed, but you can get the same sense of freedom and liberty by pitching up a tent in one of the many beach camping resorts the country has to offer!
If you’re after incredible sunset views over the sea, then stay at the Highview Holiday Park, located just a stone’s throw away from the beach and coastal resort towns like Portrush. Nearby you’ll also find some of Northern Ireland’s top attractions like the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour – essential places to visit especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan!
Another great beach camping location in Northern Ireland is Delamont Country Park located in County Down. This camping site is close to the scenic Tyrella Beach and right on the doorstep of Strangford Lough, the largest sea lake in the British Isles.
Kickstart your camping adventure in Northern Ireland by booking your ferry crossing from Cairnryan to Larne with P&O Ferries.
