MOTORHOME Campsites In Glarus -- Find Campings | MOTORHOMEingLife
Quick Overview
Glarus canton sits in eastern Switzerland's dramatic alpine landscape, where towering peaks create some of Europe's most spectacular RV camping backdrops. The UNESCO World Heritage Tectonic Arena Sardona runs right through this region, offering geology enthusiasts and outdoor lovers incredible hiking trails that start practically from your campsite door. Crystal-clear mountain lakes reflect snow-capped summits, while traditional Swiss villages dot the valleys with their characteristic wooden chalets and flower-filled window boxes.
The camping scene here centers around several established RV parks and campgrounds, with some offering free overnight stays for budget-conscious travelers. Most facilities cater to the European caravan and motorhome crowd, featuring smaller pitches than typical American RV parks but compensating with stunning mountain views and access to world-class hiking trails. You'll find a mix of municipal campgrounds and privately-run sites, many family-owned for generations.
From your base in Glarus, the Klausen Pass winds through breathtaking alpine scenery, connecting you to central Switzerland's tourist highlights. The Glarner Alps provide endless hiking opportunities, from gentle valley walks suitable for families to challenging multi-day treks for serious mountaineers. Elm village, with its historic slate mining heritage, sits just 30 minutes from most campgrounds and offers fascinating insights into traditional Swiss mountain life. The region's famous Schabziger cheese originates here -- you can visit production facilities and taste this unique green-hued specialty.
RV camping styles vary considerably across the canton. Full-service parks near Glarus town provide modern amenities including heated sanitary blocks, laundry facilities, and on-site restaurants serving hearty Swiss mountain fare. More rustic options exist in higher elevations, where you'll trade some conveniences for unparalleled natural settings and stargazing opportunities. Many campgrounds welcome tent campers alongside RVs, creating a friendly international atmosphere during peak season.
Summer brings the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, but also the heaviest crowds and highest prices. Spring and fall offer excellent value with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, though some higher-elevation campgrounds close between October and May. Winter camping requires serious preparation due to snow and freezing temperatures, but rewards hardy travelers with access to cross-country skiing and thermal spa towns.
Our detailed listings below help you choose the perfect base camp for exploring this remarkable corner of the Swiss Alps.
Top Rated RV Parks in Glarus
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Gear for Your Glarus RV Trip
Getting Around Glarus by RV
Reaching Glarus requires navigating Switzerland's excellent but sometimes challenging mountain road network. The A3 autobahn from Zurich provides the most direct route, taking about 90 minutes to reach Glarus town. This highway handles large RVs without problems, though you'll pay tolls and need the annual Swiss highway vignette sticker available at border crossings and gas stations.
The scenic Route 17 from Chur offers spectacular alpine views but includes several hairpin turns and steep grades that challenge larger motorhomes. Check your rig's specifications against posted weight and length limits before attempting mountain passes. The Klausen Pass (Route 17) closes completely in winter, typically from November through May depending on snow conditions.
Fuel stops become crucial in mountain regions where gas stations can be 50+ kilometers apart. Stock up in larger towns like Glarus or Schwanden rather than hoping to find diesel in remote villages. Coop and Migros supermarkets often have attached fuel stations with competitive prices and accept major credit cards.
Border crossings from Germany or Austria are straightforward for EU citizens, but non-EU travelers need valid passports and may face customs inspections. Switzerland isn't part of the EU customs union, so duty-free allowances apply to alcohol and tobacco purchases. The Swiss franc remains the local currency despite surrounding eurozone countries.
Mountain weather changes rapidly, so pack chains even in summer and check road conditions via the official Swiss traffic app before departing. Many campgrounds close access roads during heavy snow, potentially trapping RVs until conditions improve.
Before You Go: RV Trip Essentials
Dump stations are only one piece of the trip puzzle. Before you set out for your Glarus trip, it's worth taking thirty minutes to check that the basics are in place — the four areas below are where unprepared RVers most often get stung.
Check your RV insurance coverage
A standard auto policy rarely covers a Class A, Class C, or travel trailer the way a dedicated RV insurance policy does. If you're financing a motorhome, lenders typically require comprehensive and collision; full-timers should additionally price in vacation liability and personal belongings coverage. Rates vary widely by state and travel pattern — compare quotes from multiple RV-focused carriers before each season.
