Bangor Camping: Best Campsites Near Bangor, County Down

There is plenty to see and do around this seaside town within easy reach of Belfast. Explore the coastline around Belfast Lough and take in Crawfordsburn Country Park’s beaches, or explore along the east coast of the Ards peninsula, where you will find plenty of seaside camping near golden sands. Explore the shores of the nature reserve at Strangford Lough, with the stately home and gardens at Mount Stewart.

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Top-rated campgrounds

There is plenty to see and do around this seaside town within easy reach of Belfast. Explore the coastline around Belfast Lough and take in Crawfordsburn Country Park’s beaches, or explore along the east coast of the Ards peninsula, where you will find plenty of seaside camping near golden sands. Explore the shores of the nature reserve at Strangford Lough, with the stately home and gardens at Mount Stewart.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Troquhain Woods

92%

(32)

113km from Bangor · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Castle Douglas, Dumfries, South Scotland

Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland

2. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

147km from Bangor · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Wasdale, England

Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house), you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.

3. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

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132km from Bangor · 1 unit · Glamping · England

A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P

4. Oystercatcher Caravan

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72km from Bangor · 1 unit · Glamping · Newton Stewart, Galloway

The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.

5. The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

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142km from Bangor · 2 units · Glamping · Scotland

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

6. Runach Arainn Glamping

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(9)

92km from Bangor · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

7. Ayrshire Airstream

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132km from Bangor · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

8. Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

59km from Bangor · 5 units · Glamping · Stranraer, Galloway

We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.

9. Craigend Farm

141km from Bangor · 2 units · Glamping · Dumfries, Scotland

Smart glamping pods on the rural outskirts of Dumfries

10. The Lost Meadow

69km from Bangor · 1 unit · Tent · NI

A mile from the nearest road and hundreds of meters from the nearest house there is tiny off grid log cabin in a secluded woodland clearing beside a large natural wildflower meadow. The clearing is surrounded by mature hedges and trees and you can lock the gates from inside if you want to enjoy nature ‘au naturale’ although the whole estate is clothing optional for any naturists who care to visit. As well as the composting toilet there is an outdoor kitchen and a gas powered outdoor shower. Solar panels provide lights for the cabin and the kitchen. There is plenty room for up to three large tents in the clearing which is home to some fruiting apple and cherry trees, as well as blackberry bushes (feel free to help yourself in season) The fire pit is safe to use and we can supply firewood if needed. The whole estate is a privately owned wildlife and biodiversity project. Guests are free to roam both the woodland which has over 10,000 native broadleaf trees and the 5 acres of natural wildflower meadow. The owners who live on site in a carbon free eco house are beekeepers and produce the locally renowned ‘Ballymoney Honey’ which is available to buy on site in season. There is a growing bird hide (willow dome) in one of the clearings which has views over the upper meadow and the ground nesting birds that live there. We don’t permit dogs or insect repellents anywhere in the estate to protect the birds and wildlife that lives here. Sorry!

Camper favorites near Bangor

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Oystercatcher Caravan

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(1)

72km from Bangor · 1 unit · Glamping · Newton Stewart, Galloway

The 2 bedroom 35 x 12ft caravan is fully equipped for self-catering. With double glazing, central heating and an additional electric fire in the lounge it is warm throughout the year. The boiler also supplies constant hot water. Sorry we do not allow pets. Strictly no smoking or vaping is allowed in the caravan. The caravan can sleep up to 6 persons. Bedroom #1 - with standard size double bed (new mattress for 2025) with fitted wardrobes and cupboards. Bedroom #2 - with two single beds with cupboard space. The lounge sofa has a fold out double bed (new mattress for 2025). All bedding is provided. Lounge / Dining Room - the lounge has large windows and access to the veranda. The room also has fitted cupboards. The dining area has a circular table with 4 chairs. Kitchen - fully fitted with a gas cooker, microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, pots and pans. Cooking utensils, a 6 piece dinner service and cutlery are also provided. Tea, coffee and sugar are supplied at the start of the holiday, but will not be replenished. Bathroom - with shower, toilet and washbasin. We do not supply towels. Additional - Outside table and 4 chairs. Also Fire and CO Alarms, Thermometer, Wall clock and Tide clock. An information pack of places to visit and eat is provided. The caravan is on the family run Monreith Sands Holiday Park with a great location on the beautiful Galloway coast. Sandy beaches are only a few 100m away. The generally calm waters of Luce Bay are great for swimming or kayaking. Nearby is a golf course plus historic sites and formal gardens. Although the Galloway Forest is know for being a Dark Sky Park and great for stargazing, the whole Machars peninsular is very dark. The Galloway Astronomy Centre (01988 500594) gives stargazing tours.

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

100%

(3)

142km from Bangor · 2 units · Glamping · Scotland

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

Runach Arainn Glamping

100%

(9)

92km from Bangor · 3 units · Glamping · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

132km from Bangor · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

Glamping in Galloway with Hot Tubs

59km from Bangor · 5 units · Glamping · Stranraer, Galloway

We are pet friendly here at The Galloway Steading all of our accommodations have secure private safe areas for your furry friends that coupled with lots of lovely walks all around us should ensure a fun break for them too. There's a £13 charge per dog per stay max 3 per accommodation payable on arrival. Glenluce and the surrounding areas offer various sports and outdoor activities for tourists who enjoy staying active. Here are some sports and recreational options: Next door to us is the Wigtownshire County Golf Course, offering beautiful landscapes for a round of golf. Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore the scenic countryside by taking advantage of the numerous hiking and walking trails in the region. Galloway Forest Park, in particular, offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one locally to explore the picturesque countryside. There are cycling routes that cater to both casual riders and more experienced cyclists. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Glenluce. Check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for a relaxing day by the water. Bird Watching: The Wood of Cree, an RSPB nature reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species in this beautiful natural setting. Water Sports: If you're a fan of water activities, head to the nearby coastline for opportunities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. Archery: Some locations in the region offer archery experiences, providing a unique and enjoyable way to spend your time outdoors. Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can explore rock climbing opportunities in the Galloway Hills. There are various routes suitable for different skill levels. Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside on horseback. Several riding stables in the area offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. Shooting and Hunting: For those interested in shooting sports, there are facilities that offer clay pigeon shooting and other shooting experiences. Ensure you comply with local regulations and safety guidelines.

