A Guide to Wild Camping in Ireland

Discover the natural beauty of wild camping in Ireland. If you have a real sense of adventure, this is just the type of expedition for you. From the mountains of Wicklow to the stunning coastline of Galway, there are plenty of places for you to escape to in Ireland. And as long as you leave no trace and follow the wild camping code, there should be no issues. Find out some of the best places for free camping in Ireland below.

Wondering where to go wild camping in Ireland? With acres of unspoilt landscape dotted across the whole country, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Discover some of our top picks below.

Wild Camping Wicklow

Where better to go wild camping in Ireland than the Wicklow Mountains? The only spot that you’re forbidden to camp on is the Glendalough Valley, but once you’ve hiked past there, you’re free to set up camp wherever you please. Bear in mind though, it’ll take you a good three hours or so to find somewhere that complies with the Wild Camping Code – find more on that further down.

But where to camp in the Wicklow Mountains? While the Wicklow Way is always busy during the summer, if you hit it on a fine weekend in spring or autumn, you’ll have approximately 82 miles of gorgeous greenery to choose from.

Wild Camping Galway

From the impressive mountains of Wicklow to wild camping in Galway, this spot offers an entirely different experience to the last. If coastal views and the seaside breeze are your thing, set up camp in Dog’s Bay, Roundstone or Clifden. Although these aren’t technically classed as wild camping, they might as well be. These remote, eco campsites allow you to enjoy nature in complete peace and tranquillity. Embarking on the Connemara coast drive? Camping in Clifden means you can soak in the beauty of Inisturk and the Twelve Bens. For more scenic drives, check out our guide to the best road trips around Ireland as well.

Wild Camping Cork

Now for a combination of the two. There’s over 200km of coastline to call your home for the night in County Cork. And for one of the best spots, head to the Beara Peninsula. In the company of the Caha Mountains and the Slieve Miskish Mountains, you won’t struggle to find an area of elevated, but flat, ground to pitch up on.

Although this combination of mountains and the sea offers some breath-taking views, it’s worth remembering that the wind will make the experience a whole lot chillier. So be sure to pack an insulating jacket for your adventure.

Wild Camping Kerry

If remoteness is the top priority, wild camping in Kerry is for you – in particular, the Black Valley. Connecting the Gap of Dunloe to Moll’s Gap, this area provides a wealth of opportunities for undisturbed wild camping. Whether you decide to pitch up next to one of the many lakes or at the base of a glen is your choice, just be careful not to set up camp too close to a bog!

Or for another slight cheat, head to Coomshana for what is essentially still wild camping in Kerry. With stunning views of Dingle Bay and a little stream that wouldn’t look out of place in a fairy glade, there are plenty of places to rest your head in nature in County Kerry.

The Wild Camping Code

If you decide to visit any of these places (or anywhere else out in the sticks), there are some essential rules you’ll need to follow. Here’s the Wild Camping Code you need to stick to:

• Arrive later in the day and leave early in the morning to avoid hikers

• Leave no trace: waste, food, fire residue or camping equipment

• Move your tent after every second night to allow the vegetation to be restored

• Pitch up at least 400m away from any building or road

And that concludes our guide to wild and free camping in Ireland! Feeling inspired? Just remember to keep your kit stocked up with quality walking gear from Craghoppers for a hassle-free adventure. From women’s outdoor clothing to men’s outdoor clothing, be prepared for any eventuality on your camping expedition.