So, you’ve packed your life in a couple of suitcases and moved to a whole new country. The new reality is exciting but also a
Sanja Markovic
January 23, 2026
Would you rather wake up to birdsong and dazzling views than in a cushy yet overpriced hotel bed? Then the wild side of the Balkans is waiting for you: raw, unfiltered, and raggedly beautiful. It’s time to go camping in Serbia.
If the thought never crossed your mind and you assumed this country is all about clubbing, architecture, and historic sites, you’ve got another thing coming. And that thing is nature. Indeed, Serbia boasts a fair share of spots of unspoiled beauty and remarkable charm. So, to get your fill of adventure, fresh air, and quiet, read our lists of top spots, and make your next journey unforgettable.
Before we get into the best spots, let’s talk about the two main ways to enjoy nature in Serbia. In short, you can go for the comfort of organized campsites or embrace the raw beauty of wild camping.
Organized camps usually come with handy facilities such as toilets, showers, electricity, and running water. Some even have swimming pools and cafes for that extra bit of comfort. You’ll also get a chance to mingle with other campers, swap stories by the fire, and soak up the easygoing atmosphere. The price? Usually between $15 and $30 per night.
Wild camping, on the other hand, is all about freedom. It’s just you, your tent, and the great outdoors — no crowds, no fees, no frills. The trade-off is that you’ll need to bring everything yourself (yes, including bug spray).
Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s get to the fun part.
Here’s the beautiful thing about Serbia: you get mountains, gorges, rivers, and wetlands all packed into one country. No seaside, sure — but who needs beaches when you’ve got views like these?
To save you from scrolling through every camping forum on the internet, we’ve narrowed it down to eight spots that are absolutely worth the drive.
If peace and pine trees are your thing, Tara is your happy place. Set up camp near Mitrovac or Lake Perućac and breathe in that crisp, resin-scented air. Days here are for hiking through thick forests or just doing absolutely nothing by the water — both count as excellent therapy.
Roughing it isn’t really your style? Then Srebrno jezero (Silver Lake) is an ideal middle ground. There you’ll find organized campsites with pools, kids’ activities, and cafes nearby. As such, this gorgeous lake attracts families or anyone who likes a bit of comfort with their campfire
The cliffs at Đerdap are massive, and the Danube snaking through them looks like something from a postcard. Camp along the river and you’ll wake up to those views every morning. Also, Lepenski Vir isn’t far if you’re into ancient history stuff. Two-for-one deal.
Rising like a pyramid from the plains, Rtanj offers some of Serbia’s most breathtaking views. Climb to its peak, Šiljak, for a 360° panorama of rolling hills and endless sky. Camp down below and watch the sky turn into a planetarium at night.
Looking to trade city noise for frogs and fireflies? Head north to Zasavica. There, you can ride a canoe on the wetland, eat donkey cheese, and see the European beaver along with a boatload of other rare and adorable species.
Two hours from Belgrade, Divčibare is where you go for a quick escape without making it complicated. Enjoy forest walks, picnic areas, and little cafes with tea and rakija. Families love it here because it’s chill and doesn’t require hardcore camping skills.
Uvac is ridiculously gorgeous. The emerald river winds through the tall cliffs, and there are griffon vultures just floating around above you like they’re showing off. Set up your tent near the water, and the view will mess with your head a little — it doesn’t look quite real. Oh, and definitely bring a camera.
Stara Planina (Old Mountain) is wild in the best way. Waterfalls deep inside the woods, horses just wandering around, flowers everywhere, and at night, the stars are insane. Camp here and you’ll probably forget your phone exists. Getting a little lost is part of the experience, and honestly, it’s not the worst thing that could happen to you.
Before you roll out your tent, it’s good to know a few local do’s and don’ts.
In Serbia, wild camping is generally allowed, but not everywhere. So, it’s smart to check if you’re near protected land or private property.
That said, locals are generally relaxed and friendly — if you ask politely, most will happily let you set up camp on their land (and might even offer you coffee or rakija). Also, national parks have their own rules, so don’t forget to check before you settle in.
And when it comes to fires, use common sense: safe spots only, never in dry forests, and always put it out completely before bed.
Oh, and here’s a cultural tip: roasting marshmallows isn’t really a Serbian thing. Barbecue is. If you want to camp like the locals do, bring a grill, some charcoal, and plenty of meat (or veggies, or both). Wash it down with a cold beer or a shot of homemade rakija, and congratulations — you’re officially camping the Serbian way.
Finally, let’s brush up on a few Serbian words that’ll come in handy out in the wild:
With all the deets on camping in Serbia under your belt, it’s time to grab your gear and hit the dirt road. Pick the most alluring spot and relish the postcard-worthy wilderness far away from the noise of crowds and technology.
And once you return to civilization, why don’t you keep the Serbian adventure going? If that sounds like a plan, start learning with us. It’s our birthday week, and we are offering a 30% discount on all 4 self-study courses! Pick the course that suits you best for the great price and level up your Serbian in no time!
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