Switzerland's landscapes and near-natural camping are in high demand. How does wild camping in Switzerland work as sustainably as possible?
Switzerland remains one of the most popular destinations within Europe whether for wild camping or camping on the campsite. The reason for this is mainly the spectacular adventures and fabulous views that the countless mountains have to offer. But Switzerland also has no shortage of lakes. Whether it's Lake Constance, Lake Neuchâtel, or a completely different body of water, camping enthusiasts are just as guaranteed to find what they're looking for as mountain lovers.
Although Switzerland has numerous picturesque campsites up its sleeve, some people long for more freedom and wild camping in nature. We ask ourselves: Is wild camping in Switzerland a problem? How do you make wild camping in Switzerland as sustainable and legal as possible?
Is wild camping allowed in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the so-called right of public access applies, so wild camping is not explicitly prohibited, but still not allowed everywhere. Sounds complicated? It doesn't have to be: If you want to swap crowded campsites for wild camping, all you have to do is follow a few generally applicable rules and the regulations of the respective cantons or individual municipalities. On the TCS website you'll find an overview of the legal situation in the individual cantons, which is updated regularly. But be careful: Different regulations apply to wild camping and free standing with a camper.
Regardless of the canton, wild camping is forbidden in Switzerland, for example, in national parks, nature reserves, federal hunting zones and wildlife rest areas. It is only permitted above the timberline in the mountains.
In case of doubt, you should get additional information from the respective municipality, here the police is a good first point of contact to get a permit.
To avoid high fines you should adhere to the respective regulations. You will also be doing people, nature and animals a great favor.
Most of us camp for the love of nature and the incomparable feeling of freedom. Unfortunately, in many cases this harms both nature and the local economy. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind when wild camping.
Leave the place as clean as you found it!
Be careful not to disturb animals and nature through noise or fire!
Dispose of gray water at designated stations!
Be considerate of residents and fellow campers!
Support the local tourism and give back to your vacation destination!
Safety when wild camping in Switzerland
If you're sure that wild camping or free standing is allowed at the place of your choice, you should ask yourself further if the place is also safe. Of course, this is not only true if you're travelling in Switzerland but in general. You should avoid the proximity of mountain streams or rivers, if it rains the water level can rise very quickly and overflow their banks. The water level can also rise if it rains higher up in the mountains or even due to a hydroelectric power plant.
To protect yourself from lightning strikes during a thunderstorm, you should not set up camp in exposed areas such as peaks or ridges.
A slope is also not a suitable place - after all, snow, stones and other debris can fall from a slope.
Overall, you should always stay informed about weather forecasts and possible warnings and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Wild camping - Can it really be sustainable?
To ensure that wild camping remains sustainable and that you do not harm anything or anyone, you should keep a few things in mind.
The protection of flora and fauna is always the top priority when wild camping. Therefore, wild camping is prohibited in ecologically sensitive areas and not only in Switzerland. You should abide by these regulations. Nevertheless, further protection of nature and forest dwellers is also the personal responsibility of every wild camper. Not leaving garbage behind and not driving your car through the forest should be obvious behaviours but unfortunately they are not.
To be sure that animals and plants are not disturbed or damaged, camping on a private pitch is an alternative. At private campsites like MyCabin, AlpacaCamping or Landvergnügen you can find beautiful and cheap private campsites in the middle of nature, far away from any mass tourism. The wild camping feeling on a privately rented pitch is often in no way inferior to the feeling of free camping in nature and in addition you are supporting the local population.
In summary: Protect nature when camping and place yourself in areas provided for it. Take your trash with you, no matter where you stay. Support local campsites and restaurants. Then camping is twice as much fun for everyone!
Conclusion
Wild camping in Switzerland is possible but justifiably not without restrictions. If you travel with a tent, the regulations within the individual cantons are easier but you lose some mobility and spontaneity.
Wild camping in Switzerland is very suitable in the form of free standing on a privately rented pitch. This way, you are legally protected, support the local population and economy, and camp in close proximity to nature without harming it and its animal inhabitants. The ideal compromise between a feeling of freedom and a prudent vacation! Another alternative in Switzerland are of course huts, for example in the Swiss Alps.
