The Best Campgrounds in Iceland, Discover Iceland’s Charm
Prepare to enjoy a midnight sun soak or cozy up in your campervan while the northern lights dance above you. Every corner of this enchanted country reveals a scenic combination of UNESCO-listed locations as well as hidden gems that are thought to be off the beaten path, making camping in its breathtaking landscapes a dream journey that awaits you.
After a long day spent on captivating trails, birdwatching excursions, or gazing into breathtaking ice caves, nothing compares to the comfort of the ideal campsite. However, campsites in this country are more than just places to rest; they encapsulate the spirit of your Icelandic adventure, providing not only comfort and convenience but also close proximity to the vivacious splendor of Icelandic nature.
And guess what? For those trying to stretch their travel dollars as far as possible, camping is an incredibly wise way to find Iceland’s hidden gems. Numerous magical campsites can be found all over Iceland that are covered by the Icelandic camping card.
Therefore, let’s begin the adventure!
1. Breidavik: The Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Breidavik Campground provides a rare chance to see Atlantic puffins, razorbills, and guillemots in their natural habitat. It is located next to Látrabjarg, Europe’s largest bird cliff. Take a walk along the nearby 5-km long, golden beach to find some peace, or go fishing in the nearby lake. You can find the captivating Rauisandur Beach and the ethereal Dynjandi waterfall by driving through the less-traveled but breathtakingly beautiful Westfjords region. Make sure to fuel up at the Hotel Breidavik restaurant so you can keep going on your adventure.
2.Campsite at Skógar: Entering the Wilderness.
Release yor inner explorer and immerse yourself in Skógar Campsite’s authentic camping experience, which warmly accepts tents and campervans year-round. This location provides easy access to horse rentals, the renowned Skógasafn Folk Museum, and the transcendent Skógafoss waterfall. Test your hiking boots on the well-known órsmörk trail, which leads into the splendor of the Icelandic Highlands, and venture out on day trips to breathtaking destinations like Vk Beach or the Westman Islands.
3. The Kirkjubjarklaustur Campsite: A Calm Stopover.
With only 150 residents and a location in the peaceful Kirkjubjarklaustur village, this campground offers a tranquil retreat from your Ring Road journey. This location gives you a taste of the natural beauty of the area and tempts you to go on excursions to the arresting Laki craters and the motivational Fjarárgljfur canyon. Just a few steps away from your campsite are neighborhood conveniences like grocery stores and coffee shops.
4.Campground at Fossardalur: A Secret Gem of East Fjord.
Enjoy the unspoiled Fossárdalur campsite in the East Fjords, a region renowned for its breathtaking beauty and hidden away in a peaceful valley. Take a break among the mountains and massive waterfalls like Sveinstekksfoss, go on scenic hikes, or rent a mountain bike and explore the thrilling terrain. While the quaint town of Djpivogur is only a short drive away, the joy of picking wild berries is waiting for you in August.
5. A Family Vacation, Húsafell
Welcome to the family-friendly heaven of Húsafell, your entryway to the awe-inspiring Hraunfossar waterfalls and the wonders of the Langjökull glacier. Nearby hiking trails and a tempting selection of hot springs for swimming would slow your heartbeats. The campground is also proud of its playground and its close proximity to a golf course, a mini-market, a cozy bistro, and a nearby geothermal swimming pool.
6. Glacier’s Majesty in Skaftafell.
Enter the Skaftafell Campground, nature’s enchanting playground, and experience the wonders of Vatnajökull National Park. The best starting point for thrilling glacier tours and ice cave explorations in Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest glacier, is this well-equipped campsite. Reach out and touch the recognizable Svartifoss waterfall, take in the radiance of Diamond Beach, and keep an eye out for the northern lights in the winter.
7. Mývatn: A Delightful Escape.
The campsite, which is tucked away by the peaceful Lake Mvatn, offers a little piece of paradise with its simple layout that lets you set up your tent or leave your campervan wherever you like. Explore the surrounding area to see the mysterious Dimmuborgir lava formations, the captivating Hverir geothermal hotspot, and the enormous 7-mile-wide Krafla volcano caldera. After your adventures, treat yourself to a retreat at the tranquil Mvatn Nature Baths.
8. Þingvellir Camping: a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Þingvellir is a remarkable geological location that is home to a number of beautiful campgrounds, one of which is open year-round. You can enjoy the natural beauty pathways, breathe in the clear water of the Silfra Fissure while scuba diving or snorkeling, go birdwatching or fishing at this UNESCO heritage site, which is located directly where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The famous Golden Circle attractions, like the Geysir geothermal area and the Gullfoss waterfall, are only a short drive away.
A home away from home while you explore the nearby wonders, these extraordinary eight campsites are your ticket to Iceland’s incredible and diverse landscapes. So get ready, start the engine, and watch the magic of Icelandic camping come to life!