Iceland Camping Guide 2026
Camping in Iceland
69 verified campsites with GPS coordinates, facilities & prices — from midnight sun beaches to highland lava fields.
69
Verified Campsites
8
Regions Covered
6
Highland Sites (F-Roads)
16
Pre-bookable Online
⚠️ Camping Rules in Iceland
- 🏕 You must camp on designated campsites unless on uninhabited highland land
- 🔥 Open fires are banned in most of Iceland — use camp stoves only
- 🚽 Never go to the toilet near water sources — use facilities or dig a cat hole 70m away
- 🚗 Driving off-road is illegal and damages fragile moss that takes centuries to regrow
- 🛖 Camping in Reykjavík without a permit is prohibited — use official campsites
- 📅 Highland (F-road) campsites are typically only open June–September
🏙️Capital Region
5 campsites
Álftanes Campsite
📍 Garðabær, Capital Region
The Álftanes peninsula, home to Bessastaðir — the official residence of the President of Iceland — offers stunning views over Faxaflói bay and Reykjavík. The campsite is comfortable, quiet and close to the shoreline. Very popular with visitors exploring the greater Reykjavík area.
Hafnarfjörður Tjaldsvæði
📍 Hafnarfjörður, Capital Region
Hafnarfjörður, known as the 'Village in the Lava', is Iceland's most famous town for elves and hidden people. The campsite is in a peaceful area close to the local golf course and several restaurants in the old town. Easy access between Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula.
GPS: 64.0669, -21.9526
Heiðmörk Tjaldsvæði
📍 Reykjavík, Capital Region
Heiðmörk is Reykjavík's largest forested nature reserve, right on the eastern edge of the city. The campsite is perfect for those who want to be near the capital but enjoy peace and nature. Hiking trails, cycling paths and a lake are all nearby. Great for families.
GPS: 64.0780, -21.8200
MunicipalMosfellsbær Campsite
📍 Mosfellsbær, Capital Region
A lakeside campsite in Laugarvatn along the Golden Circle, known for geothermal bathing and scenic countryside views.
GPS: 64.2159, -20.7296
MunicipalPre-bookableReykjavík Campsite – Laugardalur
📍 Reykjavík, Capital Region
A large, well-equipped campsite in Reykjavík’s Laugardalur valley within walking distance of swimming pools, parks, and city attractions.
GPS: 64.1416, -21.8765
🌊South Iceland
14 campsites
Flúðir Tjaldsvæði
📍 Flúðir, South Iceland
Flúðir is famous for the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin), one of Iceland's oldest natural geothermal pools. The campsite is near this gem of a swimming spot and sits in the heart of the Hrunamannahreppur area, where natural springs and tranquillity reign. On the Golden Circle route, close to Gullfoss.
GPS: 64.1326, -20.3177
PrivatePre-bookableHamragarðar Campsite
📍 Seljalandsfoss, South Iceland
A scenic campsite beside Seljalandsfoss waterfall with views toward Eyjafjallajökull glacier.
GPS: 63.4789, -19.1234
Hella Tjaldsvæði
📍 Hella, South Iceland
Hella is a village on the banks of the Ytri-Rangá river, renowned for some of Iceland's best arctic char fishing. The campsite is close to Mount Hekla — one of Iceland's most active volcanoes — and makes a great base for exploring the Fljótshlíð area, Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk. Good facilities and services.
GPS: 63.8343, -20.3921
MunicipalHveragerði Tjaldsvæði
📍 Hveragerði, South Iceland
A peaceful campsite in Iceland’s geothermal town of Hveragerði, perfect for visiting Reykjadalur hot river and the Golden Circle region.
GPS: 64.0024, -21.1793
MunicipalKirkjubæjarklaustur Campsite
📍 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, South Iceland
A peaceful campsite in Kirkjubæjarklaustur surrounded by lava fields, waterfalls, and scenic South Coast landscapes.
GPS: 64.7811, -18.0703
MunicipalPre-bookableLaugarvatn Campsite
📍 Laugarvatn, South Iceland
A lakeside campsite in Laugarvatn along the Golden Circle, known for geothermal bathing and scenic countryside views.
GPS: 64.2159, -20.7296
Leirubakki Tjaldsvæði (við Heklu)
📍 Leirubakki, South Iceland
Leirubakki is the farm at the foot of Hekla, one of Iceland's most famous and feared volcanoes. This is considered the best vantage point for watching Hekla — an up-close display of Iceland's geological power. The campsite is part of the Leirubakki guesthouse and is the ideal starting point for the Hekla hiking trail.
