Ultimate Guide to Wild Camping in Europe

Wild camping in Europe: areas where camping is allowed and great alternatives

Wilderness camping allows you to experience the joys of camping in remote, unspoiled areas, away from everyday amenities. Camping is all about reconnecting with nature, embracing adventure and putting your survival skills to the test. However, this experience is not available all over Europe as most countries have restrictions. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Find out where camping is allowed, what to look out for, and discover some great alternatives that offer the same sense of freedom and tranquility without incurring fines.

Where in Europe is wild camping allowed?

Not all European countries allow wild camping, but there are still a few where you can embrace nature at its most pristine.

Camping in Norway Norway is a paradise for camping enthusiasts, thanks to the principle of “free roaming”, also known as the “Alemannic right “. This right allows anyone to camp in the wilderness, national parks and forests with very few restrictions. As long as you avoid cultivated land and stay at least 150 meters away from homes, you can pitch your tent almost anywhere – especially if you camp for more than two nights. Whether you’re hiking through the fjords or enjoying Norway’s breathtaking scenery, this is wild camping at its best.
Wild camping in Sweden Like Norway, Sweden is bound by the principle of “everyone has the right to nature” (allemannsretten), so wild camping follows the same guidelines. From peaceful forests to beautiful lakes, the Swedish wilderness is waiting to be explored. Many areas even offer extra comforts such as dry toilets and barbecue grills to make your stay even more enjoyable. Wildlife is abundant, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet local animals as you explore the beautiful outdoors.
Wilderness camping in Finland Finland has no specific laws against wilderness camping, and in many of the country’s national parks you can enjoy well-equipped campgrounds that offer free facilities. While these campgrounds are not completely isolated, they still give you a real sense of being in nature while remaining comfortable. With peaceful surroundings and the chance to spot wildlife, they are perfect for nature lovers.
Wild camping in Scotland Scotland is another popular location for wild camping, with magnificent natural landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to scenic loch shores. Wilderness campers often set up a makeshift campsite, leave their tents behind while hiking, or even go on a multi-day hike and wilderness camp along the way. The natural beauty of Scotland is unforgettable and wild camping here will be an unforgettable experience.
Wild camping in IcelandWild camping is allowed in Iceland, but there are some strict rules. You are allowed to camp with a maximum of three tents and you are not allowed to stay more than one night in any one location. National parks are off limits, and be sure to avoid private land, especially near farms. If you follow these rules, Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes and opportunities to see the Northern Lights will make for an unforgettable wilderness camping experience.
Camping in Switzerland Camping in Switzerland is permitted, but only in the high mountains, above the tree line. This is the perfect challenge if you are preparing for a multi-day hike. However, make sure you avoid camping near mountain huts. For those not looking for such a strenuous adventure, well-maintained campgrounds in Switzerland may be more suitable. In any case, Switzerland has amazing landscapes that are perfect for a camping trip.

Things to keep in mind while wild camping in Europe

Before embarking on a wild camping adventure, there are a few important things to keep in mind. The most important rule is “leave no trace “. Always respect the environment, don’t disturb the wildlife, don’t leave garbage, and don’t damage the natural environment. Obey local regulations and, if you are camping in a designated area, follow the guidelines to maximize the protection of the natural environment.

Other camping options: If a country doesn’t allow wild camping, consider other ways you can still get in touch with nature. National parks, campgrounds or eco-lodges in secluded areas can offer you an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city without breaking any laws.

Whether you’re hiking in Norway’s fjords, swimming in Sweden’s lakes or camping in Scotland’s breathtaking hills, there are plenty of places in Europe where you can embrace nature responsibly. With a little planning, you can enjoy the same wilderness experience without the fear of being penalized. For more advice on camping gear, check out our guide to the best camping mattresses for 2025.

