 Our spacious pitch at Cong Camping |  The spacious pitches at the back of the campsite are fantastic |
As a travel writer and full-time traveller, I’m almost embarrassed to admit this was my first visit to Cong, County Mayo. I’d heard about it countless times, well-known as the filming location for *The Quiet Man* starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, yet I’d never experienced it in person. That was about to change.
While researching dog-friendly campsites in Cong, I found Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park, which boasts a fantastic location near Cong Village, Ashford Castle, and Lough Corrib. And I was delighted when they agreed to host us. My aim this summer is to seek out the best dog-friendly experiences, stays and dining options, and I was excited to see what Cong had to offer.
While researching dog-friendly campsites in Cong, I found Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park, which boasts a fantastic location near Cong Village, Ashford Castle, and Lough Corrib. And I was delighted when they agreed to host us. My aim this summer is to seek out the best dog-friendly experiences, stays and dining options, and I was excited to see what Cong had to offer.
Beautiful scenery at Cong Woods close to Cong Camping
An Overview of Cong Camping, County Mayo
Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, and just a short walk from the village of Cong, this campsite is perfectly positioned for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
It’s a popular stop for campers, caravanners, motorhomes, and glampers alike, and it also forms part of a wider holiday group that includes a hostel-style accommodation (Lakeland House) and a B&B across the road (Michaleen's Manor) —making it suitable for a range of travel styles and budgets.
The place had a lovely vibe—peaceful yet full of atmosphere—with families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoying their stay. The gentle sound of birdsong stood out, adding a sense of calm, especially around where we were staying. It was the perfect, serene backdrop for some morning yoga.
Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, and just a short walk from the village of Cong, this campsite is perfectly positioned for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
It’s a popular stop for campers, caravanners, motorhomes, and glampers alike, and it also forms part of a wider holiday group that includes a hostel-style accommodation (Lakeland House) and a B&B across the road (Michaleen's Manor) —making it suitable for a range of travel styles and budgets.
The place had a lovely vibe—peaceful yet full of atmosphere—with families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoying their stay. The gentle sound of birdsong stood out, adding a sense of calm, especially around where we were staying. It was the perfect, serene backdrop for some morning yoga.
Gimli at the entrance to Cong Camping
Location, Location, Location
When picking a place to stay, I look for somewhere close to the main area with plenty of walks for Gimli and me to enjoy. One of Cong Camping’s biggest draws is its location. Right on the Mayo–Galway border, it puts you in the middle of some of Ireland’s most photographed landscapes, with plenty to explore in every direction for days.
From the campsite you are:
When picking a place to stay, I look for somewhere close to the main area with plenty of walks for Gimli and me to enjoy. One of Cong Camping’s biggest draws is its location. Right on the Mayo–Galway border, it puts you in the middle of some of Ireland’s most photographed landscapes, with plenty to explore in every direction for days.
From the campsite you are:
- A short walk (~1km) to Cong village and Cong Abbey
- Close to Ashford Castle & estate grounds
- A 10 minute walk from the shores of Lough Corrib
- A short drive to Lough Mask
- Within reach of Connemara National Park, Galway City, and Westport
 Gimli at Cong Abbey |  Gimli with John Wayne & Maureen O' Hara in Cong village |
Campsite Facilities at Cong Camping Caravan & Glamping Park
Cong Camping is well-equipped compared to many other Irish campsites, making it suitable for both short stays and longer road trips. Although i had just planned to stay the one night, i could easily see why others set up camp for a few days, coming and going to explore the surrounding areas.
Facilities include:
Cong Camping is well-equipped compared to many other Irish campsites, making it suitable for both short stays and longer road trips. Although i had just planned to stay the one night, i could easily see why others set up camp for a few days, coming and going to explore the surrounding areas.
Facilities include:
- Modern toilets and shower blocks (showers are included)
- Fully equipped campers’ kitchen (this was huge and very clean)
- Indoor communal lounge and dining space (again a large space to enjoy)
- Laundry facilities (washing machines & dryers)
- Electric hook-ups for tents, caravans, and motorhomes
- Waste disposal including grey water (marked with yellow) and a separate black water disposal in a small nearby cubicle (I appreciated the privacy aspect here)
- Water taps and electricity at each pitch which I loved
- BBQ areas and picnic benches
- Free WiFi across the site
- On-site playground for families
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Dog-Friendly Things to Do Near Cong Camping
For anyone travelling Ireland with a dog, Cong Camping is a solid and convenient option.
Dogs are welcome on-site (kept on a lead), and the surrounding area is ideal for daily walks.
We had a large pitch at the back of the campsite with ample green space, which Gimli could enjoy while tethered to his long leash. Outside of the campsite there are a number of dog-friendly things to do, which I will go dive deeper into in my dedicated Cong article, but below are some great options.
Nearby dog-friendly highlights include:
For anyone travelling Ireland with a dog, Cong Camping is a solid and convenient option.
Dogs are welcome on-site (kept on a lead), and the surrounding area is ideal for daily walks.
We had a large pitch at the back of the campsite with ample green space, which Gimli could enjoy while tethered to his long leash. Outside of the campsite there are a number of dog-friendly things to do, which I will go dive deeper into in my dedicated Cong article, but below are some great options.
Nearby dog-friendly highlights include:
- Ample woodland walks around Cong Woods
- Cong Abbey is a dog-friendly and beautiful historic site to stroll around
- Lakeside paths along Lough Corrib and to Ashford Estate
- Quiet rural roads near the campsite with low traffic
My Top Tips/Advice
- Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping is open seasonally from April 2 – September 26, 2026.
- There is no extra fee for a dog at Cong Camping but let them know in advance.
- I would recommend booking the motorhome pitches at the back of the campsite - (ours was number 10), which had a large green area and plenty of space to park.
- Book yourself onto a Lough Corrib Cruise which is dog-friendly and leaves from the Lisloughrey Pier every day at 11.15am
- Grab a pint and some delicious food at Pat Cohan's (the famous Quiet Man Pub) in the village which has a dedicated dog-friendly section inside and outdoor seating.
- Start your day with some breakfast at McHughs Cafe, a dog-friendly cafe in Cong village.
So, if you’re looking for a dog-friendly campsite in Ireland that puts you right in the middle of some of the country’s most iconic scenery, Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park is a strong contender.
Not only is the campsite happy to welcome your four legged friends, but Cong as a destination has plenty to see and do, that I would suggest booking 2-3 nights here to make the most of your surroundings.
We can't wait to return!
Not only is the campsite happy to welcome your four legged friends, but Cong as a destination has plenty to see and do, that I would suggest booking 2-3 nights here to make the most of your surroundings.
We can't wait to return!
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