All Camping Guides

Camping in San Martín de los Andes

Discover the enchanting beauty of San Martín de los Andes, nestled in the heart of Patagonia's Lake District. This vibrant town is your gateway to pristine lakes, ancient forests, and majestic mountains, offering unparalleled car camping adventures. With your rental vehicle, you'll unlock hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes perfect for an unforgettable Patagonian road trip.

4 campsitesWild Camping: Not Allowed

San Martín de los Andes, a charming alpine-style town in Argentina's Neuquén province, serves as an idyllic base for exploring the stunning Lanín National Park and the iconic Seven Lakes Route. For road trip enthusiasts, the region offers a wealth of camping opportunities, from well-equipped campgrounds to more rustic sites by serene lakeshores. Embrace the freedom of car camping as you navigate scenic routes, discover secluded beaches, and immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of Patagonia. This guide will provide all the essential information to plan your perfect camping adventure, emphasizing convenience for those traveling with a rental car.

Campsites

Camping Catritre

Paid

Located just 5 km from San Martín de los Andes on the shores of Lake Lácar, Camping Catritre is a popular choice offering excellent facilities and direct access to a beautiful beach. It's ideal for families and those seeking comfort close to town.

Facilities: toilets, showers, picnic tables, fire pits, beach access, kayak rental
Cost: USD 10-15 per person per night
No reservation needed
Access: Accessible via a paved road (Ruta Nacional 40) turning off to Provincial Route 10, just a 15-minute drive from the town center of San Martín de los Andes.

Camping Quila Quina

Paid

Situated within the Mapuche community lands, Quila Quina offers a unique cultural experience alongside stunning lake views. It boasts a beautiful beach, hiking trails, and is known for its tranquil atmosphere.

Facilities: toilets, showers, restaurant, store, picnic areas, boat tours
Cost: USD 12-18 per person per night
Reservation required
Access: From San Martín de los Andes, take RP 19 for about 12 km. The road is gravel but generally well-maintained for cars. Alternatively, it can be reached by boat from San Martín's pier.

Camping Lago Lolog

Paid

Further north of San Martín, Camping Lago Lolog offers a more rustic and peaceful experience by the vast Lake Lolog. It's perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature, fishing, and quieter surroundings.

Facilities: basic toilets, no showers, fire pits, beach access, fishing
Cost: USD 7-10 per person per night
No reservation needed
Access: Drive north from San Martín de los Andes on RP 62 for approximately 12 km, following signs for Lago Lolog. The road is mostly gravel but accessible for standard vehicles.

Camping Lago Hermoso

Paid

Part of the famous Seven Lakes Route, Camping Lago Hermoso lives up to its name ('Beautiful Lake'). It offers picturesque campsites right on the lake's edge, surrounded by lush forest, making it a quintessential Patagonian camping spot.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, fire pits, small store, beach, rental cabins
Cost: USD 10-15 per person per night
Reservation required
Access: Located approximately 35 km south of San Martín de los Andes along Ruta 40 (Seven Lakes Route). A well-marked gravel road leads directly to the campsite entrance from the main route.

Wild Camping

Not Allowed

Wild camping is generally not permitted within Lanín National Park outside of designated campsites or specific, marked 'áreas de acampe agreste' (rustic camping areas) primarily for trekkers, which often require permits and are not accessible by car. Open fires are strictly prohibited outside of designated fire pits. 'Leave No Trace' principles are mandatory. Car camping or overnight parking outside established campgrounds is forbidden to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure visitor safety.

Best Spots:

  • Designated rustic camping zones within Lanín National Park (only for hikers with permits, not car accessible)
  • Private properties with explicit permission (rarely available to the public)
  • Remote areas outside national park boundaries (requires extensive local knowledge and strict adherence to regulations)

Gear Checklist

Four-season tent (for variable weather)
Sleeping bag (rated to 0°C or below)
Sleeping pad
Camp stove and fuel
Cooking pots and utensils
Headlamp or flashlight
Water filter or purification tablets
Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece, waterproof/windproof outer shell)
Hiking boots
First-aid kit
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Cooler for food and drinks
Portable power bank for devices
Maps and compass/GPS

Seasonal Information

Best Season

The best season for camping in San Martín de los Andes is during the Patagonian summer, from December to March. Temperatures are pleasant, days are long, and most facilities are open. Autumn (April-May) offers stunning fall foliage but cooler temperatures.

Winter Camping

Winter camping (June-August) is challenging and recommended only for experienced campers with proper winter gear. Roads can be snowy or icy, many campsites close, and temperatures drop below freezing. However, it offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at Chapelco.

Weather Warnings

Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable. Expect strong winds, sudden temperature drops, and rapid changes from sun to rain (or even snow, even in summer). Always pack layers and be prepared for all four seasons in a single day. Check local forecasts frequently.

Car Camping Tips

Essential tips for combining your road trip with camping in Patagonia.

  • 1Always keep your fuel tank at least half full, especially when venturing on the Seven Lakes Route, as gas stations are scarce.
  • 2Invest in a good quality cooler and replenish ice regularly to keep food fresh throughout your road trip.
  • 3Secure all loose gear inside your vehicle, as unpaved roads can be bumpy and cause items to shift.
  • 4Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to explore more remote areas or drive on potentially challenging gravel roads, though most main routes are accessible by 2WD.
  • 5Carry a spare tire, a jack, and basic tools. Know how to change a tire, as roadside assistance can be slow or unavailable in remote areas.
  • 6Plan your campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as popular spots fill up quickly.
  • 7Download offline maps for navigation, as cell service can be spotty or non-existent outside of towns.

Camping Regulations

  • Fire restrictions are common, especially during dry summer months. Only use designated fire pits and ensure fires are completely extinguished.
  • Observe 'Leave No Trace' principles: pack out all trash, including organic waste, and do not disturb wildlife or natural features.
  • Stay on marked trails and roads to protect fragile ecosystems and avoid trespassing on private or indigenous lands (e.g., Mapuche communities).
  • A National Park entrance fee may be required for certain areas within Lanín National Park. Keep your ticket handy.
  • Dogs are generally not allowed on hiking trails or in certain areas of the National Park to protect wildlife.

Road Trip & Camping

The best camping spots in Patagonia are only accessible by car. Rent one and start your adventure.

Browse Car Rentals

Explore More

Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drink the water from lakes or rivers?

It's generally not recommended to drink directly from lakes or rivers without purification. Always filter, boil, or treat water with purification tablets to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Are there showers available at most campsites?

Many paid campsites offer hot showers, but some more rustic or free sites may only have cold showers or no facilities at all. Always check individual campsite details.

Can I have a campfire at my campsite?

Campfires are usually only permitted in designated fire pits at established campgrounds. During dry periods, total fire bans may be in effect. Always check local conditions and regulations.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

You might spot various bird species, red deer, foxes, and perhaps even a puma if you're very lucky and deep in the wilderness. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never feed animals.

Is a 2WD car sufficient for exploring the area?

A 2WD car is generally sufficient for paved roads and most well-maintained gravel roads, including the main Seven Lakes Route. However, for more remote access or in adverse weather, a 4WD offers greater peace of mind and capability.

What are the local emergency numbers?

For general emergencies, dial 911. For medical emergencies, 107. For fire, 100. And for police, 101. It's wise to have these numbers saved on your phone.

|