Iceland Campsites (Ultimate Guide to Camping in Iceland)

Discover the best Iceland campsites the worlds 18th largest island has to offer.

Iceland has so many natural wonders to explore, from the Vatnajökull National Park to the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Go ahead and rent yourself a car and explore all the natural beauty your mind can handle.

All campsites vary greatly when it comes to facilities. The ones we mention have everything you’ll need from washing facilities, to kitchens, to hot and cold water.

Also, it is important to note that many campsites that advertise being closed in off season have been known to offer camper vans/tent campers a place to sleep for the night. We always recommend contacting the Iceland campsite to double check their availability in off-season.

If you plan on camping in Iceland in summer, remember there is no problem with simply rocking up at the campsite without having pre booked.

(This post may contain affiliate links for the products or services we mention, but as always, all opinions are our own. We may make a small commission, at no extra cost to you, when you make a purchase or booking through these links. This helps to support this space and keep us blogging, which we are extremely grateful for.)

Table of Contents

10 Iceland Campsites

Skaftafell Campsite

This Iceland campsite is massive, they have space for over 400 tents. They do not have any designated pitches. Therefore, no reservations can be made.

A few sections on their campsite is reserved for campers and camping trailers, only groups can make reservations.

In the middle of the campsite you will find all the showers. There is also a washing machine and dryer located in a building next to the visitor center.

There are no indoor cooking or dining facilities, so you are going to have to stick to that good old gas cooker of yours. Thankfully, dish washing can be done in kitchen sinks next to the service buildings.

A 3G mobile network and wireless internet covers the campground.

Campsite Address: Möðruvellir, Möðruvallavegur, Iceland
Price: $13 per night
Opening Dates: All year round
Phone Number: +3544708300
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, dining areas, 3G wifi, kitchen
Campsite Reviews

Úlfljótsvatn Campsite

If you love outdoor activities, then Úlfljótsvatn Campsite has got it all!

Some of the amenities you can enjoy at your own leisure are a football pitch, a volleyball field, two obstacle courses (one of them being on water!), a climbing net, frisbee golf course, football golf course and more.

In peak season the staff run activities for campers, such as climbing, archery and paddling. You can check for timing at the onsite service center.

Fishing is included within the campsite’s perimeter. So are hot showers and a small kitchen/dining room. All of which are included in your camping fee.

Another cool amenity for RV campers is their dumping and refilling station.

Campsite Address: Úlfljótsvatn, 801 Selfoss, Iceland
Price: $11 per night (Children under 16 for free)
Opening Dates: Open until the end of September
Phone Number: +3544822674
Facilities: Showers, toilets, outdoor barbeques, service house, fishing in the lake.
Campsite Reviews

Ásbyrgi Campsite

One of the larger Iceland campsites, Ásbyrgi has place for around 350 tents. Similar to Skaftafell campsite, they do not accept reservations, larger groups however can contact the visitor center to see what can be arranged.

There is access to electricity. There are 48 x 1500 w plugs and 16 x 900 W plugs on the campsite.

Toilets, showers and washing machines are located in the main service building next to the parking site on the campground.

There are no cooking facilities, however dish washing can be done in kitchen sinks to the service buildings.

Campsite Address: Ásbyrgi, 671 Kópasker, Iceland
Price: $11
Opening Dates: 15th May – 31st October (the campsites original plan was to open on 1 April, but altered on 17 March due to COVID-19 and amount of snow on the campground)
Phone Number: +3544707100
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, washing machines and hiking trails.
Campsite Reviews

Egilsstaðir Campsite

The happiest campsite in Iceland, is their slogan – I love it! Reservations are not necessary as they have more than enough space for many tents.

They have 24/7 facilities where guests can access bathrooms, showers , washing,drying machines and more. The campground is also popular in the off seasons as it is open all year round. 24/7.

Last but not least there is free wifi at the campsite.

Campsite Address: Kaupvangur 17, 700 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Price: $15 per night (Electricity: $7.40)
Opening Dates: Open all year
Phone Number: +3544700750
Facilities:
Campsite Reviews

Siglufjörður Campsite

The campsite in Siglufjörður is located in the center of the town, next to the pier and the square. I’d estimate that all activities, museums, and services are about 5-10 minutes away.