GPS: 63.8989, -19.7002
MunicipalSelfoss Campsite
📍 Selfoss, South Iceland
A central campsite in Selfoss beside the Ölfusá river with easy access to South Iceland and Golden Circle routes.
GPS: 63.9367, -21.0007
National ParkSkaftafell – Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður Campsite
📍 Skaftafell, South Iceland
A scenic national park campsite in Skaftafell surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, and hiking trails in Vatnajökull National Park.
GPS: 64.0165, -16.9666
MunicipalStokkseyri & Eyrarbakki Campsite
📍 Stokkseyri, South Iceland
Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki are two of Iceland's oldest fishing villages on the South Coast, known for the Ghost Centre, lobster soup and tales of mysterious sea voyages. The campsite is by the seafront with unique views over the Ölfusá river estuary and rich birdlife in the wetlands.
GPS: 63.8326, -21.0449
PrivatePre-bookableÞakgil Campsite
📍 Þakgil, South Iceland
Hidden gem nestled in a dramatic canyon with stunning mountain views. One of Iceland's most beautiful campsites with cave shelters and unique geology.
GPS: 63.5444, -19.5911
National ParkPre-bookableÞingvellir Þjóðgarður – Campsite
📍 Þingvellir, South Iceland
Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iceland's most historically and geologically significant locations. The campsite sits within the national park, positioned between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates — a rare spot where two continents visibly drift apart. This is where Iceland's parliament, the Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD, making it sacred ground for the nation. The campsite offers immediate access to rift valley walks, Öxarárfoss waterfall, and crystal-clear Silfra fissure for snorkelling.
GPS: 64.2565, -21.0990
PrivatePre-bookableÞórsmörk – Volcano Huts
📍 Þórsmörk, South Iceland
Þórsmörk, meaning 'Thor's Forest', is a sheltered highland paradise nestled between three glaciers — Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull. Lush birch woodland covers the valley floor while glacier tongues and braided rivers frame the landscape. Volcano Huts campsite is one of the few accommodation options in this remote interior destination, accessible via river crossings by 4x4 or by highland bus. A premier base for the Fimmvörðuháls trail and the famous Laugavegur trek.
GPS: 63.6833, -19.5167
MunicipalPre-bookableVík í Mýrdal Campsite
📍 Vík, South Iceland
Vík í Mýrdal is Iceland's southernmost village on the mainland and one of the most iconic stops on the South Coast. The campsite provides an outstanding base for exploring the dramatic black sand beach at Reynisfjara, the basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar, and the sweeping volcanic coastline. The looming Katla volcano and Mýrdalsjökull glacier form a dramatic backdrop to the village, and on clear days the views stretch across the beach to the sea.
GPS: 63.4185, -19.0070
⛰️Highlands
8 campsites
Highland F-RoadPre-bookableÁlftavatn Camsite (Laugavegur)
📍 Álftavatn, Highlands
Álftavatn is the second rest stop on the Laugavegur — Europe's most famous long-distance hiking trail. The campsite sits beside the blue waters of Lake Álftavatn in the heart of the southern highlands, surrounded by volcanoes and glaciers. Accessible only on foot or via F-roads.
GPS: 63.8933, -19.2017
Dreki Tjaldsvæði (Askja)
📍 Askja, Highlands
Dreki is the base camp for excursions to Askja — one of Iceland's most dramatic volcanic calderas. Here you will find Víti — a warm crater lake you can swim in — and Öskjuvatn — Iceland's deepest lake. The campsite is in the middle of the highlands and is accessible only by 4x4 vehicles on F-roads.
GPS: 65.0490, -16.7540
Emstrur – Botnar Tjaldsvæði (Laugavegur)
📍 Emstrur, Highlands
Emstrur (Botnar) is the third rest stop on the Laugavegur hiking trail, between Álftavatn and Þórsmörk. This is one of the most remote and wild campsites on the route, deep in the highlands between Mýrdalsjökull and Entujökull glaciers. Distant views of Katla volcano and unforgettable glacier scenery.
GPS: 63.7750, -19.3700
Highland F-RoadHveravellir Campsite
📍 Kjölur Route (F35), Highlands
A remote Highland campsite beside geothermal hot springs between Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers.
