Camping in France
Camping in France: The Best Regions for Your Outdoor Holiday
France offers over 9,000 campsites, ranging from simple nature pitches to 5-star resorts with a pool area.
The mixture of freedom, good food, scenic beauty and infrastructure makes the country the first choice for campers from all over Europe.
In This Guide You Will Learn
- What makes camping in France so special
- The most beautiful regions for camping - from Provence to Corsica
- Practical travel tips on tolls, vignettes and travelling time
- How to find family and dog-friendly campsites
- Tips for sustainable camping in France
Why Camping Is so Popular in France
- Inexpensive or free pitches (especially for motorhomes)
- Good accessibility via motorways & dual carriageways
- Wide selection of campsites - some with spa, childcare, sports facilities
- Diverse nature: coast, Alps, wine regions, lavender fields
The Best Camping Regions in France
Provence – Lavender Fields, Sun & Mediterranean Flair
Provence is synonymous with Mediterranean serenity, purple lavender fields and charming villages. In summer in particular, the landscape is transformed into a picture postcard motif. Those who camp here enjoy nature and relaxation with a certain level of comfort. So it's no wonder that many consider Provence to be one of the most beautiful camping regions.
Top places for camping:
- Roussillon & Gordes: Two of the most beautiful villages in France, perfect for hillside campsites with a view.
- Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon): Ideal for hiking and canoeing. There are several natural campsites with direct access to the river.
- Sainte-Croix Lake: crystal-clear water, perfect for SUP & swimming. Glamping tents with eco-equipment are the trend here.
Atlantic Coast – Surfing, Sandy Beaches & Family Holidays
The French Atlantic coast is a paradise for active holidaymakers and families. The mixture of endless sandy beaches, pine forests and surf spots is unique in Europe.
Top places for camping:
- Lacanau-Océan: Surf mecca with campsites near the beach, also suitable for families.
- Île de Ré: Island with top cycle paths and charming harbours. Campsites with direct access to the sea.
- Hossegor & Seignosse: Popular surfing resorts in the south-west of France. The campsites often offer yoga, bike hire and food trucks.
On the Atlantic coast, there are both large family campsites with pools and entertainment as well as simple pitches in the dunes. Prices vary widely, but if you are travelling outside the high season, you can often find cheap pitches for less than €25 per night - especially inland or on smaller islands.
Dordogne – River Romance & Culture
The Dordogne offers rivers, forests and a high density of medieval towns and castles. Perfect for anyone who likes things a little quieter but still wants to experience culture and nature.
Top places for camping:
- Sarlat-la-Canéda: weekly markets, riverside location, and campsites with canoe access.
- Beynac-et-Cazenac & La Roque-Gageac: Two spectacularly situated villages directly on the Dordogne.
- Domme: Situated on a hill with valley views. Some pitches offer terraces with panoramic views.
Sustainable travelling is particularly easy here, as many small campsites rely on solar power, regional products and environmental certifications.
Corsica – Mountains, Bays & Wild Romance
Corsica is France's wild natural jewel. The island offers rugged mountains, dense forests and Caribbean-style bays. Perfect for adventure seekers and individual travellers.
Top places to camp:
- Calvi & Balagne: Campsites right by the sea with a view of the bay.
- Restonica Valley near Corte: Ideal for wild river camping & hiking.
- Bonifacio: clifftop town with campsites close to the beach – often with bungalows or lodges.
Practical Tips for Camping in France
- There are many toll motorways in France. With the vintrica toll box, you can drive comfortably on toll motorways without having to stop at toll stations.
- For cities such as Paris, Lyon or Grenoble, a city toll, the so-called Crit'Air vignette, is mandatory. It is best to order online before travelling.
- Wild camping is not permitted in most regions of France.
- The best time to travel is in May, June and September due to mild weather, fewer tourists and cheaper prices.
- In the high season of July and August, many pitches are booked up quickly. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred pitch.
Tips for Family & Dog-Friendly Campsites
Many campsites in France are specially designed for families or travellers with dogs. Look out for the following points when choosing a campsite:
- Dogs allowed
- Dog beaches nearby
- Baby / children's facilities
- Entertainment & playgrounds
- Flat access to the beach or lake
Tips for Sustainable Camping in France
- Reusable crockery and waste avoidance
- Buy local products
- Environmentally certified places (e.g. with the ‘Clef Verte’ label)
- Minimise energy consumption (use solar panels, use gas sparingly)
Conclusion: For Whom Is Camping in France Worthwhile?
For everyone. Whether nature lovers, families, adventurers or those seeking relaxation – France's diversity makes it easy to find the right place. With good preparation and the right equipment, nothing stands in the way of the perfect outdoor experience. Here you can find out more about toll regulations in France, ensuring that nothing stands in the way of your holiday. The most convenient option is the Toll Box for France : simply attach it to your windscreen, drive up to the toll station using a dedicated lane, and the barriers will open automatically.