The Best Campsites in Bariloche, Argentina

Lago Gutierrez is one of the prettiest lakes in the Bariloche region and is blessed with warmer waters than some of the other glacial lakes, so it’s ideal for swimming. The campsite located on the western side of the lake is family-friendly, with many sites of interest including forests, lookout points, hiking trails and waterfalls close by, making it a great place to stay if you want to spend your days indulging in Bariloche’s outdoor activities.

This campsite is located at the northern end of Lago Gutierrez, but also close to Lago Nahuel Huapi and Bariloche’s main Bustillo highway. Accessible by car or public bus, Camping Los Coihues has a fully equipped campsite set among the trees, as well as cabins and dorms if you prefer to sleep inside. It also has a number of streams nearby that are perfect for fishing if you fancy catching your dinner.

El Bolson’s most well-known hike is the Cajon Azul, just two hours south of Bariloche. This hippy town has lots of amazing hikes and trails, and heading up towards the lodge at the Cajon Azul will take about three hours, but you can rent camping gear once you arrive. Spend the night and bathe in the crystal-clear waters of the swimming hole, and stick your beers in the river until they are icy cold.

Another great option for camping in El Bolson is Kumelen, which is an idyllic parkland with a river running through it that can accommodate campers as well – as those wishing to stay in the hostel or rent a cabin. A true El Bolson treasure, visitors to Kumelen will find themselves immersed in nature and disconnecting from their everyday lives. Take in your surroundings of imposing mountains that rise up at the back of the site – a typical Patagonian scene.

One of the best campsites to visit is Camping Osa Mayor in Villa la Angostura – an alpine village about two hours north of Bariloche. Located close to the town centre, Osa Mayor has plenty of room for campers, as well as fully serviced bungalows and cabins for those looking for a more private experience. All of Villa la Angostura’s amenities are close by, so you can avail yourself of treks, hikes and boat trips on the lake.

This campsite is along the banks of Lake Lacar near the town of San Martin de Los Andes, a little further north than Villa la Angostura. The town of Villa Quila Quina also benefits from one of the nicest lakeside beaches in the area, which can be enjoyed by visiting families and travellers to the campsite. The grounds are fully equipped with everything a camper would need, and the lodge has a large communal dining area where you can get to know your fellow travellers.

As yet another pretty lakeshore spot, the folksy campsite of Petunia sits on the fringe of Nahuel Huapi Lake’s sheltered Brazo Campanario. This makes it ideal for a dip, although you’ll want to aim to visit later in the summer as it can be quite chilly most of the year-round. Accommodation options range from simple tree-surrounded pitches – with fire pits and BBQs – to pioneer-style covered wagons sleeping four, or the most prestigious private cabins. You’ll feast on traditional Argentinian asado in the on-site restaurant – and pick up some snacks from the grocery shop for your next hike.