Everything About Camping in Crete + Camping Sites on the Island

How would you like to explore Crete and its natural scenery in a completely different way? Camping can be the right answer to get out of your comfort zone and discover a different aspect of the island. If you want to get off the beaten track, this post is for you. In this article, we discuss all the aspects of camping in Crete… and a little more to make the most of the experience!

While many people enjoy camping, quite a few have reservations about it.

Of course, they may be open about going on a trip, enjoying the outdoors, and having fun telling funny stories around a fire, but they still have a few reservations about sleeping in a tent. Why? Because there might be several things they don’t enjoy about it… or they don’t know if they would.

Something will always make them hesitant to go and wonder if they are the camping-type of traveler.

If you’re in this category and need (or want…!) to go camping, you will want to figure out how to enjoy a camping trip. Here, you will find the best places to go camping in Crete and a few suggestions for making the most of this adventure. And that’ll be much easier than you’d think.

Camping Sites in Crete

These are some of the camping sites on the island for those seriously considering packing your tent to visit the island!

Grammeno

⛺ Paleochora, Southern Coast, Chania region
Website

This is the place to go camping on the beach in Crete. It’s a short distance from the center of Paleochora, and you can book a wooden cabin or hire a tent, a van, or a wooden trailer home.
>> Prices are published here.

Camping Bungalow Mithimna

⛺ Kissamos, Northern Coast, Chania region
Website

This campsite is in the area of Drapanias, not far from the imposing Kommolithi formations on the way to Elafonisi. It is a few minutes from the western city of Kissamos, just right next to the beach. A stay here comes with complimentary views of the mountains and Kissamos Bay.
>> Pricing for tents and caravans here.

>> You can read about Kissamos here.

Camping Nopigia

⛺ Kissamos, Northern Coast, Chania region
Website

Another camping site in Kissamos, about 20 minutes from the center of Chania. This is the perfect place if you’re looking for a site with a few extra perks, including a gorgeous swimming pool and a Cretan tavern. You can rent fully equipped tents for up to 4 people in a quiet and shady space (also by the sea).
>> Prices are published on this page.

Sisi Camping

⛺ Sisi, Northern Coast, Lasithi region
Website

This camping site is just minutes from Sisi, a traditional fishing village near Heraklion in the Lasithi region. Close both to the sea and the mountains, the site offers plenty of trees for natural shade. The place is about a 10-minute walk from the beach and the small port of Sisi.
>> Prices are published here.

More Campsites In Crete

• Crete Camping
  Kato Gouves, Heraklion
  It is near the port, making it perfect for travelers arriving on the island by ferry. It is convenient, clean, well-reviewed, and not far from the sea.
  >> Read more here.

• Camping Elizabeth – Missiria, Rethymnon
  Whether you’re a backpacker who enjoys sleeping under the stars or a newlywed couple relishing the comfort of a 5-star hotel room in an eco-friendly habitat, Camping Elizabeth is a truly special place.
  >> Read more here.

• Campsite Hania – Agioi Apostoloi, Chania
  In Camping Hania, you will find a selection of temporary accommodations ranging from tents to mobile homes. If you are touring with your own caravan or mobile home, a shaded area under leafy olive trees will be allocated to you. If hotel accommodation is more suitable for you, they can also offer a variety of studios and apartments.
  >> Read more here.

• No Problem Agia Galini – Agia Galini, Rethymnon
  This place has often been recommended as one of the friendliest and best places to stay when camping in south Crete (and not just because of the super-economic prices!).
  The site is close to a small river in a large forested area with plane and olive trees, where you can set up your tent or caravan and enjoy the hospitable environment.
  >> Read more here.

• Camping Paleochora – Paleochora, Chania
  Another popular spot on the southern coast, this is a very good camping option not far from one of the nicest towns in the south, Paleochora.
  >> Read more here.

Tips To Enjoy Camping in Crete

You’d often find that many people’s problems are the discomfort they might experience: bugs, the weather, isolation, high temperatures… these are only some of the many things that will cross your mind. How about taking a few steps to avoid -or at least survive- these?

Bring The Right Equipment

Proper equipment is vital for staying comfy, warm, and dry when camping. Even if you camp in summer and temperatures are at their best, it could get chilly at night, especially in coastal areas. Make sure to bring a light coat or cover for the night.

>> You’ll need sleeping bags, a tent, flashlights, batteries, and a light cover. Don’t forget to pack a net or any other protection against bugs and mosquitoes, especially if you travel in the summer.

>> If you enjoy spending time outdoors, check out the most stunning gorges in Crete (and savvy tips to explore them!

Setting Up The Tent

When you first get to a campsite, you’ll have quite a few things to do. One of the most important is setting up your tent. This can be complex if this is your first time camping or you just bought a new tent. I suggest practicing setting it up before you go, not just once!

You could endure bad weather, especially in the shoulder months (May-June and September-October). Knowing exactly how to set up your tent quickly and easily before getting there can be helpful, and it is one more step towards enjoying your camping experience.

Campfire-Ready Meals Vs. Local Alternatives

Food is one of the most significant issues many people have when camping. You can make this much easier. Having pre-made meals can simplify the cooking process. After all, you’re on vacation and are taking a break from cooking and routine. You can finish them off on the campfire or stove, saving some effort.

Alternatively, visit the nearest supermarket and get the essentials for a quick meal inside your tent. Nothing tastes more delicious than some Cretan rusks with olive oil and fresh tomato by the sea or a home-made Greek salad.

On Crete, it’s always easy to find public markets and seasonal veggies and fruits. Besides, especially on the southern coast, there are many affordable tavernas where your food issues can be solved for just a few euros, if not every day, at least for a couple of dinners.

Making the Most of Your Camping In Crete

Ultimately, planning a camping trip in Crete is easier than you think! Just follow these simple tips to make your camping experience amazing. Camping can be super fun, especially on such a gorgeous island!

REMEMBER!

• Ensure you’ve got the right cooking gear, easy-to-use ingredients, and a plan for cleaning up afterward. Once that’s taken care of, you can start planning all the fun stuff you want to do while you’re there. You’ll have a blast, whether hiking in the mountains or chilling out with a swim (the south of Crete is amazing for camping!).

By planning ahead, you can guarantee that you and your fellow campers will enjoy the outdoors in Crete. Sound good? Are you ready to make the most of your camping trip in Crete?

Are you visiting Crete Soon? 
Join my Facebook group for more tips, or plan your Crete itinerary with me!

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Everything about Camping in Crete

Gabi, the Crete Insider

Hi, I’m Gabi — your go-to local expert in Crete! I’ve been living in Chania, Crete since 2016, and I’ve turned my love for the island into a full-time passion — guiding travelers, writing for travel media, and curating local experiences.

I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and other guides. I run the blogs The Tiny Book, Greece Planner, and My Cretan Recipe. Through this platform I help travelers design unforgettable trips to Crete.

👉 Read more about Crete Insider.