If you head south of the avalanche protection guard, there is another area for those who want a little more peace and quiet.

Bird watching and golfing activities are located only a short walk away from this quaint Iceland campsite.

Campsite Address: Siglufjörður, Iceland
Price: $9.60 per night (free for 16 years and younger)
Opening Dates: 12th May to 15th October (depending on how hard the winter was)
Phone Number: +3546635560
Facilities: Restaurant, golf course, toilets, walking paths, electricity and washing machines.
Campsite Reviews

Tunguskogur Campsite

Another one of the Iceland campsites that offer many amenities such as hot showers, toilets, sinks, Wi-Fi, and a dining area.

Not far from the campsite is beautiful port town called Ísafjörður. I’d recommend you grab some coffee and lunch here to explore all the colorful houses and artwork in this little town.

One more thing to note for all of you who love people watching. Observing the way of life here is really interesting as its one of the most secluded parts of Iceland right after the north coast.

Check out this article to learn more about the way of life here, from a local.

Campsite Address: Skógarbraut, Ísafjörður, Iceland
Price: $13.35
Opening Dates: May 15th to 15th September
Phone Number: +3548648592
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, kitchen area, sinks and dining area
Campsite Reviews

Reykjavik Campsite

Reykjavik campsite is huge, with capacity to accommodate around 600 travelers. This Iceland campsites main site has more than 300 pitches on various grass fields.

They also accommodate bigger motor homes in need of hardened ground and grass, they have about 40 sites with outlets for this.

For campers and other vehicles there are about 70 non grassed sites.

Another major plus for me is the sustainable practices they implement into their daily routine. Since 2011 the campsite has been recognized by Earth Check for its environmental achievements. Also, they are one of the few Iceland campsites going for Vakinn (the official quality and environmental system in Iceland)

Campsite Address: Sundlaugavegur 32105 Reykjavík, Iceland
Price: $17.80 per night (Cyclists get a 20% low carbon discount) View all prices
Opening Dates: All year round
Phone Number: +3548638064
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, dining areas, WI-FI, swop markets, open BBQ, bike rental
Campsite Reviews

Þakgíl Campsite

In my opinion, Þakgil campgrounds is no doubt one of Iceland’s most beautiful campsites.

Nestled between towering mountains, its protected from the worst of the weather. A lovely little freshwater stream trickles through the campsite adding even more to its charm.

Their dining room is literally a cave that can be lit up by candles and heated by a fireplace on cold evenings. There are many hiking routes of variable difficulty. One trail even leads to the glacier!

One last point to mention is they even have a brand new WC and shower facilities.

Þakgil campsite is the place to be.

Campsite Address: Sunnubraut 7, Vík, Iceland
Price: $17 per night
Opening Dates: 1st June to 15th September
Phone Number: +3548934889
Facilities: Toilets, showers, dining room (natural cave), fireplace, BBQ
Campsite Reviews

Tjaldsvæðið Flókalundi Campsite

This Iceland Campsite is located close to Hotel Flókalundur. There is a spectacular view from the campsite over the Fjord sea.

All the facilities are good with electricity and a service house for any further help you may need.

The service house also has hot and cold running water, toilets, showers and a sink for washing up. It is also possible to have access to a washing machine in the hotel for a small fee.

Campsite Address: Flókalundur, Iceland
Price: $10.35 (Electricity + $7)
Opening Dates: 15th June to 10th September
Phone Number: +3544781606
Facilities: Toilets, hot showers, sinks & amazing views
Campsite Reviews

Grindavik Campsite

Grindavík has been rated one of the best campsites in Iceland. Located only twenty minutes away from Keflavík Airport. This is the perfect campsite to start off your Icelandic journey.

The campsite is said to be built with a camping enthusiast in mind. Their indoor area has a well equipped kitchen offering shelter on a rainy day.

This Iceland campsite also uses geothermal energy to keep their showers warm year round.

Check out some of the attractions around Grindavík here.

Campsite Address: Austurvegur 26, 240 Grindavik, Iceland
Price: $13.30 per night
Opening Dates: Year round
Phone Number: +3548309090
Facilities: Toilet, hot showers, kitchen plus cookware
Campsite Reviews

When to Go Camping in Iceland

Iceland has a high and low season for tourism. The high season is from late May to August, during this time Iceland campsites are notoriously crowded. There is almost always a mixture of campervans and tents in most campsites from early evening onwards during these months.

