Camping in France is a fantastic way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a tranquil countryside setting, relax by the coast, or explore the vibrant city life, there’s something for every family. French campsites are well-known for their excellent facilities, friendly atmosphere, and family-oriented activities. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best French campsites that cater to families, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Why Choose France for Camping?
France is one of the most popular camping destinations in Europe, offering a wide range of options from luxurious campsites with full amenities to more rustic, nature-based experiences. The country’s varied geography—from the snowy peaks of the Alps to the sunny beaches of the French Riviera—makes it an ideal place for camping year-round. Furthermore, French campsites are renowned for their child-friendly facilities, making them perfect for family holidays.
Family-Friendly Camping Features in France
French campsites are designed with families in mind, offering:
Kid-friendly Activities: Many campsites offer dedicated children’s clubs, playgrounds, and organized activities such as treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and sports.
Swimming Pools: Heated swimming pools and waterparks are common features at family-friendly campsites, providing endless hours of fun for children.
Close Proximity to Attractions: Many campsites are located near famous landmarks, national parks, and beaches, offering families the opportunity to combine outdoor adventures with cultural exploration.
Comfortable Accommodation: From luxury glamping tents to traditional caravans and mobile homes, French campsites offer a range of accommodation styles, often featuring kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and outdoor seating areas.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best campsites for families in France.
1. Les Méditerranées – Camping Charlemagne (Languedoc-Roussillon)
Located in the sunny south of France, Camping Charlemagne offers the perfect blend of beach access, family activities, and relaxation. Situated near the Mediterranean Sea, it’s a haven for families who love the beach and water sports.
Why It’s Great for Families
Beach Access: Direct access to a beautiful sandy beach where kids can enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach games.
Family Pools: The campsite features a large swimming pool with slides and a separate children’s pool for younger swimmers.
Entertainment and Activities: The campsite organizes a variety of family-friendly activities, including themed evenings, mini-golf, and bike rentals.
2. Camping Le Vieux Port (Aquitaine)
Set in the heart of the Basque Country, Camping Le Vieux Port is a large family campsite located just a short distance from the beach. It’s ideal for families who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and relaxation by the coast.
Why It’s Great for Families
Waterpark: The campsite features an impressive waterpark with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, making it a favorite for families with children.
Proximity to the Beach: With direct access to the beach, families can enjoy swimming, surfing, and beach games.
Kids’ Clubs: The campsite offers various kids’ clubs, with activities tailored to different age groups, from toddlers to teens.
3. Camping Les Castels – Château de Boisson (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Camping Les Castels is set in a beautiful medieval castle in the Provence region, offering a unique camping experience with luxurious amenities. This campsite combines history, nature, and modern comfort, making it a great choice for families.
Why It’s Great for Families
Luxury Glamping: Families can stay in fully-equipped luxury tents or mobile homes, offering a comfortable and memorable stay.
Cultural Experience: The château’s historical setting offers families a chance to explore a French castle while enjoying the outdoors.
Playgrounds and Sports: There are dedicated playgrounds, sports courts, and a swimming pool for children to enjoy.
4. Camping Le Clos du Rhone (Provence)
Located in the heart of the Rhône Valley, Camping Le Clos du Rhone offers families a peaceful, scenic setting with easy access to local vineyards, markets, and nearby attractions like the Roman amphitheater in Nîmes.
Why It’s Great for Families
Cultural and Educational Activities: The campsite organizes visits to local vineyards, offering educational experiences for families to learn about wine-making and French culture.
Kids’ Club: A kids’ club with creative activities ensures that children are entertained while parents can relax.
Proximity to Attractions: The campsite is close to several historical landmarks, including the Pont du Gard aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Camping Le Paradis (Normandy)
Situated in the picturesque region of Normandy, Camping Le Paradis is ideal for families seeking to explore the area’s historical sites, such as the D-Day landing beaches and the stunning cliffs of Étretat.
Why It’s Great for Families
Natural Beauty: The campsite is surrounded by lush greenery and offers access to hiking trails and biking routes.
Cultural Exploration: Families can take day trips to explore the nearby historical landmarks and museums.
Swimming Pool: The campsite has a heated pool, perfect for family swims after a day of sightseeing.
6. Camping Les Alicourts Resort (Loir-et-Cher)
Located near the beautiful Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley, Camping Les Alicourts Resort offers families a mix of luxury and nature with an array of activities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Large Waterpark: The campsite has a large waterpark with multiple slides, wave pools, and a relaxing lazy river.
Nature Activities: Families can enjoy nature walks, cycling, and boating on the nearby lake.
Kids’ Entertainment: There are organized activities, kids’ clubs, and evening entertainment tailored to all ages.
