Camping in Spain is it legal? Where to go

CAMPING doesn’t just mean a standard family tent, makeshift constructions made out of sticks and plastic sheeting and one­person bivouacs are also considered camping. There is a subtle legal difference for caravans and campervans between parking and camping ­ if the awning is erected or there is the presence of equipment such as chairs or stoves then this is considered to be camping.

National and natural parks in Spain do have refugios or mountain shelters, usually consisting of basic accommodation with limited cooking and washing facilities. You can also find free camping in national and natural parks, however, these are closed from June to September due to fire hazards.

While it’s appealing to camp on the beach, and though many of the campsites are located along the coast, camping on the beach itself is not allowed. It is also not allowed in Spain to just pitch up and wild camp and, in general, campfires are also not allowed – particularly in the summer months.

Camping (not parking) on public roads is not legal and, although car parks on the seafront or in other locations will have their own local council rules, camping is generally not permitted. Sleeping in a car on the roadside is legal if you are parked in an area where cars are allowed, such as a public car park. However, be sure to not set up any chairs or camping equipment outside of the vehicle.

Camping on private land is tolerated in Spain, however, Article 46.1 says that, even on private land, no more than three tents or caravans and no more than ten people can camp in the same place for more than three days. This national law also states it is prohibited to wild camp within 200 metres of the high tide mark of the beach, within a few kilometres of military installations, within a few kilometres of an official campsite, in protected areas like national parks, natural parks and at national monuments.

• Why should you camp in Spain?

Spain is one of the best holiday destinations in the world, so why not grab your tent or campervan and immerse yourself in the Mediterranean weather.

• Why choose a summer campsite in Spain?

Spain continues to be one of the best destinations that has a good relationship with Europe. With beautiful beaches, numerous activities, good food, culture and incredible nature, Spain is a great holiday destination.

• Sun, sea and sand

Statistically, Spain is the sunniest country in Europe. The Mediterranean coastal towns enjoy on average, 300 days of sun a year. With more than 8,000 kilometres of coast and 577 beaches, Spain offers golden beaches complete with dolphin spotting and promenades. The Mediterranean Sea has many activities on offer, like sailing, snorkelling, kayaking and swimming.

• Beautiful mountains

Spain offers a rare combination of spectacular mountains and beaches in close proximity. You can enjoy high pastures and then drive for 30 minutes or less to gorgeous sandy coastlines.

There are many beachside campsites in Spain, such as Camping La Torre del Sol, in southern Catalonia.

Camping Villasol is another great campsite. Villasol is in the Alicante region and brings in a lot of happy campers during the winter months due to its almost all year round gorgeous, sunny climate.

As well as beach side spots to pitch your tent, Spain also boasts camping havens nestled between captivating, cascading mountains. Camping Valle de Bujaruelo is located amidst karstic limestone within Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park.

If a chalet seems more your speed than a tent, Camping Mirador al Pedraforca offers several wooden bungalows amidst decadent forestry.