15 Camping In Donegal Spots For An Irish Adventure!
Camping in Donegal is a memorable experience IF you camp at the right place.
Donegal, Ireland, is a stunning county with plenty of natural beauty to offer to all visitors whether you are a solo traveler or even a family with toddlers.
So, if you’re looking for the best way to enjoy Dongeal’s natural beauty (i.e., Slieve League, Mount Errigal and more) in a chilled holiday setting, then camping is the way to go.
Located in the northwest corner of Ireland, this land always has something for everyone, from beaches and cliffs to forests and lakes.
Here are 15 of the best camping spots in Donegal for an unforgettable Irish adventure.
The Best Place For Budget Camping In Donegal: Malin Beg Beach Parking
The Best Place For Luxury Camping In Donegal: Portsalon Luxury Glamping
15 Best Camping In Donegal Spots
Best Places For Budget Camping In Donegal:
2. Caseys Caravan & Camping Park
4. Binion Bay Caravan Park Campsite
Best Places For Luxury Camping In Donegal:
7. The Bee Pod
9. Frank The Shipping Container
11. Fort Apache Luxury Camping
12. The Hobbit Pod (The Cropod)
13. Corcreggan Mill
14. Owenwee River Rest Glamping
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While as you get to camp near some of the most beautiful places in Donegal, be sure to also try out these fabulous adventurous tours :
& many more!
When you visit Ireland you want to be prepared because it can get COLD! And it also rains a lot O_O If you want to enjoy this charming country in comfort, make sure you pack some essentials that we ALWAYS pack:
- 2 base layer thermals (I love these!)
- 1 thick fleece jacket or puffer jacker
- Fleece lined leggings
- 1-2 sweater dresses.
- 2 pairs of fleece lined jeans or pants
- Winter Touchscreen Gloves
- 2-4 wool sweaters
- Super comfy scarf
- Super chic coat here and here
- Bonus– Excellent useful and authentic book on Ireland!
If you’re not a fan of outdoor activities, you can always opt for these casual family-friendly tours too!
Camping In Donegal On a Budget
When money is tight, traveling while camping might truly just be the perfect solution for fellow travel budgeters!
In fact, most of these budget-friendly camping sites in Donegal have magnificent views that wood make you want to spend s’mores time here.
Camp believe me? Keep reading!
1. Killybegs Holiday Park
Let’s begin with some of the best camping grounds that Donegal can offer!
Located on the outskirts of Killybegs, the campground at Killybegs Holiday Park is indeed a great place to unwind as it is based high above Donegal Bay.
It offers views of St. John’s Point and the Sligo Mountains.
Aside from the background sound of gulls and the Donegal Bay tides, this campground in Killybegs is very peaceful and not crowded, with access to a little private beach that has crystal-clear water.
It is truly one of the best places for wild camping in Donegal!
Location: | Killybegs |
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Price per night: | €25 ($25) |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Electricity Laundry and waste disposal Has toilet and shower blocks Has motorhome service Has WIFI |
2. Caseys Caravan & Camping Park, Donegal
If you’re looking for the best Downings caravan park Donegal, then be sure to sleep a night or two at Casey’s Caravan Park, which is based in the quaint fishing village of Downings in Sheephaven Bay.
One of the reasons why this caravan is at the top of our list as the best wild camping spot in Donegal is that it is nearby Downings Beach, which is perfect for families and water sport enthusiasts.
Within their campground, they have 16 electrical outlets (so that you don’t have to fight for electricity with other campers), as well as shower/toilet facilities that are both contemporary and clean.
Some may remark this place as one of the pricey campsites in Donegal, it’s important to note that it is also located nearby other attractions such as Kidz Kingdom, Gáinne Mór Alpacas, and many more.
Location: | Downing |
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Price per night: | €30 ($30) |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Electricity Has toilet and shower blocks Has motorhome service |
3. Camping Sleeping Hollow
For those who wish to go wild camping in Donegal, visit this peaceful camping spot; Camping Sleepy Hollow , which is located in the tranquil town of Meenaleck.
This is one of the best spots for camping Donegal Ireland because it is near Donegal airport (which is only 10 minutes away!) and has great onsite facilities such as a toilet, shower block, a common area with a campers’ kitchen with fridge, and waste disposal.
This campsite is a great place to relax and recharge if you reach Donegal by flight.
Location: | Meenalecky, Co. Donegal |
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Price per night: | €25 ($25) |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Electricity Laundry and waste disposal Has toilet and shower blocks Campsite near Donegal airport |
4. Binion Bay Caravan Camping Site
If you are heading up north, then head along to Binion Bay Caravan Park, a family-run and family-friendly caravan park in Donegal which is only 5-minutes away from the Inishowen village of Clonmany in Donegal.
