May you paddle anywhere?

You may generally travel on water, but you must show consideration for nature, wildlife, landowners and other people. Local bans, bird protection and military areas can restrict access.

May you camp on a paddle trip?

You may normally camp for a night or two on a suitable spot if you do not disturb or damage. Keep distance from houses and ask the landowner for larger groups or longer stays.

May you light a fire by the water?

Fire only where it is safe and allowed. Never on rock slabs, and always follow a fire ban. Prefer prepared fireplaces.

Allemansrätten when paddling

Allemansrätten makes paddling possible in a way that is fairly unique. You can travel across lakes, rivers and archipelago, land for a rest and camp simply in nature. The freedom rests on care: do not disturb, do not destroy.

Travelling on the water

As a paddler you may normally travel on water, but keep distance from bird protection, private jetties, plots and other sensitive places. Paddle calmly near bathing spots, fishing spots and narrow passages. If you pass animals or nesting birds: keep out and continue without stopping.

Putting in and landing

A put-in can be a ramp, beach, jetty or natural shore. Use prepared places first, with parking and ground that can take wear. Do not cross a private plot, do not block roads or ramps, and do not drag the canoe over sensitive vegetation.

Rests and camping

A short rest is usually fine if you show consideration and leave the place clean. Camping normally works for a night or two on suitable ground, but pick the spot with care: not near a home, not on cultivated land and not where nature is easily damaged. Larger groups should ask the landowner.

Fires and litter

Fire preferably in existing fireplaces and never directly on rock slabs. During a fire ban the ban applies even if the place has a fireplace. Take all litter home, including small things such as cord, food scraps, foil and tape. A good paddle spot should look untouched when you leave it.

Local rules come first

Nature reserves, national parks, bird protection areas and municipal outdoor areas can have their own rules for camping, fires, dogs, landing and groups. Check signs and local information before you plan an overnight or a trip through sensitive areas.

Three questions before you land

Is the place outside the hemfridszon and free from cultivated land or sensitive vegetation?
Are there signs or rules that restrict landing, camping or fires?
Can the ground take a rest, and can you leave without litter or traces remaining?

For larger groups, several tents or a longer stay, contact the landowner in good time. A short rest and one night still need consideration for the place and the people who live there.

Keep it simple: paddle quietly, choose durable spots, leave nothing behind and give both people and animals more distance than you think you need.