Wild Camping Ireland
Check Out Our Map Of Wild Camping Spots, Along With Everything You Need To Go Wild Camping In Ireland
Wild Camping Spots Ireland
Wild Camping In Ireland
All You Need To Know
You will likely have heard about wild camping if you’ve looked into any type of camping. So what is wild camping? Wild camping is about going off the beaten track and getting yourself out into the peaceful, empty and vast wilderness of Ireland to spend time truly alone with the world, away from the masses in caravan parks and campsites Sound amazing, doesn’t it?
Here on the Island of Ireland, due to having two jurisdictions, there are separate laws that govern access for wild camping in Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK).
Below we will look at Wild Camping that will help you to have the experience of a lifetime, and these include what is wild camping is it legal, what equipment will I need and the best places to go Wild Camping in Ireland.
wHAT iS wILD cAMPING
You will likely have heard about wild camping if you’ve looked into any type of camping. So what is wild camping? Wild camping is about going off the beaten track and getting yourself out into the peaceful, empty and vast wilderness of Ireland to spend time truly alone with the world, away from the masses in caravan parks and campsites Sound amazing, doesn’t it?
Here on the Island of Ireland, due to having two jurisdictions, there are separate laws that govern access for wild camping in Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK).
Below we will look at Wild Camping that will help you to have the experience of a lifetime, and these include what is wild camping is it legal, what equipment will I need and the best places to go Wild Camping in Ireland.
Is Wild Camping Legal in Ireland?
This is one of the most critical questions, and it should, therefore, be addressed before we move on. Here in Ireland, especially due to having two jurisdictions having separate laws that govern access for wild camping (Ireland and Northern Ireland – which is part of the UK) it is not always as simple as it sounds.
There can be a reluctance for landowners to let people camp on their land and a lot of publicly owned spaces prohibit camping, for both tents and campers/motorhome.
From a purely technical standpoint, wild camping is not legally permitted in Ireland. This primarily arises from the fact that the majority of the land is privately owned.
In other words, you would be considered a trespasser if you decided to prop up your tent on someone’s property (even if you were unaware of such ownership).
Let’s also not fail to mention that there are many fences, boundaries and other borders which are marked. Crossing these is prohibited by law.
The good news is that more remote locations (such as those associated with the northern and western portions of Ireland) tend to tolerate wild campers. This is particularly the case for areas that are found near lengthy hiking trails or deep within forests.
Cyclists, hikers and similar enthusiasts will often take advantage of this greater sense of tolerance. Still, it is essential to determine if the land happens to be private property. If it is, you can always contact the owner and ask for permission to stay for an evening or two.
The chances are high that you will be met with an amenable response.
The Wild Camping Ireland Code
To make the most out of your experience, to remain safe and to avoid any potential legal infractions, it is crucial to recognise the wild camping code of conduct. Some of the major points include:
- Never leave any type of debris or rubbish behind.
- Obtain permission from a landowner in advance if you are staying on private property.
- Always plan ahead.
- Do not harm any animals or other wildlife.
- Camp on safe ground.
- Never disturb the environment (leave what you find).
- Be careful when managing campfires.
Nearby landowners have allowed the below trail areas to impede upon their properties, so wild camping is generally tolerated in such areas. As always, ask permission if you are in doubt.
- The Coillte Recreational Forests
- National Waymarked Trails.
- National Looped Walks
- The Slí na Sláinte
What Equipment Will i Need?
This section can be broken down into two categories: essential equipment for Wild Camping and the equipment which may come in handy.
Never forget to bring along the following items:
- Sleeping bag
- Tent
- Head torch
- Camping stove
- Warm layers of clothing
- Food and drinking water
- A charged mobile phone
Having said this, others wish to pit themselves against the environment by testing their bushcraft skills. The associated gear will, therefore vary.
Some other materials which are highly recommended include:
- A map
- A first-aid kit
- A fire-starting device (such as a magnesium bar)
- An emergency whistle and blanket
- A compass
This checklist can be increased or decreased depending upon your unique skills and requirements.
Heres our checklist
Wild Camping Tips
There is nothing wrong with feeling a bit hesitant if you are new to the concept of wild camping. This is quite normal, and if anything, such a sensation can hone your skills.
However, never present yourself with overly tricky situations if you possess little experience. Avoid inclement weather whenever possible (check the forecast via Met Eireann or Met Office in advance).
Fully extinguish any campfires before you leave the site. Dress appropriately for the season in question and purchase a durable pair of hiking boots.
Always tell at least two other people where you are going and when you expect to return. Pack light and yet, never forget to include the essentials.
Finally, be sure to pick a spot with amazing views so that you will have memories to last a lifetime. This brings us to the next section.
Where to Go Wild Camping In Ireland
There is nothing wrong with feeling a bit hesitant if you are new to the concept of wild camping. This is quite normal, and if anything, such a sensation can hone your skills.
However, never present yourself with overly tricky situations if you possess little experience. Avoid inclement weather whenever possible (check the forecast via Met Eireann or Met Office in advance).
Fully extinguish any campfires before you leave the site. Dress appropriately for the season in question and purchase a durable pair of hiking boots.
Always tell at least two other people where you are going and when you expect to return. Pack light and yet, never forget to include the essentials.
Finally, be sure to pick a spot with amazing views so that you will have memories to last a lifetime. This brings us to the next section.
