The Best Iceland Campsites for Campervans and Road Trippers

You pull up to what was supposed to be a 'highly rated' Iceland campsite, only to find a muddy lot, a broken bathroom, and a price tag that makes you question reality. Sound familiar? Iceland is packed with campsites, but not all of them are worth your time or money. How do you avoid the overpriced, overcrowded, and downight terrible ones?

That's where this guide comes in. You'll get the best Iceland campsites for campervans, a no-nonsense look at which ones are open year-round, and the must-know rules before you park for the night. Let's make this road trip epic.

Iceland Campsites Map

Iceland's landscapes change fast, and so do the campsites. Some are tucked into lava fields, others sit along black sand beaches, and a few are so remote that getting there feels like an expedition. An Iceland campsites map is the best way to plan stops that fit your route, budget, and travel style.

Here's what you need to know about key regions:

• Golden Circle – Perfect for first-timers. Campsites here put you close to must-sees like Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Expect well-maintained facilities, but also expect crowds.

• South Coast – One of the busiest routes for a reason. You'll camp near glaciers, black sand beaches, and waterfalls straight out of a fantasy movie. Some campsites fill up fast in peak season, so having a backup plan is smart.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Feels like a mini version of Iceland. Wild cliffs, lava fields, and coastal campsites with fewer people than in the south. If you like quiet but still want solid facilities, this is your spot.

• Westfjords – Remote, rugged, and barely touched by mass tourism. Campsites are few and far between, but the payoff is camping near dramatic fjords, hot springs, and some of Iceland's best wildlife.

• Highlands – This is where the real adventure starts. It is only open in summer, only accessible by 4x4, and is totally worth it. Expect jaw-dropping landscapes, river crossings, and campsites surrounded by raw, untouched wilderness.

Best Year-Round Campsites in Iceland

Most Iceland campsites shut down in winter, but a few stay open for those willing to brave the cold. If you're camping in the off-season, you need hot showers, heated common areas, and solid facilities, or you'll wake up feeling like an ice cube.

Winter camping isn't just about survival. It's empty landscapes, snow-covered campsites, and front-row seats to the Northern Lights. Sounds incredible? It is if you're prepared. Iceland's winter is unforgiving, and road closures can ruin your plans fast.

For those who can handle it, here are the best year-round campsites in Iceland that won't leave you freezing.

Reykjavik Campsite

If you want to stay close to the action but still need a fantastic camping spot, this is one of the best campsites in Iceland to park your van. Reykjavik Eco Campsites is right near downtown Reykjavik, meaning you get the perks of the city without the noise.

Here's why it's worth a stop:

• Heated common areas

• Hot showers

• Easy access to public transport

• Walking distance to Laugardalslaug

Skaftafell Campground

If you want a campsite that feels like a front-row seat to Iceland's wildest landscapes, Skaftafell Campground is the place to be. Sitting right inside Vatnajökull National Park, this spot gives you direct access to glaciers, waterfalls, and some of the best hiking trails in the country.

Here's why it stands out from other Iceland campgrounds:

• Endless hiking trails

• Showers and laundry facilities

• Unreal glacier views

• A fully stocked visitor center

Camp Egilsstaðir

If you're road-tripping through East Iceland and need a solid place to recharge, Camp Egilsstaðir delivers. It's one of the most convenient camping sites in Iceland, giving you everything you need to stay comfortable before heading deeper into the wilderness.

Here's what makes it worth a stop:

• A full kitchen

• Laundry facilities

• Hot showers

• Close to Vök Baths

Stykkishólmur Camping Ground

If waking up to ocean views and rugged Icelandic landscapes sounds like your kind of road trip, Stykkishólmur Camping Ground is a great pick. Sitting on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, it puts you right in the middle of some of Iceland's best scenery without the chaos of the South Coast.

Here's why it stands out among Iceland's campsites:

• Epic coastal views

• Close to Kirkjufell Mountain

• Golf Course

• Washing machine

Best Summer-Only Campsites in Iceland

Camping in Iceland during summer means more campsites, better weather, and the chance to camp deep in the Highlands. From May to September, remote sites open up, giving you access to some of the wildest landscapes in the country.

But here's the deal: Highland campsites aren't a casual stop. Roads are rough, river crossings are real, and if you don't check the weather and road conditions, you could end up stuck miles from civilization.

For those ready to take on Iceland's summer wilderness, these seasonal campsites offer some of the best camping spots you'll ever find.

Thakgil Campsite

Some campsites in Iceland are just a place to sleep. Thakgil is an experience. Hidden inside a canyon in South Iceland, this spot feels like a secret the tourists haven't ruined yet. Protected from the brutal winds, it's surrounded by jagged mountains, endless hiking trails, and landscapes that look unreal.

Here's what makes it worth the detour:

• Surreal mountain views

• Hiking trails everywhere

• Basic but reliable facilities

Kerlingarfjöll Campsite

Reaching this place isn't easy. The roads are rough, the weather is unpredictable, and if you're not in a 4x4, forget about it. But if you're up for the challenge, Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most epic Iceland campgrounds you'll ever experience. Nestled deep in the Highlands, this campsite puts you right in the middle of steaming geothermal valleys, rugged trails, and mountains that don't even look real.

