Camping Guide | Spreewald

The Spreewald is located in southern Brandenburg, about 100 kilometers southeast of Berlin. It extends across the districts of Dahme-Spreewald, Oberspreewald-Lausitz, and Spree-Neiße. This unique biosphere reserve is characterized by an extensive network of water branches, rivers, and canals reaching a total length of over 1,300 kilometers. This special landscape was created by the last ice age and shaped by human hands over centuries. Arrival by car is straightforward. From the north and south, the best way to reach the Spreewald is via the A13 motorway (Berlin – Dresden). Coming from the west, the A15 (Berlin – Cottbus) is recommended. The motorways are toll-free. However, please note that there may be parking fees in larger towns. From Munich, you can reach the Spreewald in about 6 hours via the A9 and A13. Those starting from Frankfurt take the A13 and will be there in around 4.5 hours. Coming from Hamburg, you drive via the A24 and need about 3.5 hours. The Spreewald is also easily accessible by train. There are regular connections from Berlin, Dresden, and Cottbus to Lübbenau and Vetschau. From there, you can reach individual towns and campsites by regional buses or taxis. Travel times vary depending on the starting point and destination. It is best to check current schedules and connections in advance. The nearest airport is BER (Berlin Brandenburg Airport). From there, you can take the regional train or bus to Lübbenau or Cottbus and continue your journey into the Spreewald. The transfer time is about 1.5 to 2 hours. Locally, the best way to get around is by bicycle or punt. Many campsites offer bicycle rentals. A punt trip is an absolute must to explore the unique landscape of the Spreewald. There are numerous providers offering guided punt trips or renting out punts for self-driving. Buses also run between the larger towns, although schedules are often limited.

The Spreewald can be roughly divided into three sub-regions: the Lower Spreewald, the Upper Spreewald, and the peripheral areas. Each region has its own character and offers different experiences. The Lower Spreewald extends from Leibsch in the north to Lübben in the south. This region is characterized by vast meadows and fields, crisscrossed by numerous streams (known as 'Fließe'). Many traditional farms and small villages can be found here. A visit to the village of Schlepzig, known for its historic half-timbered houses and traditional brewery, is particularly recommended. The Lower Spreewald is ideal for families seeking peace and relaxation. Campsites here come in various sizes and facilities, often located directly on the water. The Upper Spreewald, located south of Lübbenau, is the heart of the Spreewald. Here, the network of streams is densest, and the landscape is particularly pristine. Lübbenau itself is a tourist center with numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Many punt trips into the surrounding area start from here. The Upper Spreewald also hosts some of the largest and most modern campsites. This region is ideal for active vacationers who enjoy hiking, cycling, or paddling. The peripheral areas of the Spreewald include the towns of Burg (Spreewald), Vetschau, and Straupitz. Burg is a popular spa town with numerous wellness offers. Vetschau is known for its historic old town and the Slavic Fort Museum. Straupitz houses a Dutch windmill worth seeing and a Schinkel church. In the peripheral areas, you will mainly find smaller, nature-oriented campsites that are well-suited for those seeking peace and nature lovers. Anyone interested in Sorbian/Wendish culture should plan a visit to the village of Raddusch. A reconstructed Slavic fort is located here, offering insights into the history and culture of the region. Traditional costumes and customs are also still maintained here. For athletes, the Spreewald offers numerous opportunities for cycling, hiking, and paddling. There are well-marked cycle paths along the streams and through the forests. Guided canoe tours are also offered. In winter, if temperatures allow, you can even go ice skating. Families with children will find many interesting excursion destinations in the Spreewald, such as the Lübbenau Zoo, the Kleinwelka Maze, or the Lehde Open-Air Museum. A punt trip with Santa Claus is also a special experience.

