WILD CAMPING
These campsites are “unofficial” campsites—that is, they are not privately owned or even specifically set side for camping. These are areas that past students and staff have visited and recommended. They are pack-in, pack-out hikes. All trash, equipment, water, food, etc. must be both brought in and taken out, and care MUST be taken to “leave only footprints.” Wild camping requires flexibility, outdoor experience, and common sense in order to ensure a fun and safe trip.
The coordinates given for each site are typically approximations. Aim to get as close as possible to the coordinates… or don’t! All the areas around the given locations have endless opportunity for exploration and discovery. If you find a great place to pitch, let us know!
Croy
46°40'30.9"N 6°29'02.1"E (Pictured)
Located just North of Lausanne, this secluded location offers fantastic forest walks and opportunities for exploration. To get to the site area, take the S1 Grandson train and hop off at
Eclépens. From Eclépens, the 756 St-Loup, hôpital Bus runs from Eclépens to Pompaples every hour. After getting of the bus in Pompaples, the forested area in which to camp is located directly eastward, with numerous hiking trails scattered throughout.
Lauterbrunnen Chalet
Tucked away next to the cliffs of Lauterbrunnen, these areas provide stunning views of Interlaken cliffs and rugged natural beauty while still being fairly accessible. To get to the area, take the train from Vevey to Interlaken Ost, and then from Interlaken Ost take the train to Lauterbrunnen. Upon arrival in Lauterbrunnen, begin to walk southwards through the center of town past Camping Jungfrau. While walking through the canyon, there are dozens of tree-secluded areas to the left and right of the past which offer ample opportunity for pitching a tent or hanging a hammock. Make sure to stay far enough from commercial buildings and residences as to not disturb the tenants, and keep fires at a minimum if at all. Old abandoned chalets also often are excellent places near which to pitch.
Vallorbe Caves/Camping
Located very close to the border of France in the Northwest corner of Switzerland, this large forest offers fantastic wilderness camping opportunity. To get to Vallorbe, take the train directly from Vevey. Upon arriving in Vallorbe, it is possible to take the bus westward, closer to forested areas. The recommended option is to head down the Rue des Grottes, and head off into the forest at any point that is suitable. Make sure to not stray too far North, or you’ll find yourself in France, where wild camping laws are significantly less flexible.
Camping Spot Submission Form
Found a fantastic place to camp that you’d love to share with other students? Fill out the form below or come talk to the Alpine Adventures Coordinator to add your spot to the website! Keep in mind that potential pitches need to be away from commercial areas, semi-easily accessible, not within a banned biovac area (rough guidlines found here), and within Swiss borders.