Camping in Tenerife is a one-of-a-kind experience and an incredible way to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of this Canary Island. We’ve visited Tenerife several times, so during one of our recent visits, we decided to camp under the night skies. It was amazing and gave us a unique perspective of the island, so I highly recommend it.
There are a few areas where you can go wild camping in Tenerife, as well as private Tenerife campsites with all kinds of facilities. Just be aware that you can only camp in these designated areas since free camping in Tenerife is prohibited and could result in you being fined. Also, you will need to rent a camper van in Tenerife (or rent a car in Tenerife if you prefer tent camping).
With that said, I think setting up camp in Tenerife is one of the best options if you’re looking for a natural place to stay in Tenerife. To help you organize your trip, this guide will cover everything you need to know about where to stay, what to bring, and the best time of year to camp on the island.
- Best campsites in Tenerife
- How to request a Tenerife camping permit
- Other places to go camping in Tenerife
- Map of campsites in Tenerife
- Is it possible to go free camping in Tenerife?
- Best time to go camping in Tenerife
- What you need to go camping in Tenerife
Best campsites in Tenerife
If you want to go camping in Tenerife, you won’t have trouble finding designated outdoor areas where camping is allowed. Most of these places allow you to pitch a tent or park a motorhome or campervan to spend the night.
However, keep in mind that you can only camp for seven consecutive days in each area, and you’ll need to make a reservation through this link 15 days in advance. While you’re on the website, you can take a look at each of the campsites in Tenerife to help you plan your trip.
Best campsites in Tenerife
Most of the campgrounds in Tenerife are located next to recreational areas with bathrooms, water fountains, and other services. That said, these facilities are only open until 7 p.m. in the winter months and 9 p.m. during the summer. So, if you want to stay overnight, you’ll need a Tenerife camping permit.
Also, if you plan on exploring some of Tenerife’s top attractions, I recommend staying in a campground that’s near those specific locations. Below, I’ll share the best campsites in Tenerife so you can find a spot that suits your itinerary.
1. Las Lajas
First, Las Lajas is a nice Tenerife campsite that’s located between Vilaflor and the Mirador de Boca Tauce, one of the best viewpoints of Mount Teide. This campground is ideal if you plan on exploring Teide National Park, one of my favorite places on the island. The lunar landscapes there are amazing, and we’ve even written a complete guide on how to climb Mount Teide, so if you’re going to visit, I suggest reading it.
1. Las Lajas
Next to the Las Lajas campsite, there is a recreational area with bathrooms, outdoor grills, and picnic tables. There are also water fountains, although the water here isn’t filtered or treated.
- Municipality: Vilaflor
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Canarian pine forest and high mountains
- Capacity: 30 people
- Available spots for caravans: 2
- Services: Untreated water, parking, nearby recreational area
- Public transportation: No
2. Chío
| THIS AREA IS CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION UNTIL EARLY 2023. |
The Chío campground is in Guía de Isora, specifically within the Corona Forestal Nature Reserve. This is a gorgeous area where you can explore the forests surrounding Teide National Park. You’ll also get lovely views of the valleys, ravines, and mountains of La Orotava and Güímar.
2. Chío
Even though this is a protected park, this specific area is a designed campsite in Tenerife, so you can pitch a tent and spend the night. There is a recreational area here with bathrooms and untreated water, as well as a parking lot. One thing to keep in mind is that this area is only open until 7 p.m. in the winter and 9 p.m. in the summer.
- Municipality: Guía de Isora
- Natural space: Corona Forestal Nature Reserve
- Environment: Canarian pine forest
- Capacity: –
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water, parking, and recreational area with bathrooms
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
3. Arenas Negras
Arenas Negras is another popular campsite in Tenerife. It’s in the Corona Forestal Nature Reserve, but it’s on the Garachico side, so if you camp here, you’ll be able to see one of the best places in north Tenerife.
Near the campground, there is a hiking trail that connects the Arenas Negras recreational area to Garachico. If you follow it, you’ll pass by the Culata cliff and get panoramic views of the Chinyero Special Nature Reserve. Continuing along the path, you’ll arrive in Garachico, where you can check out some interesting and unique attractions.
3. Arenas Negras
Back at the campground, there is a recreational area with bathrooms, water fountains, and a parking lot. Like most other camping sites in Tenerife, the facilities close in the evening, so plan accordingly.
- Municipality: Garachico
- Natural space: Corona Forestal Nature Reserve
- Environment: Canarian pine forest, lava flows, and pyroclastic fields
- Capacity: 50 people
- Available spots for caravans: 6
- Services: Untreated water, parking, and recreational area with bathrooms
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: 1.2 miles
4. El Lagar
Another place to camp in Tenerife’s Corona Forestal Nature Reserve is the El Lagar area. This part of the park is in Icod de los Vinos, another beautiful spot where you can enjoy scenic walking paths and viewpoints. You can also go into town and check out the best attractions in Icod de los Vinos.
