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Camping in Europe

Prepare for your next camping adventure in Europe. Explore some of the best campsites in our guide, including dog-friendly options.   

Camping in Europe - couple

Discover the best campsites in Europe 

Camping is a great way to experience a country’s culture and explore its scenery. Europe boasts endless pockets of natural beauty, from Germany’s Black Forest to France’s expansive vineyards.  

So, whether you’re planning a family road trip across the continent or travelling solo with your furry friend, our guide is here to help. Read on to learn more about the rules of camping in Europe and some of the best campsites in Germany, Belgium, Holland and France. 

Visit GetYourGuide to plan great activities.

Camping in Europe - couple

Camping in France

France is the land of majestic chateaux, rolling hills and fine cuisine, making it the perfect starting point for your camping adventure. Wild camping in France is prohibited unless you agree with the landowner. However, there are many well-equipped campsites, including:  

  • Camping aux Pommiers, Normandy – A stone’s throw from Mont Saint-Michel, Camping aux Pommiers offers fantastic family-friendly amenities. These include playgrounds, games rooms, indoor and paddling pools and various restaurants.  

  • Camping de la Plage, Brittany – In the heart of Brittany, Camping de la Plage features mobile homes and camping pitches. This dog-friendly campsite is surrounded by nature, with direct access to the beaches. It has a bike rental, tennis courts and three water slides. 

  • Camping La Samaritaine, Ardennes – Sandwiched between the Argonne forests and Sedan Castle, this dog-friendly campsite boasts 93 pitches, 9 chalets and 11 motor homes. Activities include the Mister Flower Club for kids, campfires, fishing and hiking.  

Camping in Europe - child in swimming pool

Camping in Germany 

Germany has no shortage of stunning landscapes, from thick forests to large mountain lakes and steep valleys. Although wild camping is forbidden here, there are many great campsites dotted across the country. The best campsites include:  

  • Camping Kirchzarten, Baden-Württemberg – Looking to camp in the heart of the Black Forest? Camping Kirchzarten has 365 spaces for tents, caravans and motor homes. It’s within reach of Kirchzarten village and surrounded by swathes of open countryside.  

  • Via Claudia Camping, Bavaria – Overlooking Lechsee and surrounded by the dramatic Allgäu mountains, Via Claudia Camping is hard to beat. The campsite has 850 parking spaces, 20 accommodation spaces and on-site eateries. There are many dog-friendly walks nearby, perfect for your four-legged friend. 

  • Harz Mountain Camp am Schierker Stern, Saxony-Anhalt – Located within Harz National Park at 630 metres above sea level, this campsite is popular among sports enthusiasts. The scenic hiking and cycling trails make for the perfect day out exploring Germany’s hidden treasures.

Camping in Europe - dog in the woods

Camping in Holland

Holland boasts some of Europe’s finest scenery, and camping is the best way to take it all in. Expansive tulip fields, charming canals and centuries-old mills put Holland at the top of everyone’s bucket list. If you’re planning a camping adventure in the Netherlands, head to:  

  • Ackersate, Gelderland – Sitting next door to De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Ackersate is ideal if you love being immersed in nature. It boasts camping pitches and luxury accommodation, like chalets and bungalows, as well as excellent facilities. These include swimming pools, trampoline parks and outdoor and indoor playgrounds.   

  • Camping Norgerberg, Drenthe – Set in the beautiful Dutch countryside, this campsite strikes the perfect balance between entertainment and relaxation. Kids can enjoy go-karts, splash pools and treasure hunts, while adults can pamper themselves at the spa.  

  • Strandcamping Groede, Zeeland – This dog-friendly campsite has everything you need for a comfortable stay. It’s next door to Groede Beach, which also allows dogs, making it the perfect spot for morning strolls. Enjoy a diverse entertainment programme and excellent amenities. 

Camping in Europe - tulip fields

Camping in Belgium 

Camping in Belgium promises spectacular nature and charming villages. Like in most European countries, wild camping is forbidden, but there are many campsites to suit everyone’s tastes and budgets. Our top picks include: 

  • Camping Memling te Brugge, West Flanders – Next door to Bruges, this campsite offers extensive camping pitches for caravans and motor homes. It’s situated close to excellent amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, fine-dining restaurants and shops.  

  • De Lilse Bergen, Antwerp – De Lilse Bergen is a well-equipped campsite in Antwerp. It has an exciting activity calendar and superb amenities, from swimming ponds and miniature golf pitches to an amusement park and playgrounds

  • Camping Houtum, Antwerp – Camping Houtum is the perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful Flemish countryside. It’s home to camping pitches and stylish accommodation in the heart of Kasterlee. Explore the surroundings on a scenic walking trail and visit Antwerp on your way back. 

Woman browsing shops

Ferries from the UK to Europe 

Travelling to Europe by ferry is easy. Our ferries to Europe offer ultimate comfort, , duty free shopping, kids entertainment and excellent restaurants and cafes. You can bring your vehicle and as much luggage as you need. We also offer overnight sailings to give you extra flexibility.   

Our ferries to France include Dover to Calais, Dover to Dunkirk and Newhaven to Dieppe. They’ll get you to France quickly and comfortably, and our ports sit close to popular sites and cities.   

If you’re travelling to Holland or Belgium, our Newcastle to Amsterdam route is ideal for exploring northern Europe.   

Couple packing car with bags with DFDS ship in the background

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