Looking for smaller, local campsites in France? Skip the big chains. Discover these absolute gems
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When we go camping—whether it’s in the UK or across Europe—we almost always skip the big-name chains. Sure, we’ve stayed at a Huttopia now and then when choices are limited, but our most memorable camping holidays have always come from those small, locally owned campsites tucked away in the French countryside.
There’s just something special about them. They’re quieter, more personal, and often full of unexpected charm. Don’t get us wrong—we’re big fans of a good swimming pool, a pizza van, and a decent playground for the kids. But you don’t need to book a spot at a massive resort like Yelloh! Village to find those things. In fact, many of the independent campsites in France we’ve stayed at have offered just as much fun, with a whole lot more character.
We’ve spent years camping across France, and it’s become one of our favourite ways to travel. With all that experience comes confidence—not just in knowing where to look, but in being able to find incredible campsites on the fly, without having to book everything in advance. And some of our best stays have been those spontaneous finds, often off the beaten path.
So if you’re looking to explore smaller campsites in France, here are some campsites we’ve personally stayed at—and absolutely loved.
Camping Le Moulin d’Onclaire
We stumbled across Camping Le Moulin d’Onclaire by pure luck after our original campsite turned out to be a total disaster—and honestly, it was an absolute gem of a find. Tucked away in the pretty village of Coux, just a few minutes from Privas, this riverside gem is set around a 17th-century mill and has a peaceful, laid-back vibe that immediately won us over. There’s a pool to cool off in, a little bar and games area to unwind, and even a restaurant serving proper Ardèche-style food in summer. The pitches are spacious, the staff are lovely, and there’s a mix of nature, comfort, and charm that made it feel like a hidden treasure. We didn’t plan to stay here—but we’re so glad we did. We extended our stay and we’d definitely go back.
L’Orangerie de Beauregard
We stayed at L’Orangerie de Beauregard at the end of our trip, and it was the perfect way to unwind. The facilities are absolutely pristine, with everything from the heated pool, the play park to the mini-market kept in tip-top shape. What really stood out, though, was the lovely atmosphere—it’s the kind of place where you immediately feel at home. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or enjoying a quiet moment in the beautiful woodlands, there’s a real sense of peace and tranquillity here.
Camping des Bastides
If there’s one campsite our kids keep asking to return to, it’s Camping des Bastides. Set in the peaceful Lot-et-Garonne region, this site has everything to keep them entertained. From the fun water slide and pool to the playground with a bouncy castle and trampoline, there’s no shortage of activities. With seasonal events like football, boules, and live music, the whole family can join in the fun. Plus, the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a spot we’ll keep coming back to for years to come.
Camping au Bois Dormant
Camping Au Bois Dormant in Chauffour-sur-Vell offers the perfect balance of nature and comfort. Set in a peaceful oak forest, we had a huge pitch and we felt like there was plenty of space for our kids to roam freely. With an outdoor pool, waterslide, sports facilities, and games room, there was no shortage of activities to keep them entertained. The campsite also hosts fun events like karaoke and barbecue nights. Our kids got very into the karaoke! Plus, with nearby attractions like the villages of Collonges-la-Rouge and the Gouffre de Padirac, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area.
Camping La Serre
If you’re on the hunt for a peaceful getaway where nature is the star of the show, Camping La Serre in Aigues-Vives is an absolute gem. Seriously, it’s one of the most beautiful campsites we’ve ever stayed at. Each pitch feels like your own little secluded spot in the middle of nature, giving you that perfect off-the-grid vibe, but with all the creature comforts you want. The pool is the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring and the on-site restaurant serves up some great pizza.
There’s a great variety of accommodation, too—whether you prefer a spacious pitch, a cozy glamping tent, or a mobile home, you’ve got options. What makes this place really stand out is its commitment to sustainability. It’s a certified LPO refuge, with meadows full of orchids and butterflies, creating a super peaceful, nature-filled atmosphere. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hiking through the Pyrenees, or treating yourself to some yoga, Camping La Serre is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Camping La Viste
Camping La Viste in Rousset is another gem we stumbled upon when our plans took an unexpected turn—and we’ve been back twice since! It’s walking distance from the stunning Lac de Serre-Ponçon, this campsite offers the perfect balance of action and relaxation. There are two outdoor pools, including one with a water slide that the kids absolutely loved. Plus, there are great pizzas for a speedy dinner, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring and swimming.
We can’t get enough of camping in France — we keep finding ourselves going back again and again! It’s easily one of the best spots in Europe for campers, with an amazing variety of campsites to suit every style and budget. If you’re planning your next trip, check out pitchup.com for ideas, and don’t be afraid to try some of the smaller, independent sites — they can be real hidden gems.
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