Have you ever woken up to the sound of birds chirping, the scent of fresh pine, or the sight of mist rolling off a pristine lake — and realized you paid less than $20 for the privilege? If not, you’re about to! As someone who’s been camping solo across continents for the past 15 years, let me tell you, cheap doesn’t have to mean crappy. It means smart. It means knowing where to pitch your tent to maximize adventure and minimize cost. And guess what? I’ve done the legwork for you.
1. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
This volcanic crater lake is the stuff of postcards. Picture a glassy turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic volcanoes. Camping here is not only dirt cheap (some spots cost as little as $5 a night), but you’ll also get the chance to experience local Mayan culture.
Pro tip: Head to San Marcos or Jaibalito for peaceful vibes and small family-run camping spots. You might even wake up to the sound of fishermen paddling across the water at sunrise.
2. Olhão, Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve region is known for stunning cliffs and hidden beaches, but the real gem is the Ria Formosa Natural Park near Olhão. For under $15 a night, you can camp near the lagoon and explore its unique ecosystem. Think flamingos, salt marshes, and tiny fishing villages straight out of a storybook.
Pro tip: Rent a bike to explore the area or hop on a boat tour to discover the hidden islands.
3. Phong Nha-Kế Bàng National Park, Vietnam
Think lush jungles, underground rivers, and caves so massive they have their own weather systems. Phong Nha is an adventurer’s dream, and camping here will set you back less than $10 a night. You’ll find basic but beautiful camping spots near the park’s entrance, where you can drift off to the hum of cicadas and the occasional monkey call.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to explore Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, or kayak along the turquoise river.
6. Vík, Iceland
Camping in Iceland sounds expensive, right? Nope! You can camp near Vík for under $20 a night and wake up to views of black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and maybe even a puffin or two. It’s a surreal landscape that feels straight out of a fantasy novel.
Pro tip: Layer up—even in summer, Iceland can be chilly. And don’t skip a visit to the Reynisfjara beach; those basalt columns are insta-famous for a reason.
2. Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
New Zealand knows how to do nature right, and the Coromandel Peninsula is proof. For less than $20 a night, you can camp near beaches with soft white sand or in lush green forests. Hot Water Beach is a must-visit. Dig your own hot tub in the sand during low tide and soak while sipping a cold drink.
Pro tip: Go off-season to avoid crowds and snag the best spots. Also, keep an eye out for the cheeky native birds (yes, I’m talking about you, Keas).
4. Joshua Tree National Park, USA
Yes, the iconic Joshua Tree is affordable too! For as little as $15 a night, you can camp under its famous starry skies, surrounded by rugged rock formations and those otherworldly Joshua trees. It’s the ultimate desert experience.
Pro tip: Bring plenty of water and a camera. The sunsets here are nothing short of magical, and you’ll want to capture those fiery skies.
Camping doesn’t have to cost a fortune to deliver million-dollar views. From volcanic lakes to starry deserts, these spots prove that beauty and budget can go hand in hand. So, what are you waiting for? Dust off that tent, load up your backpack, and start planning your next cheap camping adventure. And if you’ve already been to any of these places, drop your tips and stories in the comments. I’d love to hear about your experiences!