Camping in Swedish nature

Sweden’s right of public access makes short stays in a tent possible in many places, but not everywhere and never without consideration for residents, landowners and nature.

Can I camp anywhere in Sweden?

No. Sweden’s right of public access allows short stays in many natural areas, but you should use durable ground, stay well away from homes and normally remain only one or two nights. Large groups need the landowner’s permission. National parks, nature reserves and some municipal areas can have stricter local rules.

Source: Naturvårdsverket: Tältning och Allemansrätten kring hemfridzon · Last verified: 8 September 2026

Regler i skyddade områden och kommunala ordningsföreskrifter varierar. Guiden beskriver den generella allemansrätten och ersätter inte lokal kontroll.

Choose the place before pitching the tent

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency recommends durable ground and avoiding cultivated fields or grazing land. Keep well away from homes and respect the private zone around a residence. There is no fixed national distance in metres; the setting determines what counts as private.

How long can you stay?

One or two nights is a useful rule of thumb for a small number of tents. A large group with many tents should ask the landowner for permission because the risk of damage and sanitation problems is greater.

Protected areas have their own rules

National parks and nature reserves often have specific regulations. Camping may be restricted to designated sites or prohibited. Always check the rules for the exact area before your trip.

Plan toilets and waste

If there is no toilet, plan how to manage human waste without contaminating water or creating problems near paths and campsites. Take rubbish and food waste away with you.

A useful decision rule

If the site is close to a home, on cultivated or sensitive ground, inside a protected area, or you are travelling as a large group, check the rules or ask permission before camping.