12 Top Camping Destinations In France

Like Napoleon surveying his empire, you’ll find France offers camping territories that suit every adventurer’s ambitions—without conquering your wallet. From the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast to the snow-capped Alpine peaks, you can pitch your tent in locations that range from budget-friendly farmlands to premium coastal spots. Whether you’re drawn to historic châteaux, dramatic gorges, or world-renowned wine regions, each destination promises unique experiences that’ll make you question why you ever bothered with hotels.

Key Points

• Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur offers beachside camping for €15-30/night near glamorous destinations like Cannes and Nice with Mediterranean climate.
• Brittany Coast features affordable clifftop campgrounds near prehistoric sites, coastal hiking trails, and unique Pink Granite Coast formations.
• Corsica combines dramatic granite peaks with turquoise bays, offering municipal campgrounds from €15/night and wild camping above 1,000 meters.
• French Alps provide mountain camping for €15-25/night at scenic locations like Lake Annecy and Chamonix with hiking opportunities.
• Loire Valley enables castle-hopping camping with bicycle rentals, vineyard visits, and budget sites near famous châteaux like Chambord.

Provence-Alpes-Côte D’azur: Mediterranean Paradise

When you’re dreaming of turquoise waters and lavender fields without breaking the bank, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur delivers everything you’d expect from the French Riviera at camping prices.

You’ll find dozens of campsites minutes from beaches where celebrities vacation, but you’re paying €15-30 per night instead of €300 for hotels.

Camp near Cannes or Nice for glamorous day trips, then retreat to your budget-friendly tent. The region’s campsites often include pools, direct beach access, and bike rentals.

You can explore Marseille’s old port, hike the Calanques, or drive the scenic coastal roads. Many sites offer mobile homes if you’d prefer more comfort.

Book early for summer – this region’s popularity means prime spots disappear quickly. Before heading out, make sure you’ve selected the perfect camping tent for the Mediterranean climate and your specific needs.

Dordogne Valley: Historic Charm and Natural Beauty

Four thousand prehistoric caves, medieval castles, and riverside campsites make the Dordogne Valley France’s most affordable journey through time. You’ll find camping pitches starting at €8 per night along the Dordogne River, where you can kayak beneath towering limestone cliffs and explore world-famous Lascaux Cave replicas for just €16.

Castle-hop through Beynac, Castelnaud, and Commarque – most charge under €10 entrance fees. Your campsite becomes your base for discovering prehistoric art, sampling local walnuts and foie gras at village markets, and swimming in crystal-clear rivers.

Book riverside spots early for summer visits, as they fill quickly. Many campsites offer canoe rentals and guided cave tours at discounted rates. You’re experiencing 40,000 years of history without breaking your budget. The region’s appeal for caravan camping enthusiasts lies in its perfect blend of culture and natural adventure.

Loire Valley: Castles and Vineyards

Why settle for touring one château when you can camp among dozens? The Loire Valley offers France’s most castle-dense camping experience, where you’ll wake up to fairy-tale views without fairy-tale prices.

You’ll find budget-friendly campsites scattered between world-famous châteaux like Chambord and Chenonceau. Many sites offer bicycle rentals, making castle-hopping affordable and eco-friendly. The region’s gentle terrain suits families perfectly.

Essential Loire Valley camping experiences:

• Château cycling tours – rent bikes at most campsites for €10-15 daily
• Vineyard visits – sample local wines without expensive hotel markups
• River activities – kayaking and fishing along peaceful waterways
• Local markets – stock up on fresh produce and regional specialties

Camp mid-week for lower rates and fewer crowds. You’ll save hundreds compared to château hotels while experiencing authentic French countryside living. If you’re planning to bring your four-legged companion, research camping safely guidelines to ensure your pet enjoys the Loire Valley adventure as much as you do.

Brittany Coast: Rugged Shores and Celtic Culture

From the refined elegance of Loire châteaux, head northwest to discover Brittany’s wild coastline where Celtic traditions meet dramatic Atlantic shores. You’ll find affordable campsites perched on clifftops overlooking granite headlands and sandy beaches.

