Ok, so its sunny and warm and you just want to get away into the wild with your tent, detox from real life and just be. Of course we are spoiled for campsites in Northern Ireland, but I wanted to find that special somewhere that offered a little bit more. Somewhere where you can revel in the delights of nature. So here’s some extra special camping spots for you to check out!
Crom Campsite
Location: Crom Estate, Upper Lough Erne, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, UK, BT92 8AJ
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/northern-ireland/crom-campsite
This small campsite (16 pitches) is actually part of the National Trust at the beautiful Crom Estate in County Fermanagh. So with your fee you also get access to this amazing estate. Perfect for a stroll around the estate and getting a glimpse of the castle (private). This is a special spot as when the gates shut in the late afternoon you and the other campers have the place to yourselves.
There is a little museum on site, coffee shop and opportunity to hire bikes and boats. Look out for butterflies, red squirrels, otters and pine martens, and visit the bird hide in a quiet corner of the estate. Dogs are welcome.
What guests are saying: “Absolutely lovely place to walk around. Tranquility, birdsong, deer, swans, just beautiful”
Wild road tip: Take an evening dip in the Lough
Tollymore Forest Park camping
Location: Tollybrannigan Road, Newcastle BT33 0PR
Website: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/tollymore-forest-park-camping-touring-online-booking
This campsite is a hidden gem in the Tollymore Forest Park just outside Newcastle, nestling at the foot of Slieve Donard. If you like to be surrounded by nature with amazing Mountain views and numerous forest walks, your in luck.
The tent pitches are first come first serve, but enough room for everyone. Seems the toilet blocks are dated but acceptable. Kids playground on site and access to the famous stepping stones river.
What guests are saying: “If you have a real love for the outdoors and being close to nature and beautiful views, you can’t beat this place!! Highly recommended by kids and adults”
Wild road tip: Access Slieve Donard from here
Sessile Oak Wild Camping
Location: 40 Learden Road, Gortin, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, Northern Ireland, BT79 8QD
Described as a Wild Camping location, this site is the real deal when it comes to being able to immerse yourself into nature and its elements. Choose your own spot whether it be deep in the forest surrounded by trees or up on the ridge taking advantage of the view. One booking at a time for exclusive access to the woods and river, so no need to see another soul if that’s what your looking for!
You also have the opportunity to Salmon fish from the river (permit needed).
What guests are saying: “I cannot praise Sessile Oak highly enough, it is an oasis of calm and tranquility, if you like your camping to be wild and peaceful this is the spot”
Wild road tip: Try the homemade ice cream
Watertop Open Farm
Location: 188 Cushendall Road, Ballycastle, BT54 6RN
Website: https://watertopfarm.co.uk
This is the perfect site for families, located within a working farm there will always be a fair share of fluffly friends nearby. As this used to be a public fun farm there are still kid friendly facilities such as a play park, monster slide, 9-hole crazy golf course and pedal-karts. No late night revellers here!
The site is located in a stunning area just outside Ballycastle with view over the over looking the sea.
What guests are saying: “A quiet site set in beautiful surroundings. There are some nice walks from the site, and lots.of tourist attractions only a short drive away”
Wild road tip: Enjoy the camp fire inside the little cottage in the evening
Castle Ward Caravan Park
Location: Castle Ward Estate, Strangford, Downpatrick, County Down, UK, BT30 7LS
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/northern-ireland/castle-ward-caravan-park
Another cracker of a site to add to the list. This quiet campsite with a view of the lough on the Castle Ward Estate, is home to trails, ancient woodland, a mansion house and landscaped gardens. The site itself is small and surrounded by trees but within walking distance to Strangford town.
What guests are saying: “Such a lovely site. Views are amazing from the site and the walks are beautiful”
Wild road tip: Check out the village pub