You dream of wild camping in Norway? Of freedom, nature and adventure? You're not alone: Norway has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe.
No wonder, because Norway not only fascinates with its northern European charm but also with landscapes that offer something for everyone – whether mountains or the sea Norway’s nature is as versatile as it is beautiful. And as if Norway’s scenic offerings weren’t reason enough for a camping adventure the country’s laws also make it more suitable for camping away from commercial campsites than almost any other European country. We can’t get wild camping out of our minds in the land of fjords, lush forests and beautiful lakes so we set out to find some answers to our questions.
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Is wild camping allowed in Norway?
The short answer: Yes. Just as with wild camping in Sweden the so-called right of public access applies in Norway. Anchored in Norwegian law since 1957 this law allows you to pitch your tent on uncultivated and undeveloped land – farms, gardens, fenced-in areas, farmland and the like are therefore taboo at least without permission of the owners.
As long as you follow a few rules, i.e. pitch your tent at least 150 metres away from inhabited houses and don’t camp in the same place for more than two days in a row wild camping in Norway is quite uncomplicated.
Although the right to public access only applies to non-motorised travellers and therefore not to motorhome travellers or campers, free-standing is also allowed along public roads and in public parking areas. So as long as your vehicle is parked on the side of the road and leaves enough space for other cars and caravans it's allowed to stand here.
Norway is no longer an insider tip as a travel destination: in some places especially near towns and villages parking bans for motorhomes and camping vans have come into force so that the entrances to towns and roads are not blocked by too many vehicles.
In general, the crime rate in Norway is very low. However, pickpocketing does occur from time to time in tourist hotspots and on public transport so keep an eye on your belongings if you're visiting crowded sights or areas during your trip.
Animals in Norway
As far as wild animals are concerned the greatest danger probably comes from moose – both for you and for the animals themselves. Particularly at dusk moose can wander out of the woods onto the road which unfortunately leads to car accidents with tragic outcomes for both humans and animals. So be sure to drive carefully and keep your eyes open!
Even apart from the danger of a car accident it's better to stay away from moose. These mighty animals (the head-torso length can be up to three metres!) are incredibly exciting to watch but especially cow moose with calves - which can often be seen in late summer - are not to be messed with.
Other wild animals such as bears and wolves have become quite rare in Norway. In addition, these animals tend to avoid people but in some areas you may still come across warning signs. For your own safety we recommend that you pay attention to them and look for another place – after all, there are plenty of beautiful places in Norway.
Plants in Norway
In general, it is allowed to pick berries and mushrooms in Norway (and to eat them afterwards). You probably already know that it can be dangerous to eat berries and mushrooms that you don’t know but we would like to mention it again. Do not pick and eat mushrooms and berries that you are not sure are edible. At Off you are already equipped with lots of great snacks in the camper – so help yourself to snack before you eat something you don’t know.
Regardless of whether you are camping with a tent or a camper, at a campsite or in the middle of nature: one of the most important rules when camping, whether wild or not, is not to leave nature littered when the journey continues – but that should actually go without saying.
Most of us camp for the love of nature and the incomparable feeling of freedom. Unfortunately, in many cases this harms both nature and the local economy. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind when wild camping.
Leave the place as clean as you found it!
Be careful not to disturb animals and nature through noise or fire!
Dispose of gray water at designated stations!
Be considerate of residents and fellow campers!
Support the local tourism and give back to your vacation destination!
Conclusion of wild camping in Norway
Norway is a beautiful diverse country that is wonderful to explore by camper. As long as you keep a few things in mind when free standing or wild camping you are sure to experience your dream holiday here. Whether with an Off van, camper van or tent: experiencing Norway’s nature up close is sure to lead to an unforgettable road trip.
