The Best Campsites in Iceland for Campervans

So many travellers flock to Iceland for the country’s bountiful outdoor adventure. From volcanoes to glaciers, hot springs to black sand beaches, there’s dramatic scenery around every corner. One of the best ways to see it all? With an Iceland campervan rental.

When you choose to rent a camper in Iceland, you can drive around the country at your own pace and always have your accommodations right with you. You can sleep, eat and relax right next to the nature that you travelled so far to see.

For the best Iceland camping trip possible, you’ll want to make plans to park your campervan at some of Iceland’s many campsites, located along your route — but which do you choose and where do you go, exactly? These are the best campsites for campervans in Iceland.

 

Preparing for a Campervan Adventure in Iceland

Before you hit the road with your camper rental in Iceland, you’ll need to do a few things.

 

Plan your trip

First, thoroughly plan your trip. Don’t just expect to land in Keflavik, pick up your campervan, and head out without a real itinerary.

Researching before any trip to Iceland is crucial to ensure your plans are both feasible and safe.  The Lava Car Rental blog offers excellent information on all aspects of traveling and driving around Iceland.

Plan where you’ll be driving and what you’ll be seeing. You don’t need a strict schedule, but a loose idea of where you want to be each day is important.

You’ll also need to book your campervan. Lava Car Rental offers campers suitable for two travellers, and we include all the camping gear you’ll need in the cost of your rental. All you’ll need to pack otherwise is your food and personal items.

Do note that you likely won’t need to book any campsites in Iceland for your campervan in advance, unless a particular campsite states otherwise or unless the campsite is particularly popular. In general, you can plan to show up and claim a camping spot — but you should still know where the campsites are and have an idea of which ones you want to visit, before your arrival.

Want to save money on your campsites? 

Purchase a Lava Car Rental Camping Card when you book your campervan on our website. If you’ve already booked your campervan, then you can buy this add-on later, when you pick the campervan up, at the start of your trip.

This card is invaluable if you’re planning a lengthy camping trip to Iceland, as it will give you pre-paid access to more than 40 campsites throughout Iceland, May 15–Sept. 15. The card covers camping fees for up to 28 nights, for two adults and up to four children under the age of 16, staying in either one tent or one campervan.

The Lava Car Rental camping card costs 24,900 ISK, equivalent to $181.30 USD or 166.55 EUR. Without it, you can expect to pay 1,500–2,000 ISK per person, per night you camp, plus an additional fee of up to 1,500 ISK per night for electricity usage. As such, the camping card can save you a lot of money during your trip!

 

Pack your essential gear and supplies

As mentioned, when you book a camper rental in Iceland through Lava Car Rental, your campervan will come outfitted with all the essential gear already. However, there’s some extra supplies you’ll want to bring as well.

Plan to bring the right clothes for a camping trip, firstly. Iceland’s temperature and weather can vary greatly and so you’ll want to pack lots of layers that you can add or remove as needed. Also, be sure to bring a waterproof jacket, even in the summer. Hiking boots are also a must.

After you arrive, you’ll need to head to the grocery store and pack plenty of food in your campervan. Cooking in a campervan can be quite fun, but you’ll want to make things easy on yourself by opting for meals that come together quickly, with minimal ingredients, for less mess. Check out our guide to cooking in a campervan during an Iceland camping trip for meal inspiration!

While your campervan will be fueled up with a full tank when you pick it up, do note that you will need to buy additional fuel over the course of your trip. As fuel stations aren’t plentiful everywhere in Iceland, take a moment to research where fuel stations might be located along your driving route, and check out our guide to gas stations in Iceland for more details and tips. 

 

Understand the rules and regulations

Lastly, before your trip, make sure to take a quick look at Iceland’s camping regulations. In short, they require that, if you’re travelling in a campervan, you must camp at formal campsites. If you want to camp on private land, you have to receive written permission from the landowner. It’s illegal to camp anywhere else in Iceland, such as on the side of the road.

For more details, check out our overall guide to camping in Iceland.

 

How to Choose a Campsite

As you peruse our list of the best campsites for campervans in Iceland, you’ll want to keep in mind just a few things that will help you pick the best campsite for you, based on your travelling needs.

