Hellissandur Campsite in Iceland: A Complete Traveler's Guide
Located on a mossy lava field on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Hellissandur Campsite serves as a base for exploring one of the country's most interesting landscapes. With Snæfellsjökull Glacier in the background and the North Atlantic Ocean nearby, this campsite balances basic comforts with an authentic Icelandic experience.
Key Takeaways
- Located in Hellissandur village on the northwestern tip of Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Modern facilities with hot showers, a kitchen, and electricity hookups
- Views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier and the North Atlantic Ocean
- Open May through September (sometimes until mid-October)
- Base for exploring Snæfellsjökull National Park
- Adult rates: 1,900 ISK per night (discounts for longer stays)
Overview of the Campsite
Hellissandur Campsite is situated beside Snæfellsjökull National Park on Iceland's western coast, approximately 205 km from Reykjavík. The site is located in the Sandahraun lava field, allowing you to pitch tents on volcanic ground while enjoying access to basic amenities.
Built in 2011 and kept in good condition, the campground works well for travelers wanting to see the natural features of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Having the National Park Visitor Center next door makes it handy for hikers and nature fans. Prices hover around 1700 and 2000 ISK, with hot showers being included in the price.
Unfortunately, the Hellissandur campsite is not part of the Camping Card scheme.
The campsite fits approximately 30-40 units, with room for tents, campervans, and motorhomes. The Snæfellsbær municipality runs it and keeps standards high across its facilities.
What You Get at the Campsite
From basic facilities to the natural setting, Hellissandur Campsite offers a mix of comfort and wilderness that sets it apart from other camping options in Iceland. Here's what to expect when you arrive at this spot on the edge of Snæfellsjökull National Park.
The Setup
The campground spreads across a mossy lava field, with gravel paths for vehicles and grassy areas for tents. There are no marked sites; you simply find a good spot when you arrive. The western edge of the campground (called the "front row") has the best spots with clear ocean views and sunsets.
What's different about Hellissandur is the setting. Unlike many campgrounds, here you're camping directly on a lava field with views of the glacier on one side and the ocean on the other. The natural landscape creates some wind breaks through rock formations, though the site is still fairly open to coastal weather.
Facilities & Features
The main building at the campsite was completely redone in recent years. Inside you'll find:
- Bathrooms and showers: Clean, heated facilities with separate men's and women's sections, each with multiple toilets and hot showers. There's also one family/accessible bathroom. Hot water is unlimited and included in your camping fee.
- Kitchen area: A shared indoor kitchen with stovetops, microwave, sinks, and counter space. There are a couple of tables inside for eating when the weather is bad. Outside, you'll find more dishwashing sinks and picnic tables around the grounds.
- Electricity: 16A hookups are available for campervans and RVs for an extra fee (about 900 ISK per day). Tent campers can also use electricity if they bring extension cords.
- Water and waste disposal: Clean drinking water taps. For campervans, there are spots to empty greywater and chemical toilets.
- Wi-Fi: Free internet, with the best signal near the main building.
- Children's playground: A small play area with swings and slides makes this suitable for families. There's also an inflatable trampoline and a small soccer field in the nearby village park.
Other Important Information
- Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash.
- Laundry: There are no washing machines or dryers on site. For laundry, you'll need to go to Ólafsvík (9 km away).
- Food and supplies: There's no shop at the campground. The village of Hellissandur has limited services (a small café and basic convenience store), but for proper groceries and fuel, go to Ólafsvík (10 minutes by car).
- No reservations: The campsite works on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive, pick your spot, and then pay when the attendant comes around (usually once or twice daily).
Cleanliness & Crowds
Hellissandur Campsite is known for being clean. The facilities are well-kept, with regular cleaning throughout the day. Hot water is reliable, and the kitchen area stays tidy.
During peak season (July-August), the campground can get busy by late afternoon, especially on weekends. However, even when full, the site rarely feels too crowded because of its open layout. September has fewer visitors but cooler temperatures.
Things to See and Do Nearby
The real value of Hellissandur Campsite is what surrounds it. Located on the northwestern tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the campground is a good starting point for exploring some of Iceland's most impressive natural features and small fishing villages.
Nature Around You
You're right at the edge of Snæfellsjökull National Park, with its main glacier rising in the background. The National Park Visitor Center, a modern building with exhibits, information, and ranger advice, is next to the campground.
From the campsite, you can walk through the mossy lava field or take short trails to the coast. Nearby natural highlights include:
- Snæfellsjökull Glacier: This 1,446-meter volcano featured in Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Guided hikes to the summit are available for experienced hikers.
- Djúpalónssandur Beach: A black pebble beach with pieces of a 1948 shipwreck and historic strength-testing stones once used by fishermen.
- Skarðsvík Beach: A golden sand beach surrounded by black lava formations, just a short drive from the campsite.
- Saxhóll Crater: A volcanic cone with steps to the top, offering expansive views of the peninsula.
- Svöðufoss Waterfall: A cascade near Rif, accessible via a short hike.
Activities
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers many options for outdoor fans:
- Hiking: Many trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging glacier climbs. The area around Hellissandur has paths for all fitness levels.
- Birdwatching: The coastline has Arctic terns, fulmars, and other seabirds. Bring binoculars for better views.
- Whale watching: Tours leave from Ólafsvík harbor (May-September), offering chances to see humpbacks, minkes, and sometimes orcas.
- Street art tours: Hellissandur calls itself the "Street Art Capital of Iceland," with colorful murals throughout the small village. An evening walk to see these works makes for a nice activity.