The campground has convenient facilities like bathrooms, showers, unfiltered water fountains, and a parking lot. This is a popular Tenerife campsite, so if there aren’t any available spaces, check out Las Hayas or La Tahona, two nearby sites that are just as nice.
- Municipality: Icod de los Vinos
- Natural space: Corona Forestal Nature Reserve
- Environment: Mixed Canarian pine forest
- Capacity: 30 people
- Available spots for caravans: 3
- Services: Untreated water, parking, restrooms, and showers
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
5. Las Hayas
The Las Hayas campground is close to El Lagar, so it’s also part of the Corona Forestal Nature Reserve in Icod de los Vinos. It’s also not far from Teide National Park, so it’s one of the best places to camp in Tenerife if you plan on doing some sightseeing or adventuring.
5. Las Hayas
The campsite has bathrooms, a parking lot, and water fountains with filtered water. If you want to stay here, I recommend making a reservation as soon as you can since it’s a small campground and spots fill up quickly. Also, be aware that there are only a few spots for tents, and motorized vehicles are prohibited.
- Municipality: Icod de los Vinos
- Natural space: Corona Forestal Nature Reserve
- Environment: Mixed Canarian pine forest
- Capacity: 10 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water, parking, bathrooms
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
6. La Caldera
La Caldera is another designated campsite in Tenerife, specifically in La Orotava. It’s near the Ruta del Agua as well as stunning viewpoints like the Mirador de Mataznos and Mirador Piedra La Rosa. So, if you plan on visiting the top sights in La Orotava, I recommend staying here.
6. La Caldera
In addition, this Tenerife camping site is accessible via public transportation, so it’s one of the easiest to get to. If you’re driving, you can park in the lot at the campground’s recreational area.
- Municipality: La Orotava
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Pine forest
- Capacity: 50 people
- Available spots for caravans: 2
- Services: Parking and recreational area
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: Yes
7. Ramón el Caminero
Ramón el Caminero is another option if you want to stay in La Orotava. This Tenerife campsite is further from the city center and closer to the Cañadas del Teide, so it’s a great place to sleep overnight before or after a day at Teide National Park.
7. Ramón el Caminero
Like many other campgrounds on the island, this site has a recreational area, but it’s only open until 7 p.m. in the winter and 9 p.m. in the summer. You can get to this campsite via public transportation, although there is also a parking lot. Just be aware that motorhomes, RVs, and campervans aren’t permitted.
- Municipality: La Orotava
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Pine forest
- Capacity: 30 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Parking and recreational area
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: Yes
8. La Tahona
As I mentioned earlier, La Tahona is a beautiful Tenerife campsite near the El Lagar campground. It’s in the northern part of the island, in a quiet area in the San Juan de la Rambla municipality. Not only can you enjoy a tranquil environment here, but you’ll also be close to several interesting attractions.
8. La Tahona
As for services at this campsite, there is a recreational area with untreated water. Only tent camping is permitted here, and there are just a few spaces available, so if the spots fill up, check out nearby El Lagar.
- Municipality: San Juan de la Rambla
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Mixed pine forest with gale bushes and tree heath
- Capacity: 10 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water, parking, and recreational area
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
9. Fuente del Llano
Over in the southern part of the island, the Fuente del Llano campground is a lovely place to spend the night. It’s in the Arica municipality, next to the Corona Forestal Nature Reserve, and it’s one of the largest campsites in Tenerife, with a 100-tent capacity.
If you stay here, you’ll be close to the breathtaking landscapes and views of Teide National Park, as well as several scenic trails. I recommend this campground if you want to camp in the Tenerife wild since you’ll be able to sleep under the stars and wake up to stunning views of Mount Teide.
9. Fuente del Llano
One thing to keep in mind is that Fuente del Llano doesn’t have recreational facilities, and the closest one is about a 25-minute drive away, so make sure you pack everything you’ll need.
- Municipality: Arico
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Pine forest
- Capacity: 100 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: –
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
10. Fuente de Pedro
Back in the San Juan de la Rambla municipality, you’ll find Fuente de Pedro, another Tenerife campsite. This area is close to several great hiking trails like the Risco de las Palomas and Lomo Colorado.
10. Fuente de Pedro
As one of the larger camping sites in Tenerife, this area has enough room for 150 tents. So, if you go to La Tahona and can’t find a spot, you can come to this nearby campground. There is also a recreational area with bathrooms, showers, a parking lot, and untreated water fountains, so it’s quite convenient.