If your goal is to escape the crowds, then I’d recommend camping in Iceland in the months April and September. The only trade off of camping in the more tranquil months would be the weather.

In the high season, Iceland experiences milder weather, warmer temperatures and less temperamental rain, wind and snow.

In the off season, be aware there is a high chance of an April snow blizzard, this is probably the last thing you want while camping in Iceland. If you do decide to go for it nevertheless, I recommend reading how to keep warm in a tent.

If you plan on camping in Iceland in the summer months, keep in mind you will be falling asleep under the midnight sun, which is a true spectacle to behold!

If you struggle to fall asleep in general, I really recommend you get this sleeping mask (if you don’t already have one) to block out all the light. The last thing you want is for your sightseeing to be affected during the daytime.

If you are willing to trade better weather conditions for less crowded camping sites, you may get the chance to see the northern lights. I think you may find this worth the trade off.

Wild Camping in Iceland

Is wild camping in Iceland legal?

Wild camping in Iceland is technically not illegal. However, there are many strict regulations to what you can and cannot do.

For example, wild camping is legal if you are traveling on foot with your tent on your back. But only on public land (not privately owned or a national park). Much of Iceland, especially near the Ring Road where most tourists travel, is privately owned farmland. If you are looking to wild camp on private land, you will need to get the permission of the owner.

If you are traveling by car, campervan, motorhome, or any motorized vehicle wild camping is strictly forbidden. You will have to find yourself designated Iceland campsites to stay on. You may camp at some national parks like Skógafoss waterfall, but only on sections reserved for camping.

Bottom line

You can camp on public land if you meet the following standards:

You’re far away from any roads and populated areas like cities, towns, and villages.
You need permission from the landowner if you want to camp on private land.
There must be no defined Iceland campsites in the area that you are in. (Not an easy requirement to fulfill as in Iceland there are over 200 campsites scattered throughout the island.)
The land you camp on must not be cultivated (farmland or any areas with planted crop)
You cannot use land developed for a specific purpose. For example, places like parking lots, picnic areas, roads, etc.

In summary, in order to go wild camping, you’ll have to:

Contact the landowner. (if camping on private land)
Get written permission from the municipality you are in (so the police don’t hassle you).
Familiarize yourself with the borders of municipalities and the camping regulations in that municipality.
Find an open, barren, uncultivated piece of land within that municipality where you have permission.

Iceland Camping Equipment

There is one thing you have to remember about Iceland, it’s pretty much cold all the time. The average temperature near Reykjavík in winter is about 33-35°F (1 – 2°C) and in summer it’s 54°F (12°C). If you are used to camping in mediterranean weather, then Iceland is going to be a whole new experience for you.

I’ve had my fair share of cold weather camping experiences and trust me, camping in cold weather without the right gear, is not fun!

Below is some of the essential outdoor gear I recommend you use if you plan on camping in Iceland.

Sleeping Bags

One of the most important items on your list. When it comes to camping in warm weather, I wouldn’t worry too much about the quality of your sleeping bag.

However, when it comes to camping in cold weather TRUST ME you want a decent quality sleeping bag made specifically for cold weather. I recommend these two sleeping bags

Browning Camping McKinley -30 Degree Sleeping Bag

The Browning sleeping bag is designed to keep you warm in extreme weather. I highly recommend it if you are worried about being too cold at night, with this, you won’t be. Just keep in mind this is quite a large bulky sleeping bag, heavier than most.

View Sleeping Bag

TETON Sports Fahrenheit Mammoth Queen-Size Double Sleeping

double sleeping bags for iceland camping

If you are a couple camping in Iceland then check out this double sleeping bag from Teton. The extra body warmth will get you through even the coldest of nights.

View Sleeping bag

VAUDE Cheyenne 700, Down Sleeping Bag

Vaude, one of my favorite camping brands. Why? Because they produce sustainable outdoor clothing and gear! This sleeping bag is much lighter than the other two perfect for backpacking trip. I wouldn’t use this sleeping bag in extreme weather. But, you’ll be fine in any temperature above 30,2°F (-1°C).

View Sleeping Bag

Sleeping Pads

I recommend using two sleeping pads when camping in cold icy weather. Use a closed-cell foam pad on the ground and a self-inflating pad on top to get the best insulation from the cold ground.

