The 7 Best Places for Camping in the Dolomites

UPDATED:

Kate + Vin

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If you want to experience the raw beauty of the Italian Alps, consider camping in the Dolomites. Whether you choose to pitch a tent, rent a tent, or camp with a caravan or a motorhome, we highlight the best campsites to consider for your trip.

Two common questions we receive are, “Can I go camping in the Dolomites?” and “What is the best campsite in the Dolomites?”. The answer to the first question is a resounding yes! The answer to the second question is it depends.

The Dolomites are massive. They are spread out over 350,000 acres in three provinces of Italy: South Tyrol, Trentino, and Belluno. The campground that is best for you depends on which sights you wish to explore in the Dolomites, the type of camping environment you hope to experience, and the time of year you plan to visit.

Finding the right place to camp in the Dolomites can be overwhelming. To make selecting your ideal camping location easier, we divided the region’s campgrounds by the main mountain attractions they are nearest to, which puts you a stone’s throw away from some of the best hikes in the Dolomites. In addition, we provide a direct link to securing your reservation once you find the right spot.

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Wild Camping in the Dolomites

camping tre cime di lavaredo

South Tyrol, Trentino, and Belluno all offer an abundance of official campgrounds. At many of them, you can enjoy electrical, gas, and water hook-up, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV along with a host of other amenities ranging from heated showers and pools to laundry rooms and playgrounds. Such modern comforts are not what many have in mind when it comes to camping in the Dolomites. We get it. But the reality is wild camping is prohibited in Italy’s nature parks which cover much of the Dolomites.

You are permitted to bivouac (camp in the open air) at elevations above 4,900 feet (1,500 meters), provided you are a safe distance from Rifugios and limit your stay to between 6 PM and 6 AM. This is allowed exclusively outside of designated natural parks.

Many people still risk wild camp throughout the Italian Alps. But if you choose to do so be prepared to pay a hefty fine in 2025 ranging from €100 – €500. You should also keep in mind that by wild camping, you are doing a disservice to the families that operate hotels, farm stays, Airbnbs and VRBOs in the region. Their livelihood depends on paying guests.

Note: An alternative to wild camping is to receive permission to camp on the property of a Rifugio or a mountain farm. Some Rifugios allow this with a fee. If you wish to camp at a Rifugio, you will need to contact each one individually in advance to determine availability. Wherever you camp, we recommend being over-prepared. Weather conditions can quickly change in the mountains. We learned this the hard way. Check out how to stay warm in a tent for helpful tips

Camping in the Dolomites by Holiday Region

The campgrounds in the Dolomites offer something for nearly every type of camper. You do not have to pack camping gear to experience many of these wonderful getaways. The variety of amenities available makes them a smart choice for budget-minded travelers or those simply looking for a new experience in the Dolomites. By the way, you can search campsite availability of many campgrounds in the Dolomites, reserve your pitch, and find deals via Booking.com.

Camping Near Alpe di Siusi

camping alpe di siusi
One of the best places to go camping in the Dolomites is near Alpe di Siusi.

Alpe di Siusi (also known as Seiser Alm) is located in South Tyrol and is the largest mountain plateau in Europe. It offers more than 270 miles (440 km) of hiking trails and jaw-dropping views of some of the Dolomites’ most striking peaks such as the thunderous Sassolungo.

Camping Alpe di Siusi (also known as Camping Seiser Alm) is situated at the foot of Mt. Schlern (Sciliar), the iconic symbol of South Tyrol, Schlern-Rosengarten (Sciliar-Catinaccio) National Park. In addition to being next to Alpe di Siusi, the campground is close to Laghetto di Fiè, a beautiful swimming lake beneath the peaks.

Camping Alpe di Siusi offers a variety of accommodation options, including traditional camping pitches for tents, caravans, campervans, and motorhomes. Guests more interested in glamping can also rent rustic chalets, alpine apartments, and a secluded “organic” tent for two that is made of biodegradable raw materials. The campground also offers an on-site restaurant and mini-market along with wellness amenities including a saltwater pool and saunas.

If you choose to camp here, review our hiking Alpe di Siusi guide to discover the best huts and trails in the area. You could spend your entire time in the Dolomites exploring this vast alpine pastureland.

Camping Near the Rosengarten & Latemar Groups

dolomites camping rosengarten
Camping Catinaccio Rosengarten places you near the epic Dolomites mountain range of the same name.

The Rosengarten (Catinaccio) Group is the famous Dolomites mountain range visible from the city of Bolzano. This mighty massif is known for “blushing” at sunset when the natural phenomena alpenglow alights the peaks in rosy hues. The Latemar Group is the chain of peaks providing the breathtaking backdrop to Lago di Carezza, a small alpine lake that shimmers as if a rainbow runs through its waters.

