Wild camping Portugal 2025

Nina

Ocean Camper CEO

Index

Wild camping Portugal 2025
Where to stay overnight
Other camping rules

Wild camping Portugal 2025: Here are the camping rules in Portugal. Is wild camping allowed? Can I camp overnight wherever I want? We answer all these questions!

Wild camping Portugal 2025 – Portugal has long been a paradise for campervan travelers, offering stunning coastal views, sunny weather, and a sense of freedom that comes with van life. However, in recent years, regulations around wild camping in Portugal have changed, making it more difficult to park and sleep overnight in nature spots.

So, is wild camping still possible in Portugal in 2025? Let’s break it down.

Is Wild Camping Legal in Portugal?

Wild camping in Portugal (free overnight stays outside designated areas) is now mostly illegal in Portugal. The law (Decree-Law 102-B/2020) was updated to prohibit overnight stays in campervans outside authorized areas, especially in natural parks and along the coastline. However, a 2021 revision (Law No. 66/2021) now allows overnight stays in campervans for up to 48 hours in the same municipality, unless local regulations state otherwise.

Violating these rules can result in fines ranging from €60 to €600, with stricter enforcement in popular tourist areas.

That said, there are still ways to enjoy Portugal in a campervan legally—without relying solely on expensive campsites.

Where to stay overnight?

We advise staying overnight in places purposely prepared for this matter. Here are some suggestions where you can camp for an overnight:

Campsites. Check here our list of recommended campsites in Algarve and West Coast with photos and tips. To find campsites around, you can use this website https://www.camping.info/en and the mobile App Park4night where you can find campsites (icon is the back tent) with photos and comments of the camping community (for Android and Apple). If you prefer more amenities like showers, electricity, and Wi-Fi, traditional campsites are a good option. Prices range from €15 to €30 per night.
Farms. At the platform EasyCamp you can stay overnight at a farm for 10-30€/night. In addition, you always will get a welcome basket with the farm´s products, such as wine, cheese, olives, fruits or vegetables. Know more at https://portugaleasycamp.com/en/.
Many eco-friendly campsites in Portugal cater to van lifers looking for a relaxed, nature-friendly stay. Examples are: Quinta do Rio (Aljezur) – A scenic riverside spot or Turiscampo (Luz, Lagos) – High-quality facilities with a pool.
Parks, small campsites, gardens or private land. At the platform Homecamper you have a wide choice of private places and small campsites for a low price, usually 5-15€/night. See more in https://www.homecamper.com.
Some towns have parkings for free for campervans. These are parking lots that a municipality or city reserves for campervans, usually with no facilities (no wc or shower), only with garbage bins.

Can You Still "Wild Camp" Discreetly?

While traditional wild camping is no longer legal, some campervan travelers manage to stay overnight in remote locations, particularly outside the peak season. If you choose to do so, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Limit your stay: Only stay up to 48 hours in one location where permitted.
Be discreet and respectful: Park away from houses, minimize noise, and respect the local community.
Protect nature: Avoid making fires, never litter, and ensure you do not disturb wildlife.
Find safe spots: Use apps like Park4Night to locate low-risk overnight spots based on recent traveller reviews.

Note: Protected natural parks, such as Costa Vicentina, are regularly patrolled by police, and fines for violations are common.

Parking Lot Etiquette: During the day, especially in crowded parking areas near beaches or residences, avoid occupying adjacent spaces with camping tables or chairs.

Waste Management:

Dispose of garbage in large bins with lids to prevent animals like foxes or birds from accessing it. Refrain from using small bins for large trash bags, as these are meant for small waste only.
If possible, collect trash in your vicinity, even if it’s not yours, to help keep nature cleaner than you found it.
Never leave toilet paper in nature—it takes a long time to decompose and is a leading cause of strict camping regulations in Portugal.

Campfire and BBQ Safety

Fires, including campfires and uncontrolled open flames, are strictly prohibited during Portugal’s dry season due to the heightened risk of wildfires. BBQs, while permitted under certain conditions, must be used with extreme caution to prevent accidents or fire hazards

For safe BBQ use

Check the Weather: Avoid lighting BBQs on windy days to prevent the spread of embers.
Supervise at All Times: Never leave the BBQ unattended, as a small mishap could escalate quickly.
Be Ready to Act: Always keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
Extinguish Safely: Ensure the BBQ fire is completely extinguished before leaving. For example, you can use the shower system in our vans to thoroughly douse the embers and surrounding area.

In case of emergency, immediately contact 112.

These are shortly the main rules of camping in Portugal. If you have any suggestions to add to this list please do not hesitate to contact us.

Ocean Camper wishes a safe and pleasant camping holiday in Portugal.