Anyone who’s seen pictures of the rolling green fields and dramatic cliffsides of Ireland likely understands why people talk about “the luck of the Irish.” At just a little over 32,500 square miles in area, Ireland is about as big as the state of Utah—tiny for a country but huge in terms of its worldwide cultural impact (St. Patrick’s Day parades, anybody?). Its landscape is one of the most beautiful on the earth’s surface, and definitely a hard destination to beat.
Still, for those based in the U.S. who prefer to travel by RV, the whole crossing-the-Atlantic thing can pose a bit of a problem. While there are certainly camper hires in the country, they can be a bit expensive and hard to come by—it is, after all, a fairly small island. Fortunately, though, there are some incredible destination dupes for the Emerald Isle right here on American soil. From the east coast to the west and in the mountains in between, here are our four top picks for U.S. destinations that are excellent alternatives to Ireland.
The 7 Best Alternatives to Ireland: At a Glance
| Alternative | Best For | Most Like Ireland Because | The Big Tradeoff | RV Home Base |
| Emerald Isle, NC | Family Friendly | Irish coastal charm | Warmer, flatter and more developed than Ireland’s coast | Hammocks Beach State Park |
| Glacier National Park, MT | Rugged Outdoor Adventure | Irish lake views & mountain backdrops | Less pastoral and settled; deep wilderness and serious backcountry | Dry camping within the park; resort-style parks in Whitefish and surrounding areas |
| Mendocino Coast, CA | Romantic Getaways | Irish cliff views & coastal vistas | Lacking in Ireland’s cultural character | Local state parks as well as private campgrounds around Mendocino |
| The Catskills, NY | Cozy Mountain Retreat | Green mountain views | More densely forested; no open, rolling hills like Ireland | Both public and private campgrounds spread throughout the area |
| Olympic National Park, WA | Nature Lovers | Mossy rainforest & misty coastal vibes | Remote/difficult to get to | Limited on-site RV camping with electric and water hookups; RV resorts throughout the Olympic peninsula |
| Moosehead Lake, ME | Easy RVing | Lakes surrounded by dense green forests | Lacks dramatic coastal scenery | Private campgrounds surround the lake |
| Acadia National Park, ME | First-time Ireland Dupers | Dramatic rocky shoreline & costal fog | Smaller, more developed and more mountainous | Limited RV sites with partial hookups within the park; nearby Lemoine State Park |
1. Family-Friendly Alternative: Emerald Isle, NC
If you can’t get to the original Emerald Isle and are looking for green hills and coastal views in America, the Outer Banks of North Carolina are an excellent alternative. Wind-swept dunes, seas at turns sunny and stormy, and beaches perfect for staring wistfully out over the ocean await those who venture to this part of the country.
Additionally, because this is a North Carolina destination, you know that a variety of landscapes aren’t far afield. Hammocks Beach State Park, with its shrub thickets and marshlands, are only a quick drive away (and make for a great local camping spot). But you’re also nearby the Croatan National Forest with its abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities, and if you venture further west, of course, there’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park awaiting.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- Emerald Isle is a beautiful stretch of the North Carolina coast, with lush greenery, dramatic dunes, and rolling hills reminiscent of Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coastline.
- Known for its serene beaches, coastal cliffs, and emerald-green waters, it evokes Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and the scenic beauty of Ireland’s coastal towns.
- The village’s natural beauty, along with the warm, friendly vibe, mirrors Ireland’s coastal charm.
Best time to visit
- May through June for warm temperatures before the crowds set in; September and October for slightly milder days
Ideal trip length
- Long weekend (three to four days)
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- Hammocks Beach State Park is our top pick, but there are many RV-friendly accommodations spread across this part of the coast.
Pet restrictions
- Leashed pets are allowed; no dogs may run “at large” (Emerald Isle)
Signature hike or experience
- Biking the Emerald Path
The Tradeoff
- Warmer, flatter and more developed than Ireland’s coast
Methodology:
- Compared coastal beauty, cliffs, and beaches along the Atlantic Coast.
- Researched the Irish-inspired culture and architecture of local villages.
- Analyzed visitor testimonials comparing the serenity and atmosphere to Ireland’s seaside regions.
