Is wild camping allowed in Denmark?
Access rules for tents on public and private land
Short answer
Denmark has no general right to wild camp. Putting up tents is not allowed on beaches, protected dunes, in forests, on uncultivated land or by open roads and paths. On state land you may camp in the forests with free tent camping, at primitive overnight sites and at shelters. Private forests and private uncultivated land are only open from 06.00 to sunset, and you may not stay within 150 metres of homes and farm buildings. A landowner can give you permission to do more than the general rules allow.
Why
- Tents need a marked place or permission.
- Private nature is closed at night.
- The state offers many free places instead.
Details
In public forests you may not stay within 50 metres of inhabited buildings.
Tip
Ask the landowner before you pitch a tent on private land, and keep the answer in writing if you can.
What may differ
Owners can close or limit access with signs, and special rules apply in some nature areas.
Common misconception
Denmark has the same right to roam with a tent as Sweden and Norway.
What actually happens
In Denmark tents are only allowed in marked places or with the owner's permission.
People also ask
- Where can you pitch a tent for free in Denmark?
- Can you sleep on the beach in Denmark?
- Are shelters free in Denmark?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Prices, rules and booking terms change, so check with the place you book and the official sources.
AccommodationRelated questions
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Where can a school class or group stay overnight in Copenhagen?
Hostels with group and school camp offers are a common option for classes visiting Copenhagen.
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Do you need a permit or registration to rent out your home to tourists in Denmark?
A private person who lets a home to holiday guests on a non-commercial basis needs no permit, as long as the yearly day limits are kept.
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How much can you earn tax-free renting out your home in Denmark in 2026?
For short-term rental of a home or room you live in (under 4 months), the tax-free allowance in 2026 is 35,100 kr.
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What are the Airbnb rules in Copenhagen?
In Copenhagen you may let your whole home for holiday purposes for up to 30 days per calendar year, or up to 70 days if the rental goes through an intermediary such as Airbnb.