Wild Camping in Europe: What’s Legal and What’s Not....

Wild Camping in Europe: What’s Legal and What’s Not....

There’s nothing quite like pitching your tent under the stars, surrounded by nothing but fresh air, rustling trees, and maybe a curious fox or two. But before you set off into the wilderness with your trusty gear, there’s one important question: Can you legally camp there?

Wild camping – setting up camp outside of designated campgrounds – is a dream for many outdoor adventurers. But Europe, with all its breathtaking scenery, also comes with a patchwork of rules and regulations. Let’s unpack where you can wild camp legally and where it’s a no-go.

🌲 The Wild Camping-Friendly Countries

Some countries are practically made for wild camping, with laws that support responsible adventuring.

🇳🇴 Norway & 🇸🇪 Sweden

Thanks to the Right to Roam (Allemansrätten), you’re allowed to wild camp on uncultivated land for up to two nights. Just stay at least 150 meters away from houses and clean up after yourself.

🇫🇮 Finland

Finland also embraces the Right to Roam. Wild camping is legal, respectful, and deeply woven into Finnish outdoor culture. Just avoid lighting campfires during dry seasons.

🇩🇪 Germany

Wild camping is generally not allowed, but there’s a loophole: bivvy camping (sleeping without a tent) is often tolerated for one night in forests, especially for hikers and cyclists. Be discreet and respectful.

🇪🇪 Estonia & 🇱🇻 Latvia

Good news – Estonia and Latvia both allow wild camping on public land and forests, as long as it’s not in protected zones. Many locals wild camp often, especially in RMK (State Forest) areas in Estonia, which even provide fire pits and toilets!

🚫 Places Where Wild Camping Is Strictly Regulated or Illegal

🇫🇷 France

Technically, wild camping is forbidden in many places, but some municipalities tolerate it. Mountain bivouacking (camping from dusk till dawn) is sometimes allowed above the tree line. National parks usually have specific rules, so check ahead.

🇮🇹 Italy

Generally a no, especially near the coast or tourist areas. However, remote mountainous regions might tolerate discreet overnight stays. Always ask locals or check with authorities.

🇪🇸 Spain

Spain’s rules vary by region. In Catalonia and some parts of the north, wild camping is tolerated. Coastal regions? Not so much. If you’re caught, fines can be hefty.

🇨🇭 Switzerland

Strictly regulated, but one-night bivouacking above the tree line is generally allowed. National parks and private land are off-limits.

✅ Quick Tips for Responsible Wild Camping

  • Leave no trace – Take all your rubbish with you. Always.

  • Be discreet – No big fires, loud music, or huge groups.

  • Stay one night – Don’t set up camp for the week.

  • Avoid private land unless you have explicit permission.

  • Check local regulations – especially in nature reserves and national parks.

🛠️ Gear Up Before You Go

If you're planning to wild camp, you'll want gear that’s light, durable, and reliable:

  • Ultralight tent or bivvy bag

  • Headlamp – because stumbling around in the dark is not fun

  • Multitool – from fixing gear to slicing cheese

  • Compact stove – no open fires? No problem.

  • Outdoor gloves – keep your hands safe when gathering wood or setting up camp

👉 Explore our hand-picked camping gear here at NordicTrail – designed for those who go where the trail ends.

🌌 Final Thought

Wild camping is one of the purest ways to reconnect with nature. Just remember: with great freedom comes great responsibility. Research the laws, respect the land, and enjoy the wild side of Europe the way it was meant to be.

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