France: The Land of Camping

France has been one of the most popular camping destinations for years. And rightly so — the country offers an abundance of campsites and RV pitches. Beach lovers often head to the Côte d’Azur, while others prefer the peaceful green countryside. France is ideal to explore by RV: it allows you to discover different regions with ease, follow scenic routes, and enjoy the country’s incredible diversity. Our rental partners McRent and Rent Easy have several pick-up locations across France, but they also offer the option to take an RV from the Netherlands. Below, we highlight four French regions that are perfect for an RV holiday.

Auvergne

In central France lies Auvergne, a fantastic destination for nature lovers. This region is known for its volcanic landscapes, with lush green mountains and picturesque lakes. It’s ideal for hiking — especially around Puy Mary, a long-extinct volcano. On hot days, the crater lake Lac Chambon is a great spot for a refreshing swim. Be sure to visit Clermont-Ferrand as well — a lively town where many buildings are made of dark volcanic stone. You’ll find plenty of campsites and RV pitches throughout Auvergne, often surrounded by nature.

Tip: Auvergne is easily accessible from the Netherlands via the Route du Soleil (A71) and combines well with an RV trip through Provence.

Provence

Provence is one of the most beloved holiday regions in southern France. In summer, the landscape turns purple with blooming lavender fields, especially around Arles and Valensole. The region is easy to explore by RV, with scenic villages, local markets, and beautiful nature along the way. One must-see is the Gorges du Verdon — a spectacular canyon often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe." You can go hiking or kayaking here, or simply enjoy the panoramic views. Be sure to stop by the historic cities of Avignon and Arles for a taste of culture, lively terraces, and charming squares. Craving a day at the beach? The Côte d’Azur is perfect for a dip in the sea.

Tip: Travel through Provence in June or early July to see the lavender fields at their peak. Most are harvested by the second or third week of July.

Normandy

In the northwest of France lies Normandy, a region that’s perfect for a varied RV holiday. Think of dramatic white cliffs at Étretat, medieval towns, and the iconic Mont Saint-Michel. For active travelers, Normandy is a dream — with over 500 kilometers of bike paths along the coast, through forests, and past quaint villages. History buffs will also love it here: visit Juno Beach, one of the landing sites used by the Allies on D-Day. You’ll find many campsites and RV pitches, often in stunning locations close to the sea or nestled in green landscapes.

Tip: Normandy is easily reached from the Netherlands, making it ideal for a shorter getaway or as the first stop on a longer road trip through France.

Aquitaine

In the southwest of France lies Aquitaine — a region known for sun, sea, nature, and good food. One of the highlights here is the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and pine forests on the other. Along the coast, you’ll find plenty of campsites — often right by the beach and shaded by trees. It’s a great area for swimming, surfing, and cycling along scenic nature trails. In the north of Aquitaine, you'll find the famous Bordeaux wine region, where you can tour a château or enjoy a local wine tasting.

Tip: The Dune du Pilat is a popular attraction. Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid crowds and catch the most beautiful views.

Helpful camping tips for your trip through France

• Book ahead during peak season. Many campsites fill up quickly in summer. If you want to secure a good spot — especially in popular areas like Provence or along the Atlantic Coast — make your reservations in advance.
• Take advantage of RV pitches. France has a wide network of motorhome areas (aires de camping-car), often in great locations and either low-cost or free. Perfect for flexible travel.
• Be aware of toll roads. Most French motorways require tolls, and in some cities, you’ll also need an environmental sticker (Crit’Air vignette).
• Wild camping is restricted in many areas. Always stay at official campsites or designated RV areas.