Fantastic Fun Forest Parks for Kids in County Waterford
Waterford County in Ireland is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant history. The county is home to numerous parks and forests that offer a range of exciting activities for kids of all ages. Whether your children enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or simply playing in nature, Waterford County has something to offer.
.
.
SUMMARY TABLE: Family Fun Forest Parks in County Waterford
| Park Name | Location | Activities | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kilbarry Nature Park | North of Waterford City | Hiking, Fishing, Guided Tours | River Suir, Large Ponds, Educational Programs |
| Colligan Wood | Dungarvan | Hiking, Wildlife Spotting | Babbling Streams, Red Squirrels, Natural Playground |
| Mahon Falls | Comeragh Mountains | Hiking, Picnicking | Breathtaking Waterfall, Rocky Terrain |
| Dunmore East Wood | Dunmore East | Hiking, Caving, Natural Playground | Rocky Coastline, Caves and Grottoes |
| Waterford Greenway | Waterford to Dungarvan | Biking, Hiking, Picnicking | Scenic Trail, Beautiful Landscapes |
| Lismore Castle Gardens | Lismore | Exploring Gardens and Historic Buildings | Manicured Lawns, Ornamental Trees |
| Crough Wood | Stradbally | Hiking, Wildlife Spotting | Babbling Streams, Red Squirrels, Natural Playground |
| Curraghmore House and Gardens | Portlaw | Exploring Gardens and Historic Buildings | Manicured Lawns, Ornamental Trees |
| Lough Mohra Forest | Nire Valley | Hiking, Wildlife Spotting | Babbling Streams, Red Squirrels, Natural Playground |
| Coumshingaun Lake | Comeragh Mountains | Hiking, Picnicking | Glacial Lake, Rocky Terrain |
In this article, we'll explore some of the best fun forest parks for kids in Waterford County.
1. Kilbarry Nature Park
Located just a few kilometers north of the city center, Kilbarry Nature Park is a great place for kids to explore nature. The park features several kilometers of trails that wind through lush forested areas and along the banks of the River Suir.
There are also several large ponds that are popular spots for fishing and birdwatching. Kids will love exploring the park's many nooks and crannies, and the park's educational programs and guided tours can help them learn more about the area's flora and fauna.
2. Colligan Wood
Located just outside the town of Dungarvan, Colligan Wood is a beautiful forested area that is perfect for kids who love to hike and explore. The park features several kilometers of trails that wind through dense forests, over babbling streams, and up to stunning viewpoints. Kids will love the opportunity to spot wildlife like red squirrels, otters, and even deer, and the park's natural playground is a great spot for little ones to burn off some energy.
3. Mahon Falls
Located in the Comeragh Mountains, Mahon Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall that is a must-see for anyone visiting Waterford County. The falls can be accessed via a short hike from the car park, and kids will love the chance to explore the rocky terrain around the falls. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and spend some time soaking up the stunning views.
4. Dunmore East Wood
Located just outside the picturesque fishing village of Dunmore East, Dunmore East Wood is a beautiful forested area that offers a range of fun activities for kids. The park features several kilometers of hiking trails that wind through dense forests and along the rocky coastline, and there are several great spots for picnicking and playing.
Kids will also love the chance to explore the park's many caves and grottoes, and the park's natural playground is a great spot for little ones to burn off some energy.
5. Waterford Greenway
Stretching 46km from Waterford City to Dungarvan, the Waterford Greenway is a beautiful trail that is perfect for families who love to bike and hike.
The trail follows an old railway line and winds through some of the county's most stunning natural areas, including the Comeragh Mountains and the Copper Coast. There are plenty of spots along the way to stop and explore, and kids will love the chance to see the county's beautiful landscapes up close.
6. Lismore Castle Gardens
Located in the heart of the historic town of Lismore, Lismore Castle Gardens is a stunning estate that is perfect for families who love to explore beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
The gardens feature several acres of beautifully manicured lawns, flower beds, and ornamental trees, and there are several great spots for picnicking and playing. Kids will also love exploring the castle's historic buildings and learning about the area's rich history.
7. Crough Wood
Located just outside the town of Stradbally, Crough Wood is a beautiful forested area that is perfect for families who love to hike and explore. The park features several kilometers of trails that wind through dense forests, over babbling streams, and up to stunning viewpoints.
Kids will love the opportunity to spot wildlife like red squirrels, otters, and even deer, and the park's natural playground is a great spot for little ones to burn off some energy. The park also features several picnic areas and a scenic overlook with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Curraghmore House and Gardens
Located in the picturesque village of Portlaw, Curraghmore House and Gardens is a stunning estate that is perfect for families who love to explore beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
The gardens feature several acres of beautifully manicured lawns, flower beds, and ornamental trees, and there are several great spots for picnicking and playing. Kids will also love exploring the castle's historic buildings and learning about the area's rich history.
9. Lough Mohra Forest
Located in the heart of the Nire Valley, Lough Mohra Forest is a beautiful forested area that is perfect for families who love to hike and explore. The park features several kilometers of trails that wind through dense forests, over babbling streams, and up to stunning viewpoints.
Kids will love the opportunity to spot wildlife like red squirrels, otters, and even deer, and the park's natural playground is a great spot for little ones to burn off some energy.
10. Coumshingaun Lake
Located in the heart of the Comeragh Mountains, Coumshingaun Lake is a stunning glacial lake that is a must-see for anyone visiting Waterford County. The lake can be accessed via a short hike from the car park, and kids will love the chance to explore the rocky terrain around the lake. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and spend some time soaking up the stunning views.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Waterford County is home to some of the most beautiful and exciting forest parks for kids. Whether your children enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or simply playing in nature, there is something for everyone in Waterford County. So, pack your bags and plan a visit to these amazing parks with your family to create unforgettable memories.