Municipal campgrounds in towns like Carnac and Quiberon offer budget-friendly stays near prehistoric megaliths and fishing ports.

Explore coastal hiking trails along the GR34, sample fresh oysters and crêpes at local markets, and catch traditional Breton festivals featuring bagpipes and folk dancing.

The region’s mild climate makes spring through fall ideal for camping.

Don’t miss the Pink Granite Coast near Perros-Guirec, where unique rock formations create stunning photographic opportunities.

Book coastal sites early—they’re popular with families seeking authentic French seaside experiences.

Consider bringing a lightweight tent trailer for easier setup and enhanced comfort while exploring Brittany’s diverse coastal campgrounds.

French Alps: Mountain Adventures and Alpine Lakes

Where else can you wake up to snow-capped peaks reflected in crystal-clear alpine lakes while spending just €15-25 per night? The French Alps deliver world-class mountain experiences without breaking your budget.

You’ll find countless hiking trails, pristine lakes for swimming, and charming alpine villages. Peak season runs June through September, but you’ll save money camping in shoulder months when crowds thin out.

Top alpine camping experiences include:

• Lake Annecy – Europe’s cleanest lake with affordable lakeside campsites
• Chamonix Valley – Budget access to Mont Blanc hiking trails and glaciers
• Vanoise National Park – Wild camping permitted above 2,500m elevation
• Mercantour National Park – Stunning valleys with designated camping areas

Book popular spots early, especially near Annecy and Chamonix, where demand exceeds supply during summer months. For the most adventurous campers, the region also offers glacier climbing opportunities on some of the best trails in the alpine environment.

Languedoc-Roussillon: Wild Beaches and Ancient Villages

While the French Riviera draws millions with its glitzy resorts and eye-watering prices, you’ll discover something far more authentic in Languedoc-Roussillon. This region offers pristine beaches without the crowds, plus camping rates that won’t drain your wallet.

You’ll find excellent campsites near Montpellier and Perpignan, many just minutes from untamed coastline. The beaches here stretch for miles with golden sand and crystal-clear water – perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing.

Don’t miss the medieval villages dotting the countryside. Carcassonne’s fortress walls tell centuries-old stories, while smaller towns like Collioure blend mountain charm with seaside beauty. Many campsites offer easy access to hiking trails that connect these ancient settlements, letting you explore history on foot.

This region provides the perfect setting for family camping adventures, where parents and children can bond while exploring both coastal and inland treasures together.

Normandy: D-Day Beaches and Countryside Tranquility

Normandy offers a completely different camping experience, trading Mediterranean warmth for dramatic coastlines steeped in history. You’ll find affordable campsites near legendary D-Day beaches where you can walk in the footsteps of history while enjoying stunning ocean views.

The region’s countryside provides peaceful camping spots among rolling green hills and charming villages. You’ll discover:

• Omaha Beach campsites – Stay minutes from historic landing sites with budget-friendly facilities
• Bayeux camping grounds – Explore the famous tapestry and medieval architecture on foot
• Cotentin Peninsula sites – Experience rugged coastal beauty without crowds
• Calvados countryside camps – Enjoy apple orchards and traditional Norman farmhouses

You’ll appreciate Normandy‘s cooler climate during summer months, and the region’s excellent local markets keep your camping meals both delicious and economical. Whether you’re setting up camp near the shore or inland, planning your beach camping food ahead of time ensures you’ll have satisfying meals to fuel your historical explorations and coastal adventures.

Corsica: Island Wilderness and Crystal Waters

If you’re craving a camping adventure that combines Mediterranean beauty with untamed wilderness, Corsica delivers an experience unlike anywhere else in France. You’ll find dramatic granite peaks plunging into turquoise bays, creating perfect backdrops for your tent.

Municipal campgrounds offer budget-friendly stays starting around €15 per night, while wild camping is permitted above 1,000 meters elevation. Pack sturdy hiking boots—the GR20 trail crosses the island’s spine, offering challenging day hikes from your campsite.

Don’t miss Plage de Saleccia‘s pristine white sand or the natural pools at Bavella. Fresh water sources can be scarce, so bring extra containers.

