Planning your Iceland camping adventure starts with a good Iceland campground map. The Land of Fire and Ice offers an extensive network of campsites, but many are tucked away in remote valleys, along dramatic coastlines, and beneath rugged cliffs. This isolation is part of Iceland’s camping charm, but it also means you’ll need to prepare carefully.
A reliable map helps you navigate safely, plan for Iceland’s unpredictable weather, and discover those hidden gems worth the journey. If you’re hoping to explore off-the-beaten-path with maximum freedom, then a camper van and a detailed map are going to be your best friends. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need for a smooth, safe, and unforgettable camping trip across Iceland.
Understanding Iceland’s Campground System
Before you start planning for your dream Iceland trip, there are a few important points to keep in mind. First and foremost, camping laws are stricter in Iceland than in most other countries. Wild camping away from formal campgrounds is prohibited. Designated campgrounds, which can range from full-service locations to rural landscapes, are the only legal places to set up camp for the night, usually offered by national parks, municipalities, and even private owners.
A comprehensive, up-to-date Iceland campsites map and guide will help you identify the best sites, understand the rules and amenities of each location, and provide the time of year they operate. Keep in mind that seasonality impacts each site’s operating months, so check opening and closing dates before you go.
If you’re planning an extended visit, consider picking up an Iceland Camping Card. It allows you to pay a flat fee to stay in over 40 locations, for up to 28 days. Just keep in mind that not all locations accept the card so, once again, be sure to check before you go.
The Best Regions for Camping
Each region of Iceland offers something different and spectacular. Your Iceland campground map will help you create a route based on the landscapes you want to explore. So, if visiting the South Coast is high on your to-do list, you’ll find campsites near popular attractions like the Skógafoss waterfalls and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
For a more remote experience, try visiting the serene seaside sites in the Eastfjords, scattered between the area’s dramatic fjords. In North Iceland, you’ll find campsites with plenty of amenities near attractions like Mývatn, a volcanic lake surrounded by geothermal features, and Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland, known for charming shops and cafes.
For a complete escape from crowds, head to the Westfjords for some truly breathtaking scenery. Campsites are harder to come by here, but well worth the research. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers several campsites around its namesake national park and coastal towns. If it’s rugged off-road environments you’re after, head to the Highlands. Before you go, just make sure you have a 4×4 camper van and check availability at campsites since spots are limited.
Remember, whatever your must-see spots in Iceland might be, the easiest way to visit them is using a campsite map. Iceland’s sprawling, untamed regions make planning critical to a fun and fulfilling trip. A good map helps you decide not just where to camp, but which of these regions best fits your pace and travel goals.
Choosing the Right Campsite for Your Trip
With so many options across Iceland, choosing the right campsite comes down to two things: how remote you want to be and what you want to experience along the way. Using maps of Iceland campgrounds — whether from local tourism boards, national parks, or campground directories — can help you compare regions, understand what facilities are available, and see how close each site is to nearby attractions.
These maps often note useful details such as whether a campground accepts the Camping Card, which sites are free or paid, and which ones offer amenities like showers, electricity, or cooking shelters. Some also highlight seasonal closures and nearby points of interest, making it easier to choose a route that fits your travel style.
Whether you’re drawn to Iceland’s coastal cliffs, geothermal landscapes, quiet countryside fields, or popular natural landmarks, planning your journey with a detailed Iceland campground map ensures you can pick campsites that match your pace and priorities. With the right planning tools, you’ll have the freedom to explore Iceland entirely on your own terms.
Driving Iceland’s Roads to Reach Campgrounds
Iceland’s rugged terrain makes knowing how you’ll get to your campsite just as important as its actual location. And finding your way there isn’t as simple as looking at a map of Iceland. Campsites can be tucked away, far from paved roads, so having a properly equipped vehicle is key.
To that point, always check whether a campsite requires F-road access. These routes take you through unpaved paths, loose gravel, steep sections, and even the occasional river crossing. If you’re planning to explore these remote locations, a 4×4 camper rental in Iceland is your best option for reaching campsites that standard vehicles can’t access.
Even if you have a 4×4 vehicle, though, it’s still smart to check the weather and look up road closures before beginning your journey. Road.is provides all of the official road closure and weather updates you’ll need for a safe and exciting trip.
Camper-Friendly Tips for Planning With Maps
As you study your map of campgrounds in Iceland, check for sites with parking spots for camper vans, especially those with flat lots and sites with pull-in/pull-out access. Our Iceland campers range from compact to large family-size models, so make sure the campsite you’re considering can accommodate the model you choose.
Likewise, if your camper van is equipped with a toilet and shower, look for campsites with dump stations. Don’t have a kitchen in your camper? Check for campsites with communal cooking stations, so you can make meals on location.
On a broader note, it’s always smart to map out fuel stations along your route. Remember, Iceland has long stretches of road without services, so you’ll want to fuel up when you have the opportunity.
Plan Your Iceland Camping Adventure with Rent.is
If you’re traveling by camper van — the most flexible way to explore Iceland — a detailed campground map becomes even more useful. These maps are essential tools for camper van travelers, displaying not only campsite locations but also their on-site services, costs, and accessibility information. From serene remote wilderness experiences to lively and colorful cities, you’ll find all designated sites on your camping map. Iceland has so many stunning landscapes to explore and culture to absorb, and a camper van helps you get up close and personal with all of it.
Whether you want something small and agile or all of the bells and whistles, contact us and one of our team members will be happy to assist you. Pick up your Iceland camper van rental and experience the flexibility and independence of the open road in one of the most unique and beautiful countries in the world.
Iceland Campground Map and Camping FAQ
Some campsites in Iceland are difficult to get to, particularly F-road accessible ones. Luckily, most Ring Road campsites are easy to get to, even without a 4×4 vehicle.
Camping fees vary across sites in Iceland, with amenities and location influencing the cost. Some locations are free, while others can be expensive. If you look up specific locations on your Iceland camping sites map, you’ll find contact information so you can get accurate per-night fees
It is not legal to camp anywhere in Iceland. Wild camping is prohibited; only camping in designated camping areas is legal. When looking for designated campsites in Iceland, a map can be very helpful for finding legal campsites.
Each Iceland campsite has its own rules and procedures. Some sites are self-service, with a booth or pay station where you can submit your fee, while others have on-site staff to collect your payment. Most observe quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Refer to your map of campsites in Iceland for complete rules and regulations at individual sites.