14 Best Summer Camping Spots in the World

Summer’s campfire serves as your compass, pointing toward adventure beyond your backyard. You don’t need to drain your savings to discover world-class camping that’ll reshape how you think about the outdoors. From Chile’s dramatic spires to Iceland’s untamed wilderness, these fourteen destinations offer everything you’ve been searching for – stunning landscapes, reasonable costs, and that perfect escape from routine. But here’s what most travelers don’t realize about timing your visit.

Key Points

• Torres del Paine (Chile) offers granite towers and glaciers for $15-20/night, best visited December-February with windproof gear.
• Lofoten Islands (Norway) provide free wild camping with midnight sun, dramatic peaks, and secluded beaches during 60°F July weather.
• Banff National Park (Canada) features mountain peaks and emerald lakes starting at $28 CAD, requiring early booking for summer.
• Westfjords (Iceland) deliver remote fjord camping for $10-15/night with puffin colonies and 50°F summer temperatures requiring warm clothing.
• Scottish Highlands allow free wild camping under “Right to Roam” laws, ideal for extended summer hikes with proper gear.

Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile

While Torres del Paine might seem like an expensive destination, you’ll find that camping here offers incredible value for experiencing one of South America’s most stunning landscapes.

You can pitch your tent for around $15-20 per night at established campgrounds, which is far cheaper than staying in refugios.

You’ll witness granite towers piercing turquoise lakes, massive glaciers, and diverse wildlife including guanacos and condors.

The park’s camping infrastructure is solid – most sites have bathrooms, fresh water, and some offer hot showers.

Plan for December through February when temperatures are mildest.

Book campsites early since they fill up fast during peak season.

Don’t forget windproof gear – Patagonian winds are notorious.

Pack layers and waterproof clothing for unpredictable weather changes.

If you’re planning to visit during the winter months, consider how winter RV camping techniques can help you stay warm and comfortable in the park’s challenging conditions.

Westfjords, Iceland

Though Iceland’s Westfjords remain one of Europe’s last untouched wilderness areas, you’ll discover camping here costs a fraction of hotel prices while delivering unparalleled access to dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and some of the world’s most spectacular bird colonies.

While hotels drain your budget, camping in Iceland’s remote Westfjords offers affordable access to pristine wilderness and extraordinary wildlife encounters.

You’ll find designated camping areas near Ísafjörður and Patreksfjörður for around $10-15 per night. Pack warm gear—even summer temperatures hover around 50°F.

Don’t miss Látrabjarg cliffs, where you can photograph puffins up close from June through August. The midnight sun provides extended hiking opportunities, though you’ll need blackout gear for sleeping.

Stock up on groceries in Reykjavík since prices spike dramatically in remote areas. Your rental car should handle gravel roads well, as many scenic spots require off-pavement driving through stunning landscapes.

If you’re considering water activities during your stay, weigh whether renting or buying a used boat makes more sense for exploring the pristine fjords and accessing remote fishing spots along the coastline.

Blue Mountains National Park, Australia

Just two hours west of Sydney, Blue Mountains National Park transforms into a camping paradise where you’ll escape Australia’s scorching summer heat while paying only $6-12 per night at established campgrounds.

You’ll find excellent camping at Euroka Clearing, where kangaroos graze nearby, or choose riverside spots at Ingar Campground. Summer temperatures drop to comfortable 15-25°C (59-77°F), perfect for hiking the famous Three Sisters trail or exploring Jenolan Caves.

Pack warm layers since mountain nights get chilly, even in summer. Book campgrounds online during school holidays when spots fill quickly. The park’s proximity to Sydney means you can grab forgotten supplies in nearby Katoomba or Leura.

Free gas barbecues and clean facilities make cooking easy, keeping your food budget low while enjoying stunning eucalyptus forests. Before heading out, review our guide to essential camping gear to ensure you have everything needed for a comfortable mountain camping experience.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Twenty-four hours of daylight await you in Norway’s Lofoten Islands, where summer camping costs absolutely nothing at designated wild camping spots scattered across this Arctic archipelago. You’ll pitch your tent against dramatic peaks rising straight from turquoise waters, with temperatures hovering around 60°F even in July.

Free Arctic camping awaits beneath Norway’s midnight sun, where dramatic peaks meet turquoise waters at a perfect 60°F.

Stock up on groceries in Svolvær or Leknes before heading out—island prices run steep.

The midnight sun eliminates flashlight needs, but pack warm layers since Arctic winds cut through lighter clothing. You can’t camp within 150 meters of houses or farms, but countless legal spots offer stunning views.

