Iceland's Best Camping Spots for Road Trippers

Camping in Iceland offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and a deep connection to the country’s extraordinary nature. Waking up to the sight of a glacier, the sound of a distant waterfall, or the stillness of a remote fjord is an experience that stays with you forever. A self-drive camping trip is the ultimate way to explore Iceland, providing the flexibility to follow your curiosity and immerse yourself in the landscape.

This guide is designed for road trippers planning a camping adventure. We will highlight some of Iceland's best campsites, chosen for their stunning locations, excellent facilities, and proximity to major attractions. We will also provide practical advice on planning your trip, choosing the right vehicle, and navigating the rules of camping in Iceland. With a reliable vehicle from Höldur Car Rental, you can embark on a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey through Iceland's most scenic spots.

Why Choose a Camping Road Trip in Iceland?

A camping road trip combines the adventure of exploration with the practicality of having your accommodation with you. It allows you to stay in some of the most beautiful locations in the country, often for a fraction of the cost of traditional lodging. When you rent a car in Iceland for a camping trip, you gain the ability to adapt your plans to the weather, linger longer in places you love, and truly get off the beaten path.

The Camping Card (Útilegukortið)

For those planning an extended camping trip, the Camping Card is a valuable resource. It provides access to a network of around 40 participating campsites across the country for a single fee. Valid for 28 consecutive nights for two adults and up to four children, it can offer significant savings. However, many excellent campsites are not part of this network, so it is wise to mix and match based on your route.

Best Campsites for Your Self-Drive Itinerary+

Iceland’s campsites range from basic fields with minimal facilities to full-service grounds with modern amenities. Here are some of the best spots for road trippers, organized by region.

South Iceland: Glaciers, Waterfalls, and Black Sand

The South Coast is Iceland's most popular tourist route, and its campsites provide perfect bases for exploring the region's iconic sights.

1. Skógar Campsite

• Location: Situated directly next to the magnificent Skógafoss waterfall.
• Why It’s Great: The experience of camping within earshot of one of Iceland's most powerful waterfalls is unforgettable. You can wake up, unzip your tent, and see the 60-meter cascade right before you. The proximity allows you to visit the waterfall in the early morning or late evening, avoiding the peak crowds.
• Facilities: The facilities are relatively basic but functional, with toilets and running water. The real draw here is the location.
• Nearby Attractions: Skógafoss itself, the hidden Kvernufoss waterfall, the Skógar Museum, and the Sólheimasandur plane wreck.

2. Skaftafell Campground

• Location: In the heart of Skaftafell, a wilderness area within Vatnajökull National Park.
• Why It’s Great: This is a hiker’s paradise. The campsite is the starting point for numerous trails, including the popular hike to Svartifoss waterfall, famed for its basalt columns, and trails leading to the edge of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue. The views of Iceland's highest peaks are spectacular.
• Facilities: This is a large, well-organized campsite with excellent facilities, including showers, toilets, cooking shelters, and a visitor center with detailed information about the park.
• Nearby Attractions: Svartifoss, glacier hiking on Vatnajökull, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the Diamond Beach.

North Iceland: Geothermal Wonders and Fjord Scenery

The North is a region of dramatic contrasts, from the geothermal fields of Mývatn to the charming towns of the coast.

3. Camping Höfn, Húsavík

• Location: In the charming town of Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
• Why It’s Great: This campsite offers a perfect blend of nature and town amenities. It is a short walk to the harbor, where whale-watching tours depart, and to excellent restaurants and the Húsavík Whale Museum. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the Diamond Circle.
• Facilities: Good facilities including toilets, showers, and a communal kitchen area. The town’s geothermal swimming pool is also nearby.
• Nearby Attractions: Whale watching in Skjálfandi Bay, the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths, Goðafoss waterfall, and the entire Lake Mývatn area.

4. Camping Mývatn (Bjarg)

• Location: On the shores of the beautiful Lake Mývatn.
• Why It’s Great: Camping at Mývatn places you in the center of one of Iceland’s most geologically active regions. You are surrounded by pseudo-craters, vast lava fields, and abundant birdlife. The sunsets over the lake are often spectacular.
• Facilities: The campsite offers solid amenities, including showers, cooking facilities, and laundry services.
• Nearby Attractions: The Dimmuborgir lava formations, Námaskarð (Hverir) geothermal area, the Mývatn Nature Baths, and the Krafla volcanic area.

