Exploring Iceland by RV or camper is one of the best ways to experience the country’s dramatic landscapes, remote nature, and ever-changing scenery. From black sand beaches and glacier lagoons to volcanic highlands and geothermal hot springs, traveling by motorhome gives you the freedom to discover Iceland at your own pace.

One of the biggest advantages of RV camping in Iceland is flexibility. You can wake up beside a waterfall one day, spend the evening near a lava field the next, and always have your accommodation with you. Iceland also has an excellent network of campsites designed for campervans and motorhomes, making it easy to travel comfortably around the country.

Whether you are planning a short Golden Circle adventure or a full Ring Road journey, this guide covers everything you need to know about RV-friendly campsites, Icelandic camping rules, costs, facilities, and the best campgrounds by region.

What Makes a Campsite RV-Friendly in Iceland?

Not every campsite is equally suited for larger campervans and motorhomes. An RV-friendly campsite in Iceland should provide the essential infrastructure needed for comfortable and responsible travel.

The most important features include electricity hookups, fresh water access, and waste disposal facilities. Many campsites around Iceland offer powered pitches where travelers can connect their RV to electricity for heating, lighting, and charging devices. This is especially valuable during colder months or when traveling with children.

Waste Disposal

Waste management is another key factor. RV travelers should look for campsites with chemical toilet disposal stations and grey water drainage points. Proper disposal facilities help protect Iceland’s fragile environment and are required for responsible motorhome travel.

Maneuverability & Space

Access is also important. RV-friendly campsites usually have spacious parking areas, easy maneuvering for larger vehicles, and clear driving access even in changing weather conditions. Some smaller campsites may be better suited for tents or compact campervans rather than larger motorhomes.

Amenities & Location

Additional amenities such as hot showers, kitchen facilities, laundries, Wi-Fi, and common indoor areas can make a major difference during longer road trips. Many travelers also prioritize scenic surroundings, whether that means ocean views, mountain landscapes, or proximity to Iceland’s most famous attractions.

A Breakdown of Iceland’s Camping Rules

Camping in Iceland comes with important rules designed to protect nature and ensure safe travel. Unlike some countries, wild camping with motorhomes and campervans is generally prohibited outside designated campsites.

If you are traveling in an RV, campervan, caravan, or motorhome, you must stay overnight at registered campsites unless you have explicit permission from a landowner. This rule helps reduce environmental impact and protects sensitive natural areas.

Many campsites operate seasonally from May through September, although some remain open year-round, especially near larger towns. During summer, popular campsites can become busy, particularly along the South Coast and Golden Circle.

Travelers should also respect local quiet hours, properly dispose of waste, and avoid parking overnight in unauthorized areas such as parking lots, roadside pull-offs, or protected natural sites.

Weather conditions are another major consideration. Iceland’s wind can be extremely strong, especially for high-profile vehicles like motorhomes. Always check road and weather conditions before driving and avoid traveling during severe storms or high-wind warnings.

What RV travelers Should Look for in a Campsite

When choosing a campsite in Iceland, RV travelers should focus on both practical infrastructure and overall comfort.

The essentials include:

• Electricity hookups for powered camping
• Grey water and chemical toilet disposal
• Fresh drinking water access
• Spacious parking for motorhomes
• Easy road access

Comfort amenities can greatly improve your experience, especially during longer journeys. Heated shower facilities, clean toilets, indoor dining areas, kitchens, laundry rooms, and Wi-Fi are all valuable additions.

Location also matters. Some campsites are perfectly positioned near waterfalls, glaciers, hiking trails, or geothermal areas, allowing travelers to maximize sightseeing time. Others are located near towns where you can restock groceries, refuel, or enjoy restaurants and local attractions.

For families, campsites with playgrounds and shared indoor spaces are particularly useful. If you are planning an RV trip with kids in Iceland, choosing family-friendly campgrounds can make travel significantly easier and more enjoyable.

Our Top RV Campsites Picks in Iceland by Region

Iceland offers a wide variety of campsites for RV and motorhome travelers, ranging from fully serviced campgrounds near major attractions to peaceful nature-based sites in remote regions. The best RV campsites combine practical infrastructure like electricity hookups, dump stations, fresh water access, and spacious parking with scenic surroundings and easy access to Iceland’s top destinations. Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite RV-friendly campsites across the country to help you plan a smoother and more comfortable road trip.

Reykjavík & Golden Circle

The Reykjavík and Golden Circle region is one of the most popular areas for RV travelers. It combines easy driving routes with iconic attractions such as Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. Campsites in this region are generally well-equipped and ideal for first-time visitors.

Reykjavík Eco Campsite

Located close to Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík Eco Campsite is a convenient starting point for RV travelers. The campsite offers electricity hookups, hot showers, modern restrooms, laundry facilities, and easy access for motorhomes of different sizes.

Its location near Reykjavík allows travelers to enjoy museums, restaurants, grocery stores, and fuel stations before beginning a Ring Road adventure. Despite being close to the city center, the campsite still provides a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by green open spaces.

The campsite is particularly popular among travelers looking for comfortable facilities before or after a longer road trip around Iceland.

