Tired of city noise and looking to spend your weekend or vacation in nature? Camping in the Kyiv region offers the perfect opportunity to combine comfort and closeness to the outdoors. This article features the best camping spots near Kyiv, preparation tips, safety rules, and practical ideas to make your tent trip truly enjoyable and convenient.
What Is Camping and Why It's Becoming Popular in Ukraine
Camping is an organized or semi-wild nature getaway using tents, camper vans, or mobile homes. In Ukraine, this form of leisure is becoming more popular as an alternative to hotels and glamping. More people are choosing campsites to reconnect with nature, escape the city's hustle, and save money.
In Europe, camping is already a well-established culture — France, Germany, and Italy have thousands of sites equipped with water, electricity, and restrooms. Ukraine is still developing such infrastructure, but even now, many camping spots in the Kyiv region rival their European counterparts in terms of natural beauty.
Benefits of Camping in the Kyiv Region
- Close to the capital — Most campsites are located within 100 km of Kyiv and can be reached in under two hours.
- Diverse landscapes — Forests, rivers, lakes, hills, and pine groves make the Kyiv region ideal for camping.
- Affordable and economical — Tent camping is much cheaper than hotels or cottages.
- Easy to organize — Many campsites accept guests without prior reservations.
- Comfortable infrastructure — Many locations offer showers, toilets, barbecue areas, grills, and access to electricity.
Best Camping Spots in Kyiv Region
There are dozens of locations in the Kyiv region suitable for weekend or multi-day tent trips. Some campsites are minimally equipped (just a site, fire pit, and grill), while others offer showers, electricity, gear rentals, and even campervan spaces. Below is a selection of the most popular destinations near Kyiv, great for both beginners and seasoned tourists.
Camping Near Kyiv on the Desna River
The villages of Pukhivka and Zazymya are ideal for camping near Kyiv, offering clean waters of the Desna River and numerous meadows along the shore. Here you’ll find both basic campsites with minimal infrastructure (grills, toilets, water) and wild spots for experienced campers. Perfect for family outings or peaceful overnight stays accompanied by birdsong.
Camping by the Teteriv River Near Kyiv
Along the Teteriv River, especially near the Vyshovytske forestry area, camping zones lie nestled among pine and mixed forests. These sites are perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude. It’s essential to bring everything you need — infrastructure is absent, making it ideal for autonomous camping. Excellent for fishing and hiking.
Camping in Pushcha-Vodytsia
Pushcha-Vodytsia is the most popular option for city dwellers. It’s easily accessible even by public transport. The site offers fire pits, benches, walking paths, and bathing ponds. It can get crowded on weekends, so arrive early or come during weekdays. Ideal for short stays or first-time camping experiences.
Camping on the Kaniv Reservoir
This area has developed infrastructure: organized fire areas, boat rentals, and restrooms. Villages like Protsiv, Vytachiv, and Khodosivka offer maintained beaches, hills with water views, and pine forests. Great for couples or larger groups with children.
Camping on the Kyiv Sea
This is one of the most versatile camping locations in the Kyiv region. The Kyiv Sea (Vyshhorod direction) offers sandy beaches, pine forests, and open fields. In villages like Lytizh, Hlibivka, and Kozarovychi, you’ll find both paid and free campsites with toilets, cooking areas, boat and SUP board rentals. Great for those seeking a mix of comfort, water, and natural beauty.
What to Pack for a Comfortable Camping Trip
Essential camping gear includes:
- Sleeping pad or air mattress
- Sleeping bag (seasonal)
- Power bank or battery pack
- Flashlight + spare batteries
- First-aid kit, water, gas canister, stove
- Thermos, dishes, trash bags
- Insect repellent
- Change of clothes and raincoat
More gear doesn’t always mean better. Base your packing on number of nights, weather, and vehicle capacity to avoid overloading.
Camping Rules — What’s Allowed and What’s Not
Although Ukraine doesn’t yet have a strict legal framework for camping, follow these general guidelines for safe and ethical outdoor recreation:
- Do not pitch tents in protected areas without permission. This includes national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries. Check maps of protected areas before traveling.
- Fires are forbidden in pine forests unless in designated areas. This is especially important during dry seasons with high fire risks. Use metal fire pits or existing fireplaces if allowed.
- Always clean up after yourself. Even biodegradable waste should be removed or disposed of properly. Avoid leaving cigarette butts, packaging, or food scraps.
- Respect nighttime quiet hours. Many campsites have noise restrictions after 10:00 PM, especially near villages or recreation centers.
- Control your pets. If camping with animals, ensure they don’t disturb others or harm nature.
For more detailed camping rules, safety advice, and useful tips, read the BLS blog.
Car Rental for Camping — The Ideal Way to Explore Kyiv Region
Camping involves traveling with gear — tents, supplies, food. Your own car may not be suitable or spacious enough. In this case, renting a vehicle for camping with BLS Car Rental is the perfect solution.
Advantages:
- Wide selection of SUVs, minivans, and station wagons
- Vehicles with large trunks, air conditioning, and power outlets
- Rental options for weekends, a week, or longer
- Safe, clean, and inspected vehicles
- Easy online booking
Create your own camping route across the Kyiv region and move freely between locations without relying on public transport or taxis.