Craigend Farm

141km from Bangor · 2 units · Glamping · Dumfries, Scotland

Smart glamping pods on the rural outskirts of Dumfries

The Lost Meadow

69km from Bangor · 1 unit · Tent · NI

A mile from the nearest road and hundreds of meters from the nearest house there is tiny off grid log cabin in a secluded woodland clearing beside a large natural wildflower meadow. The clearing is surrounded by mature hedges and trees and you can lock the gates from inside if you want to enjoy nature ‘au naturale’ although the whole estate is clothing optional for any naturists who care to visit. As well as the composting toilet there is an outdoor kitchen and a gas powered outdoor shower. Solar panels provide lights for the cabin and the kitchen. There is plenty room for up to three large tents in the clearing which is home to some fruiting apple and cherry trees, as well as blackberry bushes (feel free to help yourself in season) The fire pit is safe to use and we can supply firewood if needed. The whole estate is a privately owned wildlife and biodiversity project. Guests are free to roam both the woodland which has over 10,000 native broadleaf trees and the 5 acres of natural wildflower meadow. The owners who live on site in a carbon free eco house are beekeepers and produce the locally renowned ‘Ballymoney Honey’ which is available to buy on site in season. There is a growing bird hide (willow dome) in one of the clearings which has views over the upper meadow and the ground nesting birds that live there. We don’t permit dogs or insect repellents anywhere in the estate to protect the birds and wildlife that lives here. Sorry!

Stories from the community

S

Simon

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

Beautiful views up the Loch. Quite a steep climb but easily achievable. Fire pit, bbq and seating area ideal. Even the compostable toilet had a great view!

S

Sally

July 2025

With kids

4 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Runach Arainn is even more lovely in person than in the photos. Great location for a peaceful and relaxing stay on Arann. The yurts are comfortable, the kitchen/fire-pit etc are well-equipped and the orchard setting is beautiful. It's just a short walk to the beach or to the Lagg Inn for dinner. Highly recommend.

E

Eva

July 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Runach Arainn Glamping

Absolutely fantastic spot! Yurt was so well equipped, they really had thought of everything. Beautiful location in such a peaceful area, and a lovely beach in walking distance! Couldn’t recommend enough

J

Jason

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Oystercatcher Caravan

Super helpful host. Good location, a very quiet part of Scotland. Accommodation was very fairly priced and well cared for.

M

Meron

June 2025

2 nights at The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

The Charcoal Huts were so magical. We stayed in Birch and it had amazing views, was quite private and had everything we needed - including things we forgot. It was beautiful and cosy inside and the fire kept us so warm. I really loved this place.

K

Kyle

November 2024

5 m Class B

Group trip

3 nights at Troquhain Woods

The pitch is pretty much perfect if you want a basic camp. 4 of us with a camper had a great time from start to finish. Malcolm is very attentive as a host and kept us stocked with firewood and came to make sure we didn’t want for anything. Loch Ken is not too far away and has a good water sports centre with decent boat hire for fishing.

Top camping destinations

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near Bangor guide

Where to go

Around Bangor

Bangor is a seaside town with direct rail access to Belfast city. A few minutes to the west is Crawfordsburn Country Park, including Helen’s Bay. Drop in to the Ulster Folk and Transport museum in Cultra to visit a recreated village and learn more about old craft and farming traditions of the area, plus a section on vintage transport vehicles, and an excellent exhibition on the Titanic, which was built in the dockyards of Belfast.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is a nature reserve and an ideal location for birdwatching. There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water whether by canoe or kayak, on a boat trip, or on a ferry across The Narrows to Strangford town to explore the coastal scenery and heritage sites on the Lecale Peninsula. Travel south of Bangor to the 19th-century stately home Mount Stewart House to explore the gardens, set on the shores of Strangford Lough.

Ards Peninsula

On the Ards peninsula to the east, the pier at Donaghadee is a good spot to watch boats coming in and out of the harbour, with views across to Scotland from The Moat on the hill. Take a boat trip from here to the bird sanctuary on the Copeland Islands. There’s a motorhome service point at The Commons, and the best camping is along the east coast beaches of the peninsula near Ballyferris Point—check out Woodlands Caravan Park near the blue flag Millisle Beach, which takes tents and campervans, or Ballywhiskin Holiday Park for pitches for touring vehicles next to the beach and an on-site farm.

When to go

Summers and local festival dates are the busiest times to visit Bangor. If you’re planning to visit during school holidays or over the 12 July holiday, consider booking your campsite in advance.

Know before you go

Check seasonal times and dates in advance for boat trips and cruises to the Copeland Islands and on Strangford Lough.
Weather can be unpredictable—be prepared for rain, mist, wind, and cooler temperatures at any time. Biting midges can be a problem in some locations.
Some campgrounds close for winter or during bad weather.
Wild camping is not permitted in this area

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