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Camping in Pucón

Pucón, Chile's adventure capital beneath the smoking Villarrica Volcano, offers car campers hot springs, lake beaches, forest trails, and the thrill of camping near an active volcano. Drive to thermal river camps and pristine Andean lake sites.

3 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
5 campsites
Full guide to Pucón →

Pucón, nestled on the eastern shore of Lago Villarrica in Chile's Araucanía region, is widely considered the country's outdoor adventure capital. Dominated by the perfectly conical and perpetually smoking Villarrica Volcano, this resort town offers an extraordinary concentration of activities: volcano climbing, white-water rafting, hot springs soaking, and pristine lake swimming. For car campers, Pucón's real magic lies in the surrounding network of roads leading to hidden hot springs, ancient araucaria forests, and serene volcanic lakes. The area has more campgrounds per kilometer than almost anywhere in Patagonia, ranging from basic riverside sites to luxury glamping with thermal pools. A rental car unlocks the dozen or so hot spring complexes in the surrounding mountains, each offering a unique post-hiking soak.

Campsites

Camping Parque Nacional Huerquehue

Paid

Inside Huerquehue National Park, famous for its araucaria-lined trail to three volcanic lakes. One of the best day hikes in Chile starts from the campground.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, fire pits, drinking water, trail access
Cost: CLP 6000-9000/night
Reservation required
Access:

Camping Termas Geométricas

Paid

Camp near the stunning Termas Geométricas hot springs complex with its 17 slate-lined pools in a forest canyon. The ultimate luxury camping experience.

Facilities: toilets, hot showers, thermal pools, drinking water, restaurant
Cost: CLP 12000-18000/night
Reservation required
Access:

Camping Lago Caburgua

Paid

On the shores of pristine Lago Caburgua, less crowded than Lago Villarrica. Crystal-clear water with a white sand beach. Perfect for family camping.

Facilities: toilets, hot showers, fire pits, beach access, drinking water, kayak rental
Cost: CLP 8000-12000/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Río Liucura

Paid

Riverside camping along the Liucura River, a popular rafting and kayaking run. Surrounded by native forest with good swimming holes.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, fire pits, drinking water, rafting access
Cost: CLP 6000-9000/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Ojos del Caburgua

Free

Near the Ojos del Caburgua waterfalls where crystal-clear springs emerge from volcanic rock. Basic free camping in a magical forest setting.

Facilities: pit toilets, waterfall access
Cost: Free
No reservation needed
Access:

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Before you hit the trail: Pucón

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I climb Villarrica Volcano?

Yes! Guided ascents run November-March, weather permitting. The climb takes 6-8 hours and requires crampons and ice axes (provided). Camp at the base the night before for an early start. Volcanic activity may restrict access.

Which hot springs are best near campgrounds?

Termas Geométricas (architecturally stunning), Termas de Huife (family-friendly), and Termas Los Pozones (rustic and natural) are all accessible by car with camping nearby.

Is Pucón crowded in January?

Very crowded — it's Chile's most popular summer resort. Book campgrounds in advance for January-February. Consider March for better availability and pleasant weather.

Is the Huerquehue hike worth it?

The Los Lagos trail in Huerquehue is consistently rated one of Chile's best day hikes. Walking through araucaria forests to three crystal-clear volcanic lakes is unforgettable. Camp at the park to start early.

Are there mosquitoes?

Yes, particularly near lakes and rivers in January-February. Bring repellent. The volcanic mountains above treeline are generally bug-free.

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