Can you camp freely in France?

Wild camping generally is not permitted in France, except when the landowner permits to do so. Pitching up in protected natural sites or near historic monuments is never allowed. Local authorities or other authorities in charge of these designated areas can establish specific rules regarding the area they govern.



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Wild camping generally is not permitted in France, except when the landowner permits to do so. Pitching up in protected natural sites or near historic monuments is never allowed. Local authorities or other authorities in charge of these designated areas can establish specific rules regarding the area they govern.

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Overnight parking is not permitted anywhere in France, although it is OK to park in a rest area if you need a rest. Depending on the region you will visit, you will find private parkings that can be a good and safe alternative to park your car for a few hours or days.

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For campers who prefer to camp by tent, you are almost guaranteed to find adequate accommodations in Europe's many campsites. Whether you enjoy the lavender fields of Provence, France, or the beaches of Barcelona, Spain, the vast majority of European campsites will have plenty of available lots for tent campers.

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Parking campers or motor-homes in Paris should be avoided, so as not to block traffic. Instead you should head for the designated parking spaces at camp sites. In Paris, it is prohibited to sleep in your vehicule.

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Can you stay overnight in an 'aire de service' on a French motorway? Yes, often it is allowed. They often have specific motorhome parking areas and there will be an allowed time you are allowed to stay for. This will be displayed clearly on a sign somewhere nearby.

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Scotland is one of the best places in Europe for wild camping. Under the Land Reform Act of 2003, it is permitted almost anywhere with very few restrictions. Wild camping is also legal in Lithuania, Turkey and Finland. In some countries, like Norway and Sweden, the practice is actively encouraged.

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You can park anywhere as long as it's not forbidden. Car camping is allowed in most European countries, except Slovenia that fines heavily sleeping in the car outside of the designated (and very expensive) spots.

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