River Valley Holiday Park: Caravan & Camping Guide

River Valley Holiday Park walks a rare line: it feels like a family-run retreat while running as smoothly as any well-oiled caravan park. Since 1970, this County Wicklow destination has earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s most reliable spots for touring breaks and mobile home holidays.

Year established: 1970 ·
County: Wicklow, Ireland ·
Awards: Multi-award-winning ·
Distance from Dublin: 1 hour by car ·
Distance from Rosslare: 90 minutes by car

The park’s vital statistics paint a clear picture of what’s on offer.

Does River Valley allow dogs?

Dog-friendly accommodation options

River Valley Holiday Park in County Wicklow permits dogs on camping pitches and in the touring field, but with important restrictions. According to the River Valley Park family camping page, pets are welcome on camping pitches if kept on a lead and supervised by an adult at all times. However, the park’s River Valley Park terms explicitly state that dogs are not allowed inside any accommodation or the surrounding areas of the accommodation. Visitors hiring mobile homes are not permitted to bring a pet to the park.

The Cornwall-branded site of River Valley Holiday Park takes a slightly different approach, allowing well-behaved dogs in certain pet-friendly caravans at a charge of £30 per week or £15 per short break (River Valley Holiday Park UK terms). In the touring field, dogs are allowed but must never be left unattended.

Rules and restrictions for pets

Both sites agree on the core rules: dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times, owners must clean up after them, and restricted breeds are not permitted. The Ireland site imposes a €150 fine for dog fouling (River Valley Park terms). The UK site warns that non-compliance can result in being asked to leave with no refund.

The implication: if you travel with a dog, your accommodation choice at River Valley determines whether your pet is welcome.

Where is River Valley camping?

Exact address and Eircode

River Valley Holiday Park is located in Redcross, County Wicklow, Ireland. The Eircode is available on the official River Valley Park contact page for sat-nav navigation. The park sits in a scenic area near the coast, close to popular attractions.

Driving directions from Dublin and Rosslare

From Dublin, the park is approximately one hour by car via the M11 motorway. From Rosslare ferry port, it’s about 90 minutes. The park’s location is a key selling point for both domestic and UK visitors arriving by ferry.

The pattern: River Valley is well-positioned for both Dublin-based weekenders and ferry travellers from the UK, making it a practical choice for a wide range of visitors.

What time is check out at River Valley?

Check-in and check-out times for mobile homes and pitches

Standard check-out time for mobile homes at the Wicklow park is 11:00 AM, though some sources indicate 10:00 AM for certain accommodation types. The River Valley Park terms specify that guests must vacate by the stated time on departure day. Check-in is typically from 3:00 PM.

Late check-out policy and fees

Late check-out may be available on request, subject to availability and additional charges. It’s best to arrange this directly with the park in advance. The UK site’s terms note that late departures may incur a fee.

What this means: If you’re planning a relaxed final day, ask about late check-out early — it’s not guaranteed and may cost extra.

Can I stay in my caravan all year round?

Year-round caravan living at River Valley

River Valley Holiday Park does not permit year-round residential use of caravans. The park’s River Valley Park terms indicate that touring caravans and camping are seasonal, and many parks in Ireland close during the winter months. While the exact closure dates are not published, the park is primarily a holiday destination, not a permanent residence.

Legal and practical considerations for permanent caravan residency in Ireland

Irish planning laws restrict permanent habitation in caravans. According to Citizens Information (Irish government service), planning permission is generally required for a caravan used as a permanent dwelling. Most holiday parks are licensed for holiday use only, and year-round living is typically not allowed.

The catch: year-round caravan living at River Valley is not an option, so plan for seasonal stays only.

How much do caravan holidays cost?

Typical nightly rates for mobile homes and touring pitches

The Ireland site lists clear camping rates: low season (March, April, May, September, October, November on Sunday–Thursday excluding bank holidays) costs €20 per unit, €7 per adult, €5 per child aged 2–15, and €8 for electricity. High season (June, July, August plus bank holiday weekends) costs €25 per unit, with the same per-person charges (River Valley Park family camping rates).

Seasonal pricing variations

Mobile home rates are not publicly listed on the official site, but typical summer rates for similar parks in County Wicklow range from €80 to €150 per night. Off-peak and midweek discounts are often available. The park also offers a 7-nights-for-6 deal when paid in full at booking.

Six pricing tiers, one pattern: Peak season adds roughly 25% to the base pitch fee, but per-person charges stay flat. The 7-for-6 offer is a smart move for longer stays.

What we know for sure

• Park is located in Redcross, County Wicklow, Ireland
• Dogs are allowed on camping pitches with strict rules
• Standard check-out times are 10:00–11:00 AM
• Year-round caravan living is not permitted

What remains unclear

• Exact seasonal prices for mobile homes are not listed on the official site
• Specific winter closure dates vary year to year

What visitors are saying

“We are a family-run park that has been welcoming guests since 1970.”

– Owner/Manager, River Valley Park official site

“Best family campsite in Ireland – clean, friendly, and well-located.”

– TripAdvisor reviewer, 2024, TripAdvisor

River Valley Holiday Park earns consistent praise for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. The mix of camping, touring, and mobile home options gives visitors flexibility, but the dog policy and seasonal restrictions mean it’s not for everyone.

For families considering a caravan holiday in Ireland, River Valley offers a well-established option with clear rules and reasonable pricing, but those seeking year-round residential living will need to look elsewhere. The implication for the Irish holiday market: if you want a reliable, award-winning park with straightforward policies, River Valley is a strong choice — just don’t expect to live there.

Frequently asked questions