Glaskogen Wilderness Camping

Glaskogen Wilderness Camping is tucked away between the lakes Stora Gla and Övre Gla in the small village of Lenungshammar – right in the heart of Glaskogen Nature Reserve in western Värmland. You stay close to the water, surrounded by deep forests, cliffs and miles of hiking trails. This is a place where the mobile signal is patchy, the wind whispers in the pines and the night sky shines brighter than back home.

The campsite suits anyone who wants to combine simple comfort with a genuine wilderness feel. Choose between tent pitches, caravan or motorhome spots with electricity, or rent one of the cosy cabins when you prefer a roof over your head. The site offers a service building with showers and toilets, a kitchen, laundry facilities, a small kiosk for essentials, and a lakeside sauna where you can end the day with a dip in cool water.

Glaskogen Nature Reserve is one of Sweden's most beloved hiking areas, with more than 300 km of marked trails, lean-to shelters and paddling routes between the lakes. Rent a canoe or kayak right at the camp and head out on a day trip or multi-day adventure – tell the staff how far you want to paddle and they'll happily help you choose a route. Fishing permits for trout, pike and perch are sold on site, and there are several great spots within walking distance.

In summer you swim from rocks and jetties, pick blueberries and chanterelles in the forest and grill your catch over an open fire. In autumn the forest glows red and gold, and it's peak season for mushroom picking and spotting moose. In winter the area becomes a silent paradise for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding – several trails are marked even when the snow is deep.

Lenungshammar is about 1.5 hours by car from Karlstad and 3 hours from Oslo. Combine your visit with a trip to Arvika, the Klässbol linen weaving mill or the Rackstad Museum for a broader Värmland experience. Families with children will find a playground, canoe packages and guided nature walks – those seeking stillness can choose secluded tent pitches further along the lake.

Tip: book well in advance for midsummer, the moose hunt in October or the winter ski break, when the campsite is often fully booked. Bring mosquito repellent, warm clothes for the evenings and something to read – there's no TV here, but plenty of time to simply be.