Hike Kvalvika Beach for secluded camping on white sand, or choose Uttakleiv Beach for easier access. Both deliver Instagram-worthy sunsets that never actually set.

First-time campers should master essential tent setup techniques before arriving to make the most of their Arctic adventure.

Banff National Park, Canada

Towering glacial peaks and emerald lakes create Canada’s most spectacular camping backdrop in Banff National Park, where you’ll find frontcountry sites starting at just $28 CAD per night. Book early—popular campgrounds like Tunnel Mountain fill up months ahead during summer season.

You’ll save money by choosing sites without hookups at campgrounds like Two Jack Lakeside or Johnston Canyon. Pack layers since mountain weather changes quickly, and bring a bear canister for backcountry trips.

The park’s shuttle system connects major attractions, so you won’t need expensive parking passes at popular spots like Lake Louise.

Hit the hiking trails early to avoid crowds and secure the best photo opportunities. Don’t miss the Plain of Six Glaciers hike—it’s free and offers million-dollar views without the helicopter tour price tag.

For adventure enthusiasts seeking something different, consider exploring unusual camping trends like hammock camping in the park’s designated backcountry areas or joining guided stargazing camps during the summer months.

Dolomites, Italy

Dramatic limestone spires rise from alpine meadows in Italy’s Dolomites, where you’ll discover some of Europe’s most affordable mountain camping at around €15-25 per night. You’ll find excellent campgrounds in Val di Fassa and Val Gardena that offer stunning mountain views without breaking your budget.

Pack layers since mountain weather changes quickly, even in summer. Temperatures drop markedly at night, so bring a warm sleeping bag rated for 40°F. Many campgrounds provide hot showers and basic kitchens, letting you save money by cooking your own meals.

You can hike the famous Alta Via trails directly from several campsites, giving you front-row access to jagged peaks and turquoise lakes. Book ahead during July and August when European families flood these budget-friendly mountain retreats.

Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

While most national parks charge hefty entrance fees, Olympic National Park delivers incredible camping diversity for just $30 per vehicle for seven days. You’ll find everything from coastal campgrounds to alpine meadows within this massive 922,000-acre wonderland.

For just $30, explore 922,000 acres of diverse camping from coastal sites to alpine meadows in Olympic National Park.

Book Sol Duc or Hoh for rainforest camping under towering old-growth trees. Want oceanfront sites? Mora Campground puts you steps from Rialto Beach’s dramatic sea stacks. For mountain views, choose Heart O’ the Hills near Hurricane Ridge.

Most campgrounds cost $24-28 per night and accept reservations six months ahead – book early since summer fills fast. You’ll need layers since coastal areas stay cool while inland spots can hit 80°F.

Pro tip: bring rain gear even in summer, as the peninsula’s microclimates create unpredictable weather patterns. For quick morning caffeine fixes in the wilderness, consider bringing a portable espresso maker to enjoy fresh coffee without the hassle of traditional camping brewing methods.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Nestled between the Julian Alps and emerald waters, Lake Bled offers Europe’s most enchanting camping experience for a fraction of what you’d spend in Switzerland or Austria. You’ll find affordable campsites starting at €15 per night, with stunning mountain views included.

Camp Bled sits directly on the lakeshore, giving you easy access to swimming, kayaking, and the iconic island church. You can hike to Bled Castle for panoramic views or tackle more challenging trails in nearby Triglav National Park.

Stock up on groceries at local markets rather than tourist shops to keep costs down. The famous cream cake at Park Hotel costs €7, but bakeries in town sell similar treats for €3.

Book campsites ahead during peak summer months. Investing in quality camping gear innovations can significantly enhance your comfort and convenience during your Lake Bled adventure.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

From Europe’s alpine lakes to Africa’s wild savannas, Kruger National Park delivers the ultimate camping adventure where you’ll fall asleep to lion roars and wake up to elephants wandering past your tent.

Experience the raw magic of Africa where nature’s soundtrack lulls you to sleep and giants greet your morning.

You’ll find 12 rest camps with basic facilities, keeping costs reasonable at around $15-25 per night for camping sites.

Book early since summer (December-February) is peak season.

Pack lightweight gear, mosquito nets, and plenty of water.

The park’s 2 million hectares host the Big Five, plus countless antelope, birds, and predators.

Morning and evening game drives offer the best wildlife viewing when temperatures cool down.

Stay alert around camp—baboons steal food and hyenas patrol at night.

Respect safety protocols and you’ll experience Africa’s raw wilderness without breaking your budget.

For those planning to explore multiple destinations, consider cycling worldwide as a sustainable way to reach various camping spots while immersing yourself fully in each region’s unique landscape.