- Municipality: San Juan de la Rambla
- Natural space: –
- Environment: Pine forest
- Capacity: 150 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water, parking, restrooms, and showers
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
11. San José de los Llanos
Another campsite in Tenerife that I suggest checking out is San José de los Llanos. It’s in the Chinyero Special Nature Reserve, where you can explore different scenic trails and see the Chinyero volcano. In addition, the campground is close to some of the most beautiful places in Tenerife like Garachico and Icod de los Vinos.
11. San José de los Llanos
Next to the campsite, there are bathrooms and filtered water fountains. This place is easily accessible via public transportation, although there is also a parking lot here for you to keep your vehicle safe. That said, only tent camping is allowed here, so RVs and campervans aren’t permitted.
- Municipality: El Tanque
- Natural space: Chinyero Special Nature Reserve
- Environment: Mixed pine forest
- Capacity: 50 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Treated water, parking, and bathrooms
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: Yes
12. Las Raíces
If you’re looking for another place to go camping in Tenerife’s northern region, check out the Las Raíces area. This is one of the few Tenerife campsites that allow motor vehicles like campervans, and it’s close to several attractions like Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna, and Anaga Rural Park.
12. Las Raíces
If you decide to camp here, be aware that the water sources are untreated, and there aren’t any bathrooms or showers, although there is a parking lot. Even so, staying here is well worth it since the area is very quiet despite being close to some popular attractions in northern Tenerife.
- Municipality: El Rosario, La Esperanza
- Natural space: Las Lagunetas Protected Landscape
- Environment: Mixed pine forest
- Capacity: 30 people
- Available spots for caravans: 3
- Services: Untreated water and parking
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
13. Las Calderetas
Another northern Tenerife campsite is Las Calderetas, which is close to Las Raíces. Unlike the former campground, Las Calderetas belongs to the El Sauzal area, although it’s still close to main attractions like Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna, and Anaga Rural Park.
13. Las Calderetas
Las Calderetas is also located within the Las Lagunetas Protected Landscape, so you’ll find lots of nearby trails through the Canarian pine forest and past beautiful viewpoints. Without a doubt, this is a lovely place to go tent camping in Tenerife, but keep in mind that it’s a small site with limited space. If you can’t find a spot, you can camp at nearby Las Raíces
- Municipality: El Sauzal
- Natural space: Las Lagunetas Protected Landscape
- Environment: Pine forest
- Capacity: 16 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water and hygienic services
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: No
14. Los Pedregales
Los Pedregales is another campsite in Tenerife north, specifically in Teno Rural Park. Here, you’ll find interesting hiking trails, and you won’t be far from Punta de Teno, one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.
14. Los Pedregales
Something you should consider before coming here is that Los Pedregales does not allow caravan or RV camping in Tenerife, and all of the spaces are for tents only. Also, there aren’t any bathrooms nearby, although there is an untreated water fountain and a parking lot.
- Municipality: Buenavista-Palmar
- Natural space: Teno Rural Park
- Environment: Rural
- Capacity: 50 people
- Available spots for caravans: –
- Services: Untreated water and parking
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Public transportation: Yes, about 0.4 miles
How to request a Tenerife camping permit
To be able to camp in Tenerife, you’ll have to request a permit through this website. When requesting your Tenerife camping permit, which you must do online, you should select the campground you want to stay in, as well as the number of people and the check-in and check-out dates. If you’re going to camp in a motorhome or campervan, you must select that option, too.
How to request a Tenerife camping permit
In addition, you’ll have to provide some basic information like your first and last name, email address, telephone number, and other identification to confirm the reservation. Remember that you must submit a reservation request for each campground you wish to visit.
This is important because you can only stay at a Tenerife campsite for seven consecutive days. Also, you can only submit a permit request 15 days in advance, so you should plan accordingly. Finally, camping in Tenerife is totally free, so it’s a great option if you want to spend time in nature and travel on a budget.
Other places to go camping in Tenerife
While I’ve shared some of the best campsites in Tenerife, I understand that some travelers like to go camping while also enjoying modern facilities like bathrooms and showers. In that case, here are some Tenerife camping resorts where you can take advantage of some extra comforts and amenities. Just be aware that if you want to stay in one of these places, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee.
Camping Invernaderito
First, the Camping Invernaderito resort is in northern Tenerife, specifically in Tejina. It’s close to Anaga Rural Park, where you can discover some of the best hiking trails in Tenerife.
Camping Invernaderito
This Tenerife campsite features bungalows where you can enjoy the outdoors without giving up all the comforts of modern lodging. You’ll have access to the kitchen, living room, terrace, garden, and barbecue area. There is also a bathroom with showers, which you’ll appreciate after an intense day of outdoor sightseeing.
