The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Norway: Best Tips & Top 10 Road Trip Routes
Introduction
Camping in Norway is a dream come true for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and road trip enthusiasts. With its breathtaking fjords, towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine coastline, Norway offers some of the most scenic camping spots in the world. The country’s ‘Allemannsretten’ law allows wild camping in most places, making it a haven for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about camping in Norway, including the best tips for a successful trip and the top 10 road trip routes to make the most of your journey.
Best Tips for Camping in Norway
1. Understand Allemannsretten (The Right to Roam Law)
One of the best things about camping in Norway is the ‘Allemannsretten’ law, which grants everyone the right to camp on uncultivated land for free. However, there are a few rules to follow:
- Stay at least 150 meters away from houses and cabins.
- Camp for a maximum of two nights in the same place unless you get permission from the landowner.
- Avoid camping on private farmland, protected areas, or near roads unless it is a designated campsite.
2. Choose Between Wild Camping and Campsites
While wild camping is an incredible experience, Norway also has a network of well-maintained campsites with facilities such as showers, toilets, and electricity. If you prefer some comfort, it’s worth alternating between wild camping and designated campsites.
3. Prepare for All Weather Conditions
Norwegian weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and a good-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures. Nights in the mountains or along the coast can be chilly even in July.
4. Invest in a Reliable Tent or Campervan
If you’re tent camping, make sure your tent is sturdy and waterproof. Many travelers also rent campervans for a more comfortable road trip experience. A campervan allows for more flexibility, especially in regions where the weather can be harsh.
5. Plan for Midnight Sun or Polar Nights
Depending on when and where you go, daylight conditions can vary dramatically. In the summer, the Midnight Sun means you’ll have 24 hours of daylight in the Arctic Circle. Bring an eye mask to help with sleep. If you’re traveling in winter, be prepared for long nights and limited daylight.
6. Pack the Essentials
- Camping Stove & Cooking Gear – Many areas don’t allow open fires in the summer, so a gas stove is essential.
- Headlamp or Flashlight – Even with long daylight hours, this is handy for inside tents or early morning starts.
- Mosquito Repellent – If you’re camping near lakes or forests, mosquitoes can be an issue in summer.
- First Aid Kit – Be prepared for minor injuries, blisters, or insect bites.
7. Respect Nature and Leave No Trace
Norway is known for its clean and untouched landscapes. Always clean up after yourself, dispose of waste properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Stick to marked trails and avoid damaging delicate ecosystems.
Top 10 Road Trip Routes for Camping in Norway
1. The Lofoten Islands (E10)
- Why Go? Dramatic mountains, white sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages.
- Best Camping Spots: Unstad Beach, Haukland Beach, and Reine.
- Highlights: Hike to Reinebringen, kayak in Reinefjord, and enjoy fresh seafood in Henningsvær.
2. The Atlantic Road (Route 64)
- Why Go? One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives.
- Best Camping Spots: Farstadsanden Beach and Vevang.
- Highlights: Drive across the famous curved bridges and visit the fishing villages along the coast.
3. Trollstigen and Geirangerfjord (Route 63)
- Why Go? Jaw-dropping mountain roads and a UNESCO-listed fjord.
- Best Camping Spots: Ørnesvingen and Dalsnibba viewpoint.
- Highlights: Drive the hairpin turns of Trollstigen and take a ferry ride on the Geirangerfjord.
4. The Norwegian Scenic Route Senja
- Why Go? A quieter alternative to Lofoten with equally stunning landscapes.
- Best Camping Spots: Ersfjord Beach and Tungeneset.
- Highlights: Hike to Segla, explore Bergsbotn, and see the dramatic fjords.
5. Sognefjord and Aurlandsfjellet (Route 55 & 243)
- Why Go? Norway’s longest and deepest fjord with stunning viewpoints.
- Best Camping Spots: Stegastein viewpoint and Lærdal.
- Highlights: Drive the ‘Snow Road’ and visit the Flåm Railway.
6. Rondane National Park (Route 27)
- Why Go? A perfect mix of highland landscapes and hiking trails.
- Best Camping Spots: Spranget and Bjørnhollia.
- Highlights: Hike to Rondslottet, Norway’s oldest national park.
7. Hardangervidda and Vøringsfossen (Route 7)
- Why Go? Expansive plateaus and one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls.
- Best Camping Spots: Near Måbødalen and Eidfjord.
- Highlights: Visit Vøringsfossen waterfall and explore the Hardangervidda Plateau.
8. The Helgeland Coast (Kystriksveien, Route 17)
- Why Go? A hidden gem with secluded beaches and small fishing villages.
- Best Camping Spots: Lovund Island and Træna.
- Highlights: Take ferry rides to small islands, visit the Arctic Circle, and explore hidden beaches.
9. Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park (E6 & Route 70)
- Why Go? The best place to see wild musk oxen in Norway.
- Best Camping Spots: Kongsvoll and Grønbakken.
- Highlights: Join a guided musk ox safari and hike to Snøhetta viewpoint.
10. The North Cape (E69)
- Why Go? Experience the Arctic at the northernmost point of mainland Europe.
- Best Camping Spots: Skarsvåg and Honningsvåg.
- Highlights: Watch the Midnight Sun at Nordkapp and explore the rugged landscapes.
Conclusion
Camping in Norway is an unforgettable experience, offering a deep connection with nature, breathtaking scenery, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose wild camping or a campervan adventure, being prepared and respecting Norway’s pristine environment will ensure you have an incredible journey. With these top road trip routes, you’ll discover the very best that Norway has to offer, from towering fjords to Arctic landscapes.
Pack your tent, hit the road, and embrace the adventure—Norway’s wilderness is waiting!
