17 kid-friendly campsites in Norway

Jarle Buseth is head of camping trade promotion at the Norwegian Hospitality Association (NHO Reiseliv), an organisation that works with the classification of camping sites.

"Camping is an affordable way to travel. You can bring a tent and pay just NOK 200–400 per night, or stay in a cabin. Many campgrounds offer well-equipped cabins with a good standard. Camping is also a more eco-friendly way to travel, as you can travel by train or bus," says Jarle.

"If you're traveling with children, camping is often a favourite. They make new best friends every day. It’s a wonderful vacation option for the whole family. You get to spend quality time together and share experiences, which is exactly what kids want during their holidays."

"You don’t need to travel far. You'll almost always find a campground within a two-hour radius of where you are. For example, if you're travelling from Oslo, you can go to Moss (Larkollen) or Telemark. That puts you in a completely different environment," he adds.

Choosing a campsite in Norway

There is a classification system — from 1 to 5 stars — that helps guests choose a campsite. This allows each person to decide what kind of facilities they want or need.

A 3-star campsite typically has a good standard, universally accessible rooms, a small kiosk, and some playground equipment for children.

From 4 stars and up, the campsite is more like a full-service resort, with amenities such as a restaurant, plenty of children’s activities, and facilities specifically designed for families.

Note that the number of stars doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality of the campsite, but rather the range of facilities available.

Camping with children

Campsites located near beaches, that have playgrounds or that offer organised activities are ideal for families with children.

"Take some time to research what's going on in the area you’re visiting. There are often exciting activities nearby like hiking, kayaking, climbing parks, via ferratas, and more. Make use of the area! Try local restaurants, sample regional cuisine, visit farms, and so on," says Jarle.

It's also important to pack properly for camping.

"Remember that Norway has variable weather, so bring warm clothes. Camping holidays are often active holidays, so pack good footwear and clothes you can move comfortably in," says Jarle.

Here are 17 child-friendly campsites that are well worth checking out (and checking into!):

Make Fagernes your base

Fagernes in Valdres, Eastern Norway

Fagernes in Valdres lies at the foot of some of Norway’s most famous mountains. There is easy access to Fagernes Camping from most directions by car.

Lively valley life in Ål

Ål in Hallingdal Valley, Eastern Norway

The lush, V-shaped Hallingdal Valley is one of Eastern Norway’s major valleys and a popular tourist destination. The Hallingdalselva river runs right past Hallingdal holiday park.

Discover Grimstad

Grimstad, Southern Norway

Pitch your tent at Moysand family camping in Grimstad, a charming maritime city in Southern Norway. The municipality of Grimstad borders the city of Arendal in the east and Lillesand in the west.

Camp by the Hardangerfjord

Kinsarvik in the Hardangerfjord region, Fjord Norway

Hardangertun Hytter & Familiepark and Mikkelparken Ferietun are both in the village of Kinsarvik situated by a bay where the Sørfjord and the Eidfjord come together to create the most important part of the Hardangerfjord. Mikkelparken is a popular amusement park with plenty of rides, slides, and pools that is perfect for small kids. Mikkelparken Ferietun is directly across the street from the amusement park, while Hardangertun is just a short walk or drive away.

Play in Southern Norway

Risør in Southern Norway

Give the kids a memorable time at Sørlandet Feriesenter near Risør in Southern Norway. The Risør area is characterised by numerous small islands that offer protection against the open sea of Skagerrak.

The fairy tale landscape of Nordfjord

Nordfjord in Fjord Norway

North of the Sognefjord, you’ll find the beautiful coastline of Nordfjord. Byrkjelo Camping by the Storelva river offers a family-friendly pool and easy hiking trails.

Where the quiet Telemark region gets loud

Telemark, Eastern Norway

Take full advantage of the diversity of Norsjø Ferieland in the countryside in Telemark. This is traditionally a central port of call at the Telemark canal. The campsite offers a restaurant, family activities, canoe, SUP and paddleboat rentals, and a wakeboarding cable.

Kick back in Ballangen

Nordland, Northern Norway

Spend eventful days at Ballangen camping in Northern Norway. The site is located by the Ofotfjord, just a few hours from Lofoten. The nearest major city is Narvik.

Stay close to Tromsø

Tromsø, Northern Norway

Troms county offers some of the most exotic experiences in Northern Norway in one place. Tromsø Lodge and Camping combines wild Arctic nature with close proximity to Tromsø city centre.

Family time near the Swedish border

Indre Østfold, Eastern Norway

Discover Inner Østfold and Aremark at Kirkeng Camping, close to the Swedish border. Life in the forest by the lakes offers a lot of fun activities.

Hornnes Camping & Mineralparken

Evje in the Setesdal valley, Southern Norway

Camp at Hornnes Camping near Evje in Setesdal, located in by Mineralparken, an activity park that offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. At Hornnes, you can choose to participate in the activities or stay in a more private area.

Go swimming in Setesdal

The Setesdal Valley, Southern Norway

The Otra river runs south from Byglandsfjorden lake in Setesdal. Where the river bends, you’ll find idyllic Odden Camping on a peaceful tongue of land.

Wake up to views of the Molde Panorama

Molde in Northwest, Fjord Norway

The city of Molde is home to picturesque charm and panoramic views. Kviltorp Camping combines urban fun with child-friendly activities.