Wild camping - whether with a tent, van, or camper outside official camping infrastructures - as well as bivouacking with minimal equipment for a night, allows for a close-up nature experience. To keep this experience undisturbed, certain fundamental behavioral rules should be observed: Respect natural spaces, choose a safe location, and act in a way that least impacts the environment.
Different regulations depending on the region.
In Switzerland, there is no unified regulation for wild camping. The rules can vary from canton to canton and from municipality to municipality. Therefore, TCS recommends checking with the responsible municipality or local police about the applicable regulations before spending a night in nature. On private property, the consent of the owner is essential. Wild camping is categorically prohibited in nature reserves, federal hunting ban areas, wildlife protection zones, and the Swiss National Park. Bivouacking above the timberline is generally tolerated, provided local regulations are followed and nature is respected.
Nature comes first.
Those who choose to spend a night in nature also bear responsibility for its protection. TCS recommends choosing an inconspicuous location, not disturbing wildlife - especially at dusk and during the night - and avoiding noise. All waste, including food scraps, must be taken back to leave no traces. Fires should only be lit in designated areas and should generally be avoided in dry conditions or increased forest fire danger. Following these simple behavior guidelines can protect natural spaces in the long term and ensure respectful coexistence with other nature users.
Recognize risks early and camp safely.
Careful preparation is essential before spending a night in nature. TCS recommends checking the weather forecast and refraining from wild camping in stormy conditions. The chosen site must not pose natural hazards. Particularly riverbeds with potential flash flood risk, avalanche tracks, rockfall-prone areas, and locations highly susceptible to lightning should be avoided. By observing these precautionary measures, you can enjoy your nature experience safely while minimizing risks.
Nature campsites - an alternative to wild camping.
For those who want to enjoy a nature-focused camping experience without sacrificing comfort, several TCS campsites offer an excellent alternative to wild camping. In Graubünden, the campsites Disentis, Thusis, and Scuol are nestled in alpine and forested landscapes. In Ticino, the Gordevio campsite invites you to stay on the banks of the Maggia, while the Olivone campsite is located in the sun-drenched Blenio Valley. The La Tène campsite on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel also offers direct access to a sandy beach. These campsites provide an intense nature experience while offering high-quality infrastructure and an environmentally conscious stay.
Where can you wild camp in Europe?
Switzerland is not an isolated case. In most European countries, wild camping is either prohibited or strictly regulated. Some countries tolerate it under certain conditions, while others ban it entirely. Before traveling, it's advisable to inform yourself about the regulations in place. TCS provides an overview of regulations in major European countries on its camping portal.
Press contact:
Vanessa Flack, Media Spokesperson TCS
Tel. 058 827 34 41
vanessa.flack@tcs.ch