Iceland is a year-round destination, but not every month is equal when it comes to camping. Weather, daylight, campsite availability, and crowd levels all vary dramatically across the seasons. This guide breaks down what to expect each month so you can choose the best time for your Iceland camping trip.
Quick Answer: The Best Months for Camping in Iceland
- Best overall: July and August — warmest temperatures, all campsites open, long daylight hours
- Best for avoiding crowds: June (early) or September
- Best for midnight sun: June and July
- Best for Northern Lights + camping: September (dark enough at night, campsites still open)
- Most challenging: October–April (winter camping, experienced adventurers only)
Month-by-Month Breakdown
January – February: Winter Wilderness
Temperature: -3°C to 3°C | Daylight: 5–6 hours | Campsites open: Very few
Winter camping in Iceland is a serious undertaking. Temperatures hover around freezing, storms are frequent, and daylight is extremely limited. Most campsites are closed. However, the Northern Lights are at their most spectacular, and Iceland's landscapes under snow are otherworldly.
Who it's for: Experienced cold-weather campers with 4-season gear, seeking solitude and Northern Lights.
March – April: Early Spring
Temperature: 0°C to 6°C | Daylight: 12–15 hours | Campsites open: A handful
Days are getting longer and the landscape starts to thaw. Snow still covers the highlands and many F-roads remain closed. A small number of lowland campsites begin to open in April. Weather is unpredictable with a mix of sun, snow, and wind.
Who it's for: Experienced campers comfortable with cold and variable conditions, looking for low crowds.
May: The Shoulder Season Sweet Spot
Temperature: 4°C to 10°C | Daylight: 17–20 hours | Campsites open: Many lowland sites
May is an underrated month for camping in Iceland. Crowds are significantly lower than summer, prices are more reasonable, and daylight hours are already very long. The landscape is green and fresh after winter. However, highland roads (F-roads) are still closed, and nights can be cold — a sleeping bag rated to -5°C is recommended.
Who it's for: Experienced campers who want fewer crowds, lower prices, and don't need highland access.
Gear note: Bring a 3–4 season tent and a sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C comfort.
June: Midnight Sun Begins
Temperature: 8°C to 14°C | Daylight: Nearly 24 hours | Campsites open: Most sites open from June 1st
June marks the official start of camping season in Iceland (June 1st). The midnight sun arrives — in late June, the sun barely dips below the horizon. Temperatures are pleasant, crowds are building but not yet at peak, and highland roads begin to open in late June. This is one of the best months to visit.
Who it's for: Most campers — excellent balance of daylight, weather, and crowd levels.
Highlight: Summer solstice (around June 21st) — the sun doesn't set at all. A truly magical camping experience.
July: Peak Season
Temperature: 10°C to 16°C | Daylight: 22–24 hours | Campsites open: All sites open
July is Iceland's warmest and most popular month. All campsites are open, all F-roads are accessible (weather permitting), and the midnight sun is in full effect. Expect the largest crowds and highest prices of the year. Popular campsites like Landmannalaugar fill up fast — book well in advance.
Who it's for: Everyone — the easiest and most comfortable month to camp in Iceland.
Watch out for: Midges (small flies) near Lake Mývatn — bring a head net.
August: Warm and Wild
Temperature: 10°C to 15°C | Daylight: 16–20 hours | Campsites open: All sites open
August is very similar to July — warm, busy, and beautiful. Nights start to get slightly darker toward the end of the month, which means the first glimpses of Northern Lights become possible from late August. Wildflowers are in bloom and the highland trails are at their best.
Who it's for: Everyone — especially those hoping to catch early Northern Lights alongside summer camping.
September: The Hidden Gem
Temperature: 6°C to 12°C | Daylight: 12–15 hours | Campsites open: Most sites open until mid-September
September is arguably Iceland's best-kept secret for camping. Crowds drop sharply after August, prices fall, and the Northern Lights return to dark skies. The autumn colours — golden birch and red blueberry bushes — are stunning. Most campsites remain open until September 15th. Nights are cold, so bring a sleeping bag rated to -5°C.
Who it's for: Campers seeking fewer crowds, Northern Lights, and autumn colours. One of our top recommendations.
October – December: Winter Returns
Temperature: -1°C to 6°C | Daylight: 4–9 hours | Campsites open: Very few
Most campsites close after mid-September. Winter conditions return, with storms, snow, and very short days. Northern Lights viewing is excellent. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers with the right gear, but it requires serious preparation.
Who it's for: Experienced cold-weather campers only.
Iceland Camping Season at a Glance
| Month | Avg. Low Temp | Daylight Hours | Crowds | Campsites | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -3°C | 5 hrs | Very low | Few | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| February | -3°C | 7 hrs | Very low | Few | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| March | -1°C | 12 hrs | Low | Few | ★★☆☆☆ |
| April | 1°C | 15 hrs | Low | Some | ★★☆☆☆ |
| May | 4°C | 19 hrs | Medium | Many | ★★★☆☆ |
| June | 7°C | 24 hrs | High | All | ★★★★★ |
| July | 9°C | 24 hrs | Very high | All | ★★★★★ |
| August | 8°C | 18 hrs | Very high | All | ★★★★★ |
| September | 5°C | 13 hrs | Medium | Most | ★★★★☆ |
| October | 2°C | 9 hrs | Low | Few | ★★☆☆☆ |
| November | -1°C | 6 hrs | Very low | Few | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| December | -2°C | 4 hrs | Very low | Few | ★☆☆☆☆ |
What Gear Do You Need by Season?
The right gear changes significantly depending on when you visit:
- June–August (lowlands): 3-season tent, sleeping bag rated to 0°C, sleep mask for midnight sun
- June–August (highlands): 3–4 season tent, sleeping bag rated to -5°C
- May or September: 3–4 season tent, sleeping bag rated to -5°C, extra warm layers
- October–April: 4-season expedition tent, sleeping bag rated to -15°C or colder, full cold-weather system
Not sure what to bring? Rent your camping gear from Iceland Camping Equipment — we'll make sure you have the right kit for your travel dates and planned locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to camp in Iceland?
July and August are the most comfortable and accessible months for camping in Iceland. June is excellent for the midnight sun with slightly fewer crowds. September is our hidden gem — fewer tourists, Northern Lights, and beautiful autumn colours.
Can you camp in Iceland in May?
Yes, but with preparation. Many lowland campsites open in May, daylight hours are long, and crowds are low. However, nights are cold (bring a -5°C sleeping bag) and highland F-roads are still closed.
Is it too cold to camp in Iceland in September?
September is cold but very manageable with the right gear. Daytime temperatures of 6–12°C are pleasant for hiking, and nights drop to around 3–5°C. A sleeping bag rated to -5°C comfort and a quality tent are all you need.
When does the camping season start in Iceland?
The official camping season starts on June 1st, when most registered campsites open. Some campsites open earlier in May. Highland campsites typically open in late June depending on snow conditions.
Can you see the Northern Lights while camping in Iceland?
Yes — and camping is one of the best ways to experience them. The Northern Lights are visible from late August through April when skies are dark enough. September is ideal: campsites are still open, nights are dark, and crowds are lower than summer.
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