It is truly one of the best caravan sites in Donegal as it is within the route of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way (a 2,500-kilometre coastal road worth trying!) as well as other interesting attractions such as Binnion Hill and Glenevin waterfall!
It is also nearby Tullagh Strand beach, making it one of the best Donegal camping parks that are nearby Donegal’s top natural attractions!
Location: | Binnion Bay, Co. Donegal |
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Price per night: | €26 ($26) |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Electricity Has toilet and shower blocks Nearby Glenevin waterfall |
5. Tramore Beach Caravan
This is one of the best beach campsites in Donegal Ireland.
Located in Rosbeg, County Donegal, Tramore Beach Caravan & Camping Park is situated in a tranquil location directly next to the beach. (extremely convenient!)
One of the best parts about staying in a Tramore Beach Caravan is its on-site amenities, which include 24 caravan spots, 24 tents, a toilet block, laundry facilities, a playground, campers’ shelter, electric hook-ups, and a pop-up shop (during peak season in summer).
Water sports fans, particularly surfers, should definitely try and camp here as you can walk along the kilometre-long sandy Portnoo beach, which is both gorgeous and relaxing.
Location: | Portnoo |
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Price per night: | FREE |
Pet-friendly: | Not allowed |
Note: | Electricity Laundry and waste disposal Children’s play area Has toilet and shower blocks |
6. Malin Beg Beach Parking
Last but certainly not least, one of the best places to do camping in Ireland, Donegal is to spend a night under the stars on one of Donegal’s best beaches with breathtaking scenery.
You can park your caravan here as there are plenty of parking spaces with a nearby cafe that’s just a few metres away.
Once you have settled in, explore Malin’s Beg pristine beach using a nearby wooden staircase.
Dogs are generally welcome, but do not leave any of their faeces behind.
So, if you are looking for the most scenic wild camping spots Donegal, Malin Beg Beach Parking is the perfect choice for you!
Location: | Malin Beg, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | FREE |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Nearby toilets and cafe Wastewater discharge |
Best Luxury Camping In Donegal
Who says camping has to be all muddy and boring?
If you want to enjoy Donegal in its raw nature without sacrificing the comfort of a mattress and a toilet bowl, then this glamping Donegal list will certainly be your life savior.
Plus, who needs a 5-star hotel when you can sleep under 5-billion star accommodation!
7. The Bee Pod
Let’s begin our glamping list with this humble yet luxurious property.
The Bee Pod offers a unique glamping experience with a relaxing option to buzz in its double or train beds with modern decor that exudes a relaxing ambiance.
It is certainly one of the best spots for glamping in Donegal as you get to overlook Rossnowlagh Beach and Donegal Bay, and it is very near to Rossnowlagh Surf School.
If you book your stay here, you’ll be greeted by Bee Pod’s signature welcome basket filled with freshly-baked granola, wheat bread, jam, and honey from Bee Pod’s beehives. Now that’s buzzin’!
One of the reasons why we find The Bee Pods the perfect experience for romantic yet modern camping pods in Donegal for couples is that they also offer a luxurious, double seaweed bath!
Location: | Rossnowlagh |
Price per night: | €149 ($149) for 2 people* |
Pets: | Not allowed |
Note: | Requires 2 night minimum Has premium seaweed bath ( €35 ($35) per person) Near Rossnowlagh Surf School |
8.Lough Mardal Lodge
Here’s another great glamping spot worth checking out, especially when you are near Donegal; Lough Mardal Lodge.
This beautiful lakeside glamping spot is strategically located along the path of the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal, Ireland, and is nestled cozily within the 90 acres of lake frontage with magnificent views of Donegal Bay.
There are 5 enormous 20-foot yurts and 1 large shepherd hut that you can choose to sleep in with its super king bed, wood-burning stove, and private sundeck overlooking Lough Mardal lake, forest, and mountain views.
This is certainly one of the most luxurious Donegal camping spot that accepts pets. However, do note that there may be some type of pet fee imposed (you can confirm this by calling in advance).
Location: | Ballintra, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €120 ($120) for 2 people. |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | For yurt :1 pet is allowed For Shepherd’s Hut: no pets allowed May have a pet fee |
9. Frank The Shipping Container
Frank The Shipping Container is, without a doubt, one of the most quirky spots for camping Donegal Ireland that you should try!
This 12-metre-long shipping container was meticulously repurposed by its owner and designer, Greg Stevenson, and turned into the stylish vacation house that you see today, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy eco-friendly travel.
