Visitors encouraged to embrace official campers code
As the peak visitor season approaches, Donegal Tourism today announced the launch of a new digital campaign focused on promoting responsible caravan and camping throughout the county. The initiative encourages visitors planning a camping or caravanning holiday in Donegal to utilise the excellent network of official registered campsites and to adhere to our ‘Campers Code’ designed to protect the region’s stunning natural environment and ensure a positive experience for visitors and locals alike.
Donegal, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, wild coastline, and warm hospitality, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This campaign aims to balance welcoming visitors with the crucial need for sustainable tourism practices. By encouraging the use of designated caravan parks and campsites, Donegal Tourism seeks to minimise environmental impact, ensure visitor safety, and support local businesses that provide quality facilities.
The digital campaign, which will run across Donegal Tourism’s social media channels, features Donegal’s own Noel Cunningham and Donegal Daddy, travelling around Donegal in a campervan to highlight the benefits of staying at official sites, which offer amenities such as waste disposal, toilet facilities, and secure parking. It also drives home messages in relation to the ‘Donegal Campers Code,’ a set of simple guidelines based on our code of conduct principles – Plan Ahead, Book Ahead and Follow the Guidelines.
Key messages include:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Use official sites and avoid fragile ecosystems such as our beach dunes.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Use designated bins or take it with you. Never leave waste behind. Wastewater should always be disposed of in a responsible manner.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the natural and cultural heritage. Avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging property.
- Minimise fire Impacts: If using Barbeques (only where clearly permitted), ensure they are fully extinguished. Be fire aware, especially in dry conditions.
- Respect Wildlife and Farm Animals: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals. Keep dogs under control.
- Be Considerate of Other People: Respect local communities, landowners, and fellow visitors. Keep noise levels down.
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy said. "Donegal offers an unparalleled outdoor experience, and we are excited to welcome campers and caravanners to explore our beautiful county. This campaign is about ensuring that visitors can enjoy Donegal responsibly, protecting our landscapes for future generations, and respecting the communities that call this place home. By choosing official campsites and following our Campers Code, visitors contribute directly to sustainable tourism and help keep Donegal special."
The campaign will feature engaging content as it follows Noel and Micheal’s travels around our county, practical message tips, and links to registered caravan parks and campsites across the county. Visitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Campers Code before their trip.
For more information on responsible camping in Donegal, a list of official campsites, and the full Donegal Campers Code, please visit:
https://www.govisitdonegal.com/camping
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