Camping Beyond Borders: International Campsites to Explore

31 October 2025

Who doesn't love sitting by a crackling campfire under a sky full of stars? Now imagine doing that not just in your own backyard, but halfway across the world. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, pack your tent and dust off that backpack because we're going global. “Camping Beyond Borders” isn’t just a trendy phrase—it’s a whole new way to experience travel, nature, and different cultures all in one go.

Whether you're the type who likes waking up with mountain views or falling asleep to ocean waves lapping the shore, international camping offers something for every adventure seeker. And let’s be honest, there’s something wildly freeing about living out of a backpack and waking up somewhere new every day.

So, pop some marshmallows in your camping stash—we're about to go around the world, one tent peg at a time.

Why Go International?

Alright, so you’ve likely done the local camping thing. You know your nearby national parks like the back of your hand. But stepping outside your country opens up a whole new playbook of landscapes, wildlife, and cultures.

Think about it—when else can you hike through ancient ruins, bathe in thermal springs, or sleep in the shadow of a dormant volcano—all while cooking dinner over a campfire? International campsites let you blend travel with simplicity, giving you an authentic, low-cost way to soak in each destination.

Plus, camping internationally helps you unplug from the rush of touristy city tours. While everyone else waits in line for the next museum ticket, you’re breathing in cool mountain air or swimming in a secluded lake.

Europe’s Hidden Tent-Sational Spots

Europe may be known for castles and cathedrals, but it’s also home to killer campsites that don’t always make it to the travel brochures.

1. Camping Jungfrau – Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Tucked inside the dramatic Swiss Alps, Lauterbrunnen looks like something out of a fantasy novel. Camping Jungfrau offers a jaw-dropping view of waterfalls and cliffs that you’ll never want to leave. It's perfect for hikers and adrenaline junkies—base jumping, paragliding, and glacier treks? Yep, all nearby.

What makes it special: You camp surrounded by 72 waterfalls, and the sound of rushing water is basically your campsite soundtrack.

2. Camping Le Ty Nadan – Brittany, France

France isn’t just Paris and wine—it’s also dense forests and riverside trails. At Le Ty Nadan, pitch your tent under massive trees or rent a mobile home if you want luxury with your wilderness. With kayaking, zip-lining, and horseback riding in the area, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Best time to go: Summer months (June–August) for perfect weather and full access to all outdoor activities.

3. Sámi Tent Camping – Lapland, Finland

Want something truly unique? Try glamping in a traditional Sámi tent called a “lavvu.” Located in Finnish Lapland, these campsites combine indigenous culture with arctic scenery. At night, you might even catch the Northern Lights dancing above you.

Pro tip: Go in winter for snow-covered pine forests and a chance to see the aurora borealis.

North America’s Bucket-List Campsites

Between Canada and the U.S., North America is packed with rugged coastlines, vast deserts, and secret alpine lakes that make for unforgettable camping.

4. Banff National Park – Alberta, Canada

If Mother Nature had a Pinterest board, Banff would be on it. With turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and roaming wildlife, camping here feels like stepping into a desktop wallpaper.

Try the Two Jack Lakeside campground for lakeside views and proximity to Banff town. Plus, waking up with elk outside your tent is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Don’t miss: Rent a canoe and paddle on Lake Louise—it’s as magical as Instagram says it is.

5. Joshua Tree National Park – California, USA

This place isn’t just for Instagram influencers. Joshua Tree mixes desert magic with rock climbing thrills and star-studded skies. Hidden Valley Campground is a favorite for those who like to keep it low-key and rugged.

Fun fact: The park is a certified Dark Sky area—perfect for stargazing and astrophotography.

Latin America: Nature’s Playground

Ready for some jungle vibes and volcanic wonders? Latin America will blow your hiking boots off.

6. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine – Chilean Patagonia

This one’s for serious adventurers. Deep in Patagonia, Torres del Paine offers glacier views, turquoise lakes, and towering granite peaks. While some opt for luxury eco-lodges, there are plenty of public campsites open to backpackers.