The Westfjords: Remote Beauty and Profound Solitude

For road trippers seeking true adventure, the Westfjords offer dramatic landscapes and a sense of isolation. A capable vehicle is essential here.

5. Tálknafjörður Campground

• Location: In the small, peaceful fishing village of Tálknafjörður.
• Why It’s Great: This campsite is known for its incredible perk: free access to the local geothermal hot pot, Pollurinn, located just up the road. After a long day of driving the winding fjord roads, a soak in the hot pot with stunning fjord views is pure bliss.
• Facilities: The campsite itself is simple but provides all the necessities. The village has a small shop and cafe.
• Nearby Attractions: Rauðasandur red sand beach, the Látrabjarg bird cliffs (the westernmost point of Europe), and the stunning Dynjandi waterfall.

East Iceland: Rugged Coastlines and Artistic Hubs

The Eastfjords are characterized by deep, dramatic fjords, charming fishing villages, and a thriving arts scene.

6. Seyðisfjörður Campground

• Location: In the picturesque and artistic town of Seyðisfjörður, nestled at the end of a deep fjord.
• Why It’s Great: Seyðisfjörður is arguably one of the most beautiful towns in Iceland, famous for its colorful wooden houses and the rainbow-painted path leading to its blue church. The campsite is located right in town, offering easy access to its creative vibe, cafes, and art installations.
• Facilities: Excellent facilities, including a service house with a kitchen, showers, and laundry.
• Nearby Attractions: Hiking trails around the fjord, the Tvísöngur sound sculpture, and exploring the other scenic villages of the Eastfjords.

Planning Your Self-Drive Camping Adventure

A successful camping trip in Iceland requires planning, especially when it comes to your vehicle and equipment.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Camping

Your choice of vehicle will significantly impact your camping experience.

• Campervans & Motorhomes: These offer the ultimate convenience, with built-in sleeping and cooking facilities. They are ideal for those who prioritize comfort.
• Car with a Rooftop Tent: An excellent compromise, offering the agility of a car with a convenient, quick-to-set-up sleeping space. A 4x4 with a rooftop tent is a fantastic option for adventurous travelers.
• Standard Car and Ground Tent: This is the most budget-friendly option and provides great flexibility. A larger station wagon can offer more space for gear. For any exploration off the Ring Road, a 4x4 rental in Iceland is recommended for navigating gravel roads safely.

Höldur Car Rental offers a wide range of vehicles to suit every camping style. With our premium pick-up locations at Keflavik International Airport (Arrivals Hall) and in Central Reykjavik, you can start your adventure the moment you arrive. Our extensive nationwide service network also provides peace of mind, no matter how remote your campsite is.

FAQs for Camping in Iceland

Can I camp anywhere in Iceland (wild camping)?

No. The rules regarding wild camping have become much stricter to protect Iceland's fragile nature. It is illegal to camp overnight in a tent, campervan, or car outside of a designated campsite unless you have explicit written permission from the landowner. In national parks, camping is only permitted in designated areas. Always plan to stay at an official campsite.

Do I need to book campsites in advance?

For most campsites, booking in advance is not necessary. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are large enough to accommodate most visitors, especially if you are in a tent. However, for popular sites like Skaftafell during peak season (July-August), arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.

What is the best time of year for camping in Iceland?

The main camping season is from June to August, when the weather is mildest, the days are long (with the midnight sun), and all campsites are open. May and September are also good months, with fewer crowds, though some higher-elevation campsites may not be open. Camping in winter is only for the most experienced and well-equipped adventurers.

What essential gear should I bring for camping?

A high-quality, waterproof, and wind-resistant tent is crucial. Bring a warm sleeping bag (rated for 0°C / 32°F or lower), a good sleeping pad for insulation, a portable cooking stove, and fuel. Waterproof clothing and dressing in layers are essential for staying warm and dry.

Camping is a way to experience Iceland on your own terms. It is about embracing the elements, respecting the environment, and creating a journey that is uniquely yours. From the thunder of its waterfalls to the quiet majesty of its fjords, the best of Iceland is waiting just outside your tent.

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