Fancy going camping this summer? I’ve checked-in with many campsites in Ireland to find out what is available for July and August.

Campsites and holiday homes are the most popular accommodation choices for staycations this summer. I have many posts featuring self catering accommodation that is available, but campsites in Ireland are not proving as easy to source!

Read: 20 self catering breaks in Ireland  

Read: 20 Airbnbs on the Wild Atlantic Way Available in July & August

One of the main issues I discovered was that many campsites in Ireland are not accepting online bookings at present, or don’t have the facility to do so. I spend many hours calling numerous campsites all over Ireland, only to find out that many are fully booked for tents in July and August, or simply not taking bookings for tents.

There are plenty of spaces for caravans and motorhomes, but many campsites have restricted their numbers for tent pitches due to social distancing, and the requirements for campers to use bathroom facilities.

Another issue that is frustrating campsite owners in Ireland is the size of tents that campers have. Tents are usually allocated specific pitches for two-man / family tents etc. However, some campsite owners recounted stories of people booking a pitch for two, only to arrive with a massive three-roomed tent with a gazebo and deck chairs – a sign of the times I guess!
 

 
This became such a massive issue last year that many campsites in Ireland will not confirm your booking until you confirm the size of your tent.  This has lead to another issue for campsite owners such as Wave Crest Camping, who take enquiries by email. The popular Kerry campsite said they ‘will have availability in due course, but they are still going through 1000’s of emails that they have received since January to find out what dates and size pitches people want’. 
 

 
I heard similar stories in many campsites I called. Meanwhile popular campsite Achill Camping is not opening for booking until government guidelines for reopening have been confirmed, and Dunmore Holiday Park are only accepting bookings for motorhomes/campervans as they are self sufficient. This may change closer to the beginning of the season, depending on Government and industry advice at the time.

The good news is that if you are having difficulty securing a pitch in a specific county, remember that many campsites in Ireland are not yet open for bookings. I suggest adding your name to their mailing list if they have one, or calling them to ask them to contact you when they are open for reservations.

That being said, family pitches in coastal campsites will be the most popular this summer, so if you are able to get availability now, I suggest you book your space. I also suggest getting your camping gear, bike racks and SUP boards now if you are planning any outdoor activities this summer.

Read: 10 staycation essentials you should be buying now.
 

 
I have listed some popular campsites in Ireland that are accepting bookings for tents in July or August now. If other campsites have availability please comment below or contact me and I will add your site to this list. 
 

Family campsites in Ireland:

IOAC Rosslare, Wexford: IOAC – Pitch from €32 per night

The IOAC (International Outdoor Adventure Centre) is a great choice for families looking for plenty of onsite facilities within a large holiday park. They have availability throughout July and August – there are 70 camping pitches as well as glamping pods and an RV park.
 

 
Children and teens will love the adventure park with high ropes, crate stacking and archery, and kayaking is among many sports available on its purpose-built activity lake. IOAC is ideally located in Rosslare, just 15 minutes from Wexford Town and within easy access of Wexford’s top attractions. It is also pet-friendly.

Read: 5 things to do in Wexford with kids

Read Top tips for family camping in Ireland

See more here 
 

Nore Valley Park, Kilkenny:  Pitch from €35 per night 

Nore Valley Park is very popular with families, especially those with younger children. It is situated on an open farm where kids are encouraged to assist with animal feeding. There is a kids play area, sandpit with diggers and a games area with pool table, crazy golf, pedal karts etc – extra charges apply. Continental breakfast, pizza, quiche and home-made bread is available daily.
 

 
We visited Kilkenny last summer and found it a great destination for families. We enjoyed a super day out at Castlecomer Discovery Park ( pictured above), which is just 30 minutes drive from this campsite.

Read: 10 things to do in Kilkenny with kids

See more here
 

NireValley Eco Cabin, Waterford, €176 per night B&B

 

 

 

 

 

 

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For those looking for the camping experience without having to pitch or purchase their own tent – why not try glamping? There are numerous glamping sites all over Ireland that are suitable for families as well as couples.

Read: My top picks for glamping in Ireland

Read: 20 Airbnb glamping sites in Ireland

We stayed at NireValley Eco Camp a few years ago and loved it. There are five cabins, each set in its own field, with double beds, showers, a stove, and a delicious breakfast basket is delivered to you each morning.
 

 
It is set in a quiet area but ideal for families or couples looking for a relaxing stay. We explored the Munster Vales during our trip, the camp is within easy reach of Waterford, Cork and Tipperary. Various dates are available in July and August.

Read: Top things to do in the Munster Vales

See more here
 
Limited availability at selected campsites:

Hidden Valley Holiday Park and Westport House are two of Ireland’s most popular campsites for families. They have very limited availability for pitches in July and August.
 
 

Campsites in Ireland available for couples:

Clifden Eco Beach Camping: €23 per couple per night. €5 extra for electricity.

If a private secluded beach in Connemara sounds good to you, then I would book this now! I was surprised that the multi-award-winning campsite was still available in July or August, but this ecological park restricts the number of family bookings in order to have a balanced, sustainable campsite. While the family pitches are sold out, there are pitches available for couples – and all have sea views. All of your carbon footprint whilst at the site is completely offset.
 

 
There are numerous cycle routes close by and plenty of opportunities for kayaking, SUPping etc. The popular town of Clifden is just ten minutes away. There is no games room or activities but there is a communal kitchen and showers available. It is a more traditional camping experience than some of the others mentioned, but there are lots of things to do nearby. It is also pet friendly.

 
Read: The ultimate camping equipment checklist for first time campers
 

 
Sarah