GPS: 64.8711, -19.5558
PrivatePre-bookableHvítárvatn Campsite
📍 Kjölur Route (F35), Highlands
A remote Highland campsite beside Hvítárvatn lake with views toward Langjökull glacier along the Kjölur Route.
GPS: 65.1234, -14.5678
PrivatePre-bookableKerlingarfjöll Tjaldsvæði
📍 Kjölur Route (F35), Highlands
A remote Highland campsite surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal valleys along the Kjölur Route.
GPS: 64.7058, -19.4205
Highland F-RoadLandmannalaugar Campsite
📍 Landmannalaugar, Highlands
A remote Highland campsite in Landmannalaugar surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains and natural geothermal hot springs.
GPS: 63.9838, -19.0600
Highland F-RoadNýidalur Campsite
📍 Sprengisandur, Highlands
A remote Highland campsite in Nýidalur along the Sprengisandur Route surrounded by glaciers, rivers, and central Iceland wilderness.
GPS: 64.8319, -17.2717
🦅East Iceland
9 campsites
Borgarfjörður Eystri Tjaldsvæði
📍 Borgarfjörður Eystri, East Iceland
Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the most secret and beautiful villages in the East Fjords, known as the 'capital of the elves' with the Álfaborg rock formation at its centre. The campsite gives access to one of Iceland's finest puffin colonies at Hafnarhólmi. Outstanding hiking trails surround the village.
GPS: 65.5148, -13.8070
Breiðdalsvík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Breiðdalsvík, East Iceland
Breiðdalsvík is a small village in the East Fjords, known for excellent arctic char fishing in the Breiðdalsá river and peaceful surroundings. The campsite is close to both the sea and the mountains — a quiet and scenic spot in the eastern fjords. A great mid-point stop on a Ring Road journey.
GPS: 64.7892, -13.7900
Djúpivogur Tjaldsvæði
📍 Djúpivogur, East Iceland
Djúpivogur is a village by Berufjörður, famous for Eggin í Gleðivík — 34 giant stone eggs along the harbour representing local bird species. The campsite is near the waterfront and makes an excellent stop before heading into the East Fjords or west towards the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
GPS: 64.6574, -14.2807
MunicipalPre-bookableEgilsstaðir Tjaldsvæði
📍 Egilsstaðir, East Iceland
A well-equipped campsite in the service center of East Iceland near Lagarfljót lake and Hallormsstaðaskógur forest.
GPS: 65.2664, -14.3948
Fáskrúðsfjörður Tjaldsvæði
📍 Fáskrúðsfjörður, East Iceland
Fáskrúðsfjörður, also known as 'Frenchman's Fjord', was home to hundreds of French fishermen in the 19th century. The campsite is in the village, which preserves this history — signs are in both French and Icelandic and the old French seamen's hospital still stands. A beautiful fjord with great cycling and walking routes.
GPS: 64.9289, -14.0090
MunicipalHöfn í Hornafirði Campsite
📍 Höfn, East Iceland
A well-located campsite in the fishing town of Höfn with excellent views of Hornafjörður and Vatnajökull glacier. A perfect base for visiting Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the dramatic Vestrahorn mountain at Stokksnes.
GPS: 64.2534, -15.2081
PrivateJökulsárlón – Glacier Lagoon Campsite
📍 Jökulsárlón (Vatnajökull National Park area), East Iceland
A scenic campsite near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon surrounded by icebergs, glaciers, and black sand coastal landscapes.
GPS: 64.0784, -16.2306
MunicipalSeyðisfjörður Campsite
📍 Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland
A scenic fjordside campsite in Seyðisfjörður surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and colorful historic village streets.
GPS: 65.2626, -14.0107
MunicipalStöðvarfjörður Campsite
📍 Stöðvarfjörður, East Iceland
Small village campsite with ocean views and access to mineral collection sites. Petra's Stone Collection nearby.
GPS: 64.8456, -13.8892
🐋North Iceland
10 campsites
MunicipalAkureyri Tjaldsvæði
📍 Akureyri, North Iceland
A large, well-equipped campsite in Akureyri beside Eyjafjörður fjord and within walking distance of the town center.
GPS: 65.6668, -18.0956
PrivatePre-bookableBjarg Campsite
📍 Mývatn, North Iceland
A remote seaside campsite in Strandir offering quiet wilderness views across the North Atlantic coastline.
