Wild camping in France – where it’s allowed and where it’s not
France offers the best conditions for your next camping trip
. But what about away from the campsites?
Is wild camping allowed in France and if so, where? We have summarized everything
about wild camping in France for you in the following article
and even found some interesting alternatives
.
Vive la France!
Welcome to the land of good food, fine wines, world-famous sights, romantic landscapes and campers. Yes, you read that right. France is one of the most camper-friendly countries in Europe and is therefore an annual destination for many camping fans for good reason. Along lush vineyards, past impressive coastlines and through picturesque villages – anyone traveling in France with a tent or camper van can look forward to multifaceted regions that couldn’t be more beautiful.
So France already offers the best conditions for your next camping trip. But what about away from the campsites? Is wild camping allowed in France and if so, where? We have summarized everything about wild camping in France for you in the following article and even found some interesting alternatives.
Is wild camping allowed in France?
Basically, wild camping in France is not generally prohibited. It would therefore be permitted in principle. However, there are some laws that significantly restrict wild camping in France and therefore prohibit it. This applies in particular to the following locations:
- Beaches
- Coasts
- Nature reserves
- 500 meters around an attraction
- 200 meters around a water source
- Public paths and roads
- Private property without permission
Also note the legal situation of the respective municipalities regarding wild camping in France. Some prohibit it completely in their region. If you violate the law and are caught, you could be fined up to €1,500.
Now comes the big “but” about wild camping in FranceThere are some exciting exceptions that do not exist in Germany or other countries. A distinction is made between “wild camping” and “free standing”. What’s that all about?
Wild camping, free standing or bivouacking in France?
Wild camping is subject to considerable restrictions, which always apply to the places mentioned above. It will therefore be extremely difficult to find a place where you can go wild camping with your tent in France without running the risk of a heavy fine. You may be lucky and get permission to camp on private land.
In contrast, you can bivouac from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m., i.e. spend the night in the open air. You are allowed to set up a tarp to protect yourself from the weather. As long as you are around 60 minutes away from the entrance, this is even permitted in national parks.
Free standing” as wild camping in France is understood to mean parking with a camper or Motorhome in a parking lot where this is permitted without exception. It is important that it does not look like camping. You are not allowed to set up chairs and tables or extend the awning. In addition, you should not obstruct traffic or block the view of other road users. If you stick to these rules, you can “park” for up to seven days. Nevertheless, this is also a gray area. If you prefer to play it safe, you will find some attractive alternatives to wild camping in France below.
What are the alternatives to wild camping in France?
The so-called Camping Municipal are well-kept campsites that are managed by the municipalities. For a small fee, you can get a legal pitch here and are provided with the essentials. You can recognize the Camping Municipal by the sign “Camping reglementé – s`adresser à la mairie“.(Image source: https://park4night.com/)
Another option are the Stop Accueil Campin Car pitches. You can make a stopover here from 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. for a small fee. The providers usually offer all the amenities you are used to from other campsites.
Pitches on private land are also an alternative to wild camping in France – provided the owner allows you to do so. In rural regions, the demand can be worthwhile. Winegrowers in particular are often happy to offer overnight accommodation.
Fancy wild camping in France? Now you know where it’s allowed and where you should avoid it. Whether it’s the Côte d’Azur, Normandy or Brittany, with LiFePO4 lithium batteries you won’t run out of energy anywhere. Rely on a self-sufficient solution that can withstand even extreme conditions with ease.
Would you like to find out what you need to know about wild camping in Germany? Then get more information in this article!
The topic of wild camping fascinates not only us, but also many of you! That’s why we’ll tell you in our blog exactly what the rules are for wild camping in Germany, Holland, France, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia and Slovenia, Norway, Spain and in the Switzerland apply! You will also find Blog exciting installation reports and many more articles!
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