7. Camping La Roche-Posay (Centre-Val de Loire)
Known for its serene atmosphere and location near the famous La Roche-Posay thermal spa, this campsite is perfect for families looking for a relaxing yet active camping experience.
Why It’s Great for Families
Thermal Spa Access: Families can benefit from nearby thermal treatments and wellness activities.
Cycling and Hiking: The surrounding area is perfect for outdoor adventures, including hiking and cycling trails.
Children’s Entertainment: With a kids’ club and plenty of activities, families can be sure their children will stay entertained.
8. Camping de la Plage (Brittany)
Located along the stunning coastline of Brittany, Camping de la Plage is ideal for families who love the beach and outdoor adventures. The campsite offers breathtaking sea views and a wide range of family-friendly amenities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Beach Activities: Direct access to the beach allows families to enjoy swimming, windsurfing, and sailing.
Children’s Playground: The campsite features a large playground and recreational areas.
Proximity to Historic Sites: Brittany is rich in history, and families can explore charming towns, castles, and museums nearby.
9. Camping Les Deux Fontaines (Brittany)
Another great option in Brittany, Camping Les Deux Fontaines offers an array of family-friendly activities, a large waterpark, and easy access to both the beach and the countryside.
Why It’s Great for Families
Waterpark and Pools: The campsite features a huge waterpark with slides, a lazy river, and shallow pools for younger children.
Entertainment and Sports: Families can enjoy organized entertainment and a variety of sports, including tennis, mini-golf, and archery.
Proximity to Nature: Located near the beautiful beaches of Southern Brittany, the campsite is perfect for nature lovers.
10. Camping La Sirène (Languedoc-Roussillon)
Located near the popular resort town of Argelès-sur-Mer, Camping La Sirène is a lively, family-friendly campsite known for its vast array of amenities and activities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Waterpark: The campsite’s waterpark has several pools, water slides, and a large lazy river, perfect for families with children.
Kids’ Clubs: From kids’ clubs to themed evenings, there’s always something to keep the little ones entertained.
Beach Access: Located just a short distance from the beach, families can enjoy beach sports, swimming, and sunbathing.
11. Camping Les Brunelles (Vendée)
Located in the Vendée region on the Atlantic coast, Camping Les Brunelles is ideal for families looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and seaside relaxation.
Why It’s Great for Families
Beach Proximity: The campsite is close to beautiful beaches, perfect for families who love water sports and sandcastle-building.
Children’s Entertainment: The campsite has a kids’ club and organized activities throughout the summer months.
Family Accommodation: The site offers a variety of accommodation options, including mobile homes and luxury tents.
12. Camping Les Sablons (Languedoc-Roussillon)
Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Camping Les Sablons offers families an idyllic setting with access to a private beach and a wide range of activities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Private Beach: Families can relax on the campsite’s private beach, perfect for swimming, fishing, and beach games.
Waterpark: The campsite has an extensive waterpark with heated pools and thrilling slides.
Family Activities: With a children’s club, entertainment, and sports activities, families will never be bored.
13. Camping La Cote Sauvage (Pays de la Loire)
Set along the beautiful Atlantic coast, Camping La Cote Sauvage is perfect for families who love water activities and outdoor exploration.
Why It’s Great for Families
Proximity to the Ocean: The campsite is located near sandy beaches, ideal for surfing, paddleboarding, and beachcombing.
Family Sports: Families can enjoy sports such as volleyball, basketball, and mini-golf.
Scenic Setting: Surrounded by natural beauty, families can explore nearby forests, nature reserves, and coastal trails.
14. Camping Le Moulin de Paul (Loire Valley)
Set in the picturesque Loire Valley, Camping Le Moulin de Paul offers a peaceful countryside retreat with excellent family facilities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Cultural Exploration: Located near several castles, families can explore the historic beauty of the Loire Valley.
Outdoor Fun: With a large outdoor pool, fishing lakes, and cycling trails, families can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Perfect for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.
15. Camping Les Forges du Petit Cens (Loire-Atlantique)
Located near Nantes, Camping Les Forges du Petit Cens is a beautiful family campsite offering a range of activities and facilities.
Why It’s Great for Families
Nature Trails: Families can explore nearby nature trails and enjoy wildlife watching.
Water Activities: The campsite features several pools and a well-equipped playground.
Cultural Exploration: The campsite’s location near Nantes provides families with the opportunity to explore museums, parks, and historical landmarks.
Conclusion
Camping in France offers an unforgettable experience for families, providing a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. The 15 campsites listed above are some of the best options for families looking for top-notch facilities, fun activities, and stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re lounging by a pool, exploring the local attractions, or enjoying a beachside retreat, these campsites ensure that every family member will have an unforgettable holiday. So, pack your bags, gather your family, and embark on a camping adventure in one of France’s most beautiful regions!
