Camping and caravanning

Find the best places to camp

Freedom to go anywhere, anytime ...

... and lots of opportunities to meet cool, new friends! You're bound to get some, if you choose one of Norway's family-friendly campsites, full of fun activities.

There are more than a thousand campsites all across Norway that can offer a spot for your tent, caravan or motorhome, as well as campsite cabins of varying standards and prices.

Keep the accommodation costs to a minimum, or ...

... splash out and stay in upscale luxury cottages.

Norwegian campsites are often situated in idyllic areas, close to mountains, fjords and lakes - and nice beaches.

But you don't have to leave the city – camping options are also found just a short distance from the city center.

Find the campsite that suits you.

Or do you find the wilderness more tempting?

The right to roam allows you to set up tents or hammocks completely free, most places in Norway.

In some areas of Lofoten and Western Norway, there might be restrictions on free camping, mainly during summer, though.

But that requires you to follow some easy rules:

Tents and motorhomes must be at least 150 meters from inhabited houses and cabins.
Avoid private properties and farmland.
Show consideration for your surroundings.
Take your rubbish back home
Go far away from the campsite and rivers when you have "to go", and dig a hole that you cover with soil afterwards.

Why not let the animals tell you their house rules?

Camping in a tent in Norway

If you're more the "comfy bed and warm duvets" kind of person, then glamping might be your thing.

It's full of modern conveniences!

Another popular trend sweeping the nation is "hammocking".

Please be aware that you have to follow the same rules as for tenting in the wilderness and avoid doing this in very popular tourist areas.

You don't need to bring your own hammock, several providers have hammock camps around Norway, even on top of a mountain and inside an old tunnel.

And a little tip from us to you:

If you're heading out in July, it's smart to book a spot in the popular tourist areas early on, or call before you arrive!

Practical campsite information

At most campsites you can book a spot or cabin in advance, with varying standards – from simple bunk beds and shared toilets, to large and well-equipped cabins with a terrace, living room, separate bedrooms, kitchen, shower and toilet.

Classification of cabins:

It's becoming increasingly popular to rent camping cabins, so it's a good idea to plan and book as early as you can. Please note that the cabin standards are measured independently and not based on the campsite standard. For example, a two-star campground may have five-star cabins.

* Cottage with one room and simple furnishings.

** Addition to the above: Electricity (light, heating, refrigerator, cooking facilities, etc.) The cottage can have several rooms.

*** Addition to the above: Water supply near the cottage, separate bedrooms. Built-in water can possibly replace separate bedrooms.

**** Addition to the above: Built-in hot and cold water, toilet, shower and kitchen equipped for cooking and eating. One living room and a minimum of one bedroom.

***** Addition to the above: Hotel standard with self-catering facilities.

Book unique stays in nature with Campanyon.

Remember to be a good guest during your stay.

The Camping Code of Conduct

The Camping Code of Conduct helps to ensure you have an enjoyable and safer experience while visiting. It also helps us protect nature and support our local communities.

1. Follow the rules of the right to roam.

The Norwegian right to roam entitles everyone to travel freely in the great outdoors, but remember it comes with certain obligations – you need to show consideration for nature, wildlife and other people.

2. Use dedicated campsites and motorhome pitches whenever possible.

It’s safe. And it is often the best choice as it promises a better experience and helps to support local communities.

3. Show consideration when camping in the wild.

Remember to camp at least 150 metres away from any buildings, avoid private property and farmland, and do not drive off-road. Do not park in passing places on the side of the road. Picnic areas are primarily for short stops. Pay attention to signs and weather forecasts, some areas may be at risk of landslides and flooding.

Camping in a tent

How to travel in Norway with a motorhome

4. Keep at least four metres distance from other vehicles etc.

For reasons of fire safety and comfort, ensure there is at least four metres between you and other motorhomes/caravans/tents.

5. Respect signage and rules.

Respect signs that prohibit overnight stays, parking or access.

6. Drive safely and considerately.

Adapt your speed to the road and driving conditions. Some roads are narrow and not suitable for motorhomes/caravans. You don’t always have to drive as fast as the legal speed limit. Pull into passing places to let other road users pass you. Show consideration for oncoming traffic. Winter roads can be challenging, make sure you have the necessary driving skills and that your vehicle is equipped for winter driving.

Driving in winter conditions

7. Shop locally – experience more.

Support local producers and discover new tastes, unique traditions and exciting experiences.

8. Respect domestic and wild animals.

The best you can do for wildlife is not to disturb it. Do not feed any animals. Close gates behind you and keep animals on a leash when required by law.

9. Take your rubbish with you.

Use rubbish bins, WCs and waste emptying stations for motorhomes/caravans to help keep nature clean. Recycle whenever possible.

10. Give nature a rest.

Avoid sharing nature’s ‘hidden’ gems on social media if they’re not designed for camping. Certain places are best enjoyed without too many visitors.

Source: Norsk turistutvikling

Find a campsite near you

Camping tips

And remember that many Norwegian roads are very narrow, so take extra caution when driving a caravan or a motorhome. Some roads are also closed for this kind of traffic.

Bridges can also be closed for periods due to strong wind. This also applies to several of our National Scenic Routes.

Read more tips on what to think of if travelling with a motorhome in Norway.

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