Donegal has no shortage of things to do or places to see, ideal for planning days out with the kids. Here are some of the best outdoor places in Donegal to get active with kids and enjoy the best the county has to offer.

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

From beaches to parks to forests, Donegal has it all! Head out with the kids to get some fresh air and pink cheeks, there’s plenty of fun places to go, here are some of our favourites:

You May Also Enjoy Top 10 Things To Do in Donegal with Kids

Best Outdoor Places in Donegal for Families

Oakfield Park

Oakfield Park is set in 100 acres of magnificent parkland, woodlands and gardens, it’s an ideal outdoor location for pleasant walks etc.

It opens each year in May and throughout summer months. Regular events and activities take place on the grounds throughout the year.

Letterkenny Town Park

Letterkenny Town Park is located at Hospital Roundabout and is laid out with a herb garden, flower beds, mature and new trees, an orchard area, playing areas, bowling green and lots of walks.

There are two separate playgrounds, one for toddlers and another for older children, and a Garden of Remembrance. Look out for the leaf-shaped gates at several entry points.

Buncrana Shore Path

Buncrana Shore Path is a traffic free walk which follows the shoreline of Lough Swilly between Buncrana and Stragill Strand. It is a gentle path passing quiet beaches, old forts and a number of sites of historic interest. Wildlife is abundant and the views in all directions are superb.

Gap Trail, Dungloe

The Gap Trail, Dungloe is 2 km outside Glenties. It has a purpose-built walking and cycling trail that follows the route of a former bogcutter’s railway and is a nice short excursion.

You May Also Enjoy 13 Picturesque Walks in Donegal for Families to Enjoy

Rossnowlagh Beach

Rossnowlagh Beach is a great spot to bring the bikes to, anytime of the year. With a 2 miles stretch of firm sandy beach to manoeuvre on – it’s a great spot for young rider to gain experience and freedom. It does get really busy on hot sunny days though!!

Some of our other favourite beaches in Donegal include Marble Hill, Pollan Beach and Five Fingers Strand.

Corravady Woods

Corravady Woods just ten minutes outside Letterkenny, with impressive views of Lough Swilly and the surrounding countryside has about 4km of forest track. There are lots of walkers who use the area.

Donegal Town Waterbus

Buy a ticket for the Donegal Town Waterbus in the little ticket office on Quay St, Donegal Town and cruise around Donegal Bay for 75mins in the 80ft long purpose built Waterbus, Dun Na nGall.

The tour includes a full commentary on the history and geography of Donegal Bay by the experienced and fully trained crew, combined with a sprinkling of Irish humour, which insures that passengers are kept both informed and entertained during the voyage.

Highlights on the tour include a close encounter with Seal Island and its 200 strong seal colony and unparalleled views of the Bluestack Mountains and the gorgeous Donegal coastline

Water Sports in Donegal

Body boarding, Surfing, Wave-ski, Kayak and Kite-surfing are all popular water sports in Donegal, with ample facilities for beginners and those wishing to hire equipment.

Kayakers and Canoeists will also feel at home, with miles of rivers and Lakelands to be explored. If you want to try an Adventure Centre, then Gartan Outdoor Centre near Letterkenny, and the Donegal Adventure Centre & Surf School in Bundoran, both offer equipment and activities for individuals, families and enthusiasts.

You May Also Enjoy Activities for Families in Bundoran

Parks & Playgrounds

Most towns now have a playground area and you’ll find great open spaces in larger towns, Ballymacool Park and The Town Park in Letterkenny and Swan Park in Buncrana. Check out these playgrounds in Donegal, all perfect for an adventure!

Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park has 16,968 hectares of mountains, bogs, lakes and forest with many beautiful walks.

Guided nature walks take place throughout the year and if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the elusive Golden Eagles and Red deer, not guaranteed, but you could be the lucky one.

Guided tours of the castle and gardens take place during Summer months. Family activities are organised most weekends so check their website before you go.

Ards Forest Park

On the coast with lots of facilities for families, Ards Forest Park is one of Ireland’s finest forest parks. At the Park you can enjoy many forest walks, a car park and a children’s play area. It also has many features of historical and archaeological interest.

The remains of four ringforts are to be seen in the park as well as a number of megalithic tombs – legend has it that these were the beds of Diarmuid and Grainne in their flight from Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

There are numerous viewing points on the walks and trails with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Lots of options and great scenery, and plenty to see and do!