Swiss National Park, Switzerland

Switzerland’s oldest national park transforms summer camping into an alpine paradise where you’ll pitch your tent surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and some of Europe’s most dramatic mountain scenery.

You’ll find designated camping areas near the park entrance in nearby villages like Zernez and S-chanf, where rates start around $25 per night.

The park offers 80 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails perfect for spotting ibex, red deer, and golden eagles.

You’ll need to bring warm sleeping gear since mountain temperatures drop markedly at night, even in summer.

Book campsites early as they fill quickly during peak season.

Consider visiting in late June through August for the best weather and wildflower displays.

Before embarking on your Swiss camping adventure, secure comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unexpected medical emergencies or trip cancellations in remote mountain locations.

Fjordland National Park, New Zealand

Where else can you camp among dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers while spotting rare birds and marine wildlife? Fjordland National Park delivers New Zealand’s most spectacular camping experience without breaking your budget. You’ll find affordable Department of Conservation campsites scattered throughout this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Essential camping highlights include:

• Milford Sound overnight stays – witness sunrise over mirror-like waters
• Routeburn Track camping – budget-friendly alternative to expensive lodges
• Doubtful Sound kayaking – paddle among dolphins and seals
• Kepler Track huts – reasonably priced mountain refuges
• Te Anau lakefront camping – perfect base for day adventures

Pack layers since weather changes rapidly. Book campsites early during peak season (December-February). You’ll save hundreds compared to luxury accommodations while experiencing raw wilderness that’ll leave you speechless. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this pristine wilderness for future generations.

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

When you’re seeking America’s most iconic camping destination, Yosemite National Park delivers towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and some of the country’s most affordable wilderness adventures.

You’ll find thirteen developed campgrounds with sites starting around $36 per night, making this UNESCO World Heritage site surprisingly budget-friendly.

Book your spot six months ahead—reservations fill fast, especially for Valley Floor locations near Half Dome and El Capitan.

You’ll save money by choosing higher elevation campgrounds like Tuolumne Meadows, which offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Pack layers since temperatures swing dramatically between day and night.

Don’t miss free ranger programs and use shuttle buses to avoid parking headaches.

You’ll discover why millions visit annually without breaking your budget.

When summer ends, proper gear storage becomes essential to maintain your equipment’s longevity for next season’s adventures.

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

From America’s granite giants to Scotland’s ancient peaks, the Scottish Highlands offer wild camping freedom you won’t find in most other destinations. You can legally pitch your tent almost anywhere thanks to Scotland’s “Right to Roam” laws, making this one of Europe’s most budget-friendly camping experiences.

Summer brings 18+ hours of daylight, perfect for extended hiking adventures through heather-covered moors and alongside pristine lochs. You’ll encounter dramatic landscapes that inspired countless legends while spending virtually nothing on accommodation.

For those who prefer more comfort and convenience, consider exploring options at Britain’s Motorhome Show to discover vehicles that can enhance your Highland adventure with modern amenities while still allowing you to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Essential considerations for Highland camping:

• Pack waterproof gear – weather changes rapidly
• Bring a reliable map and compass for navigation
• Stock up on supplies in villages before heading out
• Choose sheltered spots away from exposed ridges
• Follow Leave No Trace principles religiously

Jasper National Park, Canada

Seventeen thousand square kilometers of pristine wilderness make Jasper National Park Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain sanctuary, where you’ll camp beneath some of the world’s darkest night skies.

Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain sanctuary spans seventeen thousand square kilometers of wilderness, offering campers some of the planet’s darkest, most spectacular night skies.

You’ll find excellent value at Whistlers Campground, offering powered sites for $32 CAD and basic sites from $27 CAD nightly. The park’s frontcountry campgrounds provide hot showers, flush toilets, and fire pits—luxuries you’ll appreciate after hiking the Skyline Trail or exploring Maligne Canyon.

Book early since summer spots fill quickly, especially during August’s Perseid meteor showers.

You’ll save money by bringing your own firewood from outside the park boundaries. Don’t miss the free dark sky presentations at the planetarium, and pack layers—mountain temperatures drop markedly after sunset, even during summer months. Before heading out for daily adventures, check the weather forecast to prepare for changing mountain conditions.

Sum Up

You’ve got the world as your oyster when it comes to epic summer camping spots. From Chile’s dramatic peaks to Iceland’s raw wilderness, these destinations won’t break the bank if you plan smart. Pack your gear, research free camping areas, and hit the road early to snag the best sites. Whether you’re craving mountain adventures or coastal escapes, these fourteen gems deliver unforgettable experiences without the luxury price tag. Adventure’s calling—answer it.