Part of the area around Skaftafell was formally declared a national park in 1967, and since 2008 has been part of Vatnajökull National Park. Natural beauty, favourable weather conditions, and a selection of hiking trails make Skaftafell an ideal destination for those who like to enjoy outdoor activities in Icelandic nature.

A service fee is paid for the use of parking spaces according to Vatnajökull National Park's published prices. The service fee is based on the arrival and departure of vehicles based on the analysis of the license plate numbers. The charge is based on length of stay of a vehicle determined by license plate recognition. The service fee is valid until midnight on the date it is paid. During that period, you can drive in and out of the area freely. The authority to charge a service fee is based on the regulation on visitor fees within Vatnajökull National Park for services provided and access to the area.

A 50% discount is given on the service fee if another fee-based service area of Vatnajökull National Park has been previously visited within the same date as the full fee was paid.