Is free camping legal 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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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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There is no law in the vehicle code stating that sleeping in your car is forbidden. As long as you follow the generals rules for parking and where you can and cannot park, you can sleep in your car.

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What is the best free camping app? The camping apps: Park4night, iOverlander, Campercontact and ACSI campsites all offer a free version.

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Hayley Spurway finds some of the best free camping locations across Spain and Portugal.
  • Las Rozas, Cantabria.
  • Playa Valdevaqueros, Andalucia.
  • Praia do Rostro, Galicia.
  • Playa Traba, Galicia.
  • Esteiro, Galicia.
  • Frexulfre, Asturias.
  • Praia Odeceixe, Portugal.
  • Costa de Almograve, Portugal.


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In countries such as Germany, Italy, England and Wales, wild camping is considered illegal, and often enforced. Some countries (such as France) have loopholes where, although you aren't allowed to set up a tent, you are allowed to spend a night under a tarp or in a bivvy bag.

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There is no law in the vehicle code stating that sleeping in your car is forbidden. As long as you follow the generals rules for parking and where you can and cannot park, you can sleep in your car.

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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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Let's keep it simple. You can sleep in your van in a public place or a parking, as long as there is no sign that forbids it. This goes for parking lots, places in nature, anywhere actually. And don't worry, France is full of these signs!

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Speed limits vary in France depending on the type of road and size of vehicle. As a general rule the drivers of courier vans under 3.5t are subject to limits of 50km/h in towns, 90km/h on open roads (80km/h in wet conditions), 110 km/h on dual carriageways (100km/h when wet) and 130km/h on motorways (110km/h when wet).

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You can sleep in your van in a public place or a parking, as long as there is no sign that forbids it. This goes for parking lots, places in nature, anywhere actually. And don't worry, France is full of these signs! There are signs and height barriers telling you that campers are not welcome there.

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