All you need to know about camping in Norway
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Loading... - Nicola Collins
- 25 Apr 2022
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When is the best time to go camping in Norway?
Now that Easter is behind us and the days will become longer and warmer (in theory, at least) many Norwegians start to dust off their camping equipment and head out into the woods or mountains to go camping. Nothing quite compares to that feeling after a hard day’s hike, walk, or trail of unpacking a tent, starting a campfire, and enjoying just how serene Norwegian nature and landscape are.
For those wanting to go camping in Norway, there is no “official” season yet – a rule of thumb – is that it starts after Easter (or at least when the weather is bearable outside, from mid-March onwards) and lasts (depending on where you want to camp) into September. Due to Norway’s temperate climate, however, the best months to camp are from late April until early September.
“Allemannsretten” and other basic camping rules
Unlike other countries, Norway has a long and proud tradition of the right to roam throughout the country. Dating back to ancient times, this right to roam (allemannsretten) has been enshrined in the Outdoor Recreation Act since 1957. This means that almost all of Norway is available to wander or walk through.
This right to roam is a key reason why camping is so popular in Norway. However, before you wander off into the forest, fjord, or amongst the fjells and pop a tent, there are a few rules to keep in mind.
– All tents and camping sites must be more than 150 meters away from any inhabited house, hytte, or dwelling.
– Aside from mountainous or remote regions of the country, if you want to camp in a place for more than 2 nights you need to ask for the permission of the landowner.
– Be considerate of others and nature. Always tidy up after yourselves and take all rubbish with you or dump it in a suitable trash can.
– When you answer the call of nature, in the wild, just remember to dig a hole and cover it with soil afterward.
– From April 15 to September 15, all campfires in and/or near forests are PROHIBITED. Campfires can be lit in places where the fire hazard is low – for example, by a lake, the ocean, or at an approved campfire site. Always check local weather conditions for fire bans.
What are some of the best family-friendly camping spots in Norway?
Every year, thousands of tourists flock to Norway to experience the sheer awesomeness and beauty of the natural landscape. Norway’s great outdoors can cater to every style, every budget, and every type of camping. Camping can be a great family holiday and for those that would like some communal facilities, these are some of the best camping sites in Norway :
Moskenes Camping – this camping area is situated high up in the balmy Lofoten archipelago. Renown for the Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, and some of the most stunning beaches this side of Hawaii, the camping area has communal toilets and a kitchen, and the site is situated right in front of the “Lofoten Wall” a series of breathtaking mountain peaks. Walking trails sprawl out from the camping site and there is plenty of fishing, hiking, and water activities nearby.
Preikestolen Camping – Why not camp near one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions (and, most recently, backdrop for a DJ set!) – Preistekolen (Pulpit Rock). Due to high demand and popularity, this area is on a first-come, first-serve basis. It also involves a moderate hike from the nearest road, so come with your walking shoes on. However, it will be worth it when you camp with the backdrop of Lysefjord nearby. Read More…