This quaint cabin is certainly a great spot to unwind as you sit across a tiny coastal lake overlooking Traighenna Bay.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot a couple of wild seals.
It certainly is one of the best hidden Donegal camping sites.
Location: | Lettermacaward, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €112 ($112) for 2 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Eco-friendly glamping spot This property is available to adults only (for safety reason) |
10. Portsalon Luxury Camping
If you are looking to go for a more luxurious camping night beneath the stars in Donegal, then Portsalon Luxury Clamping is the choice for you.
Located in a secluded spot on the Fanad Peninsula, this fancy tent camping in Donegal Ireland certainly lives up to its name as a Luxury camping spot with over 5 beautiful and well-furnished yurts.
Luxury camping at its finest, with a king-sized bed, a couch bed, wood-burning cookers, a fridge, a dining space, Wi-Fi, and charging stations, is all available.
It certainly serves as one of the places to go camping on the Donegal coast.
Location: | Cashelpreaghan, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €98 ($98) for 2-4 people |
Pet-friendly: | Not allowed |
Note: | Only open from April to October only, closed during winter Near one of Donegal’s blue flag beaches; Ballymastocker Bay |
11.Fort Apache Luxury Caravan
If you’re looking for the most glamorous glamping spot in Ireland’s northernmost county – then bring your pillows to Fort Apache camping in Donegal.
This luxury caravan park is certainly one of the best static caravan sites in Donegal.
You can venture to a nearby private beach and get to enjoy outdoor activities such as sea fishing, outdoor walking, BBQ grilling, and many more when you spend a night or two in Fort Apache Luxury Caravan.
Location: | Lettermacaward, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €98 ($98) for 2-4 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Pet-friendly luxury campsite Allow campfire Have dog park to run! |
12. The Hobbit Pod
Are you a big fan of The Lord of the Rings?
If so, then The Hobbit Pod a.k.a Cropod is the Donegal glamping site for you!
A cute hobbit house set on a mountain with some of the best coastal views imaginable, allowing you to live like Bilbo.
With its modern, comfortable double bed, a kitchen with an oven, a lounge area, and a built-in shower, it’s no surprise why this glamping pod has taken social media by storm in recent years.
On top of that, The Times also awarded this spot as the “Best Place in Ireland to Get Away from It All” in 2017, making it one of the most unique spots for camping Donegal.
Location: | Glencolumbkille, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €80 ($80) for 2 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Unique glamping accommodation One of the best campsites Donegal |
13. Corcreggan Mill
If you are looking for the best place for glamping Donegal, Dunfanaghy, then consider spending a night or two in Corcreggan Mill, which is just 3km away from the town of Dunfanaghy.
This gorgeous campsite offers a variety of camping options based on your preferences and availability, with breathtaking views of Tory Island and Muckish Mountain.
From the typical tents to modern motorhomes and glamping available, it has all the facilities needed when camping.
There’s even a 150-year-old train carriage, which sleeps a massive 16 people in its 5 compartments.
For those who like to sleep under the stars, go for their Bell Tents which is also one of the most popular choices amongst travelers, or an exclusive ensuite night in The Boat, making this one of the best and most unique touring caravan sites Donegal.
Location: | Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €72.50. ($72.50) for 2-4 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Unique glamping accommodation Campfires allowed Has one large accommodation for 16 people |
14. Owenea River Rest Glamping
If you’re looking for the best spot for glamping Donegal with a hot tub, then you must stay a night at Owenea River Rest Glamping, as it is one of the few family-friendly glamping spots with hot tub facilities.
Just 1.5 km from the heritage town of Ardara, you will be greeted by a breathtaking mountain view and have the choice of over 4 well-furnished cabins.
Its price is fairly reasonable as you get the whole entire place to yourself.
One of the best things about staying in Owenea River Rest is that you get to do a lot of outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, watersports, fishing, and many more.
Location: | Ardara, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €130 ($130) for 2-4 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Unique glamping accommodation Glamping spot with hot tub |
15. Wild Atlantic Camp – luxury
If you are broké (i.e. have boujee (expensive taste) but broke), then this place might just be the perfect Donegal camping experience for you!
Wild Atlantic Camp Donegal is one of the best campsites in Donegal can offer, from cozy and adorable wooden pods to mobile-friendly caravans to the classic tent pitches (there are options for everyone!)
Located near the Creeslough village, this is also one of the caravan sites in Donegal has the best view of the glorious Sheephaven Bay, and not too far from Glenveagh National Park.
