Camping
There are a number of registered campsites around the Isle of Man.
Informal seasonal camping is also permitted at 2 venues managed by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. Both sites have limited pitches available.
Sulby Claddagh
The Sulby Claddagh is not a registered campsite but informal camping is allowed from 1 May to 30 September. Basic facilities are provided onsite including toilets but there are no showers.
For daytime recreation a permit is not required, however, you will need a camping permit to camp overnight.
Permit applications are now being received by the Department. Issued permits are valid until 30 September.
Permits are £16 and you should apply for one in advance of your visit as permits will not be issued on site. Permits may only be obtained by a responsible adult aged 18 years or over.
A permit allows the holder to pitch a moveable dwelling (motorhome, tent, campervan, caravan, trailer tent, etc.) staying for up to a maximum of 14 nights at a time. Your permit must be clearly displayed at all times when camping overnight. All moveable dwellings must be in continuous occupation and must not be left unattended overnight.
As of 2020 the Department has assessed the site and in compliance with relevant legislation and guidance will be restricting the number of available camping pitches to 25 at any one time. This does increase during TT and MGP fortnights.
Once a permit is issued you will be required to reserve a camping pitch before your arrival. A permit does not reserve a pitch at Sulby Claddagh. The appointed site wardens are G4S and they are responsible for the pitch booking system.
To check availability and to book a camping pitch, please call +44 7624 436536 between the hours of 9am to 8pm daily. (Please ensure you have your permit number before you call).
On arrival you will be required to present both your permit and pitch booking confirmation.
We kindly ask when arriving that you check-in with the onsite warden AFTER 12noon and that you check out by 11am on your departure day.
Camping permits are non-transferrable.
Before applying for your permit we recommend you read our ‘frequently asked questions’ sheet which can be downloaded from this page.
To apply for a permit:
Alternatively download and complete the application form on this page and send it to or email:
Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture
Agriculture and Lands Directorate
Thie Slieau Whallian
Foxdale Road
St Johns
IM4 3AS
Email: Send Email
Please allow up to 10 days to receive your permit.
For your safe enjoyment and that of your fellow visitors always comply with the site rules
The Ayres National Nature Reserve (NNR)
Motorhomes are permitted to stay overnight in the recreational area at Smeale, within the Ayres NNR, only (see attached map) and for a maximum of three consecutive nights; motorhome owners must display an 'Authorisation for overnight stay' in their windscreen. No toilet facilities are available at Smeale.
Please note that DEFA are no longer accepting permit applications for 'Authorisations for overnight stays' in 2021.
The Ayres NNR is a quiet and tranquil place, designated for its special wildlife and habitats; please enjoy and respect this very special area.
The Ayres NNR Byelaws
- No overnight without an authorisation
- No tents
- No fires
- Barbeques must be raised off the ground
- Dogs must be on leads from the 1st April to the 31st July and kept under close control at all other times
- Dog fouling must be removed from the land
- All rubbish must be taken away
- Chemical toilets must not be emptied on the NNR
- No loud music or nuisance behaviour
- Wildlife must not be disturbed
For further information about the Nature Reserve please see The Ayres National Nature Reserve webpage.
