Wild Camping and Backpacking

Wild Camping and Backpacking

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Posted Thu 26 Jan 2023 5:09 PM
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Group: Community Member Last Active: Fri 27 Jan 2023 11:52 PM Visits: 8
I am planning to visit Ireland this year, probably June, and I would really like to do some hiking/backpacking and wild camping somewhere for 3 or 4 nights. I'm having a bit of a difficult time finding a place.
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Posted Fri 27 Jan 2023 5:29 PM
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Hi Reba,

We're so happy to hear you're planning a trip to Ireland this year! It's a wonderful idea to explore our countryside on foot and be surrounded by nature day and night! 🥾⛺

Wild camping is restricted on our island for safety and insurance reasons. There are some National Parks that are happy to provide you with a permit for wild camping within their boundaries. Have a look at the National Parks & Wildlife Service's page for more information. If you'd like to camp on private land, you would need the landowner's permission. Otherwise, there are plenty of campsites to choose from. Have a read on our website for tips on camping, some suggestions for wonderful locations and links to various campsites.

Is this your first trip to Ireland, or have you explored our island in other ways before? 🚗🚍

Best wishes,
Rebecca ☘️
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Posted Fri 27 Jan 2023 10:47 PM
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Hi thanks for the information, I've looked at the National Parks website previously and cannot find anything about camping anywhere. This will be my first trip to Ireland. Logistics for what I want to do is proving more difficult than I thought it would.
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Posted Sun 29 Jan 2023 8:43 AM
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Hi Reba,

Not to worry, wild camping in Ireland's National Parks isn't really advertised but is definitely possible and an enjoyable experience. Do you already know in which parts of Ireland are you looking to pitch your tent for the night? 

The Wicklow Mountains National Park mentions specific guidelines for overnight hikers, same goes for Connemara National Park which allows wild camping in its most remote parts. I'd suggest visiting the "Things to Do" section of the National Parks website to find out more about wild camping.

As Rebecca said, it's best to obtain the landowner's permission to camp anywhere else.

I'd love to hear more about your itinerary. Are you planning to hike as well?

Cheers,
Antoine

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Posted Tue 16 Dec 2025 3:42 PM
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Wild camping in Ireland is limited and not generally permitted by law, which is why it can be hard to find clear options. However, it is sometimes tolerated in remote areas if done responsibly. For a 3 to 4-night hiking or backpacking trip, suitable areas include remote mountain or coastal regions where there is low foot traffic. You must camp discreetly, stay well away from houses, farmland, and roads, and always ask permission if land ownership is clear. Leave no trace, avoid fires, and move on each day rather than staying in one spot. Be aware that the weather can change quickly, even in June, and ground conditions can be wet and boggy. Routes are often not clearly marked, so strong navigation skills are essential. Water is usually available from streams, but it should be treated. If you prefer a legal alternative, some long-distance walking routes have nearby campsites or informal arrangements with landowners, which can still give a remote, multi-day experience without breaking regulations.

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