The sun is finally out, and the birds are singing so if you’re looking for a nature filled getaway then look no further than the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion destination. This stunning area makes for an unforgettable camping experience, with plenty of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery, and serene campsites.
Planning a camping trip may seem overwhelming, but with a bit of research and a willingness to explore, you’ll find that its not quite so difficult. Here’s a guide to getting started.
First and foremost, you’ll need a place to pitch your tent. Lucky for you, the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion area has plenty of great campsites to choose from.
Camping in the Mourne Mountains
One of the most popular locations is Meelmore Lodge, which offers rustic camping with beautiful scenery and proximity to hiking trails.
For a forest experience, consider staying in either Tollymore Forest Park or Castlewellan Forest Park, with walking trails, beautiful scenery and pitches for tents and caravans.
Kilbroney Park, on the banks of Carlingford Lough is the perfect camping spot for families and adventurers alike with the amazing Narnia Trail for the little ones to explore.
If you prefer a more mountainous location, Bloody Bridge Campsite is the place for you, located directly beside the Brandy Pad and the Mourne Coastal Route this site gives you a head start to hiking in the Mournes. Millstone Campsite, Newcastle is also close to mountain trails, coastal walks, and the perfect spot for stunning views of the sea.
Camping on the Shores of Strangford Lough
Further along the coast, set on the shores of Strangford Lough is Delamont Country Park which offers pitches in an idyllic forest setting. Enjoy a cuppa in Steamers Café and let the kids run wild in the adventure playground, or hitch a ride on the miniature railway.
Castle Ward campsite has spectacular views over Strangford Lough and miles of walking and cycling trails to explore through parkland and ancient woodland, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet getaway.
So as you can see, camping in the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is something worth a try, with lots of outdoor activities, walks, stunning scenery, dog friendly places to visit and eat, there really is something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead, bring appropriate gear, and you’ll have a wonderful experience.
Meelmore Lodge Hostel accomodation is situated in the heart of the Mournes, adjacent to all the great walks the Mournes has to offer. The House is an old Mourne Farmhouse converted to meet tourist's needs. With an open fire, and cosy sleeping.
Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle and is open to the public all year. Tollymore Forest covers an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne Mountains.
Located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea, Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.
Kilbroney Park features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
The Narnia Trail starts and finishes within Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor and brings to life the C.S Lewis book, "Chronicles of Narnia" with a number of features along the route.
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. The stunning views across Strangford Lough and the relaxing atmosphere make Delamont Country Park a place to enjoy that 'away from it all feeling'. It is home of the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200-acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day out for all the family you will find plenty to entertain you in Delamont Country Park.
Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.