Hraunborgir Campsite

Hraunborgir Campsite is a favorite stop along the Golden Circle route thanks to its peaceful setting surrounded by lava fields and countryside landscapes. The campsite is well-suited for RV travelers, with electricity hookups, clean shower facilities, and spacious parking areas for larger vehicles.

Its central location makes it ideal for exploring nearby attractions while enjoying a quieter camping experience away from busier tourist hubs. Families especially appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and easy access to outdoor activities.

For travelers planning a camping trip with kids in Iceland, Hraunborgir offers a convenient and comfortable base in South Iceland.

Thingvellir National Park Campsite

Camping at Thingvellir National Park gives RV travelers the chance to stay in one of Iceland’s most historically and geologically important areas. The campsite is surrounded by dramatic lava formations, fissures, and scenic walking trails.

Facilities include toilets, showers, fresh water access, and designated spaces for campervans and motorhomes. While services are somewhat more basic than larger commercial campsites, the location itself is exceptional.

This campground is an excellent option for travelers interested in camping in the Golden Circle while staying close to nature.

South Iceland

South Iceland is one of the country’s most scenic regions for RV travel, featuring waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and volcanic landscapes. Campsites along the South Coast are generally well-developed and cater well to campervans and motorhomes.

Camping Selfoss (Gesthús Selfoss)

Camping Selfoss is one of the most RV-friendly campsites in South Iceland. Conveniently located in the town of Selfoss, the campsite combines modern facilities with easy access to services, restaurants, and supermarkets.

The campsite features a dedicated service center with restrooms, hot showers, a spacious dining area, and kitchen facilities. Free Wi-Fi is available in public spaces, and washing machines and dryers are accessible for a small additional fee.

For RV travelers, the campground offers around 40 powered pitches with electricity hookups suitable for motorhomes, campers, and caravans. There is also a chemical waste disposal station and access to fresh drinking water, making it an ideal stop for longer journeys around the Ring Road.

Skaftafell Campground (Vatnajökull National Park)

Skaftafell Campground is one of the most spectacular places to camp in Iceland. Located within Vatnajökull National Park, the campground is surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and hiking trails.

The campsite accommodates campervans and motorhomes with designated RV parking areas and access to essential services such as toilets, showers, fresh water, and waste disposal stations. While electricity hookups may be limited depending on the season, the location more than compensates with unforgettable scenery.

Travelers staying here can easily access glacier hikes, scenic viewpoints, and popular trails leading to Svartifoss waterfall.

East Iceland

East Iceland offers quieter roads, dramatic fjords, and charming fishing villages. The region is ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed RV experience away from larger tourist crowds.

Camp Egilsstadir

Camp Egilsstadir is one of the best-equipped campsites in East Iceland and a convenient stop for Ring Road travelers. Located near Iceland’s largest town in the east, the campsite provides easy access to fuel, groceries, restaurants, and vehicle services.

Facilities include electricity hookups, hot showers, kitchen areas, laundry services, and spacious parking areas suitable for motorhomes. The nearby forests and lakes create a peaceful environment while still offering modern conveniences.

Its location also makes it a good base for exploring the Eastfjords and nearby hiking routes.

Ásbrandsstaðir camping

Ásbrandsstaðir Camping offers a more remote and scenic camping experience in East Iceland. Surrounded by mountains and coastal landscapes, the campground is popular among travelers seeking peaceful overnight stops.

The campsite provides essential RV facilities including fresh water access, toilets, and space for campervans and motorhomes. Depending on availability and season, electricity access may also be offered.

Its quiet setting and natural surroundings make it a memorable stop for travelers exploring Iceland’s eastern coastline.

North Iceland

North Iceland is known for geothermal landscapes, whale watching, volcanic scenery, and charming northern towns. RV travelers will find several excellent campsites with strong infrastructure and scenic surroundings.

Hamrar Camping (Akureyri)

Hamrar Camping is one of Iceland’s largest and most popular campsites for motorhomes. Located near Akureyri, the campsite offers excellent facilities including electricity hookups, modern showers, kitchen facilities, laundry access, and waste disposal stations.

The surrounding forest setting provides shelter from wind while remaining close to Akureyri’s restaurants, shops, and attractions. The campground is especially popular during summer thanks to its spacious layout and family-friendly atmosphere.

Ásbyrgi Campground

Located in the horseshoe-shaped canyon of Ásbyrgi, this campground offers one of the most unique camping environments in Iceland. The area is part of Vatnajökull National Park and features lush vegetation, towering cliffs, and excellent hiking opportunities.

The campsite accommodates RVs and campervans with designated parking spaces, fresh water access, toilets, and shower facilities. Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it a favorite among travelers exploring North Iceland and the Diamond Circle route.

West Iceland & Snæfellsnes

West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula combine volcanic landscapes, coastal villages, lava fields, and glacier views. The region is ideal for RV travelers looking for shorter scenic routes with excellent campground access.

Stykkishólmur

The campsite in Stykkishólmur is well-positioned for exploring the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Located near the harbor and town center, it offers easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, and local attractions.

