Located just a stone’s throw from Ireland’s capital, Wicklow National Park is a picturesque haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs and adventure seekers alike. Spanning over 79 square miles (205 square kilometres), this stunning park is Ireland's largest treasure trove of lush forests, majestic mountains, and sparkling lakes. We’re here to guide you to Wicklow National Park’s best campsites.
A visit to Wicklow isn’t complete without a trip to Glendalough, a world-famous Monastic site and the starting point of a number of glorious walking and cycling trails. If your group loves a waterfall (and who doesn’t) set a day aside to visit Powerscourt, Eas Chonaill in Gaelic, Ireland’s highest falls at 121m. Further hiking and biking adventures can be enjoyed along the 130-kilometre-long Wicklow Way, Lugnaquilla, Devil’s Glen Forest, or the Bray to Greystones coastal path, to name just a few. Whether you want to gaze over misty lochs or scale some of Ireland's highest and most rewarding peaks, Wicklow National Park has you covered.
In this blog, we’ll explore the wonders on offer when camping at Wicklow National Park, including the top walks, places to visit and some cosy pubs to sample a pint of the black stuff. We'll also offer recommendations for the top five motorhome campsites within Wicklow National Park, including some family and dog-friendly options to make your holiday complete. Let’s get started.
1. Hidden Valley Holiday Park
Looking for a Wicklow motorhome campsite with plenty to keep kids entertained? Add Hidden Valley Holiday Park to your list of considerations. This award-winning site offers spacious pitches, modern facilities and a brilliant range of outdoor activities including kayaking, an aquapark with over 30 obstacles, minigolf, zip-lining, combat laser tag, a pet farm…. You get the picture!
For the more sedentary among you, there’s the opportunity to fish in the Avonmore River that runs through the site. Fishing season runs from March 15th to September 30th with the best times in spring (March to May) and early autumn (late August to September). Advance booking is essential for weekends, high season and bank holidays.
Hidden Valley Holiday Park, Lower Main St, Glasnarget North, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Coordinates: 52.93927452354487, -6.227434631378393
2. Roundwood Caravan and Camping Park
Situated near the tranquil village of its namesake, Roundwood Caravan and Camping Park offers a truly picturesque setting and an excellent location to explore the many attractions around Glendalough and the Wicklow Way. The site is the winner of multiple awards and has well-maintained facilities, including hot showers, laundry services and a camper's kitchen.
After a day hiking or sightseeing take a stroll into Roundwood Village, which at 238m above sea level is the highest village in Ireland. Here you can choose from a variety of tempting treats at Byrne and Woods or pull up a chair around the log-burning fire at the converted hunting lodge at The Roundwood Inn.
Roundwood Caravan and Camping Park, Togher Beg, Roundwood, Co. Wicklow, A98 W3R8, Ireland
Coordinates: 53.0692392826317, -6.222784028708404
3. Wolohan’s Silver Strand
While the national park itself offers an array of beguiling mountain and forest scenery, Wicklow County also contains some lovely stretches of coastline. If you fancy gazing out over the Irish sea and enjoying a surprisingly silky sand beach, head over to Wolohan’s Silver Strand motorhome campsite near the Wicklow National Park. The beach here is tiny but, as the saying goes, perfectly formed and the sand really is soft to the touch. Brittas Bay, a ten-minute drive south is a great alternative if this diminutive bay is busy.
Visitors to this campsite in Wicklow National Park can choose from a range of grass pitches, with or without an electric hookup. Facilities are good including laundry, a washing-up area, a very well-equipped shop (including plenty of camping gear) and two toilet blocks. Plus, every site comes with glorious sea views. Dogs on leads are welcome at the site, though not on the beach.
Wolohan’s Silver Strand, Silver Strand, Dunbur Upper, Co. Wicklow, A67 PK31, Ireland
Coordinates: 52.95476618889961, -6.0167203737073
4. River Valley Holiday Park
Understanding the different types of travellers looking for camping in Wicklow National Park, River Valley Holiday Park has got all bases covered. Here you’ll find a kid and family-friendly area complete with crazy golf, a petting zoo, remote-controlled boats, go-karting and all manner of fun, as well as an adults-only area where guests can enjoy a holiday free of noise and bustle. The site facilities are excellent and dogs are welcome.
As you can see there is plenty to do on-site but also a lot to occupy holidaymakers in the surrounding area. The beautiful Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens is just down the road as is the aforementioned Brittas Bay, a 5-kilometre Blue Flag beach where you can swim, watch the waves roll in or try your luck at riding one with the Brittas Bay Surf School.
Main Street, Ballygillaroe, Redcross, Co. Wicklow, A67 H799, Ireland
Coordinates: 52.88923152836616, -6.145107600544669
5. Moat Farm Caravan and Camping
At the foothills of the awe-inspiring Wicklow Mountains, Moat Farm is a charming family-run campsite that offers visitors a serene and spacious retreat. Situated just a one-minute stroll from the picturesque Donard Village, guests can immerse themselves in a peaceful ambience, surrounded by bird song-filled tranquillity and scenic beauty.
Moat Farm's location serves as a perfect base for camping near Wicklow National Park. If you’re looking to explore this wonderful area on foot, take a look at this handy guide to the best walks and trails from Visit Wicklow. Don’t forget that the weather in Ireland is famously changeable so always bring your waterproofs, wear sturdy footwear and, yes — believe it or not, some sunscreen!
For horse racing enthusiasts, Moat Farm also offers convenient access to renowned race courses such as Punchestown, Naas, and the Curragh. Nature lovers can enjoy the nearby attractions of the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens as well as the aforementioned delights of Glendalough and Powerscourt.
Donard Demesne West, Donard, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Coordinates: 53.03413860446796, -6.611853248655149
As you can see, Wicklow National Park is a haven for motorhome holidaymakers, offering a myriad of natural wonders and thrilling adventures. Whether you're exploring ancient monastic sites, hiking or cycling through breathtaking landscapes, playing in towering white sand dunes or simply enjoying the world-famous Irish hospitality, this park has it all.
Wild camping in Wicklow
Alongside the five motorhome campsites in Wicklow National Park we have mentioned, wild camping is possible. Along the Wicklow Way route, for example, you'll find ample opportunities for parking up, especially in the low season. Remember to follow the wild camping code and seek permission from landowners before setting up camp.
Become a Wicklow Ambassador
While you’re in the area why not collect stamps for your Wicklow Passport? Get your free passport at participating locations or order online and download the four passport routes: Wicklow East Coast, West Wicklow, South Wicklow, and Wicklow Mountains. Throughout your journey on four or two wheels, foot or hoof you can collect stamps at designated locations including attractions, activities, shops, pubs and cafes. The aim is to get the 15 stamps required to be a Wicklow Ambassador and be awarded a pin, but you’ll have fun whatever you pick up on the way. For more information including stamping locations and passport routes, visit the Wicklow Passport website.
As mentioned, it’s important to prepare for all weathers on the Emerald Isle so pack with every season in mind and take a few creature comforts (including those cosy blankets) to make your holiday even more enjoyable. Naturally, this is all a lot easier when you have your own motorhome to stash your gear. Find out more about our motorhomes available for hire in Ireland today.
