Camping in the Baltics
Camping in the Baltics

In Wild nature

Camping in the Baltics, fall asleep to the lulling sounds of the Baltic Sea lapping its sandy shores and wake up to the distant call of a heron breakfasting in a nearby swamp. Replace your morning coffee with a mug of herbal tea with a touch of energising peppermint or jump into the sea or nearest lake for an invigorating swim to kickstart the day.

Wild camping is allowed and even encouraged in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, provided you respect some general rules. You’ll be rewarded with intensely fresh air, scenic sunsets and sunrises, and an excellent night’s sleep leaving you refreshed and enthusiastic for your return to daily life post-holiday.

Coastal Hiking

General rules for camping in the Baltics

Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia boast liberal public access laws, however, you should never set up camp in designated protected areas such as nature reserves, fragile dunes or military zones. Feel free to hike and forage in public and private forested areas unless signs advise otherwise. Try to plan ahead and consider free-of-charge camping grounds near natural attractions where you’ll have access to basic toilets, fire pits and rubbish bins.

Should you choose to pitch your tent or hang your hammock outside a designated camping area, choose wisely, so as not to affect the wildlife and your own safety. Avoid areas with visible animal trails, as well as single standing trees in case of lightning threats. Always extinguish your fire before leaving and dispose of any rubbish at the nearest bin, even if this means carrying it with you.

When relieving yourself in the outdoors, stay away from water sources. Wash dishes and yourself without strong detergents or soap.

For more detailed information, browse the websites of:

  • RMK – Estonia’s State Forest Management Centre – www.rmk.ee
  • LVM – Latvia’s State Forests – www.lvm.lv
  • GMU – Lithuanian State Forests – www.vivmu.lt
Camping in the Baltics

Things to be aware of when camping in the Baltics

Insect repellant is a must-have as mosquitoes are quite active from spring to autumn but it’s most important for avoiding ticks, which can carry Lyme disease and Tick-borne encephalitis. Protect yourself from the latter by getting a vaccination prior to your trip. And pick up a tick removal tool from a pharmacy.

Make sure to wear suitable clothing to protect yourself from insect bites. Tuck trousers into socks to limit ticks’ access to your skin, wear light-coloured clothing, so you can spot ticks and flick them off early, and choose “slippery” materials, which ticks can’t get through. Sleeves should be tight-fitting at the wrists.

Snakes aren’t a major threat in the Baltic outdoors, however, one venomous snake does call the Baltics home – the Common European viper. When planning your trip, for these reasons and your general safety, take note of the location of the closest medical centre.

Another factor to consider when hiking and camping in the Baltics is hunting season. Hunting is highly regimented and hunting areas are marked in advance, so it’s unlikely to affect your plans.

Camping in the Baltics

Camping season in the Baltics

In winter, temperatures often drop well below zero degrees Celsius, which can be appropriate for day hiking, but less so for camping unless you’re trained and equipped with professional gear. Of course, winter camping can be a beautifully serene experience, but do prepare accordingly! Generally, April – October are the most comfortable months for camping.

Due to very changeable weather, layering is key to enjoying your Baltic camping experience, and rain protection is a must-have.

Camping in the Baltics

Be considerate when camping in the Baltics

Always keep in mind the fragile nature of our flora and fauna. Stick to marked trails whenever possible. Look out for signs and information. Enjoy your wild adventures so that the next generations can enjoy them too!

To plan your nature trip take a look at our nature and culture site. If your perfect holiday involves hiking and overnighting in the wild, camping in the Baltics is right for you! We’ll gladly help plan your trip.

closer to the core of the Baltic States

What travelers say about us

Giovanni Paolo Palamara
Giovanni Paolo Palamara
2023-01-07
Very interesting trip. Definitely worth it!
Eddie Mantle
Eddie Mantle
2022-12-05
Very professional. Valdis, guided a group of 8 around Mangasala, Riga, giving us a fascinating insight into the military history there. Looking forward to the next tour.
Zijian Hua
Zijian Hua
2022-11-02
Valdis is an experienced guide, a local from Riga. He has a wealth of knowledge and is always able to tell you interesting history along the way. The route plan of the hiking is also reasonable. In autumn, the fallen leaves near Sigulda are also very beautiful. If you are planning to do an outdoor hike in Latvia too, then don't hesitate to join a walking group organized by Valdis.
bllhmn
bllhmn
2022-10-31
I took the tour in Lilaste. The train ride was very relaxing. The lakes and coast were amazing. It is great exercise and a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
John B
John B
2022-10-30
Great hike at Lilaste. Friendly tour guide. Definitely looking forward to the next hike. Highly recommended for those who want a short break from the daily routine.
Rachel Pamplin
Rachel Pamplin
2022-10-18
I enjoyed I enjoyed my tour of Cesis: Medieval Heritage and Natural Treasures! I loved being able to do a little of many things. Exploring the old city, touring a medieval castle, and a walk through a national park. The scenery was amazing and my guide was knowledgeable and helpful! As a single female, I felt safe the entire time and and would recommend to others!
Colleen Bramanis
Colleen Bramanis
2022-10-11
We have enjoyed 2 days with Valdis who has shown us around Riga Old Town and a tour out to Sigulda. A very friendly tour guide who tailored the days to our needs with no fuss. Valdis is easy to get along , has a good sense of humour and is extremely knowledgeable. Fortunately for us Valdis is also very fluent in English. I can highly recommend him as a tour guide.
Barry Toward
Barry Toward
2022-09-18
We have just spent 9 days travelling through the Baltic countries with Valdis as our guide. Although the itinerary and accommodation had been pre-arranged Valdis supported our trip brilliantly, bringing to life the individual countries with city walking tours, nature trails and visits to other sites. He is great fun, extremely knowledgable and became an integral part of our small group. His contribution to our holiday played a key part in making it a great and enjoyable experience (and he recommends good places to eat!)

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Baltic Nature Travel
Baltic Nature Travel
Baltic Nature Travel