The top 3 campsites close to Fagradalsfjall Volcano
Fagradalsfjall volcano was the showstopper attraction of Iceland’s 2021 tourist season. This shield volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula woke from an 800 year slumber, spewing fountains of lava and spitting out rocks in dramatic fashion. It captured the world’s attention like no Icelandic volcano had done since Eyjafjallajökull did with its infamous ash cloud in 2011.
As the Fagradalsfjall eruption progressed, the volcano’s unrelenting activity altered the landscape for good. Visitors came again and again; one trip wasn’t enough. They hiked the trails along the narrow ridge to peer over at its smoking cones and newly formed lava field.
It’s likely to draw curious travelers for some time yet and if you’re one of them, in thrall to Mother Nature at her most petulant, then you’re going to want to stay nearby. Fortunately, there are three campsites close to Fagradalsfjall volcano. Here’s the lowdown to help you choose which is best for you:
Campsite Grindavik
This exceptionally convenient campsite is located just four miles from the car park at Fagradalsfjall and is also handy for the Blue Lagoon and Keflavik Airport. On site, there’s ample space for RVs, tents and campervans. Kids will be happy with the playground, while geothermally heated water means there’s a limitless supply of hot water for showers and a cosy kitchen and dining area that are toasty warm all the time. Right at the heart of Grindavik close to the town’s harbour, local amenities are on your doorstep – several restaurants are within easy walking distance and the campsite’s family-sized barbecues are a bonus for those self-catering. Note that this is a seasonal site, open from March to November.
Vogar Campsite
You’ll find this campsite in Vogar, on the north coast of Reykjanes. It’s about a 25 minute drive on good roads to the volcano’s parking lot. What was once Vogar’s football field is now the town’s campground, so it’s both spacious and flat. Open year-round, it is situated beside the sports centre, which boasts an outdoor pool. The campsite itself offers guests the use of a range of facilities including a well-equipped, roomy kitchen, clean showers and free WiFi. This campsite charges a very reasonable fee, starting at 1000 ISK per person, with an additional charge of 500 ISK if you want to hook up to their electricity.
Happy Campsite Keflavik
Opened in 2021, Happy Campsite Keflavik is located close to the airport and within an easy drive of the volcano. Run by the team behind the well-established Happy Campers, there are pitches for vans as you’d expect (both with and without electrical hook-ups) and if you add on a stay here and rent your van through Happy Campers they’ll give you a 20% discount. If you’re camping, they also have plenty of space for tents in their own dedicated zone. All guests can take advantage of the free WiFi, outdoor picnic tables and a toilet and shower block. To camp here, you’ll need to fork out 1500 ISK per person, but if you’re travelling as a family you’ll be delighted to learn that under 16s go free. Electricity costs an extra 1000 ISK a night. Staff members are on hand during office hours if you have any questions about visiting Reykjanes or further afield in Iceland.