Camping is an enriching, exciting, low-cost way of getting some time away from the stresses of home. Surrounded by nature, with the earth under your feet, and the fresh air filling your lungs, you’ll return home feeling revived and refreshed. In this guide, we’ll be filling you in on all the best free camping spots around the world.
That’s right, there are many, many places in the world where you do not have to pay for a camping permit and you can camp for free, and you can either just turn up, or simply ask permission. All you have to do is take your camping kit and find your way there, leaving your local camping spots behind for others to enjoy.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page” – Saint Augustine
There might be a world of beautiful camping spots in your backyard, but it is so enriching to experience other cultures and to view the natural wonders other countries have.
Huge mountains, shimmering lakes, ancient trees, golden sand beaches. Plus, all the different types of cuisine and wildlife, flora, and fauna. There’s a world of adventure out there for you to explore at absolutely no cost to set your tent up on the ground.
Read on to let us inspire you:
1. Denali National Park, Alaska
Camping in Denali is magical, with breathtaking scenery, rare wildlife, the cleanest air, and free backcountry camping with a free-to-obtain pass. There are also paid-for campsites if you want amenities.
The only thing to consider is that this is advanced camping, for those experienced in survival. If you can have somebody with you who knows how to comfortably survive in these conditions, then you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Camping spots
This depends on the weather, but as a general rule, sheltered from the wind but away from potential rock falls is a good idea.
Opening times
One paid for campsite stays open all year round and some roads close in winter. Generally, people start to enter the park from springtime onwards.
Best time of the year to camp?
It depends on how cold you’re willing to go! For the easiest camping, visit during the summer.
What is the campground known for?
The epic scenery, incredible wildlife, and general ‘I can’t believe this place is real’ vibe.
2. Tyresta National Park, Sweden
It is free to camp in stunning Tyresta National Park in the designated campfire sites where there is free firewood to use. You can even drink the lake water if you boil it up before use, and there is a water pump for freshwater at Stensjodal in the South of the park.
The park offers outdoor lovers endless ancient forests, steep shoreline cliffs, and even areas by the sea if you’re willing to explore far enough.
Camping spots
You have to camp in the designated camp spots which offer a wide range of different areas to pitch up.
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Visiting during winter will bring harsh low temperatures and weather, so only hardy campers should visit during the winter months. Otherwise, aim for late spring or late summer when the weather is fine.
What is the campground known for?
Rich natural beauty and endless marked trails for exploring.
3. Samothraki, Greece
Free camping in Samothraki is officially prohibited in Greece, however, it is generally welcomed on the beaches by locals as long as campers are well behaved, respectful, and leave their camping space as they found it. There are various islets and beaches to choose from, including Xristos, Paradeisos, and Gria.
Camping spots
All of the beaches are spotless, so it is a case of taking your pick!
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Although these areas aren’t high tourist areas, it still pays to visit out of the tourist season if you can. The weather is warm all year round, and particularly scorching in the height of summer, so it depends how warm you want it.
What is the campground known for?
Pitching in clean, golden sands and being able to walk a few meters to crystal clear, beautiful seawater.
4. Stewart Island, New Zealand
The Department of Conservation in New Zealand runs various campsites across the country in National Parks, some of which are free, some which are charged. There are three on stunning Stewart Island in New Zealand and all three are free.
Choose from pristine beach spots Maori Beach or Port William, or if you fancy something a bit more sheltered North Arm offers protection under the trees. All of them have a small shelter for setting up your own cooking equipment if the weather is bad, a toilet, and a rainwater tank.
Camping spots
Maori Beach Campsite is pretty incredible for sunsets and sunrises, with quick and easy access to a vast beach.
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Visit during the New Zealand Autumn and Winter for good weather and fewer tourists.
What is the campground known for?
It is a wildlife lovers haven. You can see penguins, kiwi, seals, weka, various seabirds, and all kinds of interesting flora and fauna.
5. Shimo Lake, Shojiko, Japan
The campsite is free for camping and there are toilets and basic facilities there that you can use. Waking up with a view of Mount Fuji over stunning lake Shimono is a once in a lifetime experience, it is hard to believe it is free!
Camping spots
Everywhere offers epic views of the mountain and the site is strict on being respectful and keeping the noise down so, any spot is good!
Opening times
The site currently opens in March and closes in Autumn but the dates change annually so check in with the site before visiting.
Best time of the year to camp?
Spring, when the already stunning natural scenery is enhanced with the famous bright spring blossoms Japan is famous for.
What is the campground known for?
Its breathtaking view of iconic Mount Fuji.
