Iceland Camping Rules: Everything You Need to Know

Learn Iceland’s camping rules, laws, and tips for wild camping, campervans, tents, and campsites. Plan a safe and legal Iceland adventure.

Planning on camping in Iceland? With breathtaking landscapes, endless summer days, and a strong outdoor culture, Iceland is a dream for campers. But before pitching your tent or parking your campervan, it's essential to understand the country’s strict camping laws in order to protect both nature and your travel plans.

A Bit of Context: The 2015 Camping Law

In 2015, Iceland updated its camping legislation to address growing tourism and its environmental impact. Before this law, wild camping was relatively unrestricted. However, with a sharp rise in visitors, issues like littering, off-road driving, and camping on private property became more frequent.

The 2015 law clarified where and how you can camp in Iceland, placing greater emphasis on designated campsites and protecting natural landscapes from overuse.

Can You Camp Anywhere in Iceland?

In short, no, you can’t just camp anywhere in Iceland.

Wild Camping & Overnight Stays

No, not anymore. Wild camping is highly restricted. You can’t camp on private land without landowner permission. In uninhabited wilderness areas, it's sometimes allowed for tents only (not vehicles), but even then, it's limited by the Nature Conservation Act. Overnight stays in vehicles (campervans, RVs, rooftop tents) are only allowed at designated campsites unless you have written permission.

National Parks & Protected Areas

Camping is only allowed in marked areas within national parks and protected lands. Wild camping is not permitted in Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, or Snæfellsjökull National Parks, among others. Always check local signs and regulations.

Camping Laws in Iceland

Here’s a breakdown of Iceland camping laws and regulations.

Campervan & RV Regulations

Camping overnight in a campervan or motorhome rental is only legal at marked campsites. Even pulling over in a remote area for the night is not allowed.

Rooftop Tent Camping Rules

Like campervans, rooftop tents must be used in official campsites unless you have permission from the landowner. Icelandic law treats them as motor vehicles for camping purposes.

Traditional Tent Camping

If you're traveling with a tent, some remote areas may allow one-night stays on uncultivated land, but only if it’s not in a protected area and you have no access to a campsite nearby. Still, the safest (and most respectful) option is always to camp in designated areas.

Iceland’s Designated Campsites

Iceland has over 200 registered campsites spread across the country in areas as accessible as those along the Ring Road up to more remote areas in the highlands. Most campsites are open from May to September and offer basic amenities like toilets, showers, and cooking areas. 

You can find all registered campsites on Tjalda.is, or explore our list of the 12 best campgrounds in Iceland to plan your stops.

Dos & Don’ts When Camping in Iceland

Before heading out, keep these essential dos and don’ts in mind to ensure a safe, legal, and eco-friendly camping experience:

• Do plan your itinerary ahead
• Do camp at designated campsites
• Do respect private property
• Do plan your fuel stops (stations can be far apart)
• Don’t light campfires (they’re illegal)
• Don’t walk on the moss (it takes decades to grow back)
• Don’t ignore weather warnings (conditions change fast)

"Leave No Trace" Principles

Iceland’s landscapes are fragile, and preserving them is a shared responsibility. Always follow “Leave No Trace” principles when camping in nature.

Respect Wildlife

Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. Keep dogs on leashes.

Respect Nature

Avoid stepping on moss, keep to marked trails when hiking, don’t carve into rocks, and never light open fires.

Make Minimum Noise

Enjoy Iceland’s serenity and avoid loud music or shouting at campsites or remote areas.

Don’t Leave Waste Behind

Take all your trash with you, even biodegradable items like food scraps.

Camping Tips for First-Time Campers in Iceland

New to camping in Iceland? Here are some practical tips:

• Bring a sleeping mask in summer (midnight sun is real!)
• Pack extra layers; Iceland’s weather can shift quickly
• Use windproof gear, not just waterproof
• Pre-book campsites during high season, they fill up fast
• Have backup power for phones or GPS
• Bring a credit card; many campsites and gas stations are cashless

If you are planning a longer camping trip, the camping card can be worth it for extra savings along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is wild camping allowed in Iceland?

In most cases, no. It’s only allowed in very remote areas for tents (not vehicles) and with strict limitations. It’s always safer to use designated campsites.

How much does camping cost in Iceland​?

Most campsites charge between 1,500–2,500 ISK per person per night. Some include showers and electricity, while others charge extra.

Is camping in Iceland safe?

Yes, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Just be sure to respect the weather, follow local regulations, and use proper gear.

Follow these Simple Camping Rules & Enjoy!

Camping in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore its natural beauty. Follow the rules, plan ahead, and your trip will be unforgettable. Ready to hit the road? Explore all our vehicles for hire to find the perfect fit for your adventure.