One of the many things we love about this place is that it has plenty of great onsite facilities within the campsite, such as hot showers, a communal camping kitchen, a kid’s playground, and even a cafe at such an affordable price!
So, if you are broké (boujee (expensive taste) + broke), then this place might just be a perfect luxury and budget-friendly Donegal camping experience for you!
Location: | Creeslough, Co. Donegal |
Price per night: | €55 ($55) for 2-4 people |
Pet-friendly: | Yes |
Note: | Affordable glamping accommodation Plenty of onsite facilities Near Glenveagh National Park. |
All You Need To Know About Camping in Donegal
A camping holiday can certainly be a great experience, especially if you are someone who loves the outdoors and enjoys being in nature.
Although, Donegal is certainly one of the best places to camp as you get to enjoy Ireland’s mountain wilderness in a nice, cool temperature.
Regardless, Donegal weather can be a bit unpredictable at times (so, its best that you be prepared for all its weather!)
It is also important to note that you abide to the do’s and don’ts when camping in Ireland as these tips can be helpful (and life-saving at times!):
Do This When Camping
- Always camp in a flat and clear area. While it is nice to camp near a cliff or river, there are still potential risks from Ireland’s strong gust of coastal winds.
- Prepare a checklist of all your camping items and batteries that you are bringing.
- Bring chargers that are solar-friendly so that you don’t have to fight over a charging port (plus sunlight can be pretty limited here in Donegal)
- Do arrive early and set up your camp during the daytime as it can get dark quickly in Donegal (especially during winter).
- Do explore nature and follow the designated paths and trails.
Do Not Do This When Camping:
- Do not litter or leave any trash behind after camping. It’s not cute or cool, just plain disgusting.
- Do not lose your shoes, as walking barefoot to your campsite might just be the most unpleasant thing to do.
- Do not damage or trample any plants
- Do not play loud music, especially during quiet hours
- Do not camp at the lowest part of the campsite as you may end up with a flooded tent when it rains.
Essential Items For Camping In Donegal
In order to have the best camping experience, it is important that you bring the best camping gear so that it will ease your camping experience.
Here are the essential items that you should definitely bring (or at least, invest in!):
- Headlamps: This is an essential piece of gear that you will definitely use especially if you plan to go camping in Ireland during winter (as it can get pretty dark as early as 3pm!).
- Heat-insulated sleeping bag: The last thing you want to do is wake up freezing-cold as the temperature can drop as low as 8°C (46°F) when camping in Donegal.
- Invest in good-quality tents: There are so many tents that you can choose from based on size and price.
In fact, there’s even a super-quick pop-up tent that can reveal the tent within 30 seconds (crazy, innit?!) which can be really useful on a rainy camping day in Donegal.
FAQs On Camping In Donegal
Can You Go Wild Camping In Donegal?
Yes, you can go wild camping in Donegal (and in many places in Ireland). From dedicated campsites overlooking the Atlantic to wild camping in Donegal.
There’s even a dedicated campsite for those who want to go glamping, a glamorous form of camping where you can still sleep outside without sacrificing the luxury of life (i.e., a ready-made tent with amenities such as electricity and even running water).
Is Wild Camping Legal In Ireland?
Although camping in the wild in Ireland is not strictly legal, it is tolerated in many upland and remote areas. Additionally, the Northern Ireland Forestry Service, a dedicated organization for wildlife activities in Ireland, also offers camping licenses at some of its sites.
So, yes, wild camping can be considered legal as long as you do not trespass on someone else’s private territory. However, most northern Irelanders are very friendly and welcoming if you are respectful of their motherland.
Can You Wild Camp On Beaches In Ireland?
Yes, “wild” camping (i.e., camping outside of a site) is allowed in much of Ireland, especially near the sea and in national parks. Just be sure that you have the right gear and proper equipment to set up your own campsites, as camping in the wilderness can be quite a challenging adventure, especially in the Irish coastal weather (not too dramatic, but it can get quite windy and drizzly at times).
If you do plan to wild camp on beaches, be sure to camp at Derrybane Beach, Co. Kerry, a A secluded dune-backed beach with soft, white sand and a nearby medieval church to explore.
Conclusion
There you have it—the 15 best spots for camping in Donegal.
Just always be on the lookout when setting up your camp, so that you are well-prepared in case of sudden weather changes. (Irish weather can give a windy surprise at times!)
Once you are well-rested after an overnight camping trip, why not go on and explore the 27 best places to go for hiking in Donegal (that will most certainly take your breath away)!
We hope you and your loved one enjoyed reading this article and I hope that you found the perfect spot for your next camping stop during your North Irish adventure.
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