6. Vosu, Lahemaa National Park, Estonia
Although you can park anywhere in the National Park, the RMK free campsites like Vosu, have useful facilities like toilets and free firewood for fires. Vosu sits on the edge of a river, within a close distance to the coastline. Within the National Park, there are endless trails through forests by natural bogs and old quarries. The location is a hiker’s paradise.
Camping spots
Try to avoid areas by the grass as mosquitos are in abundance here.
Opening times
Throughout the year, although certain times of the year are special breeding times for protected species in the park, so exorcise respect and caution as to avoid those areas.
Best time of the year to camp?
Spring and Summer when the trails are dry and the weather is fine.
What is the campground known for?
The parks famous natural bogs which are unique ecosystems.
7. Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
If you want to tick a really, really unique experience off your camping list, then Darvaza gas crater (popularly known as Door to Hell) in Turkmenistan in Asia is the one to go for.
At night in the desert, with incredible stars above you, you’ll have the world’s most impressive campfire for company, a rumbling bright orange and red crater named the Door to Hell.
As fireballs and games burst from inside it, you’ll feel completely smug that this camping experience isn’t shared by many. It is free to camp here as long as you bring your own gear but do plan your journey well as the harsh conditions could be tricky without preparation.
Camping spots
Camping near to the crater (but at a safe distance) overnight so you get to see the full spectacle of the burning hole at night.
Opening times
All year round but, conditions are tricky in the height of summer when the sun is dangerously hot and in winter when it is freezing at night. As long as you plan when you hike and travel and the gear you take with you, you can go any time.
Best time of the year to camp?
Avoid peak summer times.
What is the campground known for?
The beautiful and totally unique Door to Hell crater.
8. Jinha Beach, South Korea
This gorgeous, relaxing camping spot is ideal for nature lovers, and camping in the pine woods which meet the beach is free. There are shower rooms, changing rooms and toilets for visitors, and even a nearby freshwater river to swim in, as well as the crystal clear warm waters of the sea.
Camping spots
Anywhere flat away from a used path, so you get the most serenity during your stay.
Opening times
You can visit all year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Avoid the end of July and the beginning of August when most South Koreans go on holiday.
What is the campground known for?
Its intimate atmosphere and clean beach.
9. Odda Camping, Norway
It is free to camp in the breathtaking Odda campsite in the wild and wonderful Norway if you have your own tent with AC port or RV and don’t require any extras. There are apartments and rooms available at extra cost.
Sitting between two National Parks the campsite is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, and endless dramatic scenery are all within easy reach at Odda.
Camping spots
Under the trees for the best weather protection.
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Summer because the weather is the finest. During winter, the weather can be extreme, with low temperatures, rain, and snow, and is only for the most prepared and hardy of campers!
What is the campground known for?
Being surrounded by nature, and being close to nearby epic cliff Trolltunga.
10. Little Bear Bay, North Vancouver Island, Canada
You will find 10 campsite options available here, all free, and all with toilets, picnic tables, and amazing views. The site sits facing the Johnstone Strait which provides a view of the sea, islets and islands, and plentiful possible whale sightings if you keep your eyes peeled!
Camping spots
Try to stay away from the trees if you can, to give you some warning if any wildlife decides to show up.
Opening times
Vancouver Island rarely gets any snow so access is available all year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Campsites are heaving in Summer. Visit during spring to see the blossom on the island, and to enjoy the warmer weather.
What is the campground known for?
Amazing wildlife and surrounding scenery.
11. Mamam Beach, Pulau Ubin, Singapore
Mamam Beach is an extremely beautiful place to camp for free and has running water, toilets, and other useful amenities. Sunrises here are a memorable part of the experience, and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports for very little money.
Camping spots
Try to stay away from any grasses or plants because mosquitos are rife.
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
Avoid peak seasons like Christmas and New Year, and wet season which tends to be between September to February.
What is the campground known for?
Jaw-dropping sunsets, a friendly atmosphere, and lovely views.
12. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Mongolia
It is free to park anywhere you want to across this vast unspoiled land. You’ll find some incredibly beautiful and lush meadows here, sat against unique rock formations overlooking babbling brooks and streams.
Camping Spots
Try to avoid anywhere too close to a shepherd set up, although that won’t be hard as they are few and far between.
Opening times
All year round.
Best time of the year to camp?
It does get very cold in winter so only attempt to do this if you are experienced. In summer, the meadows are rich with life and the brooks and streams provide a refreshing relief from the heat.
What is the campground known for?
Being totally and utterly unspoiled.
“The clearest way into the universe, is through a forest wilderness” – John Muir
Did you manage to get through all that without booking a trip? Leave backyard camping for when there’s no other option and take yourself on a wild and free camping holiday to experience the world in a completely unique way.
There’s so much to discover, with a new adventure around the corner. Take that first step today, and release the explorer within!
Thanks for giving us a lot of ideas for camping!