If you’re looking to explore the wild beauty of Iceland on your own terms, look no further than camping in Skaftafell National Park. Nestled below the mighty Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, Skaftafell is a heaven for hikers. Whether you’re pitching a tent for the night or staying a few days, this is the ideal base for those planning a glacier hike in Iceland—especially from Freysnes, just minutes away.

Let’s take a closer look why the Skaftafell campsite is one of the best spots for camping in Iceland and everything you need to know for your glacier adventure.

Why Camp in Skaftafell?

Skaftafell National Park is more than just Iceland’s largest national park—it’s a hub for outdoor lovers looking to connect with nature. At the base of Vatnajökull, Iceland’s biggest glacier, it offers a rare combination of the highest mountains, winding glacier rivers, and lush birch forests. If you are lucky you can spot wildlife or free roaming Icelandic sheep. Locals know Skaftafell for its good weather – and that says a lot in Iceland.

Camping here gives you front-row seats to some of the most scenic landscapes in the country. You’ll be just steps away from countless hiking trails. Skaftafell campsite is within easy reach of Freysnes, the starting point of the best glacier hikes in the area.

 

What to Expect at the Skaftafell Campsite

The Skaftafell campsite is run by Vatnajökull National Park and is open from May through September. The large campground doesn’t require advance reservations—though we recommend arriving early during peak season.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Modern, clean and spacious bathroom and shower facilities
• Cooking shelters and sinks
• Electricity for campervans (limited spots)
• Fresh drinking water and picnic tables
• Stunning views of Vatnajökull Glacier

Local Tip: A less busy campsite in Svínafell

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative, there’s a small and charming campsite in Svínafell. Located just a few minutes away from Skaftafell and Freysnes. Svínafell campsite has fewer facilities but it offers a peaceful and scenic setting.

For movie enthusiast the proximity to Svínafellsjökull is another plus. The glacier outlet got famous by films like Batman Begins and Game of Thrones.

While Svínafellsjökull is best observed from a distance because of changing conditions, Falljökull just next door is the glacier to be. If you are looking for a unique experience on the ice, Falljökull offers the most exciting and safe options for glacier hiking in Iceland.

Glacier Hikes Near Skaftafell: Why Falljökull is the best Glacier in Iceland

Just a short 5-minute drive from Skaftafell National Park lies the small community called Freysnes. This is the starting point for some of the best glacier hikes in Iceland—especially on Falljökull, known locally as the “Falling Glacier.”

So what makes Falljökull the top choice?

• One of the most dynamic and visually impressive glacier outlets of Vatnajökull, with towering icefalls and crevasses
• It’s safe, active, and accessible, making it perfect for both first-timers and seasoned hikers
• Various tour offers from easy Glacier Encounter, immersive Glacier Discovery or fully hands on Glacier Ice Climbing
• Local Guide scouts and monitors the glacier constantly for changing conditions and the best hiking routes

When the glaciers call, Falljökull is the one to answer. Our experienced guides at Local Guide of Vatnajökull lead small-group glacier tours that combine education, safety, and once-in-a-lifetime views.

🧭 Learn more or book your adventure right now with Local Guide of Vatnajökull.

📚 Not sure what to pack? We’ve got you covered with our blog on What to Wear on a Glacier Hike or keep reading for a few more local tips.

Tips for Camping and Hiking in Iceland

Before you roll out your sleeping bag or step onto the ice, here are a few essentials:

• Dress smart: Layers are key. Use a base layer, warm middle layer, and waterproof outer shell 
• Stay informed: Check the weather forecast at vedur.is, road conditions at road.is
• Plan safely: Add your travel plan or hiking route to safetravel.is and review their excellent safety advice
• Talk to the rangers: At the Skaftafell Visitor Centre you’ll find trail conditions and local insights 
• Book in advance: Glacier hikes fill up quickly—reserving early guarantees your spot and you need a guide to hike on the glacier safely

💡Insider tip: Get a discount on your parking pass in Skaftafell National Park! When visiting the famous Glacier Lagoon Jökulsárlón on the same day. Both destinations should definitely be on your Iceland bucket list.

Top Hikes You Can Do Right From Your Tent

Wake up, brew your coffee, and hit the trails! A Glacier Hike is a must in the area but Skaftafell National Park offers even more bucket list material. These popular hikes begin right from the Skaftafell Visitor Centre:

• Svartifoss: A short, rewarding trail to a waterfall framed by striking basalt columns 
• Skaftafellsjökull Glacier Viewpoint: An easy hike to a panoramic overlook of a glacier tongue 
• Kristínartindar: For more experienced hikers, this summit route offers photogenic views over glaciers, mountain peaks and black sand flats

Learn more about these hikes on our blog. And don’t forget to visit the excellent Skaftafell Visitor Centre, where rangers are available to help you. They’re a great resource for planning your hikes and understanding the conditions before setting out.

Make Skaftafell Your Home Base for Glacier Hikes

There are few places in the world where you can go from your tent to a glacier in under an hour—and Skaftafell National Park makes that possible. With scenic hikes, new facilities, expert advice from rangers, and easy access to glacier guides in Iceland, it’s the perfect stop on your ring road trip.

So pitch your tent under Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe, explore Iceland’s most iconic trails, and take that glacier hike from Freysnes you’ve always dreamed about.

👉 Ready to explore? Book your glacier hike today and make your time in Iceland truly unique. For more impressions and inspiration, check out Local Guide’s Instagram or browse through glacier guides Iceland reviews from fellow adventurers.