About Kilcully Scout Campsite
Kilcully is an old farm house and grounds which has been developed by the scout groups of Cork since taking ownership of the premises in 1970.
Their is a 45,000 meter squared campsite with additional accommodation building including toilets, showers, wet-weather hall, campfire circle, abselling tower, bivvy areas and an orienteering course.
A Place for Young People to Grow
Kilcully Scout Campsite has been a place of adventure, learning, and belonging for over 50 years. At its heart, Kilcully exists for one reason: to support young people. Whether it’s a first night under canvas, learning new skills, or building friendships that last a lifetime, the experiences here help shape confidence, independence, and resilience.
Set in the countryside just outside Cork, the campsite has welcomed generations of scouts and guides—and continues to provide a safe, supportive environment where young people can challenge themselves, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors.
Built by Volunteers, Sustained by Community
Kilcully has always been volunteer-led, and that remains the foundation of its success today. The campsite is managed by a dedicated committee made up of trustees and representatives from the five Cork Scout counties: Cork South, Cois Laoi, Lee Valley, North Cork, and West Cork.
Behind the scenes, a committed volunteer maintenance team works year-round to care for and improve the site. Alongside them is Criu, the volunteer welcoming team who ensure that every group arriving at Kilcully feels supported from the moment they arrive.
Their efforts are supported by CE scheme workers, but it is the spirit of volunteering—people giving their time, skills, and energy—that keeps Kilcully thriving.
A Campsite for Everyone
While Kilcully has deep roots in Scouting and Guiding, it is a space shared by a wide range of youth groups. Each year, we welcome visitors from across Ireland and from overseas, including groups from Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the UK.
The site is also used by schools, sports clubs, and youth organisations of all kinds—any group looking for a safe, flexible outdoor environment to learn, explore, and connect.
Experiences That Matter
Kilcully offers a variety of ways to experience the outdoors:
- Traditional camping and hammock camping areas
- Indoor dormitory-style accommodation
- Camper kitchens and bungalow marquee tents for hire
- A large wet-weather shelter with indoor games, open to all groups on site
At the centre of the campsite is a well-used campfire circle, where groups come together to share stories, songs, and moments that often become the highlight of their stay.
For those looking to challenge themselves, there is a fixed orienteering course and a range of pioneering timber available—encouraging teamwork, creativity, and practical skills.
Kilcully has also long been associated with the highly successful Ventact event, run by an independent committee, but closely connected to the site and its community.
Growing with Purpose
Like any long-standing organisation, Kilcully has seen both busy periods and quieter times. In recent years, the current committee has led a renewed focus on improving facilities and investing in the future of the campsite.
One of the most meaningful initiatives has been the 50th anniversary “Plant a Tree” campaign. Thanks to the support of over 300 sponsors, a new section of the site has been reforested—creating a lasting legacy that will benefit generations of young people to come.
Looking Ahead
Kilcully continues to evolve, but its purpose remains unchanged: to provide a place where young people can learn, grow, and belong.
Every improvement, every volunteer hour, and every visit helps carry that mission forward. As new generations arrive, the story of Kilcully is still being written—by those who use it, support it, and believe in its value.
Be Part of the Story
Whether you’re visiting for the first time, returning with your group, or supporting the site behind the scenes, you are part of what makes Kilcully special.
We look forward to welcoming you.
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