Albania is quickly becoming a favorite destination for camping enthusiasts across Europe, thanks to its unspoiled nature, legal wild camping, and a growing number of welcoming campgrounds and eco-retreats. From the shimmering shores of the Ionian Sea to the soaring peaks of the Albanian Alps, the country offers an astonishing variety of camping experiences for every type of traveler—whether you’re a budget backpacker, a campervan nomad, or a glamping aficionado.
Types of Campsites in Albania
| Type of Camping | Description | Ideal For | Facilities | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏕️ Wild Camping | Discover the thrill of nature’s wonders, from secluded coastal coves to the majestic Albanian Alps—all legally and freely accessible. Embrace the adventure while honoring Leave No Trace principles for a truly immersive experience. | Solo adventurers, hikers, off-grid travelers | None (self-sufficient camping required) | Seek permission near villages/farmland; avoid disturbing wildlife or property. |
| 🏞️ Campgrounds | Found in popular areas like Shkodra, Ksamil, and Llogara Pass. Vary from simple rural sites to resort-style camps with guided tours and on-site restaurants. | Families, campervan users, budget-conscious tourists | Toilets, hot showers, electricity, Wi-Fi, water refill, waste disposal, sometimes restaurants | Book ahead in high season (July–August); many are pet- and child-friendly. |
| 🏕️✨ Glamping | Combines comfort and nature with luxury tents, eco-lodges, and tiny homes, usually in scenic or secluded settings. | Couples, families, first-time campers | Real beds, private bathrooms, heating/AC, Wi-Fi, on-site dining | Higher cost (€50–150+ per night); ideal for romantic or stylish nature stays. |
| 🚐 Campervan-Friendly Sites | Albania is increasingly accommodating to campervans, with growing infrastructure in both cities and rural areas. | Road-trippers, digital nomads, vanlifers | Power hookups, greywater disposal, refill stations, roadside parking | Discover hidden gems for your overnight stays with apps like Park4Night and Campercontact. Find safe, legal spots effortlessly and make every stop memorable! |
| 🏕️🌿 Eco & Agritourism Sites | Authentic stays on working farms or eco-retreats, combining camping with cultural immersion, local cuisine, and scenic trails. | Eco-conscious travelers, cultural tourists, nature lovers | Tent pitches or cabins, homemade meals, farm activities, shared bathrooms | Great for slow travel and supporting local communities; often family-run. |
Best Campsites to Explore
Here’s a guide to the best camping spots in Albania, each offering its own unique charm and outdoor experience:
🏞️ 1. Lake Shkodra Resort – Omarë, Northern Albania
Type: Family-friendly campground
Located on the shores of Lake Shkodra, this award-winning campsite features over 100 shaded pitches, a private beach, and panoramic mountain-lake views. It’s ideal for couples and families looking to combine comfort with nature. You’ll also find kayak rentals, a traditional restaurant, and organized tours to nearby attractions like Rozafa Castle and Theth National Park.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, hot showers, restaurant, kayak rental, excursions
🌊 2. Ksamil Caravan Camping – Ksamil, Southern Albania
Type: Beachfront campground
Just a short stroll from the turquoise Ionian Sea, this campsite offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with proximity to Butrint National Park and several idyllic islands. It’s a popular stop for campervans and beach lovers.
Facilities: Electricity, showers, shaded pitches, year-round availability, restaurants nearby
🏖️ 3. Camping Kranea – Himarë, Southern Albania
Type: Coastal campground
Situated directly on Livadhi Beach, Camping Kranea is nestled under olive trees with a spectacular sea view of Corfu Island. It’s an excellent base for sunbathing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Facilities: Basic amenities, beachfront access, nearby seafood taverns
🏞️ 4. Camping Peshku – Pogradec, Lake Ohrid
Type: Lakeside campground
A serene spot on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Camping Peshku is known for its peaceful setting, sandy beach, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh trout. Perfect for those who enjoy swimming, bird watching, or exploring the lake by kayak.
Facilities: 70 pitches, Wi-Fi, restaurant, showers
🌅 5. Kamping Pa Emer – Kavajë, Central Albania
Type: Unique coastal campsite
This 4-star campsite offers a truly unique experience with a man-made island connected by a 150-meter wooden pier. Dine over the water, enjoy a swim in the Adriatic, or relax under the stars.
Facilities: Glamping options, electric hookups, private beach, restaurant, pet-friendly
🛶 6. Camping Tirana – Kashar, near Tirana
Type: Countryside base near the capital
Located just 15 km west of Tirana, this family-run campsite offers tranquility with easy access to city life. Great for travelers wanting to explore the capital while retreating to a quiet hilltop setting in the evening.
Facilities: Excursions available, tent/camper pitches, basic amenities
🌲 7. Pine Side Camp Site – Himarë, Southern Albania
Type: Social beachfront camping
Set among pine trees with tents available to rent, this campsite features a communal bar and a laid-back, social vibe that appeals to younger travelers and solo backpackers.
Facilities: Bedding provided, Wi-Fi, bar, near beach
🌊 8. Sea Cave Camp Site – Himarë
Type: Quiet alternative by the coast
A quieter, more secluded option next to Pine Side, this campsite offers direct beach access and an intimate setting, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Facilities: Shared showers, bedding, bar
🌿 9. Olive Camp Site – Himarë
Type: Tranquil seaside camping
Located in a peaceful corner of the bay, Olive Camp is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, shaded by ancient olive trees and featuring only a few tent spots.
