Parking alone by a serene Swedish lake, the crackling of a campfire in your ears, and nothing but nature all around – that’s how many imagine wild camping in Sweden. Especially on Instagram, vanlife or tent camping often looks like a dream of absolute freedom. But how much truth is really behind these idyllic images? Can you just camp anywhere in Sweden? And what about campervans – is free camping with a motorhome actually allowed?
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about wild camping in Sweden – whether you're traveling with a tent, motorhome, or van. We’ll cover:
- What Sweden’s Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten) allows – and where its limits are
- The rules for wild camping with a camper
- How to act responsibly and sustainably in nature
In this article
First things first: Is wild camping allowed in Sweden?
In short: yes and no. Sweden’s famous Right of Public Access – known as "Allemansrätten" – is often associated with the freedom to camp in nature, but it only applies to non-motorized travelers. If you’re hiking, biking, or paddling and carrying a tent, you’re generally allowed to set it up for one night almost anywhere in nature.
But this doesn’t apply to campervans, motorhomes, or cars with rooftop tents. Wildcamping with a vehicle in nature is officially prohibited in Sweden - even if it’s often tolerated in practice. The key point is: if you’re traveling with a camper, you’re not covered by the Right of Public Access. Also, make sure to respect any Camping Forbidden signs you come across.
In the next sections, we’ll take a closer look at the Right of Public Access and explain what you need to keep in mind.
The Right of Public Access in Sweden - Freedom with Responsibility
What is Sweden’s Right of Public Access?
If you travel through Sweden, you’ll eventually come across the concept of the Right of Public Access (Allemansrätt in Swedish). It gives everyone the freedom to move freely in nature: you can hike, pick berries, go swimming, pull your canoe up on a shoreline, or pitch a tent for one night almost anywhere. Sounds generous? It is! This freedom is built on a simple principle: Don’t disturb, and don’t destroy.
A detailed overview of Sweden’s Right of Public Access and all applicable rules can be found on the website of Naturvardsverket (Swedish Environmental Protection Agency).
Private and public land - what’s allowed?
The Right of Public Access allows you to enter and use uncultivated land, even if it’s privately owned. However, there are some important rules to follow:
- Fields, pastures, and fenced-in properties are off-limits
- A private buffer zonemust be respected. Its size isn’t strictly defined, but you should pay attention to signs such as fences, maintained paths, or marked trails. In mountainous regions, this zone is usually smaller; in open landscapes, it tends to be larger. A good rule of thumb: ChatGPT fragen : if the landowner can see or hear you, you’re probably too close. können.
Camping and bivouacking in Sweden - what’s allowed
If you’re traveling with a tent or bivy sack, you can legally camp almost anywhere in Sweden. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Stay no longer than 1 - 2 nights in the same spot. If you want to stay longer, ask the landowner for permission.
- Camping with 2 - 3 tents is allowed. For larger groups, you need the landowner’s permission.
- Respect the private buffer zone: don’t camp near houses or on agricultural land.
- National parks and nature reserves often have their own rules - be sure to check in advance or on site.
Freistehen mit Camper, Wohnmobil oder Dachzelt – was gilt wirklich?
Unlike tent camping, overnight stays in motorized vehicles in nature are not covered by the Right of Public Access. This means:
- Parking and overnight stays with your motorhome in the wild (forest, meadow, beach) are generally prohibited.
- Parking lots and official campsites can often be used for one night, sometimes longer on weekends. Always observe local signs.
- You may park on the roadside as long as you don’t block anyone or cause damage.
- Private roads may be entered on foot, but driving on them depends on the owner’s permission.
Note: Wildcamping with a motorhome is often tolerated, especially in sparsely populated areas. However, the recent increase in tourists has led to more conflicts with campers, and some regions are now enforcing stricter rules. Always behave respectfully and leave no trash behind. If you’re asked to leave a spot, do so. Wildcamping in Sweden with a motorized vehicle is not a guaranteed right. You should always respect “No Camping” signs.
Traveling by bike or e-bike
You can freely explore Sweden’s nature by bike, both on public and private paths. Here’s what to keep in mind when cycling:
- Bicycles are allowed on hiking trails, but pedestrians have the right of way. However, some municipalities prohibit cycling on certain hiking trails.
- Horse riding paths are generally off-limits for bicycles.
- National parks, nature reserves, and protected areas have their own rules. Cycling is usually only allowed on designated paths or sometimes banned altogether. It’s best to check in advance.
- E-bikes are not covered by the Right of Public Access. However, riding an electric bike with a motor under 250 watts is generally permitted on marked bike paths or gravel roads.
On the water – what rules apply for canoes, boats & more?
The Right of Public Access doesn’t just apply on land - it also covers the water. You’re allowed to land with a canoe, kayak, or boat almost anywhere, and even spend the night at secluded shorelines. Of course, some rules still apply:
- Respect private buffer zones: avoid private property and keep a distance from houses
- Use public landing spots or rent private docks
- Avoid areas with nesting birds - especially in spring and summer, as this is breeding season
- Thoroughly dry boats and equipment before entering another body of water to help prevent the spread of crayfish plague
Behavior in nature - what else should you keep in mind
Leave no trash behind: Whatever you bring into nature, take it back with you. This doesn’t just mean obvious trash like plastic, but also banana peels, food scraps, or toilet paper. Anything that didn’t come from there doesn’t belong there.
Going to the bathroom in nature - here’s how to do it right: Everyone needs to go, even outdoors. Choose a spot far from water, animals, and fields, and dig a hole at least 15 cm (6 inches) deep for solids. Cover it back up with soil afterward. Don’t just leave toilet paper lying around. If you can’t take it with you, bury or burn it (if safe and allowed). Use biodegradable toilet paper when possible. Dry toilets at hiking parking areas are also a good option.
No soap in the water: Even biodegradable soap should never be used directly in lakes or rivers. It needs to be filtered through soil and rocks to break down. When washing or rinsing, stay at least 100 meters (about 330 feet) away from any water source and only use biodegradable products.
Respect wildlife: Be mindful of animals in nature. Keep a safe distance from wild animals, especially during breeding season (spring and summer). Avoid sneaking up on animals with canoes or paddle boats - they startle easily. If birds seem alarmed, leave the area because their nest is likely nearby.
Conclusion: Wild Camping in Sweden
Wild camping with a tent is legal and straightforward in Sweden thanks to the Right of Public Access - as long as you follow the rules. Things are a bit different with campervans: free standing in nature is officially prohibited, but often tolerated, especially in sparsely populated areas. If you treat nature and locals with respect, park considerately, and leave no trace, you’re unlikely to run into trouble. Still, if you’re ever asked to move on, you should do so without hesitation.
Whether you’re traveling by tent, canoe, or campervan - if you stick to the motto “Don’t disturb, don’t destroy,” you’re sure to experience Sweden at its very best.