2. Outdoor Adventure Alternative: Glacier National Park, MT
Here’s the deal: Glacier National Park is an impeccable destination for anyone, whether you have an urge to visit Ireland or not. But it’s also the official sister park of Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland, so designated in 2021 for the two landscapes’ stunning similarity.
Characterized by high mountain peaks dotted with serene, glass-clear lakes, both of these national parks offer incredible opportunities for outdoors lovers of all stripes. The only difference is, one requires waiting through TSA lines and going through customs. (Of course, Glacier National Park does extend into Canada, where it’s known as Waterton Lakes National Park, so you can still put your passport to work if you want to, while still avoiding the airport.)
Outside of Glacier, the little town of Whitefish, Montana offers incredible eateries, art galleries, coffee shops and more—and the bigger town of Kalispell is not far afield for needs like big box stores and movie theaters. Whether you’re into rustic or luxury, there are also amazing RV campgrounds surrounding the area, so you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery of this one-of-a-kind part of the world.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- Montana’s Glacier National Park, with its stunning glacial lakes, lush green forests, and majestic mountain backdrops, offers an Irish-like landscape reminiscent of Killarney National Park in County Kerry.
- The park features a similar mix of rugged terrain and tranquil lakes, and the area’s natural beauty, including the surrounding Rocky Mountains, mirrors Ireland’s serene lakes and scenic hiking spots
Best time to visit
- Late July through early September to ensure access to the highest-elevation parts of the park
Ideal trip length
- Five days to one week
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- Nearby Whitefish has all the resources you need, and there are a variety of resort-style RV campgrounds around the park (as well as dry camping options in the park itself, but reserve early)
Pet restrictions
- Dogs are allowed in developed parts of the park, but not on most trails (National Park Service)
Signature hike or experience
- The Highline Trail or driving all the way along Going-to-the-Sun Road
The Tradeoff
- Less pastoral and settled; deep wilderness and serious backcountry
Methodology:
- Compared terrain and landscape features to Killarney National Park.
- Researched outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, kayaking, and nature walks.
- Assessed the climate and greenery that mirror Ireland’s beautiful parklands and lakes.
3. Romantic Getaway Alternative: Mendocino Coast, CA
When it comes to the non-big-city California coast, Big Sur gets a lot of the glory. But for those looking to experience the same rugged sea-weathered coastlines and quaint country lifestyle one might near the Cliffs of Moher, the Mendocino Coast is perhaps one of the most overlooked Ireland-like landscapes in the U.S.
The town of Mendocino itself is surrounded by preserved landscapes, including Russian Gulch State Park, Mendocino Headlands State Park, Mendocino Woodlands State Park, Van Damme State Park and others, all of which protect sprawling groves of ancient redwoods and flowing rivers that support all kinds of estuary life. Back at the beach, this is also an excellent spot for whale-watching, adding to the overall romance and mystery of the landscape—not to mention the small, quaint towns in the area filled with locals and their stories. (In fact, some of the best campfire tales might be circulating around the area’s RV campgrounds.)
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- Mendocino’s dramatic coastline with craggy cliffs and sweeping ocean views mirrors the majestic cliffs of Ireland, like the Cliffs of Moher.
- The Pacific Ocean views, combined with the rolling hills and verdant forests, create a landscape that could easily be mistaken for the Emerald Isle itself. It’s also a great spot for coastal hiking and exploring picturesque, charming villages.
Best time to visit
- April and May for wildflowers and mild temperatures; September and October for warm, dry weather without peak summer crowds
Ideal trip length
- Long weekend to five days
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- The city of Mendocino itself has resources, and there are a variety of preserved wildernesses and beaches around the area with campground facilities (check ahead for hookup availability)
Pet restrictions
- Varies substantially by park, so check ahead. For example, in Russian Gulch State Park, dogs are now allowed on trails east of Highway 1 or on Fern Canyon Trail (CA Parks)
Signature hike or experience
The Tradeoff
- Lacking in Ireland’s cultural character
Methodology:
- Compared coastal cliffs, ocean views, and natural scenery to Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher and other iconic Irish coastlines.
- Researched travel reviews highlighting the coastal beauty and serenity of Mendocino.
- Assessed the variety of outdoor activities like hiking, exploring coastal towns, and beach walks that resemble Ireland’s coastal allure.
