Waterside campsites near Newry guide
Where to go
Carlingford Lough
Once you hit the shores of Carlingford Lough, you’ve arrived in an adventure-lover’s paradise with canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and boating on the lough, forest parks and woodland trails in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, and climbing or hiking in the peaks of the mountains themselves.
Rostrevor
Base yourself around Rostrevor to enjoy views of the Mourne Mountains and down to the sheltered waters of Carlingford Lough. This area was said to have inspired the world of Narnia, created by author CS Lewis, who holidayed here as a child before going on to write The Chronicles of Narnia. Camping spots can be found near Rostrevor Forest or Kilbroney Park on parkland overlooking the lake.
Mourne Mountains
Enjoy scenic drives, hiking, or adrenaline-pumping sports like rock climbing, mountain biking, and abseiling in the Mourne Mountains, designated as the Mourne AONB. The mountains are full of walking trails, but many run through private land, so wild camping is not permitted in the mountains.
Slieve Gullion
The Ring of Gullion drive takes you to Slieve Gullion mountain and forest park, where you can walk the gardens and woodland trails, enjoy views across to the Mourne Mountains, or climb Slieve Gullion itself, home to heritage sites like passage graves and dolmens. Families love the forest park’s Adventure Playpark and Giant’s Lair amusement park.
When to go
Campers can find the best weather between the summer months of May and September. Weekends, 12 July, and school holidays book up fast, so you’ll want to plan ahead. Forest parks are open year-round, but some campgrounds close during winter.
Know before you go
- Be prepared for rain and wind in any season with navigation, communication, and safety equipment if hiking or climbing in the Mourne Mountains or boating on Carlingford Lough.
- Biting midges can be present during some seasons.
- Some campgrounds and forest parks close to campers and touring vehicles during severe storms and snow.