Camping is like a healthy reset where the air is fresher, the stars are brighter and the bugs are… well, let’s ignore the bugs for now. If camping conjures images of muddy tents, mosquito bites, and questionable toilet facilities, think again. Today’s eco-friendly campsites are all about sustainability, comfort, and, yes, occasionally composting toilets. Time to grab your reusable water bottle, and check out some of the most sustainable, jaw-droppingly gorgeous campsites around the globe.
Benefits of eco-friendly campsites
Eco-friendly campsites are a win-win for you and Mother Earth. With practices such as recycling water, and using biodegradable materials you get to enjoy pristine, untouched landscapes safe in the knowledge you are preserving them for future campers. Many also offer activities related to nature and environmental protection such as beach clean-ups. So, pack your biodegradable soap, and get ready to camp with a conscience!
Robinson’s Camping Freedom, Croatia
Croatia is a nature lovers' paradise, with deep forests running into secluded bays of crystal-clear waters. Be more responsible than the super-yacht owners and experience real luxury (quiet, birdsong, outdoor kitchens) at this eco-camping on the Istrian peninsula. Furnished glamping tents come with outdoor kitchens, BBQs and campfires. Toilets are ecological, and shower water is heated by the sun’s energy. You can even collect vegetables and fruit from the camp gardens for organic meals with no air miles.
EcoCamp Patagonia, Argentina
It doesn’t get much more rugged than Patagonia in Argentina, where nature is wild and beautiful. The massive scale of the area, plus the pristine rivers and jagged peaks make it a mecca for outdoor adventurers. EcoCamp Patagonia has been recognized as carbon neutral since 2007. At the end of each season they calculate the total CO2 produced by the camp, convert this into dollars, and use the money to invest in green projects. The camp was designed to be low-impact, they use composting toilets and a biofiltration system to help replenish the soil. There is even an onsite sustainability tour to learn more when you are done exploring the incredible Patagonia around you.
Reykjavik Campsite, Iceland
Iceland is a country that begs to be experienced by being outside as much as possible. So even in the country’s capital city, it is worth checking out this eco-friendly campsite situated right next to one of its biggest geothermal pools. As part of their eco-impact commitment you can refill your water bottles with the fresh Icelandic water throughout the camp, they buy in bulk, minimize waste, and only use eco-friendly products and soaps. With all the volcanic activity on the island, Iceland runs almost completely on renewable energy, with 73% coming from hydropower and 27% from geothermal activity.
Whitepod Eco-Luxury Pods, Switzerland
Nestled in the mountains of Les Cerniers, Switzerland, Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel is where luxury meets Mother Nature. Futuristic "pods" blend into the landscape and can be removed at any time, leaving no trace behind. These pods are powered by renewable energy, harnessing the forces of the sun and biomass. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there, they’ve mastered waste management with recycling and composting, and they only clean with eco-friendly products. Plus, the food is locally sourced, reducing transportation emissions and supporting the local economy. Staying here is for those campers who don’t want to scrimp on luxury whilst still paying their respects to Mother Nature.
Chole Mjini TreeHouse Lodge, Tanzania
The owners of Chole Mjiini Lodge in Tanzania never set out to make a hotel, they wanted to create a castaway island fantasy, deeply connected to nature and appealing to the kind of person that wants to live with less and experience more. Built with local materials using traditional techniques, this lodge treads lightly on the environment. It’s off-grid, harnesses the power of the sun for electricity, and collects rainwater for drinking. And not only that but Chole Mjini Lodge is a marine conservation hero, protecting coral reefs and championing sustainable fishing. They support the local community, with education and healthcare initiatives, employing locals, and sourcing supplies from nearby villages. It’s the perfect place to live out your island treehouse fantasies whilst feeling good about your vacation.
Camping La Roubine, France
This 5-star French campsite, La Roubine, has sustainability down to an art form. They aren’t messing around with their eco-friendly practices. They have heat pumps, solar energy, biodegradable products, recycling, and electric vehicles. But don’t worry, you won’t have to sacrifice any luxuries. You can unwind in an infrared sauna, soak in a jacuzzi, pamper yourself at the Biotiful Spa, take a dip in the swimming pool, or get sporty with a range of activities. Plus, the location at the entrance to the jaw-dropping Gorges de l'Ardèche means adventure in wild nature is on your doorstep.
Long Story Short…
Eco-friendly campsites are the perfect blend of adventure and sustainability. Whether you’re rolling up to a solar-powered yurt or sipping locally-sourced coffee by a composting toilet, you can enjoy nature guilt-free. Happy camping!
Written by Laura Sedlak
