Hvítárvatn Campsite
Kjölur Route (F35)
About This Campsite
A remote Highland campsite beside Hvítárvatn lake with views toward Langjökull glacier along the Kjölur Route.
Details
Hvítárvatn Campsite is located in Iceland’s central Highlands along the Kjölur Route (F35), beside the glacial lake Hvítárvatn at the edge of Langjökull glacier. The campsite offers one of the most peaceful overnight stops in the interior of Iceland, surrounded by open wilderness landscapes shaped by glaciers and volcanic activity. Its location makes it a natural stopping point between Gullfoss waterfall and Kerlingarfjöll geothermal area. Travelers crossing the Highlands by 4×4 vehicle often pause here to experience the silence and wide panoramic views across the lake toward the glacier. The campsite is simple but scenic, offering a true Highland camping experience away from towns and artificial light. During clear weather, the area provides excellent opportunities for photography and midnight sun viewing in summer. Because of its remote setting, visitors should arrive prepared with supplies and check road conditions before travel. Hvítárvatn Campsite is an ideal stop for adventurous travelers exploring the historic Kjölur highland route between South and North Iceland.
🌿 Environment & Surroundings
Hvítárvatn Campsite sits beside a large glacial lake fed by Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The surrounding landscape is open and wild, with gravel plains, glacier views, and distant geothermal mountains visible along the Kjölur route. Weather conditions can change quickly, creating dramatic light and cloud formations across the Highlands.
📍 Nearby Attractions
Langjökull Glacier
Second-largest glacier in Iceland visible directly from the campsite.
Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Area
Colorful rhyolite mountains and hiking trails about 35 km north.
Gullfoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls about 40 km south.
Hveravellir Geothermal Area
Historic Highland rest stop with natural hot spring bathing.
👻 Folklore & Local Stories
The Highlands around Hvítárvatn have long been connected with stories of travelers crossing the interior routes between north and south Iceland. In earlier centuries, people believed remote glacier landscapes like these were inhabited by hidden beings and wandering spirits that protected untouched wilderness areas. Because of the isolation and unpredictable weather, Highland travelers traditionally showed respect for the land before crossing routes such as Kjölur. Even today, the silence and scale of the landscape around Hvítárvatn create the same mysterious atmosphere that inspired these stories.