If you want to explore the wonders of these mountain worlds, consider a stay at Camping Catinaccio Rosengarten. This family-run campground is located in Val di Fassa, a gorgeous valley in the heart of the Dolomites that belongs to Trentino. In less than 10 minutes, campers can reach the nearest lift station and be hiking amid the summits of the Rosengarten in no time. The scenic circuit hike around Lago di Carezza is just 20 minutes away.

The campground is located in a quiet area and offers pitches for tents, caravans, and campervans. Furthermore, you can rent a caravan or stay in a chalet or apartment if you wish. What makes Camping Catinaccio Rosengarten truly special is the campground’s wellness area. It includes a sauna, steam room, relaxation room, and a soothing spa shower.

⇒ CLICK HERE TO SEARCH CAMPGROUND AVAILABILITY IN THE DOLOMITES

Camping Near Val Gardena, Val di Funes & Alta Badia

Camping in the Dolomites near Sassolungo
Camping in the shadow of the Sassolungo Group.

The Puez-Odle Nature Park (Puez-Geisler) is home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Dolomites. More than 80 peaks emblazon the nature park, which stretches through South Tyrol’s Val Gardena, Val di Funes, and Alta Badia holiday regions.

Camping Colfosco is situated between the villages of Colfosco and Corvara and is the only official campground next to the park. The most famous mountain destinations near the campground include Sassongher, Peitlerkofel, Seceda and the Geisler Group, the Sassolungo Group, and the Sella Group.

Camping Colfosco offers spacious pitches for tents, caravans, campervans, and motorhomes. You can also rent “ciasotas”, which are small cozy wood houses that can accommodate up to 4 guests.  The campground features a range of amenities including a playground, and swimming pool, as well as a restaurant and boutique grocery store. In addition, Camping Colfosco features tennis courts and a fishing pond to enjoy when you are not hitting the trails.

Passo delle Erbe in the Dolomites
The famous Würzjoch Alpine Pass (Passo delle Erbe) is at the entrance to the Puez-Odle Nature Park.

Another option in Alta Badia is Camping Sass Dlacia, the highest campground in the Dolomites. Camping Sass Dlacia is near the village of San Cassiano and sits at an elevation of 5,500+ ft (1,680 m) amid the alpine glory of Mt. Settsass and Mt. Conturines. It offers similar amenities to Camping Colfosco, but also has a wellness center on the grounds that features a Turkish bath, a bio sauna, and a Finnish sauna.

Staying at Camping Sass Dlacia places you closer to the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park and the Natural Park of the Ampezzo Dolomites, which includes famous sights such as Cinque Torri, Mt. Lagazuoi, and the Croda Rosa and Cristallo Groups. It also places you near La Val, one of the prettiest villages in Alta Badia.

Like Camping Colfosco, the campground is open in the winter and is minutes away from the Sella Ronda (Sellronda) ski resort making them ideal camping locations for snow sport lovers. In addition, mountain bikers should consider both campgrounds as they allow one to easily tackle the famous Sella Ronda mountain bike tour.

Camping Near Lago di Braies in Val Pusteria

camping lago di braies
Camping is not allowed on the shores of Lago di Braies, but the lake is just a short drive from Camping Olympia.

If you want to camp in the vicinity of what many consider the most beautiful lake in the world, Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee), you have a few options to pick from. None are on the shores of the lake, unfortunately. The closest camping location if you have a campervan, caravan or motorhome is to pay to park in the P1 or P2 lots located right next to the lake. See our guide on visiting Lago di Braies for more information on how to enjoy this treasure of the Dolomites.

The next nearest campground is Camping Olympia, which is tucked in a forest along the Rienz River between the towns of Monguelfo-Tesido and Toblach (Dobbiaco). Campers can reach Lago di Braies and Prato Piazza — a must-hike mountain plateau — in 20 minutes by car.

Camping Olympia has been around for 70+ years and offers 200 pitches for tents, campervans, caravans, and motorhomes. It also has two on-site restaurants, a heated swimming pool, a wellness oasis, a minimarket, a playground, and a kid-friendly animal park with ponies, goats, swans, geese, pheasants, rabbits, and meerkats. Those looking for greater comfort also have the option to rent alpine lodges or apartments on the property.

Camping Toblacher See
Toblacher See is a camping paradise in the heart of the Dolomites.

An additional campground in the vicinity of Lago di Braies is situated on the shores of Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See), another magnificent alpine lake in the Dolomites. If you like the idea of waking up next to a mirror-still lake reflecting mountains in the morning mist, Camping Toblacher See is your place.

