Camping in Croatia: Rules, Regions & How to Choose a Campsite
Thinking about sleeping under Adriatic stars? Croatia is one of Europe’s classic camping destinations, offering large seaside resorts, quiet “mini-camps,” national-park bases, mobile homes, and glamping tents. Use this guide to learn the rules, discover the best regions, and pick up booking tips—then explore options on our Campsite Map.
Quick Facts
Wild camping is illegal in Croatia (tents, vans, bivouacs). You must stay in registered campsites or designated camper areas. Fines apply.
Open fires are widely restricted in summer and prohibited in many protected areas. Use only permitted grills or BBQ zones and always follow campsite rules.
Best time to visit: May–June and September–October bring warm weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. July–August is peak season—book well in advance.
For campervans: Campsites provide electricity (CEE plugs), fresh water, and grey/black-water disposal. Many also offer short “camper stop” areas for overnight stays.
Where to Camp (by Region)
Dalmatia
Around Zadar, Šibenik, and Split, you’ll find beachside resorts and island bases perfect for boat trips to Kornati, Krka, and the islands of Brač and Hvar.
Kvarner
Krk, Cres, Lošinj, and Rab feature pine forests, clear water, and a mix of resort-style and secluded cove campsites. The region also has good ferry links and a strong naturist (FKK) tradition.
Istria
A family-friendly peninsula with some of Croatia’s largest, best-equipped campsites, including pools and kids’ clubs. Great for exploring Poreč, Rovinj, Brijuni National Park, wine roads, and truffle regions.
Lika-Karlovac
Cooler nights and green landscapes make this region ideal for Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica National Park. Lakeside and forest mini-camps are common.
Central Croatia
Around Zagreb and nearby counties, you’ll find small family-run camps and countryside bases. It’s a mix of culture and nature: museums and markets in the capital, plus hiking or cycling on Medvednica mountain. Many camps sit by rivers and lakes, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful retreats.
Slavonia
Rural campgrounds surrounded by farmland, vineyards, and cycling routes offer a peaceful, authentic experience.
Types of Camping
Tent & pitch – Choose with or without electricity, water, and waste connections. Bring rock-friendly pegs and a mallet, as the ground can be stony.
Campervan / Motorhome – Expect 6–16A power (CEE plugs), water points, and dump stations. Some sites also offer drive-through “camper stops” for one-night stays.
Mobile homes – Hotel-like comfort inside a campsite community, with kitchen, air-conditioning, and terrace. Perfect if you like the vibe but not the gear.
Glamping – Safari tents and boutique lodges available in selected resorts.
Naturist (FKK) camps – Clearly signed and well-established along the coast.
Rules & Etiquette (Read This Before You Book)
No wild camping is allowed outside registered sites or specially designated areas. Police can order removal and issue fines.
Fires & BBQs – Use only campsite-approved grills. In many protected areas and during summer, fires are strictly banned.
Quiet hours & music – Respect posted quiet hours; many family camps enforce them strictly.
Waste & water – Empty grey/black water only at official dump points, never into drains or soil.
Pets – Usually welcome on a lead (fees may apply). Check for pet-friendly beaches and showers in campsite details.
When to Go
May–June – Long days, mild seas, spring blossoms, and lower prices.
July–August – Hottest and busiest months. Book seafront pitches early.
September–October – Warm sea, calmer camps, ideal for road trips and island-hopping.
Booking & Choosing the Right Campsite
Size & vibe – Big resorts with water parks and entertainment vs. small mini-camps with a local, quiet feel.
Pitch details – Amperage, shade, pitch size for larger vans, and distance to beach or sanitary blocks.
Facilities – Pools, kids’ clubs, dog amenities, kayak/SUP rentals, marina or boat ramp.
Cancellation & deposits – Check terms carefully; many camps require advance payment.
What to Pack (Quick Checklist)
CEE 16A hook-up and 20–25 m cable, EU plug adapter, rock pegs & mallet, shade or windbreak, swim shoes for pebble beaches, insect repellent, strong lines/ground anchor for awnings (winds can be strong), and a refillable water container.
Campsite Map
Compare real guest reviews, photos, and availability on our Campsite Map. Filter by region, pitch type, mobile homes, or pet-friendly options to find your ideal stay.
>>Campsite Locations Croatia - Map<<
FAQs
Is wild camping allowed in Croatia?
No. Camping outside registered campsites or designated areas is prohibited, and fines apply.
Do I need to book ahead?
Yes, especially for July–August and popular seafront campsites. In the shoulder seasons, it’s more flexible, but mobile homes usually require advance booking.
Can I make a campfire or BBQ?
Only where the campsite explicitly allows it, usually in fixed BBQ areas. Fires are banned in many places, especially in protected areas and during summer.
Are pets allowed in campsites?
Most campsites accept pets, often with a small fee. Some even provide pet showers and dog-friendly beaches. Always check the site details before booking.
Do campsites have facilities for motorhomes?
Yes. Electricity, water, and grey/black-water disposal are standard. Many sites also offer short “camper stop” areas for overnight stays.
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