Kampen park

Kampen park is a city park on a hill in Oslo's Kampen district, in the older eastern part of the Norwegian capital. It occupies the steep, highest part of the neighbourhood, around 77 metres above sea level, and covers roughly 36 decares (a little under 4 hectares). It works as a green lookout above Kampen's wooden houses and suits a quiet stroll away from the busy centre.

Where is Kampen park and what does it look like?

The park is framed by Økernveien and Ensjøveien to the north, the railway line to the east, Sons gate to the south and Brinken to the west. It is laid out in the landscape style typical of late-19th-century urban parks, with winding paths, terraces and natural contours that make use of the steep slope instead of fighting it.

What is the history of the park?

The land once belonged to the Udsikten property, which was part of the medieval farm Bergsløkken. From 1780 the hill served as a drill ground for Christiania's civic militia (Christiania being the old name of Oslo). In 1795 that role passed to Etterstad and St. Hanshaugen.

After the city expanded in 1878, the area filled with housing quickly. By 1885 buildings had reached the park, which was laid out around the same time. A water reservoir was completed in 1886, and in 1890 a Swiss-style house for the pond keeper was built, nicknamed "Alpehytta" (the alpine cabin) by locals. The park was later extended to the Gjøvik railway line, and in 1937-38 a playground, a shelter, a paddling pool and a rest area were added.

What is there to see in Kampen park?

• The sculpture "Svømmeren" ("The Swimmer") by Anders Svor, one of the park's ornaments.
• The former pond keeper's house, "Alpehytta", which has housed a kindergarten since 1990, so it can be lively with children during the day.
• The lower terrace and children's park, with a playground and a grotto with running water.
• Views over the rooftops and streets of Kampen, especially from the higher parts of the park.

Who is Kampen park for?

It suits families with children best, since the playground, the water grotto and the lower terrace form a sizeable play area. It also appeals to visitors who want to see everyday Oslo beyond the headline sights: Kampen is known for its low wooden houses and local feel. The park combines well with a walk around the district and the neighbouring Tøyen and Grünerløkka.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to enter Kampen park? Nothing. It is a public park with no tickets. It is managed by the city agency Bymiljøetaten, which also lets out outdoor areas for events.

Is Kampen park good for children? Yes. There is a playground, a grotto with running water and a children's park on the lower terrace, and a kindergarten operates in the former pond keeper's house.

How big is the park? About 36 decares (around 3.6 hectares). It takes little time to walk around, though the sloping layout can make it more strenuous than the size suggests.

How old is the park? It was laid out in the 1880s, during the rapid building boom after the 1878 city expansion. Before that, from 1780, the hill served as a drill ground for the civic militia.

Why is the house called "Alpehytta"? Built in 1890 for the pond keeper, it is in a Swiss style, which reminded locals of an alpine cabin.

Is it a good spot for a short break while sightseeing in Oslo? Yes. The park offers greenery, places to rest and a view of a local neighbourhood, and it lies within the city, so no trip out of town is needed.