GPS: 65.6012, -16.9845
Blönduós Tjaldsvæði
📍 Blönduós, North Iceland
Blönduós is a town on the Blandá river on the North Coast of Iceland. The campsite is well-maintained and a practical stopping point on the Ring Road between Akureyri and the Westfjords. Home to the Textile Museum of Iceland, Blönduós is also the main centre of the Húnaþing district.
GPS: 65.6603, -20.2787
Dalvík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Dalvík, North Iceland
Dalvík is a town on the shores of Eyjafjörður, the departure point for the ferry to Grímsey island — the only part of Iceland that lies above the Arctic Circle. The campsite is near the harbour and is ideal for whale watching tours, exploring Eyjafjörður or taking the ferry to cross the Arctic Circle.
GPS: 65.9718, -18.5270
Hofsós Tjaldsvæði
📍 Hofsós, North Iceland
Hofsós is a small village in Skagafjörður, famous for one of Iceland's most beautiful swimming pools — Hófsóslaugin, which appears to float directly in the fjord with breathtaking views. The campsite is in the village, close to this remarkable pool and the Icelandic Emigration Centre.
GPS: 65.8967, -19.4213
MunicipalHúsavík Campsite
📍 Húsavík, North Iceland
A scenic campsite in Húsavík near Skjálfandi Bay, perfect for whale watching and exploring North Iceland.
GPS: 66.0464, -17.3394
PrivateMývatn – Hlíð Campsite
📍 Mývatn, North Iceland
A scenic campsite at Lake Mývatn surrounded by volcanic landscapes, pseudocraters, and geothermal attractions.
GPS: 65.6423, -17.0148
Sauðárkrókur Tjaldsvæði
📍 Sauðárkrókur, North Iceland
Sauðárkrókur is the largest town in Skagafjörður, known as 'Iceland's Horse Country'. The campsite is well-equipped and a great base for exploring Skagafjörður, Glaumbær — one of Iceland's finest turf farm museums — and Hólar í Hjaltadal, one of the country's oldest cultural centres.
GPS: 65.7457, -19.6394
MunicipalSiglufjörður Campsite
📍 Siglufjörður, North Iceland
A scenic fjordside campsite in Siglufjörður surrounded by mountains and historic harbor views in North Iceland.
GPS: 66.1513, -18.9092
MunicipalVarmahlíð Campsite
📍 Varmahlíð, North Iceland
Varmahlíð is the service hub of Skagafjörður and the starting point for white-water rafting on the Héraðsvötn and Austari Jökulsá rivers. The campsite is convenient to the Ring Road and serves as a central base for exploring North Iceland. Glaumbær turf farm museum is just 10 minutes away.
GPS: 65.5695, -19.4609
🦊Westfjords
8 campsites
MunicipalBíldudalur Campsite
📍 Bíldudalur, Westfjords
A quiet fjordside campsite in Bíldudalur overlooking Arnarfjörður, close to Dynjandi waterfall and the Sea Monster Museum.
GPS: 65.6412, -23.6156
Drangsnes Tjaldsvæði
📍 Drangsnes, Westfjords
Drangsnes is one of the smallest villages in the Westfjords, on Bjarnarfjörður, and is known for its three natural hot pots open to all visitors — right by the sea. The campsite overlooks the fjord and the island of Grímsey, where a troll is said to live according to local legend.
GPS: 65.6886, -21.4406
PrivatePre-bookableFlókalundur Campsite
📍 Vatnsfjörður, Westfjords
A quiet roadside campsite in Vatnsfjörður, ideal for exploring Dynjandi waterfall and the southern Westfjords.
GPS: 65.7654, -23.4321
Hólmavík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Hólmavík, Westfjords
Hólmavík is a village in Strandasýsla that houses the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft — the only museum in the world dedicated to magic and sorcerers. The campsite overlooks the sea and is a natural stopping point when travelling through Strandasýsla and the southern Westfjords.
GPS: 65.7074, -21.6822
MunicipalÍsafjörður Campsite
📍 Ísafjörður, Westfjords
Ísafjörður is the largest town in the Westfjords and a historic trading hub surrounded by steep fjords with some of Iceland's most dramatic coastal scenery. The campsite is centrally located beside the town, within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Westfjords Heritage Museum. An excellent base for exploring the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, local hiking trails, and the serene inner fjords of this seldom-visited region.
