Child-friendly campsites To listen to

The advantages of camping with children

Camping often ties in well with what children need. At a campsite, they have plenty of space to freely explore and follow whatever catches their interest. Instead of sitting still at the table, they are off on a journey of discovery: to the playground, cycling along the paths on the campsite or making new friends.

Many child-friendly campsites also have limited traffic or are even (almost) completely car-free. This gives you, as a parent, extra peace of mind. You don't have to be constantly alert and are able to really relax yourself.

Nature as a playground

When camping, nature becomes one big adventure playground. Whether you are in the forest, by a lake, in the mountains or by the sea, being in the outdoors automatically becomes the highlight of the day. Children build huts, look for sticks, spot animals, count stars and enjoy marshmallows by the campfire.

The social aspect is also important. It's easy to make contact at a family campsite. While your children make new friends, you can chat with other parents. Friendships are often formed that last for years.

Flexible holidays

One of the great advantages of camping is the freedom it offers. You set your own pace:

• Breakfast in your pyjamas in front of the caravan
• A spur-of-the-moment afternoon at the beach
• Early to bed with the little ones
• Or grabbing an ice cream at sunset

The holiday adapts to your family – not the other way around. Especially in a time full of schedules, appointments and screen time, camping is a great way to really be together again.

Special facilities at a child-friendly campsite

Child-friendly campsites are fully equipped for families. That means less hassle and more relaxation for you.

Typical facilities include:

• Craft and creative workshops
• Kids entertainment
• Sports tournaments and outdoor games
• Children's swimmingpools, shallow bathing areas or waterparks
• Adventure playgrounds
• Mini disco or evening shows

and at some campsites even:

• Small animal park or pony rides
• Youth club or chill-out area

Many campsites also have age-specific clubs, such as mini, kids' and teen clubs. This way, every child feels at home.

Camping with children: for every stage of childhood

What’s suitable for your child often depends on their stage of life, their needs will change and a camping holiday will look very different. Here is an overview:

Babies and toddlers

With the little ones, comfort is key. Consider the following:

• Sanitary facilities with changing area
• Facilities for washing baby clothes
• Quiet pitches
• Shaded areas in summer
• A spot close to the sanitary facilities

A mobile home or furnished safari tent can be extra practical at this stage.

Preschoolers and primary school children

This is the perfect age for camping. Children at this stage love:

• Playgrounds they can get to on their own
• Entertainment programmes
• Swimming pools with various depths or waterslides
• Treasure hunts and nature activities
• Cycling around the campsite
• A well-organised, small to medium size campsite with clearly marked play areas is ideal for this age group.

Teenagers

Teenagers want freedom, but also challenges. Important factors include:

• Sports facilities (football, beach volleyball, water sports)
• Reliable Wi-Fi
• Special activities for teenagers
• Meeting places for young people
• Adventurous activities such as canoeing, climbing or mountain biking

Camping gives teenagers more independence than a hotel holiday, while still allowing the family to get together.

Practical tips for a relaxing camping holiday

• Bring plenty of spare clothing
• Don't plan too much
• Don't forget your favourite cuddly toy
• Remember good sun protection
• Build in moments of rest

With children the key is often to plan less and enjoy more. One highlight a day is usually plenty.

Memories for life

Many adults still smile when they think back to their first camping holiday: the campfire, new friends from other countries, the feeling of freedom. They often still remember a few foreign words they picked up during their camping days. And that’s exactly what it’s all about.

Laughing together. Meeting new people. Living outdoors. Having time for each other.

If you choose a campsite that suits your childrens needs, your camping holiday will not just be a holiday – it will be an experience that your children will talk about for years to come.