• Location

First of all, choose a campsite that makes sense for your itinerary. Try to find a campsite that is close to either the last things you’ll be doing during the day or the first thing you plan on doing the next day. You don’t want to finish up your sightseeing and then need to drive a long way to get to your campsite. That can make for a stressful time and could end up with you setting up camp and cooking in the dark, if you’re running late and depending on the season.

• Campsite availability

It’s also important to note that some campsites are only open during the summer season. Before you pick a campsite that you want to stay at, be sure that the campsite will actually be open when you arrive.

• Amenities

Additionally, some campsites do not come with amenities such as electricity. You’ll need access to electricity in order to use your campervan’s heating, for example. Additionally, you might want to stay at a campsite that comes with amenities like laundry facilities, an indoor kitchen or free WiFi. Look at a campsite’s amenities before choosing where you’ll stay, so you can pick the best fit for your needs.

• Price

Lastly, consider price. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can save money by purchasing the Lava Car Rental Camping Card. 

As we list out the best campsites for campervans in Iceland below, we’ll include an example of pricing for campervan stays with one traveller and access to electricity. The example pricing does not include the Iceland accommodation tax for travellers, which will be around 333 ISK per night. You’ll also want to calculate an additional fee for more travellers, at around 1,500–2,000 ISK per additional traveller, per day.

 

Top Campsites for Campervans Near Reykjavik 

If you want to explore Reykjavik, but you don’t necessarily want to stay in a hotel in the middle of the city, consider staying at one of the campsites located conveniently close to Reykjavik. Here are some of our favourites.

 

• Reykjavik Eco-Campsite

This campsite is in Reykjavik’s Laugardalur neighbourhood and it offers so many amenities! You’ll enjoy access to a range of facilities that will make your stay more comfortable and convenient, plus you’ll be within easy access to all the attractions in Reykjavik. You can go spend the day exploring and then come back to your campervan to sleep at night.

 

_{Photo by Grapevine}

Open: Year-round

Address: Sundlaugavegur 32, 105 Reyjavík 

Amenities: Kitchen, showers, bathrooms, free WiFi, charging plugs, pick-up service for excursions, open BBQ area, outdoor sinks, laundry facilities, storage rental 

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 5,355 ISK/night 

More info: https://reykjavikcampsite.is/the-campsite/ 

 

• Mosskógar Campsite

Maybe you want to see Reykjavik, but you also want to see the Golden Circle, and maybe you also want to stay somewhere with interesting things to do and a unique vibe. The Mosskogar campsite delivers on all of the above.

The campsite is located about halfway between Reykjavik and Thingvellir National Park, so you can easily explore both. Additionally, when you book a stay here, you’ll get assigned a specific spot, so you can move your campervan to drive around the area as much as you want, without worrying about losing your spot for the evening.

But what really makes this campsite stand out is the fact that it’s located on a family farm. While you’re staying here, you’ll be able to check out the farmers market on the weekend and buy fresh food and products grown or produced right on site. 

 

_{Photo by Camping.info}

Open: March 1–Dec. 15

Address: Dalsgarður 1, 271 Mosfellsbær

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, indoor kitchen area, camp sinks

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 4,000 ISK/night 

More info: https://tjalda.is/en/mosskogar/

• Úlfljótsvatn Campsite

If you’re travelling with children, then you know that keeping them entertained during a road trip can be a real chore. Luckily, this campsite will help them burn off some energy, as it’s equipped with a lovely playground where they can play the day away. 

In addition to a playground, there’s a soccer field, volleyball court and frisbee golf course. Special activities are also on tap, including fishing, archery and boating. You may find that the kids never want to leave!

This campsite is close to both Reykjavik and Thingvallavatn.

 

_{Photo by Ulfljotsvatn}

Open: June 1–Sept. 30

Address: Úlfljótsvatn, 801 Selfoss

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, indoor kitchen, playground, retail store, electricity

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,000 ISK/night 

More info: https://ulfljotsvatn.is/campsite/ 

 

Top Campsites for Campervans in South Iceland

What if you’re taking a South Iceland road trip? If so, here’s where to park your campervan, so you can easily see all the interesting waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches and more located throughout this part of the country.

