Where is Wild Camping allowed in Europe?

Free camping, also known as “wild camping,” is allowed in certain European countries but comes with different rules and restrictions depending on the location.

Here’s a breakdown of countries in Europe where wild camping is permitted:

• Norway
  • Allowed: Yes, under “Allemannsretten” (Everyman’s Right), you can camp on uncultivated land (e.g., forests, mountains, beaches) as long as you stay at least 150 meters away from inhabited houses or cabins.
  • Restrictions: Camping is limited to two nights in the same place unless you have permission from the landowner. The rule doesn’t apply to motorized camping (e.g., campervans) on private land.
• Sweden
  • Allowed: Yes, under “Allemansrätten” (Everyman’s Right), wild camping is permitted on uncultivated land for a short period.
  • Restrictions: Stay at least 150 meters away from buildings, and don’t damage the environment. Camping near national parks or protected areas may have specific restrictions.
• Finland
  • Allowed: Yes, under the “Everyman’s Right,” you can camp freely on public land for short periods.
  • Restrictions: The same rule applies about staying away from private homes and respecting the environment. National parks may have their own specific regulations.
• Scotland (UK)
  • Allowed: Yes, wild camping is permitted in Scotland, specifically in rural areas and national parks.
  • Restrictions: In some areas, like Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, wild camping is regulated, and permits may be required during certain times of the year.
• Estonia
  • Allowed: Yes, wild camping is generally allowed on public land, including in national parks, unless specifically prohibited.
  • Restrictions: Campers should respect private property, and some protected areas may have specific restrictions.
• Latvia
  • Allowed: Yes, wild camping is allowed in public forests and some rural areas.
  • Restrictions: Avoid camping on private property without permission, and be mindful of protected areas.
• Iceland
  • Allowed: In general, camping in undeveloped areas is allowed, but regulations are stricter in tourist-heavy areas.
  • Restrictions: Camping near farmhouses or on cultivated land is not allowed without permission. In some popular tourist regions, like the Golden Circle, free camping is restricted to designated campgrounds.
• Lithuania
  • Allowed: Yes, in public forests and some natural reserves, but it’s more restricted than in the Scandinavian countries.
  • Restrictions: You should avoid camping near populated areas or private property without permission.

Countries with Restricted or Prohibited Wild Camping:

• France: Wild camping is technically illegal in most places, but in rural or mountainous regions, it may be tolerated. Camping in national parks or protected areas often requires permission.
• Germany: Wild camping is prohibited, but some forests and natural areas have designated areas for “legal” wild camping. You may also camp with the landowner’s permission.
• Austria: Wild camping is largely illegal except in designated areas or with landowner consent, especially in nature reserves.
• Italy: Wild camping is not generally allowed, especially in popular tourist destinations, but in remote areas, local authorities may tolerate it.
• Spain: Wild camping is generally prohibited, especially along the coast and in popular tourist regions, though some rural areas may be more relaxed.

Always check local regulations, as even in countries that allow wild camping, certain regions or protected areas might have restrictions. Additionally, practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting nature is key to ensuring the continuation of free camping in these areas.