New Law Highlights and Legal Background
In a significant move to protect its natural and cultural heritage, Greece has enacted Law 5170/2025, reinforcing restrictions on wild camping and unauthorized motorhome (campers) parking.The legislation mandates that motorhomes and caravans must utilize officially organized campsites, prohibiting free camping in forests, archaeological sites, beaches, and other public spaces.
The Greek Ministry of Tourism emphasizes that this law aligns with practices in other well-governed countries, aiming to safeguard public health, safety, and the environment. The law builds upon previous regulations, including Article 10 of Law 392/1976 and Article 7 of Law 4276/2014, which already banned the installation of tents or the parking of caravans in sensitive areas. Violations can result in fines up to €3,000 and imprisonment for up to three months.
What Campers in Sithonia Need to Know – What Is Now Allowed and What Isn’t
Under the new law, campers in Sithonia (and throughout Greece) can park in organized camping facilities that meet legal health, safety, and environmental standards. Temporary parking is allowed in designated areas, but any form of camping activity, such as extending awnings or setting up outdoor furniture, is strictly prohibited outside official campsites.
Here’s a summary of what’s permitted for campers in Sithonia:
- Parking in licensed camping facilities
- Temporary stops in designated municipal areas (max 24h)
- Strictly no outdoor camping activity outside campsites
- Only one motorhome is allowed per private property (unless licensed)
The legislation also stipulates that in residential areas, parking of motorhomes is limited to 24 consecutive hours unless in designated, enclosed spaces defined by local municipalities. Additionally, hosting more than one motorhome on private property without proper licensing is forbidden, aiming to curb unauthorized camping operations.
The Need for Better Infrastructure for Campers in Sithonia
While these measures aim to preserve Greece’s natural beauty and historical sites, they also highlight the need for more official motorhome facilities. Currently, Greece lacks a comprehensive network of camper stops, with none officially registered in international directories. This gap underscores the necessity for developing infrastructure to support the growing number of campers in Sithonia and across the country.
For campers in Sithonia, planning by booking stays at authorized campsites is essential. Facilities such as Armenistis and Thalatta Kalamitsi Village Camp offer amenities that comply with the new regulations, ensuring a safe and legal camping experience for motorhome (camper) owners.
Sithonia Camping Sites on Google Maps:
For more information on compliant camping options and to plan your visit, explore our list of authorized campsites in Sithonia.