• Skógar Campsite

While it might have fewer amenities compared to some of the other campsites on our list, Skógar Campsite still offers a lot to love, and for one big reason: its location. The campsite is right next to Skogafoss waterfall, meaning you’ll have excellent views and be able to easily access this top attraction. Set up camp and then explore. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby.

 

Open: Year-round

Address: Skógum, 861 Hvolsvöllur

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, electricity

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,400 ISK/night 

More info: https://tjalda.is/en/skogafoss/ 

 

• Vik Campsite

If your travels will take you to the village of Vik, consider staying at the Vik Campsite. It’s just a short drive away from the village, but also very close to other nearby attractions, such as the Reynisdrangar Sea Cliffs and Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve. There are also hiking trails on-site, as well as boat rentals.

 

Open: Mid-May–October

Address: Suðurvegur 5, 870 Vík

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, electricity, WiFi, laundry facilities, boat rentals, hiking trails

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,000 ISK/night 

More info: http://www.vikcamping.is/vik-camping.html 

 

• Skaftafell Camping Ground

Another top campsite for campervans in the south of Iceland, Skaftafell Camping Ground offers a great location, as it’s right next to the Vatnajokull glacier. If your travel plans will take you here, or to Vatnajokull National Park or Svartifoss Waterfall, you should definitely consider this beautiful camping spot.

 

_{Photo by Vatnajokull}

Open: Year-round

Address: Urridaholtsstraeti 6-8, 210 Gardabaer

Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, WiFi  

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 4,000 ISK/night 

More info: https://www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is/en/areas/skaftafell/tjaldsvaedid-i-skaftafelli 

 

Best Campsites for Campervans in West Iceland

West Iceland is known for its dramatic cliffs along the coast, its pristine islands and its bountiful hiking opportunities. If your outdoor adventures will take you here, then set up your campervan at one of these top campsites.

 

• Húsafell Camping

This highly popular campsite has lots of amenities on-site, but also positions you to be able to easily explore lots of cool things nearby, such as lava fields, hot springs, glaciers and hiking trails. It’s also a very family-friendly campsite and it’s common for campers to mix and mingle — so, if you’re a very social traveller, you’ll fit right in!

 

_{Photo by Husafell}

Open: June 1–Sept. 30

Address: Husafell 311 

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, basic cooking facilities, swimming pool

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,700 ISK/night 

More info: https://www.husafell.com/accommodation/campsite 

 

• Heydalur Campsite

Located in the Westfjords, this campsite is a little less popular due to its remote location, so you can enjoy the peace, quiet and beautiful setting. Plus, there are some amazing amenities here, like an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub. If you’d prefer to take a dip in a natural pool, though, you can also find geothermal pools nearby, as well as waterfalls and hiking trails.

 

_{Photo by Heydalur}

Open: Early spring–early fall

Address: Heydalur, 401 Ísafjörður

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, playground, hot tub, indoor swimming pool, electricity

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,200 ISK/night 

More info: https://www.heydalur.is/en/accommodation 

 

• Breiðavík Campground

Another campsite that’s a little bit removed from some of the more popular, tourist-heavy areas of Iceland, Breidavik Campground is situated on, as the name suggests, Breidavik Bay. Here, you’ll enjoy spectacular views, thanks to the cliffs, beaches and ocean. If you’re travelling to Iceland for birding, in particular, this campsite will be a good fit for you, as Iceland’s famous puffins live in the nearby Latrabjarg Cliffs!

_{Photo by Breidavik}

Open: May 1–Dec. 25

Amenities: Showers, bathrooms, barbecue grills, washing machines, WiFi, coffee and tea, indoor kitchen 

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 2,400 ISK/night 

More info: https://breidavik.is/accommodation/camping/ and https://tjalda.is/en/breidavik/ 

 

Best Campsites for Campervans in North Iceland

If you’re headed north, like if you’re taking a Ring Road road trip, then these top campsites may be ideal for your excursion.

