
Estonia’s approach to campervan camping is rooted in its “everyman’s right,” a principle that grants the public the freedom to access and enjoy certain public and privately-owned land for recreation. This right, however, comes with a set of important rules and considerations, particularly for those traveling in a campervan. Wild camping with a campervan is generally tolerated in Estonia, but this is not an open invitation to park wherever you like and set up a full camp. The everyman’s right allows for temporary stays in nature, which is often interpreted as spending one night in a place to rest. You may park your campervan and spend the night on public or uncultivated land, as long as it’s not a restricted area like a national park, military zone, or land near an inhabited building. It is also prohibited on cultivated land, which includes fields and plantations. To be respectful and avoid issues, you should also not set up your camp in the immediate vicinity of private homes or gardens. A crucial distinction for campervan travelers is the difference between parking and camping. To adhere to the spirit of the law and not cause a disturbance, it is important to keep a low profile. This means refraining from using stabilizers, opening awnings, or setting out tables and chairs. These activities are generally considered to be camping and are not covered by the everyman’s right. They are activities typically reserved for designated campsites. A campfire is only permitted in a designated, prepared fire pit. You must not light a fire on your own in an unmarked or unprepared spot. The State Forest Management Centre, or RMK, manages a large number of free campsites throughout the country that often include prepared fire pits, firewood, picnic tables, and dry toilets. These sites are a great option for a safe and legal fire. It is also essential to check for any fire warnings or restrictions, which are common during dry seasons, and to always properly extinguish your fire before leaving. The campsites, which can be found across the country and are sometimes located close to cities, offer a full range of services. The rules at these camping sites are specific to each location but generally include designated pitches for campervans, electric hook-ups, showers, and waste disposal facilities. At these official sites, you are free to use your stabilizers, open your awning, and set up your outdoor furniture, as you are in a dedicated camping area. Many of these sites are managed by the Estonian Camping Association, which ensures they meet certain standards for quality and service. In summary, it is important to understand the difference between a temporary overnight stay and a full camping setup.