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​Camping in Halmstad and southern Sweden: Your guide to the best campsites and nature experiences

, Jun 19, 2025, Reading time: 20 min
Reading time: 20 min
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Halmstad’s honestly kind of a hidden treasure on Sweden’s west coast. You’ve got these ridiculous golden beaches (yes, actual sand, not just pebbles!), thick green forests, and lakes that practically beg you to jump in. Camping here? Total win, whether you’re wrangling kids or just need to escape the grind and get lost in nature for a bit. People always assume Sweden’s all fir trees and moody fjords, but, surprise! There are beaches here that could fool you into thinking you’re somewhere in the Mediterranean – soft, white sand and everything.

Whether you’re traveling with a motorhome, caravan, or campervan, Halmstad and Southern Sweden combine outdoor adventure and laid-back charm of a coastal town. In this guide, we’ll give you the best insider tips!

First Camp Tylösand – Halmstad

Tylösand Beach allows you to experience beachfront camping at its finest. Copyright: First Camp

Located just a few steps from the very well known beach Tylösand, First Camp Tylösand is a haven for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. The campsite boasts a 7-kilometer stretch of golden sand (completely unique in Sweden) and therefore perfect for swimming and surfing. Golfers will definitely appreciate the nearby 18-hole courses and for all people looking for a vibrant nightlife: Halmstad is also just a short drive away.

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The campsite is very well-equipped offering a fresh water station, electrical plugs, and modern sanitation facilities. Families find rental service for bikes and paddleboards or have the option to book a group barbecue area.

But the real kicker? If you’re even mildly obsessed with Swedish pop (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), First Camp Tylösand is basically hallowed ground. The waves practically hum Roxette tunes, and Hotel Tylösand – yeah, the one co-owned by Per Gessle himself – is just a stone’s throw away. Pop nerds, get your selfie sticks ready. The whole vibe is a mashup of beachy chill and musical nostalgia, especially when they roll out the live gigs or art shows. Makes your average beach trip look like a snooze fest.

Oh, and when the sun dips? Get yourself to Restaurang Fyr. It’s basically hanging off a cliff, serving seafood that’ll ruin you for all other seafood, with views so good you might forget to post them on Insta. Or not.

Campsite Details

CampsiteFirst Camp Tylösand – Halmstad
AddressKungsvägen 3, 302 70 Halmstad
WebsiteFirst Camp Tylösand
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenYear-round
Pets allowed?Yes
PriceFrom ~€33/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesBeach access, golf courses, nearby nightlife
Special featuresProximity to Sweden’s top-rated beach

Excursion Tip: If you’re kicking it in Halmstad, do yourself a favor and swing by Tylösand Beach. Seriously, it’s right there. Bring a towel, maybe a paddleboard and just dive into those waves. No excuses. Or, if you’re more about that chill life, swing by Hotel Tylösand. Their spa’s legendary and, weirdly enough, their art gallery isn’t bad either. Oh, and if you’re the type who gets excited about golf, Halmstad Golf Club is just a quick drive up the road.

First Camp Hagön – Halmstad

A family-friendly retreat near the sea, appreciated by both Swedes and international guests. Copyright: First Camp Hagön

So, First Camp Hagön – it’s only like six clicks from downtown Halmstad. Not even far. The place is massive, surrounded by trees, right by the sea. You get over 500 spots for campers, plus cabins if you’re not into sleeping on wheels. Whole families, friend groups, whoever… It works.

They’ve got four big service buildings (yes, there’s laundry, so you won’t be stuck wearing that one unfortunate pair of socks all week). The restaurant on-site does pizza that actually slaps, and there’s a shop for all your random cravings – candy included, obviously.

If you’re the “let’s do stuff!” type, they run fitness classes, adult quizzes (the trivia kind, not the awkward kind), and a kids’ club that actually keeps the little ones occupied. Östra Stranden is right there too – a kilometer of pretty nice sand, and the water’s shallow enough that you won’t panic every time your kids go near it. Add in mini golf, a playground, a bouncy castle, and you’re basically set.

Campsite Details

CampsiteFirst Camp Hagön – Halmstad
AddressHagöstigen 1, 302 60 Halmstad
WebsiteFirst Camp Hagön
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenYear-round
Pets allowed?Yes
PriceFrom ~€29/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesRestaurant, shop, playground
Special featuresClose to city amenities and a shallow beach, as well as having a kids’ club

Excursion Tip: Take a bike ride on the Kattegattleden trail or plan a family hike in the Galgberget nature area with its historic observation tower and play park.

