10 Scenic Campsites Around the World

While it’s all about the journey and not the destination it’s always nice for the destination to be worth it. Traveling around in a VW Bus has its challenges, but one of the best parts of bus life is being able to have the most beautiful scenery in the world right outside your front door. We’ve compiled some of our top campsites all around the world with the most spectacular views. Also, it’s totally legal to camp at these spots, some are even free. If you’ve ever experienced one of these amazing places make sure to share your experience with fellow BusLifers!

1. Grand Canyon National Park

We know that this might be a given, but you just can’t beat the beautiful canyon at sunrise. It has campsites that actually place you right at the edge of the canyon so you’re able to brew your morning coffee and step out your door basking in the glory that is the Grand Canyon. You’ll start to realize why it is so grand. Some campsites are connected to some amazing trails that take you to different point around the canyon for even more views.

2. Shojiko, Japan

If you find yourself trekking around Japan at all there is a free campsite on Shimo Lake in Japan. This site will have you waking up to an astounding view of Mount Fuji over the gorgeous lake. The view stuns you a little at first, especially if you’re taking a glance before your first cup of coffee, you might not want to look away.

3. Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

Campsites around here will bring the adventure and scenery right outside your back, or side, door. It’s known the wildlife you might encounter and the park is filled with beaches, waterfalls, lagons and rainforests. If you actually want to stay inside of the park you will have to take it on by foot. There are no roads and the forest is pretty much untouched, so you are able to actually see wildlife in their natural habitat. There is plenty of hiking around and in the only place in Costa Rica you have the chance to see four different species of monkeys.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Known for its humongous sand dunes, in this National Park you’re able to camp right in the thick of them. The largest sand dunes in the United States are located here to try your hand at sand sledding or sandboarding. A popular thing to do here is experience the park in the night. The combination of high elevation and low light pollution will give you night sky views like you’ve never seen. If you are lucky enough to stay a night that there is a full moon you won’t even need a flashlight!

5. Jasper, Canada

This National Park is surrounded by breathtaking views of aqua marine lake water at the foot of beautiful mountains. You’ll get to breathe in the fresh pine scent from the surrounding trees and there are many campsites to choose from. You can choose to spend your days canoeing across the lake or hiking the trails, or even just laying in your VW Bus gazing over the scenery surrounding you.

6. Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Even the drive into this park will take your breath away. There is one road in and out and it’s one of the most scenic roads you’ll ever take. The hikes around this park are what make it worth going for alone. There are many different routes you can take and each with its own amazing photo opportunities. You’ll have a hard time prying yourself away from the scenes around this park, and it’s trails will keep you busy for awhile. It can feel like an out of body experience at times.

7. Lake Myvatn, Iceland

No camper’s life is complete without a trip to Iceland. Whether you’re there to chase the Northern lights, hike a glacier, explore ice caves or chase waterfalls you’re going to feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. You’ll come across rocky, lava fields around part of the lake and a little further on you’ll find vibrant green landscapes. The area was actually created from a lava eruption and is still an active volcano spot. There are endless thing to do surrounding the beautiful lake and you’ll find yourself wanting to explore the entire island.

8. Arches National Park, Utah

This incredible park is home to over 2000 natural sandstone arches, living up to its name. The desert landscapes will you make feel like you’ve left Earth. Take a day and switch out your VW Bus for an ATV tour, try out rock climbing or go river rafting. The landscapes and naturally made sculptures will have you gawking for hours.

9. Lake District National Park, England

Home to the highest and most scenic mountains and lakes in England there aren’t many more perfect places to settle. The greenery will have you in awe as you decide where to set up camp. It’s a magical place to wake up and spend your mornings and plan out your day.

10. Sardinia, Italy

Two words: beach camping! The insanely beautiful turquoise waters and sandy beaches will have you waking up in a refreshed and vibrant mood. There are numerous campsites surrounding the area. Park and make your way to the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea to soak up the sun.