RV travelers benefit from electricity hookups, shower facilities, waste disposal stations, and spacious parking areas. The coastal location also provides beautiful sunset views over Breiðafjörður Bay.

Hellissandur

Hellissandur Campground is located near Snæfellsjökull National Park and offers a fantastic base for exploring western Iceland’s volcanic coastline.

The campsite accommodates campervans and motorhomes with essential services including toilets, fresh water access, and electricity hookups. Travelers appreciate the dramatic lava field surroundings and proximity to hiking routes, black sand beaches, and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.

Best Time to Go Camping in Iceland

The best time for camping in Iceland is generally between late May and early September. During summer, campsites are fully operational, roads are easier to access, and daylight hours are extremely long.

Summer

If you are planning on visiting Iceland during the summer, July and August are the warmest and busiest months, offering the best conditions for exploring the entire country, including remote regions. 

Spring and Autumn

Spring and early autumn can also be excellent for RV travel, with fewer crowds and lower campsite occupancy. However, weather becomes more unpredictable, and some campsites may close outside peak season.

Winter

Winter RV travel is possible but requires careful planning. Travelers should expect icy roads, limited daylight, and fewer open campgrounds. Renting a properly equipped motorhome and monitoring weather conditions becomes especially important during colder months.

How to Plan an RV Trip in Iceland

Planning ahead is essential for a smooth RV adventure in Iceland. Travelers should map out their route, estimate driving distances carefully, and identify campsites in advance, especially during summer.

Understanding local driving conditions, weather patterns, and campsite availability can make your trip significantly more enjoyable. If you are new to motorhome travel, our guide to RV traveling in Iceland provides detailed planning advice and practical travel tips.

Food & Water Supplies

Most towns around Iceland have grocery stores, fuel stations, and access to fresh water, but distances between services can become long in remote regions.

It is smart to stock up on food before entering sparsely populated areas such as the Eastfjords or the Highlands. Many campsites also provide kitchen facilities where travelers can prepare meals comfortably.

Fresh drinking water is widely available throughout Iceland and is considered some of the cleanest in the world.

Fuel Strategy & Costs

Fuel stations are common along the Ring Road, but travelers should never let their tank get too low in remote areas. Wind, road conditions, and detours can increase fuel consumption significantly for larger motorhomes.

Some RV rental companies charge additional kilometer fees after a mileage limit is exceeded. RV Iceland simplifies budgeting with a fixed daily rate for kilometer fees, allowing travelers to drive freely without constantly calculating extra distance costs.

Planning fuel stops in advance is especially important when traveling in North or East Iceland where stations may be further apart.

Camping Site Costs & Fee

Camping prices in Iceland usually range from 1,500 to 3,500 ISK per person per night depending on facilities and location. Electricity hookups often cost extra.

For an 8-day RV trip, campsite fees for two travelers may typically range between 30,000 and 55,000 ISK.

A 10-day trip could range from approximately 40,000 to 70,000 ISK depending on campground choices and electricity usage.

Travelers planning longer journeys may benefit from the Iceland Camping Card, which provides access to multiple participating campsites for a single fixed fee.

Waste Management

Responsible waste management is essential when traveling by RV in Iceland. Always use designated dump stations for grey water and chemical toilets.

Never dispose of waste in nature, roadside drains, or unauthorized locations. Most larger campsites provide proper disposal facilities along with recycling and trash collection areas.

Keeping your RV clean and emptying waste tanks regularly helps ensure a more comfortable and environmentally friendly journey.

Pro-Tips for Motorhome Travelers

Booking campsites ahead of time during peak summer months can help avoid availability issues in popular regions.

Pack layers for all weather conditions, even during summer. Icelandic weather can change rapidly, and strong winds are common throughout the country.

When parking, always position your RV carefully in windy areas and hold doors firmly when opening them. Wind damage to vehicle doors is one of the most common issues for campervan travelers in Iceland.

Bring power adapters and extension cables for electricity hookups, especially if you plan to stay at multiple campgrounds.

Checking weather forecasts and road conditions daily is highly recommended, particularly before driving mountain roads or exposed coastal routes.

Finally, allow extra travel time. Iceland’s landscapes encourage frequent stops for photography, hiking, and sightseeing.

Why Rent with RV Iceland?

RV Iceland offers a wide range of campervans and motorhomes for rental, designed for Icelandic road conditions. Travelers can choose between manual and automatic transmission vehicles depending on their driving preference and experience.

Rentals include practical essentials for comfortable travel, and the company’s fixed daily rate for kilometer fees helps travelers budget more easily without worrying about unexpected mileage charges.

With vehicles suitable for couples, families, and larger travel groups, RV Iceland makes it easy to explore the country comfortably and independently.

Ready for Your RV Camping Trip in Iceland?

Traveling Iceland by RV combines freedom, comfort, and unforgettable scenery into one incredible adventure. From glacier lagoons and volcanic beaches to geothermal valleys and coastal cliffs, every region offers unique experiences best discovered on the open road.

If you are still deciding whether this style of travel is right for you, explore our guide to learn why renting a motorhome in Iceland has become one of the most popular ways to experience the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore its amazing landscapes. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your excursion and get the most out of your Iceland trip.