First Camp Karlstorp – Halmstad

Cozy camping near the famous beach Tylösand. Copyright: First Camp Karlstorp

Alright, let’s be real – First Camp Karlstorp? That place is basically the definition of chill vibes. It’s tucked away just a casual stroll from Tylösand Beach (yes, the famous one), so you can actually hear the waves if you squint your ears a little. Plots are tidy, there’s electricity so you won’t have to fight your phone’s battery anxiety, and the kitchens and showers are modern.

And it’s not like you’ll be bored, unless you genuinely try. Swimming? Check. Fishing? Yep. Windsurfing? Padel courts? Two of ‘em. It’s like tennis and squash had a baby, and everyone in Sweden’s obsessed, so why not join in? And if you’re one of those people who travel with golf clubs, get this: there are twelve golf courses around. Twelve! Halmstad’s basically the Las Vegas of golf, minus the neon and Elvis impersonators. Maybe you’re not about sweating it out, though. That’s cool. The beach is right there for lazy sunbathing.

Traveling with kids? They’ve got a fenced playground, so you can actually relax without worrying about your little ones making a break for the Baltic. Oh, and the on-site shop has sweets and fresh bread. I mean, is there a better way to start a summer morning than rolling out of your camper, grabbing a couple of warm rolls, and inhaling carbs while the Swedish sun does its thing? Don’t think so.

All in all, First Camp Karlstorp nails that sweet spot between ‘nature retreat’ and ‘not completely cut off from civilization.’ If you’re craving a little more noise and city lights, Gothenburg’s just a day trip away. But honestly? Bet you won’t even want to leave.

Campsite Details

CampsiteFirst Camp Karlstorp
AddressTylösandsvägen 200, 302 70 Halmstad
WebsiteFirst Camp Karlstorp
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenYear-round
Pets allowed?Yes
PriceFrom ~€26/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesPadel court, proximity to beach
Special featuresQuiet atmosphere, near major attractions

Excursion Tip: Spend your day at Tylösand Beach or paddle in Fylleån River. Don’t miss an afternoon walk along the Prince Bertil Trail.

Haverdals Camping

Family-friendly camping in nature, just 600 meters from the beach. Copyright: Haverdals Camping

Picture this: just a quick 15-minute drive north of Halmstad and boom – you’re at Haverdals Camping. It’s really chill, tucked by these massive, ridiculously beautiful beaches and right on the Kattegattleden bike trail. I mean, honestly, if you’re into that sweet spot between doing absolutely nothing and being outdoorsy, this is your jam.

Roll up in your camper, throw down a tent, or, hey, treat yourself to one of those super-cozy cottages or apartments. There’s options for basically every vibe. Families totally eat this place up – the kids just run wild between playgrounds, that giant bouncy pillow thing (which, let’s be real, is fun even if you’re a grown up), and a mini golf course that’s way more epic than you’d expect.

Sweden’s coastline? Absolutely killer for biking – think winding trails from Helsingborg all the way up to Gothenburg. If salty breezes in your face and hair that looks like you just survived a wind tunnel are your thing, this place is basically heaven. Seriously, grab your sneakers and go poke around the nature reserve next door – who knows what you’ll stumble into. Not even far – totally doable on foot. That’s where you’ll find Stora Sandkullen, aka Scandinavia’s tallest sand dune. Climb it (yeah, your calves will burn), but the view? Next-level. Don’t forget your binoculars because those dunes and marshes are basically a birdwatcher’s dream. Serious wildlife vibes.

Not about that high-energy life? No worries. On summer weekends, you can get your zen on with a yoga class on the grass. Or snag a BBQ grill (available for rent), grill up something tasty, and eat outside under a sky full of stars. Sometimes they’ll throw a quiz night or bring in live music during peak season – nothing too wild, just good vibes. Long story short: Haverdals Camping is all about that laid-back, do-what-you-want energy.

Don’t forget: the ice cream stand on site is dangerously good, and the small on-site shop is stocked with essentials and fresh bread in the mornings. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it out for the first time, Haverdals Camping combines coastal charm with creature comforts in all the right ways. It’s the kind of place where summer memories are made — barefoot, windswept, and grinning.

