Camping in Iceland: The Complete Guide to Campsites

Iceland has one of the most accessible camping networks in the world. Over 170 campsites are distributed across the country, from Reykjavik's city campsite to remote highland locations accessible only by 4x4. Camping provides freedom and flexibility that no hotel network can match — the ability to wake up inside Thorsmork valley or on the shore of a glacial lagoon rather than driving in from a distant town. For the prepared camper, Iceland camping is one of Europe's great outdoor experiences.

Campsite Regulations and Wild Camping

Wild camping — pitching a tent anywhere outside a designated campsite — was legally restricted in 2015 in Iceland, primarily to protect fragile vegetation from damage caused by the rapid growth of camping tourism. Outside designated campsites, tents must be on land well away from farmhouses, roads and inhabited areas, must not be pitched in the same location for more than one night, and must leave no trace. On most Ring Road routes, designated campsites are frequent enough that wild camping is rarely necessary.

In practice, campsites are open from approximately May 1st to mid-September, with some sites open year-round. Outside this window, many sites close their facilities (toilets, showers, cooking areas) and camping is technically possible in the cleared area but without services. In winter, camping in Iceland requires specialist cold-weather gear and experience — it is not a casual activity.

What Icelandic Campsites Provide

Standard Icelandic campsites include: designated tent pitching areas (usually grass, sometimes gravel), toilet and washing facilities, a communal kitchen area with cooking facilities, electricity hookups for campervans (book in advance at popular sites), and sometimes a shared lounge or covered communal area. Shower facilities vary widely — some sites provide hot showers included in the nightly fee; others charge per shower or have limited hot water. Wi-Fi is available at most sites near towns.

Best Campsites

Thorsmork (Husadalur and Basar): Inside the Thorsmork valley, surrounded by glaciers. The most atmospheric campsite in Iceland. Accessible only by 4x4 or guided super jeep. Facilities are basic but the setting is incomparable.

Landmannalaugar: Inside the highland rhyolite landscape, adjacent to the natural hot spring pool. The starting point of the Laugavegur trek. A truly extraordinary location with a natural hot tub available to all campers at no additional charge.

Jokulsarlon: The closest camping to the glacier lagoon allows morning and evening visits without driving. Some years a private campsite operates near the lagoon — check availability before your trip.

Skaftafell (Vatnajokull National Park): The largest campsite in Iceland, located in the Skaftafell area with direct access to glacier hiking and the Svartifoss waterfall. Well-serviced with a full visitor centre.

Vik: The Vik campsite is within walking distance of the town and very short drive from Reynisfjara beach. Good facilities and a central location for the eastern South Coast.

Campervans

Campervans are extremely popular in Iceland and well-suited to the campsite network. Purpose-built campervan sites with electricity hookups and grey water disposal are available at most major campsites. Campervans cannot legally access F-roads and are typically prohibited from river crossings. The Ring Road and all paved main attractions are accessible to any standard campervan.

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