Wild Women of the Woods NI
Welcome to Wild Women of the Woods NI, where women come together to connect with nature, forge friendships, and experience the beauty of Ireland's landscapes!
About Us
Wild Women of the Woods NI started in 2019 as a Facebook group for women who wanted to go wild camping but didn’t want to go on their own. It quickly grew and in September 2022 we registered as a Community Interest Company, which is a social enterprise. We do not receive any external funding and strive to be self-sustaining.
Our aim is to provide support and a safe space for women to pursue and learn about outdoor activities such as camping, foraging, open water swimming, hiking and bushcraft. Many of these activities tend to be male dominated. By providing a supportive, women only space, the group enables women to connect with nature and each other, benefitting participants in terms of physical activity and personal wellbeing.
Ethos
Our aim is to connect women with nature and each other. We want our camps to be affordable for everyone, which is why we have a concession rate for women on a low income. You need to bring your own tent and bedding, although there are tents and sleeping mats available to borrow if you don’t have one. Cooking equipment, food and a communal shelter are provided. On a camp we expect everyone to pitch in with setting up camp, preparing and cooking food, clearing up and taking down the camp. We all help each other. We practice Leave No Trace, which means we leave any campsite the same or better than when we arrived.
Accommodation
We use bunkhouse facilities during colder months and camp outdoors in spring and summer. You bring your own camping gear but we have some kit available to borrow if needed. All cooking equipment is provided.
Activities
At our camps and outdoor events, we provide a range of activities to suit everyone - no matter your age, fitness level or experience. Depending on the venue, we offer activities like foraging, forest walks, group hikes, open water swimming, bird watching, storytelling workshops, natural crafts, visits to stone circles, canoeing/kayaking, local history tours and a lot of craic around the campfire. All activities are optional and you're welcome to sleep late or just chill out and enjoy the view. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious beginner, there’s a place for you at Wild Women of the Woods NI.
Food & Drink
At Wild Women of the Woods NI we love our food! We believe that cooking and eating together brings the group closer, and menus are planned to accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets.
At the end of the day, we all come together to enjoy a few drinks around the campfire. We believe in moderation and responsible behavior, so everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time.
FAQ
How much does it cost?
Our aim is to keep our camps affordable, so there is a concession rate for women on a low income. Most weekend camps are £140 or £120 for women on a low income. This includes your accommodation, activities and most of your food. Day events range from £15 to £65 depending on the activity. Discounts are available with a Supporters subscription.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely! Most women come on their own the first time they attend a camp. We are a very friendly, welcoming group and it’s a great way to meet people and make new friends.
Do I need to be very fit?
No, not at all. We want to encourage all women to have a go at different activities and get outside into nature. All activities are optional, and we aim to provide a supportive and caring environment that caters to all skill levels.
Do you provide transport?
No, but we do encourage car sharing, so if you don’t drive we can usually arrange a lift for you from the main cities. Alternatively, we can pick you up from bus stops near to the camp.
Do I need to be a member?
No, we have a free Facebook group where events are posted. https://www.facebook.com/groups/WWWNI/ However, to keep our prices low, we have introduced an optional Supporters subscription scheme, where for a small monthly fee you can get discounts, priority booking and free merchandise.
Can I bring kids?
Most of our camps are for adults only, but several times a year we organise women and kids camps – usually at Easter and the summer holidays.
How do I find out what’s on?
The website is regularly updated with the Events and camps that are coming up. Many of the camps sell out very fast so it’s a good idea to join the private Facebook group where the events are posted. To get access to priority booking you can become a supporter for £5 or £10 a month.
What’s the cancellation policy?
If an event is cancelled by the organiser, a full refund will be given. If you need to cancel, you will only receive a refund if we can resell your ticket before the event.
Can I bring my dog?
There are some camps that are suitable for well-behaved dogs on leads, that don’t bark at night. Owners need to be mindful that not everyone is comfortable around dogs and that there may be livestock in fields nearby. Please check with the organiser first if a camp is suitable for dogs.
Can I stay in my campervan or car?
It depends on where the camp is, but there are many camp venues that are suitable for small vans or car camping.
I don’t like camping, can I still come along?
During the cooler months we stay in hostels and bunkhouses. In the summer, you are welcome to arrange alternative accommodation near by if you don’t want to camp.
Do I have to stay overnight?
No, most of our camps have a day option, where you can opt to join in the activities and evening meal only.