Imagine driving down a remote path with your van or tent on the roof, setting up camp by a deserted lake, and all you hear is the rustling of trees and a curious owl. No camping rules, no rushing, just you, your gear and nature. Wild camping is for those who take freedom really literally, but it is helpful to know where you are allowed to camp without being startled awake by an angry forest ranger.
In which countries in Europe can you wild camp?
Wild camping is not allowed everywhere in Europe, but fortunately there are enough countries where you can legally go into nature with your tent, van or rooftent. Think Sweden, Norway, Finland, Scotland and parts of Iceland. These are places where the "every man's right" applies. That means you can camp freely on undeveloped land, as long as you respect nature and don't leave a mess behind. In countries like Slovenia and Croatia, it's a little trickier, but if you pay attention and ask locally, you can often find a spot for the night just fine. In some areas there are designated "wild camping zones," where you can legally pitch off-grid for a small fee. Sounds like freedom, right?
Is wild camping in Europe safe?
Sure! As long as you use your common sense, wild camping is generally safe. Choose your spot wisely: not too close to roads, private property or high-risk areas like mountain slopes or dry river beds. And always check the weather especially if you are in mountainous areas.
Let someone know where you are. Even if you have a hike planned. Because even then things can go wrong, as you can read in the article smart and safe hiking. With a little preparation you can turn any adventure into a great camping trip.
Where is wild camping prohibited in Europe?
In many European countries wild camping is not allowed, and in some places it is strictly enforced. Especially in countries like France, Spain, Italy and Portugal there are clear rules, especially in national parks, on the coast or in tourist regions. Anyone who sets up camp there without permission runs the risk of a fine.
Do you want to camp off the beaten track in these countries? Then look for alternatives such as pole campsites, small-scale nature campsites or places at private homes, such as farms. This way you stay legal and close to nature.
Countries where you can camp in the wild?
There are also countries where wild camping is not officially allowed, but where it is tolerated under certain conditions. Think of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Slovenia. In these countries you are sometimes allowed to stay one night in a remote spot, as long as you don't cause any damage, don't leave garbage behind and stay out of protected nature areas. It can also help to ask permission from a landowner. A simple "may I camp here for one night?" often works wonders.
The rules vary from region to region, and what is okay in one place may be problematic a few miles away. So it pays to read up well in advance, for example through local government websites or tourist information points. That way you keep it legal and fun.
A few highlighted countries
Wild camping in the Netherlands
Wild camping in the Netherlands is prohibited, but fortunately there are beautiful nature campsites and small-scale camping sites that still give you that outdoor feeling. Tip: Discover lesser-known gems of the Netherlands for quiet and adventurous spots close to home.
Wild camping in Belgium
Wild camping is also officially prohibited in Belgium. An alternative are the bivouac zones in Wallonia: places in the forest where you can legally spend the night with a few tents.
Wild camping in Germany
Wild camping in Germany is prohibited, but there are so-called "Trekkingplätze" in, among others, Rhineland-Palatinate and Bavaria: simple places in the middle of nature where you can legally stay one night.
Wild camping inScotland
Here you still have real freedom. Thanks to the "Right to Roam" you can camp almost anywhere, as long as you respect nature and don't cause any nuisance.
Wild camping inFrance
Wild camping is prohibited, but a bivouac from sunset to sunrise is sometimes tolerated in remote places. Outside national parks and with permission of the owner you are often fine.
Wild camping in Switzerland
The rules vary by canton, but in mountain areas above the tree line, one-night stands are often tolerated. Find out locally.
Wild camping in Austria
Wild camping is prohibited, but in the Alps you are sometimes allowed to bivouac if it is an emergency overnight stay during a multi-day trek.
Wild camping in Iceland
Officially you are allowed to wild camp outside built-up areas and national parks, but due to crowds, rules have been tightened. Always check locally what is allowed.
Wild camping in Norway
You've come to the right place. Thanks to the "every man's right" you can spend the night almost anywhere in nature, as long as you stay 150 meters from houses and leave the place tidy. Also check out our top 10 European destinations for nature and outdoor lovers for even more inspiration. If you want even more inspiration come to Fred Geerts' session in the Camping Theater during Camping & Caravan Jaarbeurs, he will tell you all about camping in Norway.
Wild camping in Slovenia
Officially forbidden, but sometimes allowed with the permission of a landowner. In mountain areas a discreet overnight stay is often tolerated.
Wild camping in England
Wild camping is prohibited, with the exception of parts of Dartmoor. Stricter rules apply there as well.
Wild camping inCroatia
Not allowed, especially along the coast. Rather find a nature campsite or ask explicit permission on private property.
Adventurous but sensible
Wild camping in Europe remains one of the purest ways to travel: sleeping under the stars, waking up in the middle of nature and deciding for yourself where to go tomorrow. But it also requires some preparation and respect for the place where you are. Each country has its own rules, and knowing them pays off.
So make sure you know what is allowed, where you stand and how to prepare. That way you are always ready for your next adventure, wherever that may be.