Pro tip: Bring your own gear—the park is remote, and rentals are limited.

7. Monteverde Cloud Forest – Costa Rica

Think Jurassic Park, but without the dinosaurs (hopefully). Camping in Costa Rica’s cloud forests is like stepping into a living, breathing terrarium. It’s humid, yes, but the biodiversity is mind-blowing—monkeys, sloths, and rainbow-colored birds are daily sightings.

Best part: Night hikes to see glowing fungi and nocturnal critters.

African Adventures Under Canvas

Camping in Africa is raw, real, and breathtaking. This isn't your average KOA—this is the kind of camping that stays with you forever.

8. Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

You haven’t really camped until you’ve fallen asleep to the sound of distant lions. Serengeti has a mix of public and private campsites where you can watch the Great Migration or spot elephants from your tent flap.

Safety tip: Always stay within your campsite and listen to your guide—this is wildland, literally.

9. Cederberg Wilderness Area – South Africa

Far quieter than Kruger, the Cederberg offers rugged red rocks, San rock art, and wild swimming holes. It's ideal for off-grid campers who want peace and panoramic views.

Extra bonus: Night skies here go on forever. Bring a telescope if you have one.

Asia’s Camping Delights

Asia offers a cultural twist to your camping game. From Himalayan heights to bamboo forests, these campsites offer soul-refreshing experiences.

10. Spiti Valley – Himachal Pradesh, India

Ever dreamed of camping in a desert at 12,000 feet? Spiti Valley is dry, dramatic, and dotted with ancient monasteries. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet. Local homestays often offer camping options, so you get a roof and a story.

Tip: Acclimate before heading up—you’ll be camping in some serious altitude.

11. Lake Toba – North Sumatra, Indonesia

A massive volcanic lake with an island in the middle—yep, it’s as cool as it sounds. The shores of Lake Toba offer serene camping with views that’ll make your friends jealous. Rent a motorbike to explore hidden waterfalls and hot springs nearby.

Foodie tip: Try local Batak dishes—they're spicy, savory, and unforgettable.

Oceania’s Wilderness Wonders

When it comes to camping, Australia and New Zealand are in a league of their own. They practically invented road-tripping from one epic campsite to another.

12. Coromandel Peninsula – North Island, New Zealand

Golden beaches, forest-covered hills, and natural hot water springs—you’re basically living in a travel ad when you camp here. Hot Water Beach is super popular because you can literally dig your own heated pool in the sand.

Must do: Walk the trail to Cathedral Cove for sunrise. It’s worth the early alarm.

13. Karijini National Park – Western Australia

This one’s for the wild at heart. Picture deep red rock gorges, clear swimming holes, and few people. Karijini is remote, but that’s part of the charm. Eco-retreats offer glamping, but if you’re brave, go old school with a tent.

Reminder: Bring plenty of water and supplies—it’s remote and rugged out there.

Planning Your Trip

Wanna know the secret to camping internationally without losing your mind? Planning and flexibility. Here’s a quick checklist:

- Passports and visas – Always double-check requirements way before you go.
- Local camping laws – Wild camping is cool but not always legal. Know the rules.
- Gear vs. rental – Decide if you're bringing your own gear or renting locally.
- Weather check – Obvious, yes, but you’d be surprised how many people forget.
- Language basics – Learn a few phrases. Even just “thank you” goes a long way.

Want to keep it stress-free? There are tons of travel companies now offering guided international camping tours. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or don’t want the planning hassle.

Final Thoughts: Go Wild, Go Global

Camping beyond borders isn’t just about pitching a tent in a new place. It’s about pushing your comfort zone, breathing in new air, and being part of landscapes that movies and postcards only dream of.

It’s waking up with a view so beautiful you forget your phone, sharing stories with fellow travelers around a fire, and learning that the best hotel in the world sometimes has no walls or Wi-Fi.

So, where will your sleeping bag take you next?