Campsite Details

CampsiteHaverdals Camping
AddressNorra Kustvägen 37, 305 70 Haverdal
WebsiteHaverdals Camping
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenApril – September
Pets allowed?Yes
Price~€29/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesAdventure golf, cottages, apartments
Special featuresClose to the beach and cycling trails

Excursion Tip: Enjoy a family ride along Kattegattleden or go hiking through Haverdal Nature Reserve to see the region’s tall sand dunes.

Ugglarp Camping

Specialties from the region are served at the campsite’s scenic restaurant Vind och smak (‘Wind and taste’). Copyright: Ugglarp Camping

Alright, so here’s the real scoop on Ugglarp Camping: if you’re dreaming of a laid-back seaside escape but also want those rolling countryside vibes, this spot’s basically nailed it. It’s tucked just north of Halmstad, and honestly, it feels like two campsites in one. On one side you’ve got Strandängen – think: beach meadow, toes-in-the-sand, straight-up sea views, and you can practically roll out of your camper and hit the waves. On the other side, there’s Lyckan (which, by the way, means “The luck”), buried in greenery and way more chill if you’re after a little peace.

Now, the main event? The beach, obviously. It’s prime territory for families – super shallow water, soft sand, legit sandcastle battlegrounds. Evening swims here just hit differently, especially when the sun starts dropping. And if you’re not done yet, clamber over those rocky bits for tidepool adventures. Trust me, bring water shoes unless you like stubbed toes. Oh, and a bucket for crab-fishing. Kids go nuts for it.

If you’re more about wandering or pedaling, Ugglarp’s packed with trails. The Ugglarps Havsbad nature area is right there – meadows, wildflowers everywhere, birds doing their thing. Binoculars? Definitely. Picniic blanket? Even better.

What about the facilities? They’ve got the basics covered – clean bathrooms, shared kitchens, BBQ spots, a little shop that sells good bread. Kids get a playground, adults get peace and quiet (sometimes). Summer’s wild though – there’s usually some kind of event or another, and I swear, those sunsets could convince you to move here permanently. Food-wise, you’re sorted. Falkenberg’s just up the road with some surprisingly cool eats, or just stay put and grab fresh seafood or ice cream at the beach kiosk. Not gonna lie, everything tastes better after a salty swim. That’s just science.

Campsite Details

CampsiteUgglarp Camping
AddressStrandkantsvägen 2, 311 69 Ugglarp
WebsiteUgglarp Camping
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenApril – September
Pets allowed?Yes
Price~€28/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesBeach access, adventure golf, playground
Special featuresSea-view cabins, divided camping areas

Excursion Tip: Hit up the nature reserves nearby (they’re pretty sweet), wander along the coast if you’re feeling outdoorsy, or just roll into one of those fishing villages and stuff your face with the freshest seafood you’ll probably ever try.

Tobisviks Camping

Seaside serenity in Österlen. Copyright: Tobisviks Camping

After soaking up the sun in the west, we’re now heading east and trading the Kattegat’s salty breeze for the Baltic beauty of the picturesque region of Österlen. You’ll find Tobisviks Camping hanging out near Simrishamn, that super cute little town over on Sweden’s east coast. It’s basically the heart of Österlen – like, if you want beaches and chill vibes, this is the spot.

There’s this chill coastal path – think wildflowers, salty hair, maybe a stray seagull – leading you straight into Simrishamn. That town? Pure storybook vibes. Candy-colored houses, little cafes that beg you to sit down and relax.

Accommodation-wise, Tobisviks isn’t playing. Sure, you’ve got your classic camping pitches, but if you’re not feeling the van life for a night or two, they’ll hook you up with glamping tents – actual beds, private decks, the works. Cabins too, all near shiny modern bathrooms, kitchens, and spots to stuff your face at a picnic table.

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Are you looking for an adventure? You’re in the right place. Trails basically start at your camping spot – hiking, biking, whatever. Imagine it: rolling green hills everywhere, apple trees basically photobombing every view, and these ancient stone walls just chilling like they own the place. Then, bam, there’s this quirky little art gallery wedged between some barns like it got lost on the way to the city. Seriously, snag a bike, or, if you’re feeling extra spicy, a kayak. Just vibe along the shoreline, or veer off and – boom – you’re surrounded by windmills and a sea of poppies so bright you’ll think you slipped into a Monet painting.

Oh, and the food game? Strong. Places like Örum 119 and Pastafabriken are right around the corner – think local ingredients, big flavors, the kind of meals you post about. Grab some smoked fish, chug a glass of local cider, or just go full tourist and eat ice cream from a tiny roadside stand.

