Camp Sites in County Carlow

With a great location in the sunny South East, Carlow basks in rich history, Carlow, Ireland’s second smallest county, is a glistening jewel in the heart of the sunny  South East. Read More

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Visit County Carlow

When it comes to camping sites in County Carlow, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the stunning countryside that characterizes this picturesque county. With towering mountain ranges, meandering rivers, and historic landmarks, Carlow offers a postcard-perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore ancient monuments and burial chambers dating back to the Iron Age, such as the renowned Brownshill Dolmen.

Known as the Dolmen County, Carlow is nestled within Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, fabulous food, and rich culture. Immerse yourself in the timeless and unspoiled landscape, where picturesque villages, rolling hills, and meandering rivers captivate your senses. Discover the colorful tales of the local people, both past and present, and uncover hidden gems that lie off the beaten path.

Carlow boasts an array of looped walks throughout the county, from Oak Park Forest Park and Clogrennane Wood near Carlow Town to Kilbrannish North and South Forests, Deerpark on the Blackstairs Mountains, Clashganny Forest, and Bahana and Gowlin Forests near St Mullins. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Barrow Way or a more adventurous hike along the scenic South Leinster and Wicklow Ways, Carlow offers a variety of walking trails to suit every preference.

Travelling to County Carlow

By Plan

Dublin Airport is 107km from Carlow Town Centre offering direct flights from over 100 destinations around Europe, the USA and Middle East.

By  Boat

Both Rosslare Europort and Dublin Port are just over an hour from Carlow Town centre.  Brittany Ferries operates a service between Cork-Roscoff (France). Rosslare and Dublin ports offer daily services between Ireland-UK and services to France and Northern Spain.  The following companies offer ferry services into Ireland – Stena Line, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Kintyre Express, and Isle of Man Steam Packet

 

By Bus

Bus Eireann Expressway operates Route 4 from Carlow to Dublin City/Dublin Airport and Waterford.

 

By Train

From Dublin Heuston there are daily services in operation to Carlow. For further information check their website at Irish Rail

 

 

While camping in County Carlow, make sure to explore the following attractions:

Huntington Castle & Gardens

Discover a treasure trove of historical architecture and objects at Huntington Castle & Gardens. Meander down the serene Yew Tree Walk and admire the water features in Huntington’s delightful pleasure grounds. Originally built as a defensive garrison, Huntington Castle was developed into a family estate by the Baron of Esmonde. Take a tour and view the old kitchens, drawing room and the refurbished conservatory, and hear the stories of the castle and its occupants brought to life. See the intriguing Fellowship of Isis Temple —in the 1970s, this spiritual organisation established the castle’s basement as a place of worship of the Egyptian Goddess. Explore the gardens and get truly lost in nature. From the French lime trees to the ornamental lawns and fishpond, this is perfect place for a family walk or a romantic stroll.

 

Rathwood Forest Walks

Rathwood is home to wonderful, carefully planned forest walks that extend more than 4km. The walks include a short, wheelchair-accessible route and a longer looped walk The walks, part of the Carlow Garden Trail, include a short, leisurely, wheelchair-accessible walk to a pond and a longer looped ‘Molloy Walk’ with seating at regular intervals. This forest is a valuable and rewarding educational tool, given the vast ecological resources of flora, wildlife and tree species contained within its 75-hectare boundaries. Rath Wood offers a sanctuary for many mammals, birds and insect species.

On a visit, expect to see deer, rabbits, mink, foxes, pheasants and dragonflies among others. The forest contains a great variety of tree species including beech, oak, Sitka spruce, Norway spruce, birch, Douglas fir and alder. Train rides around the forest are available from Rathwood.

Go with the Flow River Adventures

Go with the Flow River Adventures offer guided river treks, multi-day trips, canoe hire, courses and much more.  They offer incredible trails, eco safaris and white-water adventures in Carlow and Kilkenny. Choose from traditional Canadian canoes, kayaks or new river surfers. Qualified guides with years of experience will help you all the way. Options include the discovery river adventure, guided river treks, canoe hire and multi-day trips. You are sure to have an excellent voyage of discovery and a renewed sense of what a beautiful countryside Ireland’s waterways provide.

 

Altamont Gardens

The heavenly 16-hectare gardens of Altamont in County Carlow combine formal and informal gardens with a variety of flora.  The Robinsonian-style gardens are home to native species as well as exotic ones like Swamp Cypress, Red Oak and Giant Redwood. Strolling through the tranquil area, visitors will also find a lake and a river walk. An unmissable highlight of a visit to Altamont Gardens is the walled garden situated within the grounds of the estate.

 

Create lasting memories as you camp amidst the natural wonders and cultural treasures of County Carlow. Start planning your visit today and experience the best of this charming Irish county.

Carlow Special Offers

Frequently Asked Questions about Camping in County Carlow

What types of camping are available in County Carlow?

County Carlow offers various camping options including tent camping, caravan and motorhome pitches, and eco-friendly glamping experiences surrounded by nature.

Is County Carlow good for scenic and nature-based camping?

Yes, Carlow is ideal for nature lovers. With its rolling hills, forest parks, and riverside trails, the county provides a peaceful setting for a relaxing outdoor escape.

Are there walking and hiking trails near Carlow campsites?

Absolutely. Carlow features numerous looped walks and long-distance trails like the Barrow Way, the South Leinster Way, and forest walks in places like Oak Park and Blackstairs Mountains.

Is County Carlow suitable for family camping?

Yes, Carlow offers family-friendly attractions including gardens, historic sites, forest walks, and guided river adventures — making it an excellent camping destination for all ages.

Can I enjoy water activities while camping in Carlow?

Yes, several providers offer guided river adventures such as canoeing and kayaking on the River Barrow, giving visitors the chance to experience Carlow’s waterways from a new perspective.

Are pets allowed at campsites in County Carlow?

Many campsites in Carlow are pet-friendly, especially those near walking routes and rural areas. It’s best to check individual site policies in advance.