Skaftafell Campsite
The large Skaftafell campsite in Vatnajökull National Park holds about 400 tents and stays open all year, with only zones A and C accessible in winter. It is the main base for glacier hikes, the trek to Svartifoss waterfall and trips to the Jökulsárlón lagoon. Hot showers and laundry sit by the visitor centre, with showers and camper electricity on a service card; there is no guest kitchen of its own, but restaurants are nearby.
FAQFrequently asked questions
When is the Skaftafell campground open?
The Skaftafell campground in Vatnajokull National Park is open all year, but in winter only zones A and C stay open. Pitches cannot be reserved in advance, so you register and pay at reception on arrival. Note that due to frost there is no outdoor water until mid-May, and in winter water is taken indoors.
How much is a night and what is included?
A night costs 2,800 ISK for an adult (17-66), 2,300 ISK for seniors 67+ and disabled guests, and children 16 and under with an adult stay free. The fee already includes use of the shower, washing machine and dryer. There is a 15% discount for five or more consecutive nights, and electricity is charged separately at 1,500 ISK per 24 hours.
What facilities and infrastructure are on site?
The site has flush toilets, showers, a washing machine and dryer, and around 100 electrical outlets. There are no indoor cooking or dining facilities, but you can wash dishes at kitchen sinks next to the service buildings. The campground is large, with room for about 400 tents, and has wheelchair-accessible facilities.
Where can campers park and where are tent pitches?
Zones A, C, B and D can be driven onto by car and camper, while pitches E, F and G are off-limits to vehicles and are for tents only. Electricity for campers costs 1,500 ISK per 24 hours, with around a hundred outlets on site. This split keeps the tent areas quiet and free of traffic.
What is Skaftafell a good base for?
Skaftafell is one of Iceland's best-known hiking hubs and an ideal base for walks to Svartifoss waterfall and the Skaftafellsjokull glacier tongue. Glacier hikes onto Vatnajokull, Europe's largest ice cap, set out from here. About 55 km to the east lies the famous Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon with its diamond beach.
On the map
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