4. Cozy Mountain Retreat Alternative: The Catskills, NY
It’s pretty wild to consider that one of the greenest, most tranquil landscapes in our country is just a few hours north of its densest urban core. The Catskills are one of the main reasons the whole concept of going upstate is a thing—and it’s also one of the best Irish-inspired travel spots in the U.S.
Along with formidable named mountains well worth their steep climbs, like Panther and Peekamoose, the Catskills can also offer a more relaxed and scenic journey for those who’d prefer to view the world from the comfort of their RV or tow vehicle: a background of rolling hills and mist-covered mountains seems to go on forever, lulling you into a meditative state just like the Irish countryside can.
And, yet again, the small towns that punctuate the area offer the kind of warm hospitality you’d expect in the burgs outside of Dublin: a hot cup of tea ready for you after a foggy mountain stroll and knowing smiles around the table. It also boasts some of the choicest RV campgrounds in the country.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- The Catskills offer a landscape of rolling hills, misty mountain ranges, and lush forests, which resemble the Irish countryside, particularly regions like County Wicklow.
- Known for its scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and quaint villages, the Catskills evoke the peaceful, green beauty of Ireland’s rural areas. The misty mornings and lush landscapes are very reminiscent of Irish vistas.
Best time to visit
- May and June for the lushest waterfalls and new-sprung green; late September and October for fall foliage and cool hiking weather
Ideal trip length
- Long weekend (three to four days)
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- Small towns along the Hudson River Valley (Catskill, Saugerties, Woodstock)
Pet restrictions
- Leash laws and pet restrictions may vary by park/wilderness; check posted signage
Signature hike or experience
The Tradeoff
- More densely forested; no open, rolling hills like Ireland
Methodology:
- Compared the rolling hills, forests, and mountainous terrain to Ireland’s countryside, especially areas in County Wicklow.
- Researched the Catskills’ hiking, camping, and waterfall opportunities that offer a similar natural escape to Ireland’s rural beauty.
- Analyzed the tranquil atmosphere and small-town charm that is reminiscent of Ireland’s rural villages.
5. Nature Lovers’ Alternative: Olympic National Park, WA
With its mossy rainforests and misty coastal vibes, Olympic National Park is something of a perfect hidden gem for a domestic Ireland dupe. Except for the fact that it’s literally connected to the mainland, it’s almost an actual island, just like the Emerald Isle. Both Ireland and Olympic National Parks offer temperate rainforests with endless hiking opportunities dotted with quaint coastal towns and abundant ocean views. And while the snow-capped peaks of the Olympics aren’t a one-for-one Ireland parallel, they’re hard to shake a stick at.
Of course, Olympic National Park isn’t exactly the same as Ireland — and of the suggestions on this list, we can admit it’s one of the most remote and hardest to get to. But there are also adventure opportunities that make it well worth your travels, including whale watching, agate-hunting, alpine hikes and more. Bear in mind that depending on when you visit, there’s likely to be at least some (and potentially a lot) of rain, but that’s true of Ireland, too. And after all, that’s why both of these spots are so darn green.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- This isolated peninsula with rocky coasts offers an extremely similar landscape and ecology.
- Both are on similar latitude lines, making for parallel weather patterns.
- Both are home to temperate rainforests, and the Hoh Rainforest on the Olympic Peninsula offers long hiking trails through this iconic landscape.
Best time to visit
- July through September tend to offer the most reliably dry weather
Ideal trip length
- Five days to one week
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- There are limited partial hookup camping options in the park itself, along with plenty of private RV campgrounds spread across the peninsula in its many small communities (Note: Many on-site campgrounds in the park have RV length restrictions, so if you’re driving a big rig, check ahead)
Pet restrictions
- Pets are allowed on select trails and must be on a leash of six feet or shorter; pet restrictions apply in many areas of the park (National Park Service)
Signature hike or experience
- Hall of Mosses Trail in the Hoh Rainforest
The Tradeoff
- Remote/difficult to get to
Methodology:
- Considered multiple similar U.S. landscapes, keeping latitude in mind.
- Researched specific ecological atmospheres and found parallel rainforests.
- Read camper reviews and took available campground amenities into consideration.
