We now have free camping in 201 Danish forests
As a dedicated outdoor enthusiast, I am pleased that the rules and opportunities for free camping are only getting better and better. The Swedes know about the right of public access, which we unfortunately do not yet have. However, we have recently introduced the free camping scheme.
Note: By >> click here << you can get direct notification next time there are great guides on the blog.
What is free camping?
Free camping is a scheme you have the opportunity to use. As long as you do it privately and not for commercial purposes, you can stay overnight free of charge in the forests connected to the scheme.
Are you allowed to make campfires in forests where free camping is allowed?
Yes and no. A proper campfire where you make an open fire requires that you use an established campfire site. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to make a fire just for comfort, even though it might be nice. If you make fire in a closed burner, it is okay. More about this in the rules below.
Tent or no tent?
The following is an excerpt from the Nature Agency's website:
Rules for free camping - the 1,2,3 rule
- Overnight stays are only allowed for ONE night in the same place.
- You may set up a maximum of TWO tents in the same place.
- Tents may be a maximum of THREE-person tents.
- Tents must be out of sight from operational and residential buildings, including, for example, neighbors and campsites, as well as roads.
- Open fire is only allowed at designated campfire sites.
- You may only use a field kitchen if you use a portable stove where the burner is enclosed, e.g., Trangia. For fire safety reasons, you must not place the portable stove on leaves, needles, or other flammable materials – please place the stove on a stone or other similar non-flammable material.
- Be aware that a forest may be closed for the use of open fire, campfires, etc. due to drought, and in that case, the use of portable stoves is also not allowed. Any closure of forests with Free Camping will be indicated on the Nature Agency's website and possibly with posted signs at the forest entrances.
- Motorized transport is not allowed on the forest roads.
- Camping is not allowed on the beaches and dunes that belong to certain forest areas.
- After use, you must clean up after yourself and take your trash with you.
If you are unsure where you are allowed to camp and the boundaries for camping, please contact the local nature management unit.