Camping Toblacher See offers a tent meadow and pitches for caravans, campervans, and motorhomes. Beyond the stellar lake and mountain views, the star of the campground is Seeschupfe, a picturesque restaurant offering a sun terrace and a top-notch wine cellar holding around 500 labels from South Tyrol and around the world. A shop is also on-site providing campers with an assortment of local specialties and everyday use items.

Camping Toblacher See’s Skyview Chalets are another gem on the campground. These adult-only mini-lodges are perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape. Each chalet provides a direct view of Toblacher See and features a sun deck and whirlpool.

Helpful Tip: Camping here also places you near Lago di Landro (Dürrensee), another gorgeous alpine lake well worth adding to your travel plans.

Camping Near Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Vin looking at the Three Peaks of Lavaredo also known as Drei Zinnen and Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen) is usually the first mountain destination that comes to mind when considering visiting the Dolomites. And for good reason. The immensity of the Three Peaks and their peculiar shape captivates the imagination. So much so that hiking Tre Cime can become an obsession for mountain lovers.

The nearest campgrounds to Tre Cime di Lavaredo are Camping Olympia and Camping Toblacher See mentioned above. From both, you can be at the Tre Cime trailhead in less than an hour’s drive. If you have a campervan, caravan, or motorhome, you can park overnight in a designated lot at Rifugio Auronzo — allowing you to enjoy Tre Cime di Lavaredo at sunrise and sunset. See our Tre Cime guide for how to drive to Rifugio Auronzo, as well as how to add a bonus hike to Cadini di Misurina, the most epic viewpoint in the Dolomites. Helpful Tip: If you are not sure about driving in Italy or have questions about road rules, etc., check out our comprehensive Driving in Italy Guide.

Another camping option that is a little bit further away, but in a gorgeous part of the Dolomites is Caravan Park Sexten. It is situated just outside the town of Sexten (Sesto) beneath a panoramic view of the Sexten Sundial, a natural spectacle that is the largest sundial in the world. Five peaks in the Dolomites form the sundial: Cima Nove, Cima Dieci (Croda Rossa di Sesto), Cima Undici, Cima Dodici, and Cima Uno.

Kate hiking Val Fiscalina / Fischleintal valley in the Sexten Dolomites
Camping at the Caravan Park Sexten places you near Val Fiscalina — one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites.

Those wanting to enjoy the charms of camping yet experience the health benefits of alpine wellness will adore Caravan Park Sexten. The entire campground is essentially a wellness resort for campers. Its 5-star wellness spa is truly special. The facility includes an indoor and outdoor pool, nine different saunas, a Kneipp Park, and an array of services ranging from massages to skin care treatments.

Caravan Park Sexten offers pitches for tents, caravans, campervans, and motorhomes, as well as a unique glamping opportunity in one of two treehouses on the campground. And if you tire of camping, consider checking into the Mountain Resort Patzenfeld located on-site.

⇒ CLICK HERE TO SEARCH CAMPGROUND AVAILABILITY IN THE DOLOMITES

When is the Best Time to Go Camping in the Dolomites?

Geisler Peaks in Autumn

The best time of year to go camping in the Dolomites depends on your personal preferences and what you are looking to do while camping. Every season in the Dolomites is stunning. However, here are some general guidelines:

Summer: The months of June, July, and August offer the best weather for camping in the Dolomites. Naturally, it is also the busiest time. The days are typically sunny and warm, but there is also a higher chance of rain storms during the summer so rain gear is a must.

Spring and Fall: These seasons offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time for those who prefer a quieter camping experience. The wildflowers are in bloom in late spring, and the fall foliage blanketing the Dolomites is sensational. If you are a photography enthusiast, spring and fall are the time to go in our opinion. Those who like the idea of pairing adventure with culture should consider autumn. There are several fall festivals and traditions, such as Speckfest, Törggelen and Almabtrieb, that celebrate the region’s rich rural heritage, offering a blend of music, dance, and hearty South Tyrolean dishes.

Winter: Winter camping in the Dolomites can obviously be more challenging due to colder temperatures, wind, and snow, but it can also be a highly rewarding experience if you enjoy skiing and snowshoeing. Wild camping in the winter is recommended only for experienced and well-equipped campers with proper gear and know-how.

Final Tips: No matter when you choose your Dolomites camping trip, remember to always check the weather forecast before setting out, especially if you intend on wild camping. Also, be sure to pack hiking essentials and let someone know where you will be camping in the Dolomites otherwise you could end up like Ötzi the Iceman. And it may be 5,000 years before anyone sees you again. Having a detailed physical map of the Dolomites on hand can help prevent such an icy fate.

Helpful Guides & Resources: Whether you end up camping or not, planning a trip to the Dolomites can be utterly overwhelming. If you would like help, be sure to check out our Trip Planning Resources & Hiking Guides. Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for you to embark on a dream trip to the Dolomites.


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