Wildest Places to Camp Legally in Switzerland

Switzerland doesn’t generally allow wild camping below the tree line or in nature reserves, but above the treeline and outside protected areas, it’s often permitted for one night. Here are some of the best areas where you can camp legally and immerse yourself in pure alpine beauty: Val Verzasca (Ticino): The Verzasca Valley, with its emerald rivers and dramatic cliffs, is a stunning place for wild camping. Above the villages and deep into the side valleys, you can find open alpine pastures perfect for a peaceful night under the stars. Albula Alps (Graubünden): Remote and rugged, the Albula region offers fantastic wild camping opportunities. Areas near Lai da Palpuogna — often called Switzerland’s most beautiful lake — are especially scenic, as long as you stay above the treeline and away from official protected zones. Lauterbrunnen Valley Ridges (Bernese Oberland): While camping in the valley itself is prohibited, hiking up to surrounding ridges like Schilthorn or Kleine Scheidegg can lead to legal, breathtaking spots with sweeping views over glaciers and iconic peaks. Val Ferret (Valais): Near the border with Italy, this quieter corner of Valais provides high alpine meadows where discreet wild camping is tolerated. Views toward Mont Dolent and the surrounding peaks are spectacular. Greina Plateau (Ticino/Graubünden Border): One of Switzerland’s wildest and most beautiful high plateaus, the Greina offers wide-open spaces where single-night camping is accepted if you respect local guidelines. It’s a unique blend of alpine wilderness and ancient landscapes. Macun Lakes (Lower Engadine, Graubünden): Reached by a challenging hike, this cluster of small lakes sits above 2,600 meters and offers surreal scenery perfect for a wild camp — just be mindful of local park boundaries. Tips for Legal Wild Camping in Switzerland: - Camp discreetly: Arrive late, leave early, and minimize your impact. Small, lightweight tents are preferred. - Always stay above the treeline (around 2,000 meters) and outside protected areas like national parks and nature reserves. - Never camp near huts, villages, official trails, or within visible distance of private property without permission. - Leave no trace: Pack out everything, including biodegradable waste. - Check local regulations: Some municipalities or regions may have specific rules or seasonal restrictions. Best Time to Camp: Late June to early October offers the best conditions. Snow can linger at higher elevations into early summer, and nights can get cold even in August. Logistics and Access: Many wild camping areas are reachable by a combination of train, bus, and hiking. Switzerland’s excellent public transport system makes accessing remote valleys and high passes surprisingly easy. Booking Guided Adventures: Platforms like Crion.org offer guided trekking and wild camping experiences, helping you find legal camping spots while ensuring safety and local knowledge. Wild camping in Switzerland offers the ultimate freedom to connect with nature — when done respectfully and within the rules, it becomes an unforgettable way to experience the heart of the Alps.