Do you want to make the most of your Iceland trip?
Iceland is world-famous for its breathtaking nature, so why not camp out in the middle of it?
Of course, the best time to visit is during the summer months.
We have put up a list of the top campsites in Iceland to help you find the ideal location.
Contents
1. Skaftafell
Situated within Vatnajokull National Park, the Skaftafell campsite is perfect for anyone that wants to spend time in the midst of the natural beauty of Iceland.
You can sleep by the edge of the glacial lake at Jokulsarlon or by the abandoned plane at Solheimasandur.
The campsite, which is divided into few sections, has all of the amenities you need for camping.
The park has free WiFi, showers and space for campers and vans.
A cafe, a computer lab and all the information you need about the area can be found at the visitor’s centre at the entrance.
During the day, hike one of the hiking trails around Skaftafell.
2. Latrabjarg
The campsite at Latrabjarg, located along the Westfjords in northwest Iceland, is perfect for campers who seek adventure.
It is only a basic campsite, but the nearest town, Breiðavík, is just a short drive away.
Showers, kitchens, barbeque pits and other amenities can be found there.
While lacking in amenities, the site at Latrabjarg is without a doubt one of the most magnificent in terms of nature’s beauty.
What could be more incredible than waking up with vistas of cliffs and fjords?
3. Hofn
A picturesque campsite just ideal for an outdoor adventure which is definitely worth a visit.
Hofn is easily reached from many parts of the country and is located on the main route leading to east Iceland.
There are also many roads and trails heading away from the campsite and to other nearby places.
Walk the trails until you locate the greatest panoramas or take advantage of the horseback riding tours that depart from the campsite or rent fishing equipment and catch some fish in the lake.
The camping sites at Hofn have showers and are within walking distance of markets.
4. Ulfljotsvatn
This location is great for camping with children.
The outdoor centre is located around Lake Ulfljotsvatn and offers a wide variety of water activities.
Jump in the water while your kids play on the wooden playgrounds and tire swings that are placed over the water.
The grounds are jointly owned and operated by the Reykjavik Scouts Association and the Icelandic Boy and Girl Scout Association.
You can relax knowing that these groups have made this place both safe and one of the best family destinations for a camping vacation in Iceland.
Ulfljotsvatn is only an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, so it is great for a day trip if you are already in the capital.
Boat rentals, fishing equipment, showers, cooking utensils and facilities are all available at the campsite.
5. Husafell
This campsite offers a lot of family-friendly activities out in breathtaking nature, including glaciers at Langjokull and Eiriksjokull and the Husafell Falls.
Husafell is for those who want to experience a little bit of everything during their trip.
Located in the Southern Region, Husafell campsite has swimming pools, showers, cooking facilities and trampolines.
Plus, every Saturday night, there are bonfires.
And those stunning falls and glaciers…
Wake up early in the morning and hike right to some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth.
6. Hellissandur
The campsites at Hellissandur are a must-visit, especially if you are looking for the best of Iceland’s beautiful nature.
Snæfelsjökull Glacier and the Singing Caves are both easily accessible from this lovely little village.
Go to the Snæfelsjökull Peninsula to admire the Icelandic coast while the waves are crashing down in front of you.
Hellissandur campsites are equipped with toilets, showers and electrical outlets to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
7. Siglufjörður
In this charming little seaside town, camp out by the harbour.
In Siglufjörður, there are two campsites, each with breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding mountains.
One is in the centre of the town and the other about 10 minutes from the centre.
That means that you have easy access to markets, grocery stores and convenience stores.
Visit Siglufjörður in July so you do not miss the festival celebrating the town’s historical significance as a fishing port.
8. Grindavik
A campsite where everything you need is within reach.
Grindavik is suitable for RVs, campers and any other equipment or sleeping arrangements you may have.
The site is located near the airport while still giving you the feeling of being in nature.
Toilets, showers, kitchenettes, wifi, playgrounds and space for your kids to play are all available.
The charming park is ideal for families or for those who enter or leave Iceland.
9. Asbyrgi
When you hear that it is nicknamed “Shelter of the Gods”, you already know that it is truly a piece of paradise.
Asbyrgi is situated in the Northeastern Region of Iceland, within Vatnajokull National Park, and provides easy access to everything you will need during your trip.
Park your RV, walk the trails and admire the stunning scenery, such as the Asbyrgi Canyon.
At the park’s information and visitor centre, you can get some helpful tips and information about the area.
Cafes, a golf course and campfires are available at the campsite to help you relax after a long day of hiking.
10. Þakgíl
At Þakgíl, you can camp next to some spectacular caves.
One of the caves is used as a fantastic dining room where you can have an unforgettable meal.
Visit Reynisfjara black sand beach or the Myrdalsjokull glacier, both of which are close by.
Showers, toilets, electricity and BBQ pits are available at Þakgíl, but because it is a smaller site with wonderful scenery, it fills up quickly.
So, make a reservation for Þakgíl ahead of time.
Iceland Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Iceland Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
