What is a nature campsite? 

Nature camping is a form of camping that aims to get closer to nature and enjoy the beauty of the natural environment. Nature campsites are becoming increasingly popular in Europe, where many travellers are looking to get away from city life and connect with nature.

Campsites in Europe

Nature campsites on Campspace

Nature campsites are usually located in remote areas away from cities and urban areas. Our campsites are located in orchards, forests, private gardens or meadows away from the hustle and bustle. You can enjoy a lot of green space and even have a whole plot to yourself. Camping in the wilderness in Europe is also a real local experience. Not only because you are staying with locals and really getting in touch with the locals by sharing their environment, but also because we strive to introduce you to new areas within 30 minutes of your home. In this way, you contribute to sustainable tourism and the revitalisation of rural areas near you. And since you are so close to these nature campsites, why not go by bike or public transport?

Ultimately, the choice of location depends on the personal preferences and interests of each traveller. It is important to research where you want to camp and choose a campsite that suits your needs and level of wilderness camping experience. Check out our blog on wilderness camping, a unique but highly regulated camping experience!

Wilderness camping in Europe

There are many places in Europe not to be missed for a successful wilderness camping experience, such as the French and Swiss Alps, the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, the forests of Scandinavia, the lakes and rivers of Germany and Poland, the Norwegian fjords, the wild coasts of Brittany in France, the moors of the Spanish Basque Country, and the pine forests of Portugal.

🇳🇱Nature campsites in the Netherlands 🇫🇷Nature campsites  in France 🇧🇪Nature campsites in Belgium 🇩🇪Nature campsites  in Germany

Nature camping and traditional camping: what is the difference? 

The difference between nature camping and traditional camping is that nature camping focuses on the wilderness experience. This can mean camping in wild or remote areas, where there are no modern facilities such as toilets or showers. Nature camping can also involve activities such as hiking, fishing or discovering local wildlife.

In contrast, traditional camping focuses on modern amenities such as showers, toilets, electricity and recreational facilities such as swimming pools and playgrounds. Traditional campsites tend to be more popular with families with children who are looking for a relaxing holiday with all the amenities.

Nature camping: a form of sustainable tourism

Nature camping in Europe is often considered a form of sustainable tourism as it involves a direct connection with the natural environment of the area, which can encourage nature awareness and protection. It allows campers to connect with nature, minimise their impact on the environment, raise awareness of nature conservation and contribute to the local economy.

How to prepare for visiting a nature campsite

To prepare for nature camping, it is important to research the area where you plan to camp. Make sure you know the rules and regulations of the area regarding camping, fire and waste management. It is also important to be well-equipped, taking along all the equipment needed to survive and be comfortable in the wilderness, such as a sturdy tent, a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp, appropriate hiking clothes and non-perishable food.

Finally, make sure you respect nature and do not leave any traces of your passage. This means taking all waste with you and avoiding making fires in areas where it is not allowed. With the right preparation and a nature-friendly attitude, nature camping can be an incredible and rewarding travel experience in Europe.

The best nature camping activities

Camping in the wilderness is a unique and exciting experience, offering the chance to connect with nature and experience outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best activities to do when camping in the wilderness in Europe:

• Hiking: Wilderness campsites are often located in mountainous or forested areas, offering a wide variety of hiking trails. Hiking is a great way to discover the surrounding nature and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
• Wildlife viewing: Wilderness camping areas are often natural habitats for a variety of wildlife. Local wildlife may include deer, foxes, wild boar, bears and wolves, depending on where you are camping. It is important to respect the wildlife and not to disturb them.

Camping in the forest🌲

• Water sports: If the campsite is located near a lake or river, campers can enjoy many water activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and fishing.

Camping by a river🛶 Camping by a lake🚣

• Stargazing: Campsites in the wilderness are often located away from city lights, offering a great view of the night sky. Campers can spend the evening stargazing and watching the constellations.
• Campfire: The campfire is a traditional part of outdoor camping and a must-do activity. Campers can gather around the fire, prepare meals, tell stories and enjoy a convivial evening.

Camping with campfires🔥

• Climbing: If the campsite is located in a mountainous area, climbing can be an exciting activity to try. It is important to take safety precautions and be well prepared before starting climbing.
• Mountain biking: If the campsite is located in a mountainous area, mountain biking can be a fun and exciting activity to try. Campers can ride mountain bike trails and enjoy the scenic landscape while getting some exercise.

Nature campsites in Europe: Campspace's favourites

Top 3 best nature campsites in the Netherlands:

1. Quiet camping area in the Zeeuws-Vlanderen polders with swimming pond (Biervliet, Zeeland)

Book Jaap's campspace

2. Camping among the animals near the coast (Callantsoog, North Holland)

Book Hannie's campspace

3. Row, barbecue, cycle and relax at the small nature campsite in the Rietveld! (Hazerswoude-Dorp, South Holland)

Book Bori and Marchello campspace

Top 3 best nature campsites in Belgium:

1. VeTu DeBo stay among the trees near the Blankart (Klerken, West Flanders)

Book Gerdi's campspace

2. Hang on tight and enjoy! (Wachtebeke, Belgium)

Book Suzie's campspace

3. Back to nature in the Heuvelhof nature reserve in beautiful Heuvelland (Dranouter, West Flanders)

Book Piet's campspace

Top 3 best nature campsites in Germany:

1. Child-friendly campsite in the Eifel (Nimshuscheid, Rhineland-Palatinate)

Book Anja's campspace

2. Camping where the Heidschnucken sleep (Mechernich, North Rhine-Westphalia)

Book Ernst's campspace

3. Overnight stay in the historic Nagold Valley (Calw, Baden-Wuerttemberg)

Book Andreas' campspace

Top 3 best nature campsites in France:

1. Semi-urban micro-farm with a view of Mont-Saint-Michel (Avranches, Normandy)

Book Zoe's campspace

2. Camping Familial chez l'habitant (Sailly Flibeaucourt, Hauts-de-France)

Book Andreas' campspace

3. Le jardin secret (Uxeau, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté)

Book Andreas' campspace

Isn't camping in the middle of nowhere ideal? Are you looking for comfort and warmth instead? Take a look at our other camping options on Campspace. 

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