Know your roadside assistance options
RV-specific roadside plans tow motorhomes and trailers that regular AAA coverage won't touch — flat beds, mobile mechanics, tire service for duallies, and even emergency lockouts at remote campgrounds. Good plans cover your spouse and trailer even if you're driving a separate vehicle, and some include trip interruption reimbursement if a breakdown costs you a reservation.
Decide about an extended warranty early
Original manufacturer warranties on new RVs typically run 12–24 months — shorter than most buyers realize. An extended service contract (essentially a mechanical breakdown policy) covers the appliances, slides, levelling systems, and drivetrain components that can run $3,000–$10,000 to replace. The time to price one is before the factory coverage expires, not after something breaks.
Set up a travel rewards card for fuel and fees
A no-annual-fee travel or gas rewards card pays for itself on a single month of RV travel. Expect to spend $400–$800 per week combined on fuel, campgrounds, and propane — 3–5% cash back on gas alone covers the next oil change. For bigger trips, a sign-up bonus can offset campground fees for the whole season.
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RV Parks Costs in Glarus
Nightly campground rates in Glarus range from 25-35 Swiss francs for basic sites to 45-60 francs for premium pitches with mountain views and full hookups. These prices include typical Swiss amenities like immaculate sanitary facilities, hot showers, and often Wi-Fi access. Tourist taxes add another 2-4 francs per person per night in most municipalities.
Of the region's several camping options, a portion% offer free overnight stays while a portion% charge nightly rates. Free options are extremely rare in Switzerland, making paid campgrounds the norm rather than exception. However, the consistently high quality of facilities and services justifies the premium pricing compared to other European destinations.
Seasonal pricing varies significantly, with July and August commanding peak rates often 40-50% higher than shoulder seasons. May, June, September, and early October offer the best value while maintaining good weather for outdoor activities. Many campgrounds close entirely from November through March, limiting winter options.
Membership programs like ACSI Camping Card Europe provide substantial discounts at participating Swiss campgrounds, typically reducing costs by 30-40% during off-peak periods. The card costs about 20 euros annually and pays for itself after just a few nights.
Grocery costs run high throughout Switzerland, with basic supplies costing 2-3 times typical American prices. Stock up on non-perishables before entering the country, and shop at discount chains like Aldi or Lidl when possible. Local farmers' markets offer better value for fresh produce while supporting regional agriculture.
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Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Glarus
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Best Time to Visit Glarus by RV
Winter
December-February
15-35°F
Crowds: Low
Most campgrounds close due to snow; limited winter camping requires serious cold-weather preparation and equipment.
Spring
March-May
35-65°F
Crowds: Medium
Campgrounds reopen gradually; excellent hiking weather but higher elevations may still have snow patches.
Summer
June-August
50-80°F
Crowds: High
Peak season with warmest weather and highest prices; advance reservations essential for popular campgrounds.
Fall
September-November
40-70°F
Crowds: Medium
Ideal weather for hiking with fall colors; many campgrounds close by October for winter preparations.
Explore Glarus
Camping Sernftal near Elm consistently ranks as the region's top choice for RVers seeking authentic Swiss alpine experiences. Their pitches offer direct mountain views, and the on-site restaurant serves excellent regional specialties including venison and locally-caught trout. Book well ahead for summer stays, as repeat visitors often reserve the same spots year after year.
Boondocking opportunities exist along forestry roads above Braunwald, but respect posted restrictions and practice Leave No Trace principles. Wild camping is technically illegal in Switzerland, though enforcement varies in remote areas. Always ask permission from local landowners and avoid protected nature reserves.
The Glarner Hiking Pass provides unlimited access to cable cars and mountain railways throughout the canton, paying for itself after just two rides. Most campground reception desks sell these passes and provide detailed trail maps. The Fronalpstock cable car from Stoos offers incredible 360-degree alpine panoramas accessible even to mobility-impaired visitors.
Restaurant Gasthaus Adler in Elm serves the region's best rösti and älplermagronen (Swiss mac and cheese), both perfect after long hiking days. Their outdoor terrace overlooks the Tschingelhörner peaks, creating unforgettable dinner settings. Reservations recommended during peak season.
Photography enthusiasts should wake early for sunrise shots at Obersee lake, where morning light illuminates the surrounding peaks in brilliant gold. The short walk from nearby parking areas makes this accessible even for RVers with limited mobility.