Ferry crossings from mainland France cost roughly €50-80 per person, making Corsica surprisingly affordable for adventurous campers seeking untouched Mediterranean landscapes. With the current economic climate affecting recreational vehicle purchases, many travelers are choosing tent camping as an affordable alternative to RV travel.

Ardèche Gorges: River Canyons and Dramatic Landscapes

Though southern France offers countless natural wonders, the Ardèche Gorges stand out as one of Europe’s most spectacular river canyon systems. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and emerald pools perfect for swimming and canoeing.

Budget-friendly camping options abound throughout the region:

• Municipal campsites starting at €8-12 per night with basic facilities
• Wild camping allowed in designated areas (free with proper permits)
• Farm stays offering affordable pitches plus fresh local produce
• Riverside sites providing direct water access for kayaking adventures

The famous Pont d’Arc natural stone bridge serves as your gateway to adventure. You can rent canoes affordably, explore prehistoric caves, or simply relax by crystal-clear swimming holes. It’s outdoor paradise without breaking your budget.

Bordeaux Wine Region: Vineyard Views and Gourmet Experiences

From the rugged canyons of Ardèche, France’s southwestern Bordeaux region offers an entirely different but equally rewarding camping experience. You’ll find budget-friendly campsites nestled between world-famous vineyards, where you can wake up to rolling hills covered in grapevines.

Many campgrounds offer wine tastings at reduced prices, letting you sample prestigious Bordeaux varieties without breaking the bank. You can cycle between châteaux on well-marked routes, stopping at local markets for fresh cheese and bread. The Dordogne River provides free swimming spots and scenic picnic areas.

Choose campsites near Saint-Émilion or Médoc for prime vineyard access. Book during harvest season (September-October) to witness grape picking firsthand. Most sites include kitchen facilities, perfect for preparing meals with local ingredients and pairing them with affordable regional wines. For those seeking maximum comfort and flexibility while exploring the vineyards, consider renting an RV to have your accommodation travel with you from château to château.

French Pyrenees: Border Peaks and Thermal Springs

While Bordeaux charms with gentle vineyard slopes, the French Pyrenees deliver dramatic mountain camping with snow-capped peaks stretching along the Spanish border.

You’ll find exceptional value here, with numerous free camping spots and affordable campgrounds offering stunning alpine views.

The region’s natural thermal springs provide the perfect reward after challenging hikes. Many campgrounds sit near these therapeutic hot springs, letting you soak tired muscles while gazing at towering peaks.

Essential experiences include:

• Hiking the GR10 trail sections for breathtaking mountain vistas
• Soaking in Cauterets’ famous thermal baths after camping nearby
• Exploring Gavarnie Cirque’s massive natural amphitheater
• Crossing into Spain for day trips from border campsites

You’ll discover incredible hiking, relaxation, and cross-border adventures without breaking your budget. When packing for these mountain adventures, invest in one of the most unique travel backpacks designed specifically for rugged terrain and extended camping trips.

Burgundy: Rolling Hills and Historic Towns

After exploring the dramatic peaks of the Pyrenees, Burgundy offers a gentler camping experience among its famous wine-covered hills and medieval villages.

You’ll find affordable municipal campgrounds in towns like Beaune and Chablis, where you can pitch your tent for under €15 nightly. These sites put you within walking distance of historic centers and local markets.

Don’t miss cycling the vineyard trails between Dijon and Beaune – they’re mostly flat and connect charming wine villages. Many campgrounds offer bike rentals for around €10 daily.

Visit local caves for wine tastings, but skip expensive tourist cellars. Instead, look for “dégustation gratuite” signs at smaller producers.

Pack layers since Burgundy evenings get cool, even in summer. Spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and better camping rates.

For maximum comfort during those cool nights, invest in a quality air mattress that provides proper insulation from the ground.

Sum Up

You’ve got France’s camping crown jewels at your fingertips—from budget-friendly mountain refuges in the Alps to affordable coastal spots in Brittany. Don’t let your wallet hold you back; many campsites offer reasonable rates, especially if you’re flexible with dates. Pack your tent, grab some local bread and cheese, and you’ll discover that France’s most stunning landscapes won’t break the bank. Your perfect camping adventure is just one reservation away.