GPS: 66.0755, -23.1359
Látrabjarg Tjaldsvæði
📍 Látrabjarg, Westfjords
Látrabjarg is the westernmost point of Europe and the world's longest bird cliff — 14 km long and up to 440 m high. It is home to millions of seabirds including puffins, which nest close to the cliff edge and are famously unafraid of people. The campsite nearby is the perfect base to experience the cliff at sunset.
GPS: 65.5001, -24.4923
Patreksfjörður Tjaldsvæði
📍 Patreksfjörður, Westfjords
Patreksfjörður is the largest town on the Westfjords Horn and the main gateway to Látrabjarg — the longest bird cliff in Europe. The campsite is in town and is the perfect base for seeing puffins, razorbills and guillemots. The famous red-sand beach of Rauðasandur is also nearby.
GPS: 65.5573, -23.9849
MunicipalÞingeyri Campsite
📍 Þingeyri, Westfjords
Þingeyri is one of the oldest villages in the Westfjords and gateway to Dynjandi, the most spectacular waterfall in the Westfjords. The campsite is by the fjord and is peaceful — an ideal starting point for hiking in the Westfjords, including the Strandaleiðin coastal trail.
GPS: 65.8717, -23.4882
🌋West Iceland
10 campsites
Bifröst Tjaldsvæði
📍 Bifröst, West Iceland
Bifröst is a small community by Lake Hreðavatn in West Iceland, home to Bifröst University. The campsite is close to Eldborg crater — one of Iceland's most beautifully preserved volcanic craters. Walk up to the rim and enjoy sweeping views across Mýrar and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
GPS: 64.7795, -21.9553
PrivatePre-bookableBjarteyjarsandur Campsite
📍 Snæfellsnes, West Iceland
A peaceful farm campsite by Hvalfjörður fjord offering nature, coastal views, and a quiet countryside experience close to Reykjavík.
GPS: 64.8123, -23.4567
MunicipalBorgarnes Tjaldsvæði
📍 Borgarnes, West Iceland
A well-located campsite in Borgarnes overlooking Borgarfjörður, ideal for exploring West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
GPS: 64.5374, -21.9141
Búðardalur Tjaldsvæði
📍 Búðardalur, West Iceland
Búðardalur is a village between Dalasýsla and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known as part of the saga landscape associated with Eiríkur the Red and Leifur Eiríksson. The campsite is comfortable and relaxed — a great base for exploring Dalasýsla and Laxárdalur valley where the Laxdæla saga takes place.
GPS: 65.0878, -21.7872
Grundarfjörður Tjaldsvæði
📍 Grundarfjörður, West Iceland
Grundarfjörður is the village with the most iconic view in Iceland — Kirkjufell mountain, the most photographed mountain in the country and a Game of Thrones filming location. The campsite is in town, giving you the chance to photograph the mountain in morning and evening golden light.
GPS: 64.9228, -23.2435
MunicipalHellissandur Campsite
📍 Hellissandur, West Iceland
A quiet coastal campsite near Snæfellsjökull National Park on the remote western edge of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
GPS: 64.9234, -23.8901
Hellnar Tjaldsvæði – Snæfellsnes
📍 Hellnar, West Iceland
Hellnar is one of the smallest villages on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a beautiful fishing hamlet right at the foot of Snæfellsjökull glacier. The campsite is perched on the rocks by the sea — you can hear the surf and watch puffins and cormorants. Snæfellsjökull National Park is within walking distance.
GPS: 64.7694, -23.6292
Reykholt Tjaldsvæði – Vesturland
📍 Reykholt, West Iceland
Reykholt in West Iceland is the home of Snorri Sturluson, author of the Prose Edda and Heimskringla. The campsite is close to Snorrastofa museum and Snorralaug — a remarkable hot pool from the 12th century. Just nearby are Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls.
GPS: 64.6659, -21.2966
MunicipalSnæfellsnes – Ólafsvík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Ólafsvík, West Iceland
A scenic fjordside campsite in Ólafsvík on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with views toward Snæfellsjökull glacier.
GPS: 64.8941, -23.7091
MunicipalStykkishólmur Tjaldsvæði
📍 Stykkishólmur, West Iceland
A scenic harbor-side campsite in Stykkishólmur with views across Breiðafjörður and easy access to Snæfellsnes Peninsula attractions.
