Respecting nature while visiting Fredrikstad and Hvaler

Ytre Hvaler National Park

Ytre Hvaler National Park, located in the municipalities of Fredrikstad and Hvaler, is Norway’s first marine national park. The area is home to coral reefs, kelp forests, and important nesting grounds for seabirds. The park is protected to preserve fragile ecosystems, and visitors are encouraged to act responsibly.

Walking is permitted, but from April 15 to July 15, nesting seabirds and seals have protected zones where people and boats must keep at least 50 meters away. Cycling and horseback riding are only allowed on approved roads and trails, and jet skis and drones are prohibited throughout the park.

Camping and picnicking are allowed in uncultivated areas, but not on Akerøya, Vesleøya, Heia, or Ørekroken. Fires and barbecues must be handled responsibly and never on bare rock. Coastal cod is protected, and lobster fishing is regulated, but collecting berries, mushrooms, and shells for personal use is permitted. All trash must be carried out, and boat toilets should only be emptied at approved stations.

For maps and more details, visit the national park’s website.

The right to roam – freedom with responsibility

The right to roam, also called the right of access (allemannsretten) is a traditional right from ancient times. Since 1957, it has also been enshrined in the Outdoor Recreation Act. The right ensures that everyone can experience nature, even in big, privately owned areas.

In Norway, the right to roam gives everyone access to nature, but it also comes with obligations:

• Leave nature as you found it – do not pick rare plants or take shells, rocks, or driftwood from protected areas.

• Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive areas and prevent erosion.

• Do not leave trash behind – use waste stations or take it with you.

Leash laws – protecting wildlife

To protect nesting birds and other wildlife, dogs must be leashed from April 1 to August 20 throughout Fredrikstad and Hvaler. In protected areas on Hvaler, it’s important to control dogs year-round.

Respecting wildlife

Fredrikstad and Hvaler are home to a wide variety of animals. Norway’s Animal Welfare Act ensures that animals are treated with respect and protected from harm.

• Do not feed wild animals – the wrong food can be harmful and make them dependent on humans.

• In Gamlebyen, many enjoy feeding the ducks, but not all food is safe. If you do feed them, choose boiled peas, oats, or lettuce.

• The goats in Gamlebyen are tame, but they shouldn’t eat bread either – they love lettuce, though!

• Keep your distance from bird nests, seals, and other wildlife.

• Avoid handling animals – even small marine creatures like crabs and starfish should be left alone.

Access restrictions in protected areas

Several islets and skerries in the region are important breeding sites for seabirds. These areas are closed to visitors from April 15 to August 1. Respect the rules by keeping your distance and avoiding any disturbance to nesting birds.

Find maps and more information about access restrictions: Fredrikstad Municipality – Protected Areas for Seabirds

Fishing in Fredrikstad and Hvaler

Freshwater fishing
No license is required for freshwater fishing in Fredrikstad, but some lakes and rivers have fishing bans. For example, fishing is not allowed in Borredalsvannet and Stordammen. Landowners have fishing rights in private waters and can decide whether to allow fishing.

Sea fishing
Recreational sea fishing is free in Norway, but minimum size limits apply to many species to ensure sustainable stocks. There is no minimum size for mackerel and pollock.

Protection of coastal cod
Since June 15, 2019, cod fishing is banned throughout Skagerrak and the Oslofjord due to critically low populations.

• Bottom-set nets are banned

• Cod caught with a line must be released

• Professional fishers may apply for exemptions

• All cod fishing is banned during the spawning season (January 1 – April 30) in 14 defined spawning areas

More info: Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries

Fire bans – preventing wildfires

From April 15 to September 15, open fires are generally banned in forests and uncultivated land due to fire risk. The coastal areas around Fredrikstad and Hvaler can be especially dry in summer.

• Use only approved fire pits or camping stoves for cooking.

• Avoid disposable grills – they can damage the ground and pose a fire hazard.

• Never light fires or place grills on bare rock – the heat can crack and permanently damage the surface.

• Always check local fire regulations before lighting a fire.

Wild camping – what’s allowed?

Fredrikstad and Hvaler are perfect for outdoor adventures, but camping must be done with care. According to the Right to Roam, you may camp for up to two nights on uncultivated land, at least 150 meters from homes or cabins. In Ytre Hvaler National Park and other protected areas, special rules apply – always check what’s allowed before setting up your tent.

To minimize your impact on nature, it’s recommended to use designated camping areas, where you can stay close to nature with a lighter footprint.

Experience Fredrikstad and Hvaler more sustainable 

By following these simple guidelines, you help protect the nature and wildlife of Fredrikstad and Hvaler. Respect for animals, the environment, and local communities makes your visit more responsible — and more rewarding for everyone.