Allemansrätten — wild camping and hiking in Sweden, explained

In Sweden everyone may roam the countryside — even land someone else owns. This right of public access, allemansrätten, comes with a responsibility: show consideration for nature, wildlife, the landowner and other people. For hikers it is what makes multi-day trips so easy.

Camping

  • You may pitch a tent for a night or two in nature without asking.
  • To camp longer in the same place, or with several tents, you need the landowner's permission.
  • Keep well away from houses — the area around a home (*tomt*) is private, and the further away the better.
  • Don't camp on fields with crops, plantations or pasture with animals. Choose hard-wearing ground like grass, sand or open forest.
  • Take all rubbish home, and plan for toilet visits where there's no toilet.

Vindskydd (shelters)

Sweden's trails are dotted with vindskydd — open wooden shelters, often with a fire ring. Those along trails such as Skåneleden are typically free and can’t be booked — first come, first served (a few, like Birk, Birka and Ronja at Hovdala, must be booked). Share the space and leave it tidy. Browse the ones along our routes on the shelter map.

Fires

  • Fires are allowed with great care, preferably in an existing fireplace. Make sure the fire is completely out.
  • Never light a fire directly on bare rock — it cracks.
  • In summer fire bans (eldningsförbud) are common. During a ban all open fire is forbidden, even in prepared fireplaces. Bans are decided by the county (länsstyrelsen) or municipality — check before you go.

Walking, cycling and vehicles

You may walk and cycle almost anywhere, but not across gardens, plantations or fields with crops. Driving off-road is not allowed, including on trails and paths.

Dogs

From 1 March to 20 August, when wildlife has young, dogs must not run loose — in practice, keep them on a lead. The rest of the year the dog must be under control. Many recreation areas, the mountains and the archipelago require a lead all year.

Nature reserves and national parks

In protected areas such as national parks and nature reserves, special rules can restrict allemansrätten — camping or fires may be forbidden. Check the signs at the entrance.

Berries, mushrooms and wood

You may pick wild berries, mushrooms and flowers that are not protected. You may not cut down trees or bushes, break branches or strip bark — from living or dead trees.

FAQ

How many nights can I wild camp in Sweden?

A night or two in the same place is the rule of thumb. Longer stays, or larger groups with several tents, need the landowner's permission.

Are vindskydd free to use?

Vindskydd along public trails are generally free and first come, first served. Local rules can apply in reserves and parks.

Can I make a campfire in Sweden?

Yes, with great care and preferably in an existing fireplace — unless there is a fire ban, when all open fire is forbidden. Never on bare rock.

Does allemansrätten apply in national parks?

Special rules apply and can restrict it, for example banning camping. Check the rules for the specific park or reserve.

Sources

Checked 25 September 2026 — rules can change, and local rules apply in protected areas.