How to find free campsites: permission, cost and booking

Define your intended use

Decide whether you need a tent pitch, vehicle overnight permission or daytime cooking space. A zero fee does not establish permission for all three.

Use the free-camping map to find locations, then open the facility and official guidance.

Read current notices first

Read closure, construction and access notices before the ordinary fee table. Note the year covered and the date checked.

Kotakizawa is free and without booking, but excludes camping and barbecues during its autumn foliage festival.

No booking does not waive registration

Kiritappu allows free tent and vehicle stays without advance booking in its 2026 notice, but requires a permit collected at Kiritappu Onsen Yuyu.

Plan around the reception location and hours. An unknown booking rule is not permission to arrive without applying.

Check eligibility and overnight permission

Mamuro restricts use to Konosu residents, workers and students and requires an in-person permit. Overnight users submit a usage plan.

Izumi no Mori is day-use only. Establish overnight permission from the rules, not a name or tent photograph.

Record costs and arrangements

Calculate charges for your party and stay type. Our budget grouping uses one adult, one tent and one night; it is not a quote for every family or vehicle stay.

Check drinking water and access to amenities during your visit. Keep a note of permission, season, reception, costs, water and waste.

Use the starter guide and free-campsite gear checklist to identify what is missing before buying.