The foam pad also serves as an extra insurance in case the self-inflating pad gets punctured (happens to me all the time).

View Pad

View Pad

Winter Tents

For high winds, heavy snowfall and pouring rain, I recommend a 4-season tent. 4-season tents have sturdier poles and thicker fabrics than 3-season tents so they can withstand much more powerful gusts of wind and heavy snow loads.

Most 4-season tents also have less mesh and the rain flys extend super close to the ground in order to keep snow from blowing inside.

Remember to get a tent that could theoretically fit an extra person inside. You will need the extra space to store your equipment away from harsh weather conditions outside.

2 Person GEERTOP 4 Season Camping Tent

The Geertop 4 season tent is made of high quality material which is fully waterproof and extremely light weight. There’s nothing worse than a tent that leaks at night, with the Geertop you won’t have to worry about that. Also, for the quality this tent is really affordable.

View tent

4 Person GEERTOP 4 Season Camping Tent

Very similar to the tent above with the exception that its rather suited for a small family or for 3 – 4 friends. I love the fact you can use the door as a roof. I personally enjoy watching the rain while camping, this tent makes it possible.

Warm Accessories

Some warm accessories I recommend bringing with you for your camping trip in Iceland. You can click the image to learn more about the product.

Renting Camping Gear in Iceland

Another option you could consider if you aren’t interested in getting your own gear, is renting gear once you arrive in Iceland. In my opinion, this only makes sense if you plan on camping in Iceland for a few days.

Let’s assume the following, you are two people looking to camp in Iceland for 2 weeks. You will need to rent the following camping gear upon arrival in Iceland:

2-3 person tent – x1 ($8.25 per night)
Self inflating air mattress – x2 ($7 per night)
Sleeping bag synthetic fill – x2 ($9.40 per night)
Cookset + stove and gas – x1 ($4.70 per night)

The total cost for 14 nights would come up to $410. That is the cost for your basic camping equipment. Being a cold country it’s more than likely you will need extra gear to make your camping experience more comfortable, this will of course drive your costs up slightly.

Bottom line:

If you plan on camping in Iceland for a prolonged period of time, say 1.5 weeks or more, I think it’s smarter to get your own gear. If you only plan on visiting a few Iceland campsites and don’t foresee camping in the future, then without a doubt renting gear is your best bet.

Check out this website for the best camp gear rental in Iceland.

Map of Iceland Campsites

What is an Iceland Camping Card?

You can purchase the Iceland camping card online for $187. The camping card gives you access to over 30 campsites throughout Iceland.

The card is valid for 28 nights and includes two adults and two children. The card can only be used in summer, so from 1^st June to 15^th September.

So, is it worth it?

Well, on our list of the best Iceland Campsites, the average price per night is $12 per person. If you planned on staying in Iceland for the full 28 days, then of course no matter what, the camping card is the way to go.

For solo travelers, if you plan on camping in Iceland for 2 weeks or less, then I recommend paying for your campsite on arrival, ignore the camping card.

If you are a couple or family, using the camping card will only save you money if you plan on camping in Iceland for more than 7 days.

Keep in mind though, that the majority of Iceland campsites I’ve listed above, are not part of the camping card deal. In the near future I will make a separate list of camping sites included in the card deal.

You can purchase the Iceland camping card here.

Climate in Iceland

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Average high °C (°F)	1.9 (35.4)	2.8 (37.0)	3.2 (37.8)	5.7 (42.3)	9.4 (48.9)	11.7 (53.1)	13.3 (55.9)	13.0 (55.4)	10.1 (50.2)	6.8 (44.2)	3.4 (38.1)	2.2 (36.0)	7.0 (44.6)
Average low °C (°F)	−3.0 (26.6)	−2.1 (28.2)	−2.0 (28.4)	0.4 (32.7)	3.6 (38.5)	6.7 (44.1)	8.3 (46.9)	7.9 (46.2)	5.0 (41.0)	2.2 (36.0)	−1.3 (29.7)	−2.8 (27.0)	1.9 (35.4)

Wikipedia

If you have any questions on more Iceland campsites feel free to ask us in the comments sections. As always we will continuously update this article to stay up to date on prices and critical information.

Further reading: