Wild Camping in Norway: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Experiencing the Freedom of the Norwegian Wilderness

There's nothing quite like the feeling of waking up in the middle of Norway’s breathtaking landscapes, completely surrounded by nature. When I first learned about Allemannsretten (Right to Roam), I knew I had to experience wild camping here. The idea of setting up camp beside a fjord, under the Northern Lights, or on a remote mountain plateau was just too tempting to resist.

Understanding the Right to Roam

One of the best things about camping in Norway is that it’s legal almost everywhere. Thanks to Allemannsretten, I had the freedom to explore and sleep under the stars without worrying about permits. However, there are some important rules to follow:

- Always set up camp at least 150 meters away from any house or cabin.

- You can stay for up to two nights in the same spot. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to ask the landowner.

- Leave no trace. This was a big one for me—I made sure to clean up everything before leaving.

- Respect wildlife and nature. I avoided loud noises and stayed away from protected areas.

- Open fires are restricted from April 15 to September 15. Since Norway’s forests can be dry, I used a camping stove instead of making a fire.

For the official guidelines, I checked out the Norwegian Environment Agency, which helped me plan responsibly.

My Favorite Places to Wild Camp in Norway

Lofoten Islands

The first place I camped was in Lofoten, and wow—it was like stepping into a postcard. I hiked to Kvalvika Beach, a secluded bay with golden sand, and spent the night listening to the waves crash against the shore.

Jotunheimen National Park

If you're into mountains, Jotunheimen is the place to be. Camping here meant waking up to views of Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Northern Europe. The fresh water from mountain streams made it easy to stay hydrated.

Hardangervidda National Park

As Europe’s largest mountain plateau, Hardangervidda felt like a true escape into the wild. I even spotted some wild reindeer, which was a magical experience.

Senja Island

I wanted to find a quieter alternative to Lofoten, and Senja was perfect. I camped on a cliffside with a view of the fjords, and I barely saw another soul the whole time.

Essential Gear I Took for Wild Camping in Norway

To make sure I was prepared, I packed:

- A high-quality tent – The weather can be unpredictable, so I needed something sturdy and waterproof.

- A warm sleeping bag – Even in summer, the nights were colder than I expected.

- A camping stove – Since open fires were restricted, this was a lifesaver for cooking.

- Layers of clothing – The weather changed fast, so I packed moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated jacket, and a waterproof shell.

- Navigation tools – I had a GPS, but I also carried a physical map in case my phone died.

Getting Around: Renting a Car for Ultimate Freedom

One thing I quickly realized was that public transportation wouldn’t take me to the best camping spots. That’s why I decided to rent a car at Bergen Airport, which gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace. If you’re planning a camping trip, I highly recommend booking a car here for convenience and the best rates.

Staying Safe While Wild Camping

- Check the weather forecast. Norway’s weather is unpredictable, so I always checked before setting up camp.

- Be aware of wildlife. I saw moose and reindeer, but I kept a respectful distance.

- Avoid avalanche-prone areas. If you’re camping in winter or early spring, this is especially important.

- Always bring a first aid kit. Some of the best camping spots are remote, and getting medical help quickly isn’t always possible.

For emergencies, I saved112 (Norwegian emergency services) in my phone.

Respecting Nature and Local Communities

Wild camping in Norway is an incredible experience, but it’s important to be respectful. I always followed the Leave No Trace principles—packed out my trash, respected wildlife, and avoided camping too close to homes or tourist areas.

If you’re looking for an adventure that connects you with nature, wild camping in Norway is unbeatable. There’s something magical about sleeping under the stars in such a beautiful country, and I can’t wait to go back.