GPS: 65.0748, -22.7253
🏔Reykjanes
5 campsites
Garður Tjaldsvæði
📍 Garður, Reykjanes
Garður sits at the northern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, where two historic lighthouses stand by the shore. It is one of the best birdwatching spots in the area and offers spectacular views across Faxaflói bay. The campsite sits between the two lighthouses in a beautiful and peaceful setting.
GPS: 64.0806, -22.6883
Grindavík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Grindavík, Reykjanes
Grindavík is a fishing village on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just 3 km from the famous Blue Lagoon. The campsite is simple but well-located as a base for exploring Reykjanes — volcanoes, geothermal areas, bird cliffs and the Reykjanes lighthouse. Great last stop before a flight from Keflavík.
GPS: 63.8424, -22.4344
Keflavík – Njarðvík Tjaldsvæði
📍 Keflavík, Reykjanes
Keflavík is the largest town on the Reykjanes Peninsula and home to Iceland's international airport. The campsite is ideal for those arriving or departing by air who want to avoid the drive to Reykjavík. From here you can easily explore all of Reykjanes — Gunnuhver, the Bridge Between Continents and Kleifarvatn.
GPS: 63.9980, -22.5561
Krýsuvík – Reykjanes Tjaldsvæði
📍 Reykjanes, Reykjanes
Located near Krýsuvík and Seltún, one of the most colourful geothermal areas on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This unique campsite gives access to vibrant steaming vents, Lake Kleifarvatn and hiking routes across the volcanic landscape. Ideal for those who want to experience Iceland's geothermal power in complete tranquillity — without travelling to Geysir.
GPS: 63.9100, -22.0900
Sandgerði Tjaldsvæði
📍 Sandgerði, Reykjanes
Sandgerði is a small community on the western coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula, known for its Nature Centre and excellent birdwatching and marine life along the shoreline. The campsite is quiet and comfortable — a good base for exploring the lesser-visited western side of the peninsula.
GPS: 64.0406, -22.7108
Essential Camping Tips for Iceland
🌦 Weather & Gear
- Iceland weather changes in minutes — bring a 4-season tent that can handle 100 km/h winds
- Waterproof everything: sleeping bag liner, dry sacks, quality rain gear
- Even in July nights can get cold — pack a sleeping bag rated to -5°C
- The midnight sun (May–August) means you need a good eye mask to sleep
🚗 Getting Around
- A 4×4 vehicle is required for all highland (F-road) campsites
- The Ring Road (Route 1) connects most regional campsites
- Book highland campsites (Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk) well in advance
- Campervans are very popular — book early and compare prices between providers
💰 Budget & Costs
- Average campsite cost: 1,500–2,500 ISK (~€10–18) per person per night
- The Ferðafélag Íslands (FÍ) card gives discounts at many mountain huts and campsites
- Municipal campsites are usually the cheapest; national park sites best maintained
- Wild camping near towns is not allowed — always use official sites
✅ Leave No Trace
- Iceland's moss and vegetation is extremely fragile — never walk or camp off designated areas
- Pack out all rubbish — bins may not be available at remote sites
- Use biodegradable soap and wash at least 70m from water sources
- Respect wildlife — seabirds nest on cliffs and in clifftop fields May–August
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wild camping allowed in Iceland?
Wild camping is only permitted in uninhabited highland areas, away from roads, farms and towns. Anywhere near populated areas you must use a designated campsite. This law has been strictly enforced since 2015.
When is the best time to go camping in Iceland?
June to August is peak camping season: long daylight hours (midnight sun), warmest temperatures (10–15°C), most sites open. May and September are quieter and cheaper but colder. Winter camping is possible at a handful of sites but requires serious experience and kit.
Do I need to book campsites in advance?
For popular sites like Þórsmörk, Landmannalaugar, Skaftafell and the Reykjavík campsite in July–August, booking in advance is strongly recommended. Most smaller municipal sites work on first-come, first-served basis.
Can I reach highland campsites in a normal car?
No. Highland (F-road) campsites require a 4×4 vehicle. Driving a regular car on F-roads is both illegal and dangerous — insurance will not cover damage. The highland season typically runs from late June to early September.
Is it safe to drink water from Icelandic rivers?
Cold, fast-flowing glacial rivers are generally safe to drink from but avoid streams near geothermal areas (they may contain sulphur) and any water downstream of farms. Always use campsite tap water when available.