Here's what makes it unforgettable:

• Hiking trails leading to bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and insane viewpoints

• Basic but functional facilities

• Views that will ruin every other mountain range for you

Ásbyrgi Campsite

If you want to camp somewhere that actually feels legendary, Ásbyrgi Campsite delivers. Sitting right next to the jaw-dropping Ásbyrgi Canyon in North Iceland, this place surrounds you with towering cliffs and lush greenery, a rare sight in Iceland's rugged landscape.

Here's why it stands out as one of the best campsites in Iceland:

• Insane canyon views

• Hiking trails

• Well-maintained facilities

• Golf course

Rules and Operation of Campsites in Iceland

Think you can park your campervan anywhere in Iceland and call it a night? Think again. Wild camping for campervans is illegal, and Iceland takes its camping rules seriously. If you're planning to sleep under the stars, you need to know how things work or risk getting fined, kicked out, or worse, ruining Iceland's fragile nature.

Here's everything you need to know before you park for the night:

• Campsites only – No pulling over and setting up camp wherever you feel like it. Stick to designated Iceland campsites or expect trouble.

• First-come, first-served – Most sites don't take reservations. Arrive early if you want a good spot.

• Self-check-in is common – Show up late? Expect staff to knock on your window in the morning for payment.

• Quiet hours matter – Just because the sun barely sets doesn't mean you can blast music all night.

• Pack it in, pack it out – Trash, food scraps, and, yes, human waste. Use the facilities or take it with you.

• Leave No Trace isn't a suggestion – Stay on marked trails, don't pocket rocks or moss, and respect the land.

• No random campfires – Fires are only allowed in designated areas, so forget about that movie-style bonfire.

Some campsites offer extras like showers, electricity, and WiFi, but don't assume it's free. Always check the details before settling in. Iceland is all about respecting nature, so follow the rules and keep the landscapes as wild as you found them.

Campervan or Rental Car? Here's Why One is the Clear Winner

If you're planning to camp in Iceland, choosing between a campervan and a rental car can make or break your trip. A campervan gives you a warm, dry place to sleep without the hassle of setting up a tent in unpredictable weather. Just park, climb in, and you're set for the night.

Why a Campervan is the Better Choice

• No need to pitch a tent in the wind and rain. Just pull up and sleep.

• Our high-quality rooftop tents and state-of-the-art sleeping bags rated for -20°C (-4°F) keep you warm in any conditions.

• More space for gear, food, and supplies without cramming everything into the backseat.

• A built-in kitchen means hot meals anywhere instead of surviving on cold snacks.

Where a Rental Car Falls Short

• Tents take time to set up and pack away, especially in bad weather.

• Limited storage means piling gear on top of everything.

• No built-in warmth, leaving you at the mercy of Iceland's freezing nights.

For comfort, convenience, and a stress-free camping experience, a campervan is the way to go. Take a look at our range of campers and find the perfect fit for your Iceland road trip.

FAQs About Campsites in Iceland

What amenities and facilities can you find at campsites in Iceland?

Most Iceland campsites offer toilets, showers, cooking areas, and trash disposal. Some have electricity, WiFi, and laundry. Expect basic setups in remote areas and better facilities near major towns.

Is it necessary to reserve campsites in Iceland ahead of time?

In summer, popular campsites fill up fast, so early arrival is smart. Most operate first-come, first-served, but a few allow reservations. Off-season, finding a spot is rarely an issue.

Are there any restrictions on camping locations in Iceland?

Wild camping is illegal. You must stay in designated Iceland campsites. You can camp on private land with permission, but national parks and protected areas have strict rules.

What essentials should I pack for camping in Iceland?

A warm sleeping bag, waterproof gear, layered clothing, cooking supplies, and a power bank are must-haves. Strong tent pegs, windproof equipment, and emergency food ensure you're ready for Iceland's unpredictable weather.

What is the average cost of camping in Iceland?

Expect to pay $10–$25 (1,500–3,500 ISK) per person per night. Showers, WiFi, and electricity often cost extra. Some campsites offer discounts with a Camping Card for extended stays.

How does the Parka App help with campsite reservations and payments?

The Parka App simplifies booking by showing campsite locations, real-time availability, and pricing. It allows cashless payments, helping travelers secure spots without carrying cash or dealing with late check-ins.

The Best Iceland Campsites Are Waiting

Iceland isn't the place to wing it. Pick the wrong Iceland campsites, and you'll be stuck battling with wind, rain, and regret. Get it right, and you'll wake up to glaciers, waterfalls, and landscapes you won't believe are real. 

Most people will skim this and hope for the best. Don't be that person. Plan smart, camp like a pro, and make this trip one for the books. Rent a campervan in Iceland today and take the stress out of planning every last meticulous detail.

Got questions? Our friendly, knowledgeable team is ready to help. Just reach out, and let's get you on the road.