Camping in Sweden – find your perfect match

Nature camping

With around 70% of Sweden covered by forest, the country is a haven for camping enthusiasts. Most campsites here are nestled in nature, often offering awe-inspiring views. However, some locations take "close to nature" to the next level. Here are three must-visit spots:

• Granö Beckasin, Västerbotten: Situated on the picturesque banks of the Ume River, this site offers thrilling activities like rafting, kayaking, and husky trekking.
• Kallsedets Fjällcenter, Jämtland: This gem is hard to beat if you crave lake and mountain vistas paired with endless outdoor adventures.
• Glaskogen, Värmland: Tucked deep within the forest, Glaskogen promises peace and solitude. Plus, your camping fee supports local conservation efforts.

Camping sites near water

When English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge wrote “Water, water, everywhere,” he might as well have been describing Sweden. With countless lakes and a coastline stretching some 3,200 kilometres, the country is brimming with campsites perfect for water lovers. Whether you’re seeking a place to swim or breathtaking sea views, these three spots stand out:

• Lagunen, Bohuslän: This seaside paradise offers a range of accommodation options and activities such as hiking, kayaking, cycling, and fishing—perfect for coastal adventurers.
• Apelviken, Halland: Located in Varberg, this 5-star site combines sandy beaches, small-town charm, and excellent amenities like a campsite, hotel, restaurants, and plenty of seaside activities to suit all tastes.
• Byske Havsbad, Västerbotten: Situated 30 kilometres north of Skellefteå by the Byskeälven River, this site caters to anglers, BMX enthusiasts, and those simply looking to relax on the beach, with options for cottages, camper vans, and tents.

Family-friendly campsites

Camping has long been a favourite family holiday, and in Sweden, it’s better than ever. Many campsites have transformed into full-fledged resorts, often connected to water or adventure parks. With amenities like gyms, restaurants, kids’ activities and watersports, these sites are also designed to be pram-friendly and accessible. Here are three top picks:

• Dragsö Camping, Blekinge: Set on its own island in the Blekinge archipelago, Dragsö offers activities for the whole family, including mini golf, sport fishing, horse riding, and Pit Pat table golf.
• Daftö Resort, Bohuslän: A pirate-themed haven perfect for active families, Daftö features an adventure park, treasure hunts, pool parties, and crab fishing – creating unforgettable memories for all ages.
• Vimmerby Camping, Småland: Just 10 minutes from Astrid Lindgren’s World, this campsite is a dream for fans of the beloved author. Onsite, you’ll find a pizza restaurant and options to hire kayaks, pedal boats, Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs), and rowing boats.

Activity-specific campsites

Sweden’s vast landscapes and diverse nature ensure that campers with specific hobbies or interests are well-catered for. Whether you’re into niche activities like diving and kitesurfing or prefer traditional pastimes such as cycling and hiking, there’s a campsite to match your needs. Here are three great examples:

• Borstahusen, Skåne: This site is a magnet for adventurers of all ages. It offers a range of activities on land and water, including hiking, cycling, and paddleboarding.
• Yxningens Camping, Östergötland: Located on the tranquil shores of Lake Yxningen, this boutique campsite combines serenity with outdoor fun, offering boat hire, canoeing, and fishing.
• Överhörnäs Camping, The High Coast: This intimate campsite, with 55 pitches and 9 cabins by the Moälven River, is an ideal base for exploring the stunning High Coast while enjoying rowing, swimming, and fishing.

A different kind of luxury camping

For those who aren’t drawn to tents or larger resort-style campsites, Sweden offers many alternative camping options. One growing trend is "vanlife," where travellers customise their vehicles to combine freedom, comfort, and independence – a perfect match for Sweden’s diverse camping landscape.

• Brålands Gård, Bohuslän: Set along the banks of the river Örekil, this farm is a dream for fly-fishing enthusiasts, offering the chance to witness wild salmon leaping in their natural habitat.
• Väddö Gårdsmejeri, Uppland: Located 100 kilometres north of Stockholm, this ecological dairy farm delights children with animal petting and live milking demonstrations while adults savour locally made cheese and ice cream.
• Borgagården, Swedish Lapland: Offering stunning views and serene surroundings, this site showcases the magic of camping in Sweden, complete with activities like hiking, boating, and even diving.

Wild camping/tent camping

Many campsites in Sweden offer pitches for tents, but not all. Unlike in other countries, Swedes often associate tent camping with being out in the wilderness rather than staying at an organised campsite. If you’re travelling with your own tent, it’s a good idea to check in advance if your chosen site accommodates tents.

Thanks to Sweden's Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten), you can pitch your tent for a night or two in the countryside, provided you don’t disturb landowners or harm the environment. However, be sure to familiarise yourself with the rules before setting out. For instance, camping in nature reserves or national parks often requires special permission. Camping right at the water’s edge is generally not allowed, and respecting your surroundings is essential.

Winter camping

Camping might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sweden in the winter, but it’s becoming increasingly popular. While the most adventurous might opt for a tent, there are many alternative options, including caravans, motorhomes, and huts. Around 130 campsites in Sweden are open year-round, many of which are conveniently located near ski resorts. For example, Kläppen Camping in Sälen and Bjursås Stugby Camping near Falun offer great bases for winter activities. For a full list of winter campsites, visit the SCR Swedish Camping or First Camp websites.

Campsites by region

If you’ve settled on a specific region for your camping adventure, you’ll find plenty of information and tips to help you plan. From north to south, here are some regions with extensive camping options:

• Swedish Lapland
• Jämtland Härjedalen
• Hälsingland and Gästrikland
• Dalarna
• Värmland
• West Sweden
• Småland
• Öland
• Blekinge
• Skåne

With countless campsites to choose from and Sweden’s generous Right of Public Access enhancing your sense of freedom, you’re sure to find a spot that perfectly suits your needs, no matter where you are in the country.