14 Apr

Alps camping

Camping in the Alps: where adventure meets nature in the mountains!

Why are the Alps a dream destination for camping?

A sunset over a lake, a breathtaking landscape revealed around a bend or over a mountain pass, thousands of flowers blooming on alpine meadows… everywhere, at every moment—whether in the heart of nature or sitting on a café terrace—you’re bound to be amazed.

Warning: happiness guaranteed!

Why choose a campsite in the Alps?

  • Natural beauty (panoramas, lakes, and forests)
  • The climate — sleeping in the cool, fresh mountain air is a true luxury!
  • Plenty of outdoor activities to discover

The different types of campsites in the Alps

  • Nature / wild camping
  • Family-friendly campsites with entertainment
  • Glamping (lodges, cabins, bubbles…)
  • Campsites with a pool or spa
  • Motorhome / vanlife areas

What about activities?

  • Mountain hiking
  • Mountain biking / e-biking — in ski resorts, you can even ride back up using the lifts!
  • White-water sports (rafting, canyoning)
  • Alpine lakes (swimming, paddleboarding, fishing)
  • Via ferrata and paragliding for the more adventurous
  • Discovering local gastronomy (cheeses, cured meats, farm products)
  • Markets and traditional villages (culture and craftsmanship)

Here are the 4 best destinations for camping in the Alps

  • The Northern Alps (Haute-Savoie, Savoie)
  • The Écrins (Hautes-Alpes)
  • The Vercors
  • Matheysine and Oisans

Practical tips to make the most of your stay :

When is the best time to go camping in the Alps?
 
The ideal period is between June and September.
Because sleeping in the cool, fresh air and enjoying true silence is simply priceless!
 
 
What should you pack?
 
Want to learn more? Check out this guide:
https://tas2cailloux.com/divers/la-checklist-du-randonneur-ne-rien-oublier/
 
The essentials start with a good pair of hiking shoes—because the Alps offer thousands of kilometers of trails leading to lakes, peaks, and breathtaking hidden gems.
 
You can also bring:
 
For tent camping:
•Tent stakes and pegs (and a mallet to secure them)
•Rope and a groundsheet (to waterproof your tent if needed)
 
Essentials for everyone:
•One backpack per person
•One sleeping bag per person
•One sleeping mat per person
•A camping stove with a full gas canister
•Matches or a lighter
 
Toiletries:
•Toothpaste and toothbrush
•Shampoo, shower gel or soap
•Sunscreen and skincare products (travel size recommended)
 
Camping kitchen gear:
•For tent campers: pots, pans, glasses, and cutlery
•For vanlife / caravans / motorhomes:
Take advantage of the extra space and bring everything you need for cooking (pots, pans, colander, dishes, spatulas…) and eating (plates, cutlery, glasses, mugs). You can also bring a coffee maker, a kettle, or even a barbecue (if allowed).
 
Other useful items:
•A cooler
•A flashlight or headlamp (with fresh batteries or dynamo-powered)
•Trash bags
•A sponge, dish soap, and a basin
•Hand-washing detergent
•Toilet paper
•A clothesline
•A first aid kit
•A Swiss army knife
•A folding table and chairs—for extra comfort and perfect aperitif moments!
 
 
Ready for the adventure?
 
Don’t wait any longer—break your routine and embrace the great outdoors!