Frederikskilde – Primitive Overnight Site on Tystrup Lake

Primitive camping in Frederikskilde Forest by Tystrup Lake

Frederikskilde Forest stretches down to the western shore of Tystrup Lake, and here you will find one of Sorø Municipality's most atmospheric primitive camping sites. The spot attracts kayakers, hikers and nature lovers who enjoy waking up to morning mist over the lake and birdsong from the treetops. The site is managed by Naturstyrelsen Storstrøm (the Danish Nature Agency) and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance booking required.

Location between Kongskilde and Tystrup Lake

The camping site is situated in the southern part of Frederikskilde Forest, just a few hundred metres from the shore of Tystrup Lake — one of Zealand's largest and cleanest lakes. The forest is part of the Nature Agency's lands at Kongskilde, approximately 7-8 kilometres south of the town of Sorø. The nearest car park is at Kongskilde Nature Centre on Skælskørvej 34, from where a forest path leads directly to the site. The area forms part of the continuous natural landscape surrounding the Tystrup-Bavelse lakes, stretching from Kongskilde in the north to Bavelse Lake in the south.

Facilities and practical information

The site is designed for tent camping and features several fire pits where you can light a fire and cook over an open flame. Toilet facilities and drinking water are available at the nearby car park. Dry firewood may be collected from the forest floor in the area around the site — however, it is important to note that wood collection is not permitted in Suserup Forest east of the site, as it is designated as untouched woodland. It is therefore a good idea to bring charcoal briquettes or firewood from home.

Nature around Frederikskilde

Frederikskilde Forest is a mix of deciduous and coniferous woodland with abundant wildlife. Tystrup Lake and the surrounding forests are home to white-tailed eagles, ospreys and a wide range of woodland birds, making the area a popular destination for birdwatchers. The landscape was shaped by the Ice Age, with hills, moraines and kettle holes creating a varied topography. The nearby Suserup Forest is one of Denmark's last primeval forests, where trees have been allowed to grow, fall and decay for centuries — a truly unique piece of Danish natural heritage that can be explored via marked trails.

Activities on and around Tystrup Lake

Tystrup Lake is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, and several local outfitters offer equipment hire at Kongskilde and along the Suså river. From the lake you can paddle south to Bavelse Lake, or head north along the Suså. By Frederikskilde Forest you will also find a Blue Flag bathing beach with picnic tables and barbecue areas — perfect for a summer day by the water. There are numerous hiking trails in the area: the "Kongskilde og Frederikskilde rundt" loop is a popular route, and the E6 long-distance trail passes through the forest. A wheelchair-accessible path also leads from Kongskilde Nature Centre down to the lake.

Experiences nearby

Kongskilde Nature Centre is just a few minutes' walk from the camping site and offers exhibitions, nature education and events for both children and adults. The town of Sorø with Sorø Academy, the abbey church and Sorø Lake makes for a rewarding day trip — the town is one of central Zealand's cultural hubs with museums, cafés and historic buildings. South along the Suså you will find additional camping spots and shelters for those who wish to combine a canoe trip with overnight stays in nature. The area also features the E6 long-distance trail and the Jyderupstien for ambitious hikers. Visit destinationsjaelland.dk for even more experiences in West Zealand.