Wild camping in Austria
Is wild camping allowed in Austria?
Wild camping — that is, camping freely in nature, in a campervan, motorhome, or tent — is generally not allowed in Austria and can result in fines.
However, some Austrian provinces may tolerate overnight stays in vehicles in certain areas. In this article, you’ll find our recommendations on what to keep in mind if you plan to sleep outside official campsites in Austria — and how to do it responsibly and respectfully.
General rules for camping in Austria
Across the entire country, camping is prohibited in forests, protected areas, and national parks. Always stick to this rule and spend the night only in paved parking areas, where you’re sure not to disturb anyone.
How to find places to stay overnight outside a campsite
Use the Park4Night app and read reviews
If you’re traveling on a budget and plan to look for spots where overnight stays in a campervan are tolerated, we highly recommend using the Park4Night app and carefully reading the latest reviews.
The situation can change quickly, and the most up-to-date information is usually found in the comments section of the app. You can easily translate foreign-language reviews directly in Park4Night — don’t skip them 🙂
Pay attention to signs and talk to locals
When you arrive at a location, always look around to see if there are any newly installed signs prohibiting overnight stays in campervans or motorhomes.
If there are locals or other vanlifers nearby, ask them whether overnight parking is allowed.
Rules can change
Many parking lots that used to allow free overnight stays are now paid. Keep in mind that regulations can change, and the information in Park4Night may not always be 100% up to date.
Respect locals and business owners — if someone tells you that overnight parking isn’t allowed or that camping in the area is now subject to a fee, take it seriously and move on or pay the fee.
Park – don’t camp
Always respect both the locals and nature. Follow the simple rule: park, don’t camp.
That means avoiding setting up chairs, tables, or awnings outside your camper van unless you’re in an official campsite or a designated area where camping is clearly permitted.
Wherever you stay — whether you pay for the spot or not — treat it with respect. Leave the place exactly as you found it, or even cleaner 🙂
Wild camping in Austria – summary
To sum it up, if you’re planning to camp outside official campsites in a motorhome or camper van in Austria, keep these points in mind:
Wild camping is generally not permitted in Austria.
Overnight stays outside campsites may be tolerated in certain areas.
Use the Park4Night app and check the most recent reviews.
On arrival, watch for new no-camping signs or ask locals for confirmation.
Park, don’t camp – don’t set up camping furniture outside your vehicle.
Be respectful and leave every place as clean as (or cleaner than) you found it.
Regulations can change, and the responsibility for choosing a legal and safe overnight spot is yours.
In the Park4Night app, you can also find farms and private properties where locals welcome camper travelers for a small fee. You’ll still be surrounded by nature — and you’ll have peace of mind knowing no one will ask you to leave. 🙂
Whether you choose to stay in official campsites or prefer a more off-grid experience, we wish you an unforgettable road trip — Austria is the perfect destination for it.
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