Beach Camping Near Thessaloniki
― organised campsites and what the rules say about wild camping ―
Camping near the sea in northern Greece has never been easier to plan — but it requires knowing which type of camping you're looking at. Organised campsites offer full facilities (electricity, showers, kitchens) within sight of the sea. Wild camping on Greek beaches is technically illegal on designated beaches and national parks, but the practical reality is more nuanced.
Organised Campsites
Camping Epanomi
One of the closest organised campsites to Thessaloniki, near the Potamos Beach area at about 35 km. A standard Greek campsite: electricity hookups, shared showers, a small snack bar in season, and direct access to the beach. Prices around €8–15 per tent plus person. Popular with Greek families in July–August — book ahead.
Camping Agia Triada
Right on the Agia Triada waterfront, roughly 30 km from Thessaloniki. Shaded pitches under trees, beach access, toilet and shower facilities. Better facilities than some competitors; a bit more expensive as a result (€12–18 per pitch plus person). The site's proximity to Agia Triada village means restaurants and supermarkets are walkable.
Kassandra Campsites
Multiple sites operate on Kassandra, particularly between Kallithea and Siviri. These are proper summer camping resorts — some have on-site restaurants, pools, and watersports. Prices reflect the resort infrastructure: €20–35 per pitch in peak season. Sites fill in August; reservations are necessary. The beach access is the main draw — wake up and walk 50 metres to the sea.
Sithonia Camping
A cluster of campsites operates around Porto Carras and Neos Marmaras. If you're spending multiple days in Sithonia, a campsite here gives you a base to explore the peninsula's beaches by day and a pleasant spot to return to in the evening. The pine forest setting behind many of these sites is genuinely beautiful.
Wild Camping: The Real Situation
Wild camping on Greek beaches is illegal under Law 3463/2006 — a blanket prohibition on camping outside designated areas. In practice, enforcement is selective. On popular organised beaches in peak season, you'll be moved on. In remote corners of Sithonia or Kassandra, nobody will disturb you if you're discreet (arrive late, leave early, leave no trace). The key factor is "organised beach" status — staffed beaches with lifeguards are the ones where regulations are enforced. Deserted coves generally aren't.
The safest approach: use an organised campsite as a base and take day trips to remote beaches. You get the comfort of facilities with the freedom to explore.