In addition to the bungalows, this campground offers cabins, tents, and rooms, so you can choose whichever option best suits your needs.
Camping Montaña Roja
Camping Montaña Roja is a southern Tenerife campsite in La Tejita, specifically in El Médano. If you want to go camping in Tenerife on the beach, this is the place to go since you’ll be close to the most beautiful beaches in the southern part of the island.
Camping Montaña Roja
Here, you can book a bungalow or room for up to five people. Guests have access to the garden, terrace, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant. Best of all, there are fully equipped bathrooms, so you can stay comfortable while enjoying the outdoors.
The Quimpi Camp
The Quimpi Camp is a camping resort in Tenerife’s northern region, specifically in La Esperanza. It’s a bit different than the other campsites in that it’s designed for children. Here, kids can camp, explore the outdoors, and participate in fun activities while learning about nature.
The Quimpi Camp
While it’s a kid-friendly campground, The Quimpi Camp also offers accommodation options for adults. You can stay here as a family or with a group of friends and enjoy access to convenient facilities like a communal kitchen, dining room, and bathrooms.
Another thing that stands out about this Tenerife campsite is that it’s the first Starlight Camp on the island, so it’s an incredible place to admire the starry skies while being surrounded by lush forests and nature.
Camping Nauta
Finally, Camping Nauta is a beautiful place to go camping in Arona, Tenerife. This campground is in one of the most popular parts of the island, but it’s also in a beautiful natural area near some of the best beaches in Tenerife, so you’ll be able to avoid the tourist crowds.
Camping Nauta
This Tenerife camping resort also appeals to different types of travelers since you can reserve a cabin or camp in your own tent, campervan, or motorhome. All guests have access to the pool and modern facilities like bathrooms with showers. Overall, it’s one of the best places to camp in Tenerife south if you’re looking for something more akin to “glamping”.
Map of campsites in Tenerife
Now you know the different areas where you can camp in Tenerife, as well as the best campgrounds. To help you locate them quickly and plan your trip, here is a map of the campsites in Tenerife that I mentioned.
Is it possible to go free camping in Tenerife?
According to the regulations, you’re allowed to pitch a tent or stay overnight in a motorhome only in designated areas and campsites in Tenerife. In addition, the rules specify that you can only camp at a Tenerife campground for seven consecutive days, and you must have a reservation.
Despite this, free camping in Tenerife is permitted in certain cases, such as when you’re journeying on the island on foot and don’t have a campervan or motorhome. In this case, you may spend the night in a tent, but only for a maximum of 24 hours. Moreover, you must have authorized permission to do so, which you can request on this website.
Also, keep in mind that your tent can’t block any roads or paths, and you should be careful not to endanger the flora and fauna in the area.
Best time to go camping in Tenerife
Thanks to its pleasant year-round temperatures, most Tenerife campsites are open throughout the year, so you can go camping any time you want. While some campgrounds might close at some point, the natural areas are usually open year-round.
Best time to go camping in Tenerife
Something to keep in mind is that during the peak season (the summer months), it’s more difficult to find a place to camp in Tenerife, especially if you want to stay in a motorhome or campervan. Also, many weekends and holidays are popular times for campers, so you might have trouble finding an available spot.
During our Tenerife camping trip, we stayed in a tent and had no trouble finding an open spot, but that was in January when there weren’t many tourists. Although it was technically winter, we were very comfortable since the temperatures on the island tend to stay in a comfortable range.
What do you need to go camping in Tenerife?
The first thing you’ll need to go camping in Tenerife is a permit or reservation at your chosen campground.
Next, you’ll need a place to sleep, such as a tent, campervan, or other motor vehicle. Remember to wear appropriate clothes when you sleep since the temperatures do cool down at night. You should also bring enough food and water, especially since many Tenerife campsites don’t have treated water and are far from towns and city centers.
I also recommend bringing your cell phone and making sure it’s fully charged when you start your trip. Unless you stay in one of the paid camping resorts in Tenerife, you won’t have access to electricity.
What do you need to go camping in Tenerife?
Remember, camping is an experience that has its advantages and disadvantages. While you won’t have most modern comforts, you’ll be able to connect more with nature and see some amazing starry skies and uninterrupted views.
If camping isn’t quite your thing but you want to save money on your accommodation, I recommend checking our guide to the best cheap hotels in Tenerife. You’ll still be able to travel on a budget, and you’ll probably enjoy your trip a lot more.
That’s everything for this guide to camping in Tenerife! I hope you feel better prepared to find a campsite and enjoy the great outdoors. Of course, if you have any questions or you’d like to share your experience at one of these campsites in Tenerife, leave me a comment below.
Happy camping!