Campsite Details

CampsiteTobisviks Camping
AddressTobisvägen 1, 272 94 Simrishamn
WebsiteTobisviks Camping
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenYear-round
Pets allowed?Yes
PriceFrom ~€22/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesBeach access, glamping options
Special featuresClose to Simrishamn, coastal trails, dog-friendly beach

Excursion Tip: Take a walk down the Skåneleden Trail – it’s gorgeous, trust me – or just hop on a bike and cruise into Simrishamn. That town’s got some nice little cafés.

Årjäng Camping & Stugor, Sommarvik

Family-friendly camping – bring the whole crew for a chill camping trip in the wild. You are only 600 meters from the beach, so no excuses. Copyright: Årjäng Camping & Stugor, Sommarvik

Wanna get a real taste of Swedish lakes and those endless forests? Head a few hours north of Halmstad and you’ll hit Årjäng Camping & Stugor, this five-star spot that honestly kinda spoils you. They keep the grounds in top shape. Over 300 camping spots, 70 cute cabins, and those glamping tents that make you feel outdoorsy without all the actual suffering.

The vibe is super chill, but you’re not gonna get bored. You can swim, paddle around the lake, veg out on the little beach, or just lounge by the heated pool (yeah, they thought of everything). Kids run wild on playgrounds, whack balls at mini-golf, and join all sorts of summer shenanigans. Meanwhile, adults have an excuse to “check the sauna” or commandeer a boat for a bit. Everything’s laid out so you don’t have to stress – just show up and enjoy.

Honestly, you can just wander right outta your camping vehicle and you’re smack in the middle of the woods. Grab your bike, lace up your boots, or just amble along and keep your eyes peeled. Maybe you’ll spot a moose, maybe you’ll just spot a squirrel acting like it owns the place. Either way, it’s a win. Oh, and if you get hungry or just can’t be bothered to light another campfire, there’s a lakeside restaurant waiting for you. Need a canoe or a bike? Rentals are right there.

The vibe is totally chill. Whether you’re all about rolling up in your camper for a nature escape, dragging the kids along for some old-school summer fun, or chasing that wild, untamed Värmland energy, Sommarvik’s got your back. It’s got the perfect blend of creature comforts and lakeside adventure, with just enough magic sprinkled in to make you wanna stay forever.

Campsite Details

CampsiteHaverdals Camping
AddressSommarvik, 672 91 Årjäng
WebsiteÅrjäng Camping & Stugor, Sommarvik
Toilets/ShowersYes
OpenYear-round
Pets allowed?Yes
PriceFrom ~€20/person
ElectricityYes
Waste disposalYes
Grey water/Chemical toiletYes
FacilitiesPools, sauna, restaurant, playgrounds
Special featuresLake views, accommodation options

Excursion Tip: Grab a canoe or a kayak and hit the lakes. Or, if paddling isn’t your thing, just wander off into the woods. There’s nothing like getting lost among the trees to really soak up that wild, untamed vibe.

Alternativ på campingplatser med pooler

Splash into fun – or relax – at Sweden’s top campsites with pools. Copyright: Årjäng Camping & Stugor, Sommarvik

For those who love to combine camping with swimming, Sweden offers several campsites equipped with pools. To give you a taste of it, these sites are perfect for families looking to relax by the poolside or enjoy water activities, whether you prefer to gear towards the deep forests or the east coast.

Top campsites with pools:

  • Årjäng Camping & Stugor, Sommarvik: Features three pools, including a children’s pool, a pool with a slide, and an infinity pool with a retractable glass roof.
  • Daftö Resort: Close to the Norwegian border in Strömstad, this well-maintained campsite offers a water park with slides and activities. For example, at 13.00 everyday from June to August, there’s a pirate-themed pool party for the younger ones.
  • Västervik Resort: A popular campsite ever since 1933, which offers an adventure pool area suitable for all ages.

Excursions and Nature Experiences

Alright, back to Halmstad. Honestly, camping here just hits different – the sea air’s got that salty bite, and those beaches? Pure gold. But the real magic? How you’re smack-dab in the middle of some of southern Sweden’s wildest, most beautiful spots. Like, you roll out of your camper, and bam – nature’s practically throwing itself at you.

