There are many reasons why camping with a campervan is one of the most convenient and comfortable accommodation options here on the island. But as a traveler, it can be hard to discern between the must-visit camping spots and the ones you should rather give a skip and which campgrounds offer the best facilities and amenities for campervan camping. This is why we decided to compile an easy-to-use guide outlining Iceland’s campsites, which are pure campervan perfection.
So, if you’re thinking of visiting Iceland sometime in the future and you’ve been pondering how to explore the island and where to stay – this guide is for you! Find out why campervan camping should be your go-to and which places to consider when compiling that trip itinerary.
Why Go Campervan Camping in Iceland?
As mentioned, there are many benefits to going camping in a campervan in Iceland. If you’re considering renting a campervan in Iceland, here are some key reasons why it’s a great choice:
- It’s one of the most convenient ways of exploring the island. Since both your transport and your accommodation are sorted, you can do a proper road trip all around the country and not have to live by stringent accommodation bookings.
- Apart from glamping, it’s the most comfortable way of going camping with all the creature comforts you could possibly want.
- It’s the most budget-friendly way of exploring Iceland. Accommodation is usually the most expensive part of any getaway, and with your transport and accommodation expenses combined, you’ve already saved some money. Add on something like the Camping Card that allows 2 adults and up to 4 kids per stand to stay at numerous campsites around the country for up to 28 nights, along with additional gas discounts, and you’ll struggle to find a cheaper way of exploring the island.
- You’ll have incredible views and access to some of the most famous sights and attractions in Iceland. Many of the camping sites in Iceland offer breathtaking views of our beautiful landscapes and also get you the closest to some of our famous landmarks. You might be lucky enough to have one of our waterfalls practically on your front doorstep or a historic spot just a short walk away.
- A campervan extends your opportunity for camping. Because you’re not so vulnerable to the elements in a campervan, you can still go camping, even when the seasons start to change and the weather conditions become harsher. The same goes for after the winter season when a lot of ice and snow still hasn’t melted entirely in springtime.
Helpful Tips for Campervan Camping at Iceland’s Campgrounds
If this is your first time going camping in Iceland or just the first time you’ll be campervan camping, the following tips can come in handy:
Consider the Weather & Road Conditions During the Colder Months
Although camping with a campervan extends your camping season, you’ll need to keep the weather and road conditions of Iceland during the colder months in mind, especially in the north, where it gets colder much quicker and weather conditions can be much harsher.
Things such as snow, ice, and extreme winds can cause challenging road conditions or even sudden road closures of roads, attractions, and activities. So, if you’re planning on visiting the island during the colder months (October to April), you’ll need to prep and plan for that, as well as keep a close eye on the Icelandic Weather Forecast and the Icelandic Road Conditions.
Make Advanced Bookings for a Peak Season Trip
You need to remember that the summer (June to August), as well as the festive season till after New Year, is considered peak season on the island. That means you’ll need to book anything and everything from transport, accommodation, activities, attractions, etc., well in advance if you don’t want to be left disappointed or, at worst, stranded.
Don’t Make the Mistake of Thinking That You Can Just Park Wherever You Want
One of the questions we get most often when it comes to campervan camping is whether you can camp anywhere in Iceland. This question usually stems from a relative or friend who had a road trip/camping adventure in Iceland in the past or heard something from someone. While wild camping might’ve been a thing in Iceland once, those days are long gone.
In fact, due to the extreme impact increased tourist numbers and the rise in popularity of wild camping had on the environment and ecosystems here on the island, a law was passed in 2015 prohibiting any campervan camping outside of a designated camping spot. As with most laws, you still have chancers risking getting caught, but before you lump yourself in with this lot, we have to tell you that Icelanders really do not look kindly upon rulebreakers.
So, if you ever find yourself on the wrong side of the campervan camping laws, you might end up in a face-off with a very angry Icelander (some have even been known to run “invaders” off their property in quad bikes!) or you’ll get stuck with such a hefty fine that you might have to cut your entire trip short.
The Best Campervan Campgrounds in Iceland
Below, you will find a little “cheat sheet” to some of the best campervan campsites in Iceland that are usually open all year round (except for some unforeseen circumstances, of course).
These sites have been carefully selected based on their facilities, scenic surroundings, and accessibility throughout different seasons. Whether you’re looking for a campsite with full amenities or a remote spot surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this list will help you find the perfect place to park your campervan and fully enjoy your Icelandic adventure.
Choosing the right campsite can make all the difference in your campervan adventure. While some sites offer modern amenities like electricity, showers, and kitchen facilities, others provide a more rugged, back-to-nature experience. Many of these campgrounds are strategically located near Iceland’s top attractions, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, or black sand beaches. No matter your preference, planning ahead and knowing where to stay will ensure a comfortable and hassle-free trip, especially during peak travel seasons.

Campground |
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A Few Highlights |
Facilities/Amenities |
Sundlaugavegur, Reykjavik |
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Uthlid, Blaskogarbyggd |
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Hveragerdi, Reykjamörk |
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Ulfjotsvatn, Selfoss |
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Hafnarbraut, Hofn i Hornafirdi |
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Engjavegur, Selfoss |
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Kaupvangur, Egilsstadir |
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Hamrar, Akureyri |
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Hjalli, Laugar |
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Hraunbrun, Myvatn |
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Bjarteyjarsandur, Hvalfjordur |
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Start Making Your Way Through the Campgrounds in Iceland
We have many popular road trip routes here in Iceland, with some of our most famous attractions along the way. Routes such as the Ring Road, the Diamond Circle, the Westfjords Way, and the Golden Circle. So, pick the path that takes your fancy and use our helpful guide to Iceland’s campsites to plan your overnight stops.
Just remember that if you’re going to be renting a campervan in Iceland during our peak seasons, you’ll need to book in advance. It’s the best way to explore the island, and we’re not the only ones who know it. So, start planning, prepping (and booking!) for that road trip through Iceland – it promises to be the experience of a lifetime!