Outdoor Recreation in Waterford
Waterford Sports Partnership is all about getting people out and active in the outdoors and we do this by working with sports clubs, schools, community groups, National Governing Bodies, to name a few, to support and grow a wide range of outdoor activities across Waterford.
We are committed to supporting and developing outdoor recreation opportunities and our work aligns with Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors – The National Outdoor Recreation Strategy and is guided locally through the County Outdoor Recreation Plan. The plan provides a framework for the sustainable development, management and promotion of outdoor recreation across Waterford.
Waterford is part of a six-county Sport Ireland pilot network of Outdoor Recreation Officers. They will coordinate the delivery of the plan, overseen by a committee, and coordinate a countywide stakeholder forum.
You can contact our Outdoor Recreation Officer, David Abbott, by email at dabbott@waterfordsportspartnership.ie or 086 1650970.
What is Outdoor Recreation?
Outdoor recreation includes activities that take place in natural settings. It does not include activities on confined pitches or courses (such as golf or football), nor motorised activities (except mobility aids).
Activities include:
- Land-based: walking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding, climbing and nature play
- Water-based: kayaking, rowing, open water swimming, surfing, sailing, angling and paddleboarding
- Air-based: paragliding and hang-gliding
Our goal is to ensure outdoor recreation in Waterford is sustainable, inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Article Modified: March 29, 2026 3:33 pm