Doesn’t really matter if you’re chilling at Haverdal by the coast or hiding out inland somewhere. You’re always just a short hop from forest trails, these nature reserves humming with life, or random secret places no one’s talking about but totally should be. This is where the fun starts – grab your backpack and just head off. One second you’re slogging through endless sand, and suddenly you’re swallowed up by thick green forest, or just standing there gaping at a lake so beautiful it’s honestly kind of rude.

Seriously, just grab some snacks, throw on whatever shoes won’t destroy your feet, and get out there. Halmstad’s got some wild stuff tucked away behind the usual touristy nonsense. There’s a whole lot more than just the beach, trust me.

Danska Fall Nature Reserve

Alright, picture this: you stumble across Danska Fall, tucked away just beyond Simlångsdalen, kinda like nature’s own little secret club. The Assman River tumbles over rocks, doing its whole dramatic waterfall thing, while a chill 2.4 km trail snakes through the woods. Everyone can handle it. You’ll spot those info signs here and there, dropping fun facts about the place’s wild side and history. Seriously, bring a sandwich or just vibe out among the trees – this spot’s the real deal for anyone needing a breather from, well, life.

Simlångsdalen

If you’re into the outdoors, Simlångsdalen is basically a playground. We’re talking dreamy hiking and biking trails that wind past lakes like Brearedsjön and Kroksjön; seriously, just try not to take a million photos. Kayaking? Totally doable. Fishing? Bring your lucky lure. Oh, and get this: there’s this wild thing called the Ekomuseum. It’s not your typical one-building museum deal. It’s basically a bunch of random spots sprinkled all over the valley. You kinda bounce from one to the next, piecing together how people actually lived ages ago. Feels like a history scavenger hunt. Definitely worth checking out.

Kattegattleden

Okay, here’s the scoop: Kattegattleden isn’t just some random bike path – it’s basically the Beyoncé of Swedish cycling routes. And it’s gorgeous. The ride kicks off down in Helsingborg and winds its way up to Gothenburg, rolling through Halmstad and practically bumping elbows with Haverdals Camping. You’ll get a little bit of everything: shady forest bits, salty sea winds in your face, and those cute-as-heck villages you just wanna move into. Seriously, this route’s got vibes.

Tylösand Beach

Tylösand isn’t just a beach – it’s a whole vibe. Sand so soft you’ll want to nap on it, shallow water that’s super safe for the little ones. The sunsets? Instagram gold. If you’re feeling active, rent a paddleboard or try that beach yoga class you keep pretending you’re going to do. Or, honestly, just hit up Hotel Tylösand’s art gallery or spa and pretend you’re fancy. And don’t sleep on Solgården – open-air concerts, sea breeze, good tunes. It’s summer magic, basically.

Conclusion

Alright, here’s the real talk: Halmstad is basically a smorgasbord for campers. You want beach vibes? Forest hideaways? Maybe a bit of both with amazing food nearby? Yeah, this place checks all the boxes. Doesn’t matter if you’re rolling solo, dragging along the kids, or just trying to sneak away for a little romance – there’s a perfect spot for you.

  • So, let’s break it down. First Camp Tylösand? That’s your go-to if you want sand between your toes by day and party lights at night. It’s buzzing. Think young crowds and loud laughs.
  • Got ankle-biters in tow? Hit up First Camp Hagön. It’s got chill beaches where you won’t lose your sanity, plus a playground and all the family-friendly stuff, so you can actually relax while the kids burn off that sugar high.
  • If you’re more into peace and quiet – like, you want to hear birds instead of Bluetooth speakers – First Camp Karlstorp is your jam. It’s got that cozy, low-key feel, but you’re still close enough to the water to dip your toes and maybe crush your friends at padel or try your luck fishing.
  • Craving something a little quirky and off-grid? Tobisviks Camping over in Österlen is straight-up gorgeous. We’re talking seaside walks, adorable little villages, and yeah, glamping is totally a thing here.
  • And if you just want the classic Swedish camping postcard – forests, bikes, the works – Haverdals Camping nails it. You get modern perks, but you’re still right on the Kattegattleden bike trail. Pretty sweet. Oh, and Årjäng Camping & Stugor? That’s for the hardcore nature crowd – deep woods, all the peace you could ever want.

Don’t forget the day trips, either. Danska Fall, Simlångsdalen, Tylösand Beach… it’s all there. Basically, pick a spot, fire up the camper, and go. Trust me – this is one road trip you’ll actually brag about later.