- Northern Lights: If you visit in late August or September, you may see the aurora borealis on clear nights, thanks to minimal light pollution.
- Photography: The dramatic landscapes, coastal features, and changing light make this an excellent place for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Places Nearby (Within Driving Distance)
From Hellissandur Campsite, you can explore many places within easy driving distance. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called "Iceland in miniature" because it has so many different landscapes in a small area. Make the most of your stay by visiting these nearby spots, all within an hour's drive from your tent.
- Ólafsvík (10 km): The largest nearby town, with restaurants, a supermarket, a swimming pool with hot tubs, fuel, and banking services.
- Rif (4 km): A small fishing village with The Freezer Hostel & Culture Centre, which occasionally hosts theater shows or live music in the summer.
- Arnarstapi and Hellnar (36 km): Small fishing hamlets connected by a coastal trail featuring basalt columns, sea arches, and nesting seabirds.
- Kirkjufell Mountain (33 km): Iceland's most photographed mountain, seen in Game of Thrones. The nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall creates a good foreground for photos.
- Vatnshellir Lava Cave (26 km): An 8,000-year-old lava tube accessible through guided tours.
- Ytri Tunga Beach (47 km): Known for seal colonies that can often be spotted resting on the shore.
Why You Might Like It (or Not)
Every campsite has strengths and weaknesses, and Hellissandur is no different. Before deciding if this is the right base for your Icelandic trip, consider these pros and cons based on reviews and traveler experiences.
Pros
- Location: Right next to Snæfellsjökull National Park and its visitor center
- Modern, clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms with free hot showers
- Good views: Glacier views, ocean panoramas, and sunsets
- Quiet atmosphere: Generally peaceful, especially in shoulder seasons
- Fair prices: Reasonable rates with discounts for longer stays
- Family-friendly: Playground, open spaces, and a safe environment for children
Cons
- Exposure to weather: The open lava field has limited shelter from wind and rain
- Limited facilities in the village: No proper grocery store
- No laundry facilities: You'll need to go to Ólafsvík for washing clothes
- No reservations: During peak season, arriving late might mean fewer spots to choose from
- Seasonal operation: Closed from October through April
Practical Information for Visitors
Before packing your tent and heading to Hellissandur, learn some key information about the local conditions, the best time to visit, and what to bring. This knowledge will help make your camping experience comfortable, even in Iceland's sometimes difficult conditions.
Weather
Iceland's weather changes often, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is no exception. Even in summer, temperatures typically range from 8 °C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Wind is common, with gusts sometimes reaching 20-30 m/s, especially in September.
Rain showers happen year-round, though they often pass quickly. Fog can roll in suddenly from the ocean, temporarily hiding the glacier views. Pack accordingly – waterproof outer layers are essential, as is a sturdy tent with proper stakes for the sometimes strong coastal winds.
Best Time to Visit
The campsite is open from May 1 to September 30, sometimes extending into early October if the weather allows. Each period has its advantages:
- May-June: Longer daylight hours (nearly 24 hours in late June), fewer people, but cooler temperatures and more variable weather.
- July-August: Peak season with milder temperatures, full services, but more visitors.
- September: Fewer crowds, chance to see Northern Lights, but cooler temperatures and more wind.
For the best balance of decent weather and manageable crowds, try early June or early September.
What to Pack
Beyond standard camping gear, specific items recommended for Hellissandur include:
- Wind and waterproof outer layers: Needed for coastal Iceland
- Sturdy tent and extra stakes/guy lines: To handle potential strong winds
- Extension cord: If you plan to use electricity from the hookups
- Eye mask for sleeping: Helpful in summer when darkness is minimal
- Warm layers: Even in summer, evenings get cold
- Binoculars: For wildlife spotting and distant views
- Cooking supplies: While the kitchen has basics, bring your own preferred utensils
- Groceries: Stock up in Reykjavík or Ólafsvík before arriving
Tips for Camping
While Hellissandur Campsite is fairly straightforward to enjoy, a few insider tips can make your experience better.
- Arrive by mid-afternoon during peak season to get better spots, especially if you want those "front row" positions with ocean views.
- Stay multiple nights if possible. You'll get a discount (about 15% off) on your second and third nights, and even more for more extended stays.
- Use your vehicle as a windbreak for your tent. Position it to shield from the prevailing winds (often from the ocean).
- Visit the National Park Visitor Center next door for maps, trail information, and insights from rangers. Their lobby toilets are accessible 24/7, even when the center is closed.
- Pack for all weather conditions, even in summer. Layers are key, as you might experience sun, rain, and wind all in the same day.
- Bring cash in Icelandic krónur as backup, though credit cards are widely accepted. The attendant typically visits once or twice daily to collect fees.
- Shop for supplies in Ólafsvík before settling in. Their supermarket (Kjörbúðin) closes early, so plan accordingly.
- Check Aurora forecasts if visiting in late August or September. The KP index should be 3+ for decent chances of seeing Northern Lights.
- Respect the fragile environment by staying on marked paths and never driving off designated areas. The lava field moss takes decades to recover from damage.
Conclusion
Hellissandur Campsite combines natural beauty with practical comfort. Its position right next to Snæfellsjökull National Park makes it suitable for exploring Iceland's western peninsula, while its modern facilities ensure you'll have basic comforts.
Whether you're setting up a tent among volcanic rocks or parking your campervan with glacier views, this campground provides an authentic Icelandic experience. The location, clean facilities, and reasonable prices make it a solid option for travelers who want to see Iceland's dramatic landscapes.