Keep your site tidy for other campers

Please keep the following points in mind when undertaking wild camping:

Use fire with care: please be aware of fire safety at all times. Avoid fires during the dry season or during particularly severe droughts. Make sure you keep a safe distance from any flammable materials, both natural and man-made, and avoid damaging grass with fire. Check out CoreVibe’s Campfire Policy for our fire safety guidelines. Learn more about essential tips for campfire safety.
TAKE TRASH: In addition to leaving no trace of a fire, be sure to thoroughly inspect your campsite before leaving to make sure it is free of trash, especially non-biodegradable materials. Dispose of all trash responsibly.
Dispose of garbage correctly: always bury garbage and pack away toilet paper as it takes a long time to decompose in the wild.
Respect nature and wildlife: minimize noise and keep a proper distance when observing wildlife. Love nature and leave no impact.
Keep your stay short: Remember that nature is a guest house and you are just a guest. Please try not to stay too long. There are countless beautiful sites to explore, so continue your adventure without disturbing others.

Explore alternatives to camping in the Netherlands

Camping in the Netherlands has both opportunities and limitations. We caught up with CoreVibe’s hiking expert Rick Mulder for his thoughts on the subject. You can check out his hiking guide on his social media for more information.

What is wilderness camping?

Wilderness camping is spending the night in an area with no fixed facilities, usually away from a designated campground. It’s a frequent option for adventurers who travel long distances, such as L.D.W. (Long Distance Walking). While wilderness camping is allowed in some countries, its legality and accessibility can vary widely. Sometimes, wild camping is strictly prohibited, which is why it is necessary to consider other alternatives that allow for legal overnight stays in the natural environment.

Is wild camping legal in the Netherlands?

Hello, I’m Rick, an avid outdoor enthusiast with a particular love for camping, especially in the woods. Camping is legally forbidden in the Netherlands, you can’t just pitch a tent and camp in the forest. Camping is punishable by a fine, usually up to 140 euros. Not only is it illegal to pitch a tent or tarp, but camping in random places is also forbidden.

Alternative ways to experience nature in the Netherlands

Although wild camping is not allowed in the Netherlands, there are still plenty of opportunities to get closer to nature, with platforms such as CoreVibe offering private and nature-inspired campsites where you can stay for a small fee. In addition, Natuurmonumenten offers campsites in the heart of nature at affordable prices. There is also The Green Booklet, a guide to small campsites in the nature of the Netherlands. The Green Booklet is required to stay at these campsites, but it ensures you have a peaceful experience with fewer crowds than at regular campsites.

Best wild camping options

The Netherlands is a well-regulated country with strict camping laws designed to protect nature from pollution and disturbance. These regulations are designed to protect the natural environment for those who truly appreciate it. I’ve been fortunate enough to camp in the heart of nature, rather than in an official campground, and I can tell you this: it’s an unforgettable experience.

Wild camping always comes with risks. While it was an exciting adventure, I wouldn’t recommend it without considering other options. For an authentic wilderness camping experience, a great option is to try CoreVibe’s offerings, especially their polar camping or micro camping sites. With any luck, you might find yourself completely alone in the wilderness.

CoreVibe offers you great campsites deep in nature all over the Netherlands. Unlike true wilderness camping, where you may have to endure the plight of not having running water and toilets, CoreVibe lets you sleep peacefully in beautiful places for a small fee. Imagine camping in the tranquil Carmine area of North Brabant or exploring the Kadettenkamp. For just a few euros you can find a variety of idyllic campsites deep in the forest.

At CoreVibe campgrounds in the Netherlands, you will experience a camping atmosphere and often enjoy some basic amenities for your comfort. These campgrounds are usually located on private land, such as meadows, forest edges, or even in private gardens. While some may offer more amenities, many still offer a primitive camping experience. These places are as isolated as the forests of Sweden, allowing you to truly get away from everyday life.

And it’s not just in the Netherlands! CoreVibe also offers campgrounds in Belgium, France, Germany, Denmark and many other European countries. You can enjoy off-grid camping all over Europe without worrying about huge fines, while experiencing the charm of a hospitable host. This unique experience may make (almost) camping even more fun!

Explore CoreVibe alternatives to camping:

Campsites in Belgium
Campsites in France
Campsites in the Netherlands
Campsites in Germany