The camping landscape in the Spreewald is diverse and offers something for every taste. There are about 35 campsites of different sizes and facilities. From large resort sites with pools and entertainment to small, nature-oriented sites directly on the water, everything is available. Many campsites in the Spreewald are family-run and value a personal atmosphere. Here you can enjoy peace and relaxation in the middle of nature. Some campsites also offer agritourism/farm camping, where you have the opportunity to purchase regional products directly from the producer. Pitches for motorhomes are also available in large numbers. These are often equipped with electricity and water connections. Price ranges for pitches vary depending on the season and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between 25 and 40 euros per night. In the low season (May/June, September/October), prices are often significantly cheaper, sometimes under 20 euros per night. Typical pitches are between 80 and 120 square meters in size. Many pitches offer shade from trees, but there are also sunny spots. Most campsites have an electricity connection with 6 or 16 amps. When booking, pay attention to which amperage you require. The sanitary standard at the campsites varies. There are simple sanitary facilities with showers and toilets, but also modern sanitary buildings with individual wash cabins, changing rooms, and facilities for the disabled. Wi-Fi quality often varies. Some campsites offer free Wi-Fi, while others charge a fee. Network coverage can vary depending on the location of the campsite. A reservation is recommended in the high season, especially if you prefer a specific pitch or location. Many campsites offer online booking options. Last-minute chances often exist in the low season or during the week. It is worth inquiring at short notice. Some campsites in the Spreewald also offer rental accommodation, such as mobile homes, bungalows, or holiday apartments. This is a good alternative if you do not own your own motorhome or tent.

For a carefree camping holiday in the Spreewald, you should note some practical information. Tolls are not charged on the motorways around the Spreewald. Fees may only be charged for the use of some private roads or bridges. It is best to inform yourself in advance about the respective fee schedules. Diesel prices in Brandenburg are generally slightly lower than in southern Germany. Petrol station opening hours are usually from 6 am to 10 pm, with some stations open 24 hours. For shopping, there are supermarkets such as Lidl, Netto, and Edeka in larger towns like Lübbenau, Lübben, and Burg. Opening hours are usually from 7 am to 8 pm, and some supermarkets are also open on Sundays. In smaller towns, there are often only small corner shops with a limited range. Gas supply can be a bit problematic in the Spreewald, as German gas cylinders often cannot be exchanged. It is recommended to take an adapter with you or bring a German gas cylinder with sufficient filling. Some campsites also offer the possibility to fill or exchange gas cylinders. Disposal stations for wastewater and chemical toilets are available at most campsites. There are also public disposal stations in some larger towns. The fees are usually low. Mobile network coverage is predominantly good in the Spreewald. However, there may be restrictions in some remote areas. The roaming situation is unproblematic as Germany belongs to the EU. Medical care is good in the Spreewald. There are hospitals and pharmacies in the larger towns. Doctors are also available in sufficient numbers. Camping regulations are strict in Brandenburg. Wild camping is prohibited and punished with high fines. Camping outside of campsites is also not allowed. There are no environmental zones in the Spreewald. Tap water in the Spreewald is generally of good quality and can be drunk without hesitation. However, check with local authorities or the campsite beforehand if there are any current restrictions.

In addition to the well-known sights, the Spreewald also has some secret tips to offer that you shouldn't miss. A particular advantage of the low season (May/June, September/October) is the peace and relaxation you can enjoy here. The campsites are less crowded, and you have the opportunity to experience nature to the fullest. Prices are also often cheaper in the low season. Less known places and beaches include, for example, Briesener See, which is slightly off the tourist path. You can reach it via the L40 country road from Lübbenau towards Beeskow. After about 5 kilometers, turn left and follow the signs to Briesener See. There is a small swimming beach and a campsite here. Local markets and direct sales are a good way to get to know regional products. Every Friday, a weekly market takes place in Lübbenau where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, and sausages. Many farms also offer direct sales. Look out for the signs on the roadside. A special culinary experience is a visit to a traditional Spreewald inn. Here you should definitely try Spreewald gherkins, linseed oil with quark and jacket potatoes, as well as 'Plinsen' (local pancakes). Recommended, for example, is the Gasthaus Quappenschänke in Lehde, which is known for its traditional cuisine. Locals like to visit the restaurant 'Zum Alten Backhaus' in Burg (Spreewald). There is hearty home cooking at fair prices. The wine bar at the harbor in Lübbenau is also a popular meeting point for locals. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the Neuzelle Abbey, about 40 kilometers southeast of Lübbenau. The driving time is about 45 minutes. The monastery is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and houses a collegiate church worth seeing and a monastery garden. Admission costs 8 euros. Another secret tip is a visit to the Gherkin Museum in Lehde. Here you can learn everything worth knowing about the famous Spreewald gherkins and their production. Admission costs 4 euros. Don't forget to take a punt trip through the labyrinth of streams. It is best to book a guided punt trip to get to know the most beautiful corners of the Spreewald. Prices vary depending on duration and provider. Book a tour in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Spreewald. Also note local festivals and events, such as the Spreewald Festival in Lübbenau in September or the Gherkin Festival in Burg (Spreewald) in August. Here you can experience Sorbian/Wendish culture up close.