Dogs are welcome at most campgrounds but must remain leashed in nature reserves and alpine meadows during wildlife breeding seasons from May through July.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Parks in Glarus
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Glarus?
Camping Ennenda near Glarus town offers the most convenient access to hiking trails and cable car stations, with full service and English-speaking staff. The facility accommodates motorhomes up to 10 meters and provides shuttle connections to mountain attractions. Alternative options include smaller campgrounds in Elm village that offer more intimate alpine settings.
Is there free motorhome camping near Glarus?
No free motorhome camping exists in Glarus canton, as Swiss regulations require all overnight parking in designated campgrounds. Wild camping remains strictly prohibited throughout Switzerland, with enforcement particularly active in tourist areas. All established campgrounds charge nightly fees ranging from 35-55 CHF, but they provide essential services including waste disposal and electrical hookups.
What is the best time of year to camp in Glarus?
Late spring through early fall (May-September) provides optimal camping conditions, with all mountain trails accessible and full campsite services available. July and August offer the warmest weather but require advance reservations due to high demand. September provides excellent hiking conditions with fewer crowds, while May features spectacular wildflower displays in alpine meadows.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Glarus?
Most Glarus campgrounds offer electrical hookups and fresh water access, though full American-style hookups with sewer connections are less common in Swiss facilities. European stellplatz-style camping focuses on electrical service and centralized waste disposal stations rather than individual sewer hookups. All established campgrounds provide dump stations and fresh water filling points for motorhome tanks.
Can I boondock near Glarus?
Free Camping or wild camping is prohibited throughout Glarus canton and all of Switzerland, with strict enforcement and significant fines for violations. Swiss camping regulations require overnight stays in designated campgrounds only, eliminating opportunities for dispersed camping. However, several campgrounds offer "comfort pitch" sites with premium electrical service for RVers running multiple appliances or air conditioning systems.
How do I access hiking trails from Glarus campgrounds?
Most campgrounds provide shuttle services or walking access to cable car stations that reach high alpine trails, eliminating the need to drive your motorhome on narrow mountain roads. The Klöntalersee trail system connects directly from several campsite locations, while Elm village offers funicular railway access to car-free mountain areas. Trail maps and current conditions are available at all campsite reception areas.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Glarus?
Camping Sernftal near Elm stands out for its spectacular mountain views and excellent on-site restaurant serving regional specialties. The facility offers modern amenities while maintaining an authentic Swiss alpine atmosphere. Camping Urnerboden provides another excellent option with direct access to hiking trails and traditional Swiss hospitality that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Is there free RV camping near Glarus?
Free camping options are extremely limited in Glarus canton, as Switzerland generally prohibits wild camping and most facilities charge nightly fees. While some remote forestry roads might allow overnight parking, this practice exists in legal gray areas and requires landowner permission. Your best bet for budget camping involves ACSI card discounts at established campgrounds during off-peak seasons.
What is the best time of year to camp in Glarus?
Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the ideal camping window, with June and September providing the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Summer brings warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours but also peak pricing and heavy tourist traffic. Early fall delivers spectacular alpine colors and comfortable hiking conditions while avoiding summer's premium rates.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Glarus?
Most established campgrounds in Glarus provide full hookups including electricity, water, and sewer connections, along with modern sanitary facilities and hot showers. European electrical systems use different plugs and voltage than North American RVs, so bring appropriate adapters and converters. Many sites also offer Wi-Fi access and on-site restaurants or small convenience stores for basic supplies.
Can I boondock near Glarus?
Boondocking opportunities exist along remote forestry roads above villages like Braunwald, but wild camping is technically illegal throughout Switzerland. Some RVers find tolerance in remote mountain areas when practicing Leave No Trace principles and staying just one night. However, established campgrounds remain the safest legal option, and their reasonable rates often justify the cost over potential fines.
Do I need special permits to drive large RVs in Swiss mountains?
No special permits are required for standard RVs, but weight and length restrictions apply on many mountain passes and narrow village roads. The Klausen Pass has specific limitations, and some routes prohibit vehicles over 3.5 tons or 12 meters long. Always check current road conditions and restrictions before attempting mountain crossings, especially during winter months when many passes close completely.
