Are you planning a motorhome trip to Spain and looking for the best natural spots? Find out our recommendations and tips for a successful wild camping in Spain!
Is wild camping allowed in Spain?
Officially, wild camping is forbidden in Spain. The government has indeed introduced measures to protect the environment. If you are found doing wild camping in Spain, you can be fined between €30 and €3,000, depending on the circumstances and the location. In practice, however, the legislative situation is more complex than it appears. It is the Autonomous Communities and municipalities that decide whether or not to allow wild camping on their territory.
Once you’ve decided where you want to go wild camping in Spain, the best thing to do is to find out about the regulations before you set off. Bear in mind that “wild camping” is not the same as “parking”! Camping implies setting up camp (whether in a tent or a motorhome) with equipment and accessories out. So it’s best to keep to parking on the site to avoid attracting attention!
Here are a few examples of regions and their legislation on wild camping:
Regions where wild camping is tolerated and/or allowed under certain conditions :
- Basque Country: regulations generally prohibit wild camping, but permission must be requested from the town hall in natural, non-urban areas.
- Catalonia: wild camping is permitted subject to a number of conditions, such as a maximum stay of four days at the campsite.
- Canary Islands: wild camping is possible, but you will need to apply ten days before your trip to the Vice-Ministry of the Environment, indicating the sites you intend to visit.
- Cantabria: wild camping is permitted for 24 hours outside the official sites.
Regions where wild camping is prohibited :
- Aragon: regulations on wild camping are fairly restrictive, with Decree 61/2006 prohibiting the practice. Fines are particularly high, ranging from 600 to 6,000 euros.
- Galicia: wild camping is also prohibited outside the tourist facilities provided by the Galician authorities.
The best regions for wild camping in Spain
1. Canary Islands
A mix of volcanic landscapes and idyllic beaches, the Canary Islands are a perfect destination for wild camping, with each of their natural spots more magnificent than the next!
For your wild getaway in the Canary Islands we recommend these three spots, located on the island of Fuerteventura, known for its magical beaches 👇
Spot de Eduzan
This typically volcanic natural spot is located on the edge of the beach in a large area!
Spot de Gwen
A great spot located near the beach, perfect to admire the kitesurfers and the sunset!
Spot de Yolanda
Another magical spot next to the beach to enjoy nature!
2. Catalonia
Catalonia is one of Spain’s most popular tourist regions, and with good reason: it boasts some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and a particularly mild climate! It is a region with a wide variety of landscapes, from mountains to plains and sea. So it’s a great destination if you want to try wild camping in Spain!
Discover our best spots for wild camping, off the beaten track👇
Lluís’ spot
A wonderful free spot ! The best place if you’re looking for a panoramic view, near the municipality of Canet d’Abri!
Spot Playa Cala Futadera
This spot in Tossa de Mar overlooks the beautiful cove of Cala Futadera for a relaxing break!
Parking Vilada
Make the most of this large car park close to the Picancel mountain range!
3. Basque Country
The Basque country is a region of character on the French border, famous for its landscapes between mountains and sea. You can not miss its typical gastronomy! It’s also a great destination for nature lovers!
Here are some recommended spots for your wild camping holiday in Spain’s Basque Country👇
Spot Rocio Vivas
A spectacular spot nestled in the heights of the Basque country with a view of the Atlantic coastline!
Parking Elloriaga
This natural car park is a great option if you want a quiet break!
Parking de Tinoco
Make the most of this free car park with picnic tables during your Basque Country getaway!
4. Valencian Community
Located in the south of Catalonia, the Valencian Community attracts many tourists, particularly on its coast. But the region also boasts a number of unspoilt sites, and it’s perfectly possible to enjoy the region in quieter spots.
Here are some suggestions for your trip to this region, off the beaten track and away from the flow of tourists👇
Spot de Zeus
This magnificent spot is ideally located in the heart of nature, close to the river, so you can enjoy a swim!
Parking Benagéber
A friendly car park under the trees and next to a lake!
Spot de Paula
Another spot perfectly located near the municipality of Montanejos, renowned for its caves and nearby natural pools. Perfect for your wild camping in Spain!
5. Andalusia
Andalusia is one of the most popular regions for motorhome travellers, and for good reason! It’s one of the sunniest regions, with a rich cultural heritage and picturesque towns and villages. It also boasts breathtaking scenery, both on the coast and inland. If you want to go wild camping in Andalusia, you’ll need to avoid the coast as much as possible, where controls are frequent.
Visiting Andalusia? Here are our recommendations for natural spots 👇
Spot El Ronquillo
A quality spot located right next to a waterhole, ideal for recharging your batteries!
Parking de Granada
Make the most of this ideally located spot in the province of Granada!
Spot de Florent
If you’re passing through the Guadix region, head for this spot, which will give you the impression of being in the middle of the desert!
Bonus: check out our special itinerary that includes these natural spots and others for your wild camping in Spain!
In addition to this superb itinerary in Spain, discover other itineraries shared by the community for this country, such as «From the Costa Brava to the Costa del Sol by motorhome» «Spanish summer: great trip to the Rías Baixas», and many others!
Did you enjoy the experience of your touring trip offered by CaraMaps and the advice from the community? Share your best anecdotes or photos from your trip about the places thanks to the 100% collaborative CaraMaps application.
Follow us now on our Instagram page @caramaps where you’ll discover some incredible spots, and on our Facebook page where you’ll find new areas, new itineraries and news from the motorhome world!
Also check out our other blog posts: «Motorhome rules in France in 2023», «The best service areas in Spain 🇪🇸» and others!