Iniscarn Forest Park

What You'll Find

If you're looking for a day out that combines a fantastic play park, peaceful woodland and breathtaking views, Iniscarn Forest Park is definitely one to add to your Northern Ireland bucket list!

Located at the foot of Slieve Gallion in County Londonderry, this lovely forest park has plenty to keep the wee ones entertained, whether you're visiting for the playground, a little woodland walk or a bigger outdoor adventure.

The Playpark

One of the main attractions is the fantastic enclosed playground, which is perfect for letting the children burn off some energy!

There's a brilliant selection of equipment, including slides, swings, a zip line, climbing structures, bridges, tunnels and balancing features.

The play area is fully fenced with safety flooring throughout, which is always a bonus when you've got younger children who love to explore.

But don't just stop at the playground!

The Woodland Walk

Beyond the play area, you'll find lovely woodland paths winding through the trees, with little discoveries along the way.

Keep an eye out for the bug hotel and wooden tipi, which are brilliant for encouraging the wee ones to explore and use their imaginations.

It's a lovely shaded walk, especially on warmer days, and a great way to enjoy a little nature adventure without tackling the much longer mountain route.

There are also picnic tables, benches and an outdoor classroom area, making it a handy place to stop for lunch or enjoy some time outdoors.

The Slieve Gallion Adventure

For families with older children who enjoy hiking, Iniscarn Forest Park is also a starting point for a much bigger adventure towards the summit of Slieve Gallion.

The route climbs through the forest before heading onto the open mountain, where you'll be rewarded with incredible views across Mid Ulster and the Sperrin Mountains.

The full walk can be around 12km return, with steep sections and boggy ground, particularly after wet weather.

This is definitely one for experienced walkers and older children rather than younger wee ones or families with buggies.

The Slieve Gallion Scenic Drive

And if hiking isn't your thing, don't worry! You can still enjoy some of those beautiful mountain views.

On the opposite side of Slieve Gallion, you'll find the scenic drive, which winds up through the countryside and offers fantastic views across Mid Ulster.

It's a lovely addition to your forest park visit, especially if you've got younger children who aren't quite ready for a long mountain hike.

There is a parking area higher up the mountain, although the remaining walk to the summit is still on exposed mountain terrain and should only be attempted when conditions are suitable.

With free parking, a fantastic playground and lovely woodland surroundings, Iniscarn Forest Park is a brilliant option for a family day out without spending a fortune.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Exploring the fully enclosed playground with slides, swings and climbing equipment
• ✓Having a go on the zip line, bridges, tunnels and balancing features
• ✓Discovering the bug hotel and wooden tipi along the woodland walk
• ✓Exploring the forest paths and looking for signs of wildlife
• ✓Enjoying a picnic surrounded by the trees
• ✓Taking in the beautiful views on the nearby Slieve Gallion Scenic Drive

Before You Visit

Iniscarn Forest Park is located near Slieve Gallion in County Londonderry.

Entry to the forest park and playground is free, with free parking available on site.

The playground is fully enclosed and has safety flooring, with a mixture of equipment for different ages.

There are picnic tables, benches and an outdoor classroom area within the park.

A seasonal portable toilet is provided, although it may not be available throughout the year.

There are no café or food facilities on site, so bring your own drinks and snacks.

The lower woodland paths are the better option for families with younger children, although surfaces may be uneven or muddy in places.

The longer Slieve Gallion mountain route is steep and can be boggy, with a return distance of around 12km depending on the route taken. It is not suitable for buggies and is best left to experienced walkers with older children.

The scenic drive is accessed separately from the forest park, on the opposite side of the mountain.

Mountain conditions can change quickly, so check the weather and access arrangements before setting off.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't just visit the playground! The little woodland walk is lovely, and the children will enjoy discovering the bug hotel and wooden tipi hidden among the trees.
• ⭐The enclosed playground is brilliant for younger children, with plenty of equipment to keep them entertained.
• ⭐Bring a picnic and make a morning or afternoon of it. There are picnic tables and benches, but no food facilities on site.
• ⭐If you're bringing a buggy, stick to the easier lower park area and assess the paths before setting off. The mountain route is definitely not buggy friendly!
• ⭐Fancy a bigger adventure? Combine your visit with the Slieve Gallion Scenic Drive on the opposite side of the mountain for some beautiful views without tackling the full hike.
• ⭐Visit on a clear day if you're hoping to enjoy the mountain scenery, and remember that conditions can be very different higher up.
• ⭐Looking for another nearby adventure? Drum Manor Forest Park is another lovely family option, with woodland walks and a playground.
• ⭐You could also combine your day with a visit to The Jungle, Hunters Quest or Wee Adventurers Play Hub in Cookstown, depending on what the kids fancy!