Sustainable Tourism: How to Protect Nature While Exploring Telemark

Dreaming of hiking through majestic mountain landscapes, paddling between islands in the archipelago, or pitching your tent by a tranquil mountain lake?

Telemark is a fantastic county to explore, offering endless natural experiences—but we also have a responsibility to protect its unique environment. By traveling sustainably, we ensure that future generations can enjoy the same wonders. Here are some important things to keep in mind when exploring our nature.

The Right to Roam – Freedom with Responsibility

In Norway, we have a unique right: allemannsretten, the right to roam. It gives you the freedom to enjoy nature, regardless of who owns the land. But with freedom comes responsibility! This means showing respect for animals, plants, and fellow visitors. Always clean up after yourself, respect private property, and follow the principle of “leave no trace.” Nature is not a garbage bin—always take your waste with you and leave the place as you found it.

Campfire Ban – Prevent Forest Fires

One of the coziest parts of being outdoors is sitting around a campfire. However, from April 15 to September 15, open fires are generally prohibited in forests and uncultivated land to prevent wildfires. Use established fire pits where allowed, or bring a portable stove for cooking. Avoid using disposable grills—and never place them directly on bare rock. Always check local regulations before lighting a fire and stay aware of fire risks. A single spark can cause great harm.

Leash Law – Protect Wildlife

Bringing your dog along? From April 1 to August 20, dogs must be kept on a leash. This important rule protects wildlife, especially birds and mammals raising young during this time. Even friendly dogs can cause stress or harm to wild animals. Outside the leash period, you should still keep your dog under control—particularly in protected or grazing areas.

Sewage Pump-Out Stations for Boats in Telemark

As of July 1, 2024, it is prohibited to discharge sewage from recreational boats directly into the sea in the Oslofjord and surrounding areas, including Telemark. That makes it especially important to use designated pump-out stations along the coast.

In Telemark, there are several available pump-out stations for boat sewage:

• Porsgrunn – at the guest harbor in the city center
• Brevik – on Øya in Brevik
• Langesund – at Langøya Guest Harbor
• Kragerø – outside the ferry terminal at Stabbestad

For the latest information on locations and availability, it's recommended to contact local harbor authorities or municipal offices.
Always plan your boat trip so that you have access to a pump-out station before your tank is full—especially in areas where facilities are limited.

Wild Camping – What’s Allowed?

Camping in Telemark can be a fantastic way to connect with nature. The Norwegian Right to Roam allows you to camp in uncultivated areas for up to two nights without asking the landowner. However, wild camping can pose challenges for both locals and nature, so caution is important.

Remember to pitch your tent at least 150 meters away from inhabited houses or cabins, and avoid damaging vegetation. Leave the spot as pristine as you found it—no one enjoys discovering someone else’s litter in the wild. Be aware that certain areas, such as national parks, may have specific rules for camping.

We're not here to stop anyone from experiencing the freedom of wild camping—it can be a wonderful adventure. But we encourage you to consider camping in unique, nature-close environments or one of our many well-equipped campgrounds. That way, you can enjoy the outdoors without leaving a trace.

Respect Plants and Animals

Nature is home to countless species of plants and animals—and we are only guests. Always stick to marked trails to avoid damaging the landscape, leave flowers and plants untouched, and tread carefully in vulnerable areas. Protected areas and national parks have their own regulations—respect them. Want a souvenir from your trip? Take photos, not flowers!

Together, We Can Preserve Nature for Future Generations

Sustainable travel isn't about limiting your sense of adventure—on the contrary! It's about exploring with care and respect. By following the Right to Roam responsibilities, respecting fire bans, keeping your dog leashed, camping responsibly, and protecting wildlife and plant life, you're helping to preserve nature for the generations to come.

So pack your bag, enjoy the journey—and together, let’s ensure that nature remains just as beautiful for those who follow in our footsteps.