6. Easy RVing Alternative: Moosehead Lake, ME
While it doesn’t offer a replica of Ireland’s romantic shoreline, if you’re looking for gorgeous waterside views surrounded by low-altitude, green mountains, it’s hard to do worse than Moosehead Lake — especially for RVers. Because this stunning body of water is surrounded by well-appointed campgrounds, it’s easy to stay for a couple days or far longer, depending on your travel needs. You could even hop around from one campground to the next to get a slightly different perspective on the area.
Small communities also surround the lake, emulating Ireland’s pastoral countryside where you can drive for open, green miles but always know there’s a pub somewhere nearby and friendly faces to greet you. Furthermore, tucked far into central-northern Maine, this lake is surrounded by dense forests if you need to get truly away from it all. It’s not the Cliffs of Dover, but for an RVer, it’s a pretty magical hidden gem.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- Rolling green hills along the waterside emulate open Irish countryside.
- Small surrounding communities provide places to stop by for drinks and chatter.
- Multiple available campgrounds make logistics easy for RVers.
Best time to visit
- Late June through September for greenery and summer activities; late September into October for fall foliage and cooler temperatures
Ideal trip length
- Long weekend (three to four days)
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- The most robust of the communities surrounding the lake is Greenville, Maine, where you can find groceries and other amenities — but campgrounds with full hookups and great amenities abound around the lake itself, including Lily Bay State Park (dry camping)
Pet restrictions
- The area is generally dog-friendly, though leash laws apply
Signature hike or experience
- Taking in the view from the top of Mount Kineo
The Tradeoff
- Lacks dramatic coastal scenery
Methodology:
- Looked for green areas in the U.S. with multiple RV campgrounds and amenities.
- Considered weather patterns, available recreational opportunities, and local community resources.
- Checked into various local state parks for things to do and iconic experiences in the area.
7. First-Time Ireland Dupers’ Alternative: Acadia National Park, ME
Why did we pick Acadia National Park for a first-time Ireland duper? Well, because even if Ireland wasn’t on your radar, this gorgeous landscape is well worth putting on your to-visit list — and with its sea-splashed, craggy cliffs, it certainly is an excellent alternative for much of what draws travelers to Ireland. They’re even both along the Atlantic, though on opposite sides, making this arguably the closest visual replica of Ireland in the entire United States (though better for sunrises than sunsets, as you’d find on the Emerald Isle).
Along with the landscape, there’s also the general vibe to consider. With its fog-covered lighthouses, sleepy coastal communities, stone bridges and horse-drawn carriages, there’s something in the atmosphere of this park that truly draws Irish hospitality and cozy culture to mind. Of course, even a 48,000-acre national park is tiny in comparison with an entire country, but if you’re looking for a taste of Ireland close-ish to home, it’s hard to beat Acadia.
Why It’s a Great Dupe:
- Dramatic, rocky coastline endlessly splashed by the Atlantic Ocean.
- Quaint, coastal communities surrounding the park offer a similar vibe to Ireland’s culture.
- Horse-drawn carriages, stone bridges, and paths all feel similar to Ireland’s atmosphere.
Best time to visit
- Late May through June or September through early October to get the best weather but beat high-summer crowds
Ideal trip length
- Long weekend (three to four days)
Closest RV-friendly gateway
- Bar Harbor, Maine is the gateway city to the national park — and there are lots of campgrounds in the surrounding area (as well as limited camping facilities within the park); Lamoine State Park nearby is a great option
Pet restrictions
- Acadia is a relatively dog-friendly national park, and furry friends are allowed on 100 miles of its hiking trails and 40 miles of its carriage roads (National Park Service)
Signature hike or experience
- Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain or a horse-drawn carriage ride along the carriage roads
The Tradeoff
- Smaller, more developed and more mountainous
Methodology:
- Considered National Parks with craggy seaside cliffs and other similar natural features
- Also took available recreational opportunities (like horse-drawn carriages) into account
- Compared sleepy coastal towns in both this part of Maine and Ireland
Although we’d never discourage you from going to the original, unbeatable Éire, as you can see, there are plenty of scenic U.S. spots for Ireland lovers that are well worth your time. Plus, when you go in your very own rental RV, you can bring all the whiskey you want—just wait until you’re comfortably settled at your campground to break it out, please. Sláinte!
