Are there places to slept outside under the stars? Or are you expected to go to h

[Tanika]

I'm planning to do the Camino in 2016. I am thinking I would like to sleep outside under the stars. Are there places in each stop where you can pitch a tent?

 

[newfydog]

Are you really going to sleep under the stars, or in a tent? There are not designated camping spots at "each stop"

it is not encouraged to camp unofficially, but not hard to do if you are discreet.

Do a search....some people have posted in fair detail on the legality and practicality of camping. We camped out a fair bit one trip but the crowds have increased dramatically since then.

 

[Anniesantiago]

There should be lots of info on the forum about this topic. Like newfydog, I have slept under the stars and in a tent occasionally. I've found most of the best sites to be AFTER the villages. I'd suggest you spend some cash and get a minimalist tent, use a nysil tarp, or bivy. Too much weight on this trek can be very discouraging.

 

[KinkyOne]

I think that sleeping under the stars (not in a tent that is) during summer months and with nice weather is possible with just a sleeping mat and decent (up to 1kg) sleeping bag. You can use your poncho (Altus type etc.) thrown over yourself to prevent from humidity especially in woods of Galicia or from the wind on the Meseta, Tierra de Campos and similar terrain.
I think I'll have to do that a few times this summer. My main concern isn't sleeping outside at all but hygiene. Some suggest to stop at the last albergue, ask to pay just to take a shower and wash your clothes and continue to discreet spot after the village. But then again why sleeping outside if there IS an albergue I know, I know, crowds etc., but nevertheless if albergue is (half)empty as I expect on CdeMadrid & CdeInvierno this year I wouldn't think for a moment and pick albergue.

Ultreia!

 

[tyrrek]

I agree with KinkyOne. If the weather is warm enough to sleep outside the chances are you've got a bit sweaty during the day, so cleanliness as well as toilet needs would be a major consideration. Finding a good sheltered spot would probably involve going a reasonable distance off-route, as those on the route may have been used for others' toilet needs. Other than that, with enough food and water you should live. The usual rules would apply with respect to farmers' crops, no fires etc, but it could be stunning on a clear night in a spot away from towns and villages. Good luck!

 

[Tanika]

Thanks for your responses, I'm still in the early stages of planning my trip so, I'm just looking at what options are available. I am admittedly a bit if a germ a phobe and the idea of sleeping in a crowded hostel is less appealing than a day or two without a shower.

 

[KinkyOne]

...The usual rules would apply with respect to farmers' crops, no fires etc, ...!

Exactly, tyrrek!!!
Leave nothing, do no harm to crops or wood or else etc. etc. etc. Act like you're sleeping in your own backyard or even with nicer attitude. By no means light a fire especially during dry summer period. By this you can show your gratitude in a way that even the farmer wouldn't ever know that someone was sleeping there!
That's what I implement when sleeping in such circumstances. And every time I feel so good about that!

Enjoy

 

[xin loi]

There were at least ten tents in municipal park in SJPDP may 16. These people tended to camp entire trip. Lot of people sleep under stars at least one night per week.

 

[Tanika]

Thanks for the info, I haven't made any plans yet, but i am keeping my options open.

 

[stephenjhorrocks]

We walked SJPDP to Leon last year and I am heading to Leon to walk to Finisterre next week. We camped out a few times, just in sleeping bags (July) It was cold, and we ended up wearing almost all our warm gear (not that much!) but well worth it! Great views and experiences.

 

[Tanika]

Thanks for the input, I'm still in planning stages, not leaving til 2015