 

• Siglufjörður Campsite

Surrounded by mountains and fjords, this campsite is quiet and peaceful. However, the amenities are relatively few, so pack accordingly. For a unique experience, consider visiting in July, when an annual herring festival takes place nearby!

 

_{Photo by Northiceland}

Open: May 15–Oct. 15

Address: Gránugata 24, 580 Fjallabyggð – Siglufjörður

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, playground

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 2,600 ISK/night 

More information: https://www.northiceland.is/en/service/siglufjordur-camping-ground 

 

• Ásbyrgi Campsite

This national park-located campsite offers lots of amenities and easy access to nearby attractions such as Vatnajokull National park and hiking trails. However, do note that this is one of the favourite and most popular campsites in Iceland, so you may want to book your campsite here in advance of your arrival — particularly if you want a spot with electricity access, which isn’t available throughout the entire campsite.

 _{Photo by Vatnajokull}

Open: Mid-May–September 

Address: Vatnajökull National Park, Litlabrú 2, 780 Höfn 

Amenities: Bathrooms, dishwashing stations, Free WiFi, coin-operated showers, laundry facilities

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 4,000 ISK/night 

More info: https://www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is/en/areas/jokulsargljufur/tjaldsvaedid-i-asbyrgi 

 

• Vogar Campsite

Planning on visiting Lake Myvatn? Then also make plans to stay at Vogar. This campsite offers views of Mount Hverfjall and Hlidarfjall and is also located near the Dimmuborgir Lava Field and Námaskarð Geothermal Area.

 _{Photo by Vogartravelservice}

Open: All year

Address: Vogar, 660 Mývatn

Amenities: Showers, indoor kitchen, free WiFi, electricity

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 3,750 ISK/night 

More info: https://www.vogartravelservice.com/camping 

 

Top Campsites for Campervans in East Iceland

If you want to camp in East Iceland, there’s one top campsite for campervans in this region of Iceland that we would recommend you go to:

 

• Egilsstaðir Campsite

This campsite is located in the town of Egilstaðir and is close to top attractions such as Dettifoss waterfall, Hengifoss waterfall, Studlagil Canyon, the Vok Baths and more. It’s also outfitted with a large number of amenities that will make your stay more fun and convenient.

 _{Photo by Visitegilsstadir}

Open: All year

Address: Kaupvangur 17, 700 Egilsstaðir

Amenities: Bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, luggage storage, bike rentals, children’s play park, indoor and outdoor kitchens, free WiFi

Price for a campervan with one traveller and electricity access: 4,000 ISK/night 

More info: https://campegilsstadir.is/about-us/ 

 

Map of the Best Campsites for Campervans in Iceland 

 

 

Insider Tips for a Memorable Campervan Experience

Have you found a few campsites in our list of the best campsites for campervans in Iceland above that you’d like to stay at? Before you head off on your adventure, here are a few final tips to ensure you have an amazing experience camping in Iceland.

• Keep an eye on the weather and road conditions

Iceland’s weather changes quickly and that weather can impact the road conditions throughout the country, leading to closures and delays. Make sure you’re keeping an eye on the weather and road conditions throughout your trip, by using handy resources like www.vedur.is for weather reports and www.road.is road conditions.

 

• Learn about local etiquette and culture

You’ll have a much better trip if you can get along with your fellow campers and maybe even make some friends. As such, brush up on the local customs and practices before you arrive. A great place to do this is at the Lava Car Rental blog, where you’ll find lots of guides to everything from local holidays to local food and beyond.

 

• Practice leave no trace principles

Iceland’s beautiful landscapes are precious and require protecting. Do your part by following “leave no trace” principles while you camp. This essentially means that you leave no trace of your having been in the wilderness, by not leaving behind trash, damaging fragile ecosystems, etc.

 

Book Your Campervan Today!

Staying at a campsite in Iceland is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in nature. Iceland is home to many amazing campsites, but some are better than others. If you stay at one of the above best campsites in Iceland, you’re sure to have an amazing time.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your campervan today and embark on your camping road trip adventure through Iceland.

 Book your camper today