Algarve is one of the most popular regions in Portugal. The southern region is well-known for its laid-back lifestyle, fantastic beaches and surfing, amazing nature, and old-school architecture. With almost no rainfall during the year, camping in Algarve seems like an excellent decision.
If you decide to camp in Algarve, this post is just right for you! We will break down all the things to know about camping in this lovely region of Portugal to get you started on the next adventure!
Best Time For Camping In Algarve
Algarve is well-known for the fact that it is blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine each year. That makes for a climate excellent for camping throughout the whole year. But, such a climate can bring crowds, so timing your visit is crucial.
If you are looking for camping in Algarve without rain, any month between April and October will suffice.
Keep in mind that the peak summer season months (July and August) are hot, as daytime temperatures come close to 40 degrees Celsius. Also, the crowds are plentiful in the peak season.
To avoid the crowds and enjoy temperate weather, these periods are the best:
- Between late April and early June
- Between mid-September and late October
With this in mind, the winter months are surprisingly warm compared to the rest of Europe. Daytime temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius are typical and nighttime temperatures are just below 10 degrees Celsius.
Best Camping Sites In Algarve
Algarve has some of the cheapest campsites in all of western Europe. The region is full of family-friendly campsites, as well as coastal campsites. Keep in mind that the camps in the summer months tend to be overbooked due to location and tempting prices.
Check out the map below for the best campsites in Algarve!
Let’s see the best official spots for camping in Algarve!
1) Camping Algarve
Amidst orange groves and with a distant view to the sea, this campsite near Moncarapacho village in the Faro district oozes with unique vibes.
It has all the facilities you need, such as:
- WiFi
- Electricity, gas, water
- Toilet and shower
- Restaurant
- Market
The parcel prices in Camping Algarve start from 12€, but you can see more options here.
2) Campsite Turiscampo
This lovely camping site is just 5 kilometers away from Lagos and 20 kilometers away from the westernmost point in Europe. It’s a well-known family camping site adored by visitors year-round.
It’s full of useful amenities, such as:
- Free WiFi
- Electricity, gas, water
- Sanitary areas
- Swimming pool
- Supermarket
- Restaurant
- Laundry
To find out its prices, check out its official site.
3) Camping Ria Formosa
This campsite is an excellent starting point for exploring the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Ria Formosa is a lagoon filled with various ecosystems, such as barrier islands, islets, dunes, marshes, woodlands, and more. You can also find some incredible beaches around here too!
Camping Ria Formossa offers the following facilities:
- Electricity, gas, water
- Free WiFi
- Sanitary facilities
- Mini gym
- Restaurant
- Mini market
- Swimming pool
- Artificial lake
- BBQ equipment
Down below is the price table for the Camping Ria Formossa!
4) Salema Eco Camp
This eco-camp is located near the fishing village of Salema, well-known for the beach of the same name. Descend to the beach, and you will discover one of the best spots for surfing in the Algarve.
From facilities, Salema Eco Camp includes:
- WiFi
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Store
- Sanitary areas
- Massage parlor
- Surfboard and bike rental
- Electricity, gas, water
Check out the prices for the Salema Eco Camp on their website.
5) Campsite Albufeira
This lovely campsite is located near Albufeira, one of the most vibrant resort towns in Algarve. Nevertheless, there are plenty of tent and caravan camping options here.
Its facilities include:
- Free WiFi
- Electricity, gas, water
- Massage parlor
- BBQ equipment
- Store
- ATM
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Sanitary areas
To find out the parcel prices in Campsite Albufeira, check out their price list.
Is Wild Camping In Algarve Legal?
Algarve is a region rich in unspoiled nature and excellent beaches, literal heaven for campers. But, how do people and authorities react to wild camping in Algarve?
As with the rest of Portugal, wild camping here was mainly unregulated until the introduction of the new camping laws in 2021.
The new camping laws prohibit any form of wild camping, with fines between 250€ and 600€ if you do get caught. If you get caught wild camping in nature reserves and nature parks, you can get fined up to 2,000€.
These laws are primarily enforced during the high season, where you can either get hushed away by the authorities or get fined.
Even though wild camping is officially illegal in Algarve, it is not fully enforced, especially during the low season. To avoid getting fined, check out the tips we are going to share below!
Tips & Gear For Wild Camping In Algarve
If you want to decrease your chances of getting caught when wild camping, make sure to visit the Algarve during the low season. Still, the following tips will apply to any season.
First of all, never attract too much unwanted attention! Camp away from busy roads, settlements, or tourist places. If you want to camp on a beach, choose a secluded, calm one.
Portuguese authorities have a sweet spot for wildfires, so make sure never to light any campfires! Instead, use a quality portable camping stove like this one.
Set up your campsite at dusk and dismantle it at dawn to minimize the chance of getting spotted. Also, camp in one place for one night only.
Make sure to pick up all the garbage you might have accumulated and leave the camping spot as it was before you came there. After all, you want to respect nature.
If you plan on wild camping near private property, ask the owner for permission, and you won’t have problems even if you get caught. People in Algarve are usually very friendly if you show them that you mean no harm.
Now, let’s talk a bit about camping gear for Algarve.
As most days are sunny and hot there, you would be wise to bring a blackout tent to block the sun rays. Well-ventilated tents are also welcome to keep you cool during the evening.
Here is a list of best blackout tents to get you started!
If you plan on camping in winter, bring a rain tarp, as there is a low chance for rainfall.
Summing Up
Whether you pick a wild or official campsite, camping in Algarve is a great way to experience its unspoiled nature. As camping is highly affordable here, you won’t break a bank and will be in for a majestic treat!
In case you’re looking for more camping spots around the world, we’ve covered these so far:
