The peaceful tranquility of a cascading waterfall, snow-tipped mountains, or the majesty of a thousand-year-old glacier—every sight in Iceland’s national parks is a visual feast to remember.
We’ll give you a head start on top destinations and activities for Iceland’s national parks that you won’t want to miss!
How Many National Parks Are There in Iceland?
There are three national parks in Iceland, each one with its own history and unique natural landscapes.
Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland features several campgrounds: Höfn, Skatafell, Svinafell, and Haukafell. Out of the four campgrounds, Skatafell, has a section reserved for campers and trailers. Höfn has specific spots for campers and larger mobile-home-style campers.
What makes Vatnajökull a must-see destination?
Vatnajökull covers 14% of Iceland, making it Western Europe’s largest national park. Many of Iceland’s leading natural attractions and exciting activities are in Vatnajökull. Here is just a small sampling of what you can do and see in Vatnajökull:
- Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland’s biggest and deepest lake, also known as the Iceberg Lagoon.
- Walk through ocean-blue ice caves and transport to another world during winter.
- Hike trails that take a few hours or several days while taking in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring vistas.
- Explore the Svartifoss waterfall, one of the most artist-influential natural waterfalls due to its dramatic hexagon-shaped black basalt cliffs.
- Visit Diamond Beach, where pieces of ice float in the lagoon and are strewn across the black sand beach. As the sun rises, the ice fragments begin to glitter like diamonds.
Vatnajökull Encompasses Skaftafell National Park in Iceland
One of our favorite national parks in Iceland is Skaftafell, an astonishing nature preserve that should not be missed. Why do we love this park so much?
- You can see the perfect representation of Iceland’s diverse landscapes. That includes everything from glaciers to waterfalls, volcanoes, and icebergs.
- Locals and tourists adore hiking in Skaftafell. Since there are no roads, to get to the most beautiful areas, be prepared to walk.
- Visitng Iceland’s tallest volcano, Oræfajökull.
- Get back to nature in summer or winter wandering through Bæjarstadaskogur Forest.
- Check out Selbær farm and learn about the history of how the Icelandic people used to live many years ago.
Skaftafell’s campground also allows campers and camping trailers, so you should consider staying to see all the fantastic views.
þingvellir National Park: Iceland’s Volcanic Wonder
Did you know that Þingvellir and Thingvellir National Park in Iceland are two different names for the same place? Þingvellir is ideal for those who want to visit a park with rich historical importance and unmatched beauty.
Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, if you have ever wanted to walk through history, Þingvellir Park is the place to do it!
What can you find at Thingvellir Park?
- The Law Rock (Lögberg) is the spot where, many years ago, a law speaker stood and read the laws of the land during Alþingi, or Althing, the supreme national parliament of Iceland.
- Almannagjá is a gorge that marks the edge of the North American tectonic plate. You can spot the cliffs at certain parts of the gorge that mark the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
- You’ll find crystal-clear spring water in ravines, in some of which you can go snorkeling, such as the Silfra Fissure. Lava has filled the valley as the plates shift 2.5 centimeters per year, creating a volcanic wonder to behold.
- Icelandic Riding. Drawing visitors from all over, Thingvellir is a popular destination for those who want to go horseback riding.
- With a 13-meter drop, the Öxarárfoss waterfall is another of the park’s most beloved attractions. While it is smaller than some other waterfalls in Iceland, it is highly photogenic.
There is a campground at þingvellir National Park, but be sure to check the dates of when it will be open.
Snæfellsjökull National Park: Iceland’s Glacier Paradise
Named after its infamous stratovolcano (a large, cone-shaped volcano with steep sides) and glacier, the park encompasses everything there is to love about Iceland.
From diverse coastlines and landscapes to black and golden beaches and lava-tube caves, an adventure awaits you at almost every step. Why visit this National Park in Iceland?
- Featured in the novel Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne, Snæfellsjökull’s 7000-year glacier became a sensation and remains an ultimate Iceland destination.
- Snæfellsjökull’s beauty has captured mysticism and emotions throughout history. It has inspired books and paintings. It is said to hold the spirit of Bárður from the Saga of Bárður Snæfellsás.
- Should you have the stomach for it, you can learn about the darker parts of Icelandic history by visiting Oxl and the Dreplakolludys cairn.
- If you’re driving one of our 4×4 premium campers, you can visit Songhellir Cave or The Singing Cave. It is aptly named, as it is famous for its incredible acoustics and echoes. Additionally, some historically significant names have been carved within the cave between 1752 and 1757.
- Visit the longest row of basalt cliffs in Iceland, the Gerdugerg Cliffs.
- You’ll also find one of the rare white-sand beaches here, called Tri Tunga, and an excellent place to observe seals in their natural habitat.
Camper Vans and National Parks
According to Statistics Iceland, roughly 10,000 people rented camper vans to tour Iceland in July 2024. A few National Parks in Iceland allow camping in camper vans in designated areas within the park.
Designated camping spots are essential for Iceland’s National Parks, as they help maintain their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and deep historical significance. National Parks are protected areas that preserve Iceland’s unique flora and fauna, and they offer a great chance to see and experience them all in their natural habitats.
Why are so Many People Choosing Camper Vans to Visit Iceland’s National Parks?
- Accommodations and travel in all in one. We might be biased but it’s a pretty cozy and comfortable way to travel too!
- Camper vans are flexible and accessible. You won’t need to struggle with tent building. Park your van, and that’s it!
- See it all! Not only do you increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights but you can get much more of our of your trip to Planet Iceland.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit National Parks in Iceland?
Admission to Iceland’s National Parks is free! However, many parks charge parking fees. If you choose a guided tour or adventure, expect to pay a fee.
Are You Ready for The Adventure of a Lifetime?
At Cozy Campers, we’re excited to provide you with everything you need to explore our majestic landscapes. It’s time to take the first steps toward your dream destination and experience unparalleled views, geological wonders, and the wide-open freedom to wander where you will.
Search for Campers for your Trip to see Iceland’s natural marvels.
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