Facilities: Wi-Fi, bar, great showers, simple and serene environment
🏔️ 10. Bee Eco Gasthaus – Valbona Valley, Albanian Alps
Type: Eco-camp & guesthouse
This rustic eco-camp in the heart of Valbona Valley National Park is a favorite for hikers and eco-travelers. It serves as a great base for the Valbona-Theth hiking trail.
Facilities: Basic but cozy, organic meals, eco practices, trail access
🌍 Best Regions for Camping in Albania
| Region | Why Camp Here |
|---|---|
| Valbona Valley | Spectacular mountain landscapes, perfect for wild camping and long hikes |
| Llogara Pass | Alpine-meets-coastal beauty with fresh air, forests, and sea views |
| Theth National Park | Waterfalls, traditional villages, and dramatic alpine terrain |
| Albanian Riviera | Coastal jewels like Dhërmi, Himarë, and Ksamil offer sea views, snorkeling, and vibrant village life |
| Lake Ohrid / Pogradec | Ideal for peaceful lakeside camping, cultural visits, and refreshing swims |
🧭 Tips for Camping in Albania
- Wild Camping is Legal: You’re allowed to camp freely in most places—just avoid private property and protected zones without permission.
- Cash is King: Many campsites, especially in rural areas, may not accept cards.
- Apps Help: Use apps like Park4Night or Campercontact to find campervan spots and off-grid camps.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles, especially in national parks and along beaches.
- Summer is Busy: Book in advance during July–August, especially along the coast.
Cost of camping in Albania
The cost of camping in Albania can vary depending on the type of camping experience you’re looking for, the location, and the amenities available. Below is a breakdown of the typical costs for different types of camping in Albania:
1. Wild Camping
- Cost: Free
- What’s Included: None – You’ll need to bring your own camping gear, including tents, food, water, and waste disposal supplies.
- Ideal For: Backpackers, adventure travelers, and those comfortable with off-grid experiences.
- Note: While wild camping is legal in Albania, it’s important to respect private land, local customs, and natural surroundings. Always ask for permission if you plan to camp near villages or farmland.
2. Campgrounds (Traditional Campsites)
- Cost: €5 to €15 per night, depending on the location and facilities.
- What’s Included: Typically includes access to basic amenities such as toilets, showers, Wi-Fi, water refill stations, and sometimes electricity.
- Ideal For: Families, solo travelers, and campervans looking for a more structured camping experience.
- Notable Locations: Campgrounds are common in tourist-heavy areas like Lake Shkodra, Himarë, Pogradec, Ksamil, and Llogara Pass.
- Note: Some campsites are family-run and may accept cash only.
3. Glamping (Luxury Camping)
- Cost: €50 to €150 per night, depending on the level of luxury and location.
- What’s Included: Fully furnished safari tents, eco-lodges, or cabins with real beds, private bathrooms, heating/air conditioning, and often organic meals or spa access.
- Ideal For: Couples, families, or travelers seeking a luxurious outdoor experience with all the comforts of a hotel.
- Notable Locations: Popular in coastal areas like Dhërmi and Ksamil, near Lake Shkodra, and in eco-retreats in the Albanian Alps.
- Note: Glamping sites often offer a higher level of comfort and privacy, making them perfect for a nature-based getaway without sacrificing modern amenities.
4. Campervan & Motorhome Sites
- Cost: €10 to €30 per night
- What’s Included: Electricity hookups, water refill stations, waste disposal, and sometimes Wi-Fi and shower facilities.
- Ideal For: Campervans, motorhomes, and those traveling in large vehicles who need additional amenities.
- Notable Locations: Many campsites along the Albanian Riviera (Himarë, Ksamil, Dhërmi) and near Lake Shkodra cater to campervan travelers.
- Note: Some areas may require prior booking, especially in peak season (July–August).
5. Eco & Agritourism Sites
- Cost: €20 to €50 per night
- What’s Included: Tents, cabins, or rooms in eco-lodges, with meals often included (especially traditional homemade food). These sites focus on sustainability and cultural experiences, often allowing visitors to participate in farm activities or local traditions.
- Ideal For: Eco-conscious travelers, those interested in local culture, and anyone wanting to experience Albania’s rural life.
- Notable Locations: Rural regions near Valbona Valley, Theth National Park, and the Albanian Alps.
- Note: These sites may also offer hiking or other adventure activities at an additional cost.
6. Additional Costs
- Rental Gear: If you’re not bringing your own camping gear, some campsites offer rentals (e.g., tents, sleeping bags) for around €5 to €10 per day.
- Transportation: Some remote camping areas may require access by 4×4 vehicle or a longer hike, which could add additional transportation costs.
- Park Entry Fees: Most national parks in Albania are free to access, but some may charge small fees for vehicle access or to protect the environment.
Conclusion
Camping in Albania offers a range of affordable and diverse options, from free wild camping to luxurious glamping experiences. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a more comfortable stay, Albania’s camping scene has something to offer for all types of travelers. The costs are generally lower than in Western Europe, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.