Camping Guide | Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest extends in the east of Bavaria along the border with the Czech Republic and forms the largest continuous forest area in Central Europe. It is mainly located in the administrative districts of Lower Bavaria and the Upper Palatinate. Arriving by car is straightforward via various motorways. Coming from the north, take the A9 to Nuremberg and then change to the A3 in the direction of Regensburg and Passau. From the west, you can reach the Bavarian Forest via the A6 and A93. From the south, the A92 leads directly into the region. Note that there is a toll for trucks on some motorway sections in Germany, but not for cars. Those arriving by train can head for the stations in Plattling, Straubing, Zwiesel, or Passau. From there, regional buses take you to the various towns in the Bavarian Forest. The railway offers regular connections from Munich, Nuremberg, and Regensburg. The journey time from Munich, for example, is about 2 to 2.5 hours. The nearest international airport is Munich Airport (MUC). From there, there are regular train and bus connections to the Bavarian Forest. Alternatively, you can take a rental car and explore the region on your own. The drive from Munich Airport takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the destination in the Bavarian Forest. Within the Bavarian Forest, it is best to get around by car or bicycle. There is also a well-developed network of hiking trails that allows you to explore the region on foot. Some places are connected by bus lines, but the frequency of the buses is often not very high. For longer distances, the use of your own car or a rental car is therefore recommended. For hikers and cyclists, there are numerous accommodations specifically tailored to the needs of these target groups. From Munich, you can reach the Bavarian Forest in about 2 hours via the A92 and the B11. Those starting from Frankfurt take the A3 and need about 4 hours. Coming from Hamburg, the A7 and A3 are the best options; the journey takes about 7.5 hours. From Vienna, you can reach the Bavarian Forest via the A8 and A3 in around 4 hours. And for those arriving from Zurich, the A8 and A9 should be used; the driving time is about 6 hours.

The Bavarian Forest can be roughly divided into several subregions, each with its own character and charm. The Bavarian Forest National Park in the heart of the region is a must for nature lovers. Here you can explore untouched nature on marked hiking trails and observe rare animal species such as lynx, wildcats, and capercaillies. Places like Neuschönau and Grafenau are popular starting points for hikes and excursions into the National Park. Families feel particularly at home here, as there are numerous child-friendly offers and adventure trails. The Arberland around the Großer Arber, the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest, is a paradise for active holidaymakers. In summer, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing are popular; in winter, the region transforms into a popular ski area. Places like Bodenmais and Zwiesel offer a good infrastructure for holidaymakers and a variety of accommodations. Athletes and active holidaymakers will get their money's worth here. The Passauer Land in the southern part of the Bavarian Forest is characterized by gentle hills, picturesque villages, and proximity to the three-river city of Passau. Here you can take leisurely bike tours, visit historical castles and monasteries, and enjoy Bavarian hospitality. Places like Bad Griesbach and Fürstenzell are known for their thermal baths and wellness offers. Couples and those seeking peace and quiet will find a relaxed atmosphere here. The Deggendorfer Land in the western part of the Bavarian Forest impresses with its varied landscape and proximity to the Danube. Here you can cycle along the Danube Cycle Path, explore historical towns like Deggendorf and Vilshofen, and enjoy regional cuisine in rustic inns. Families and those interested in culture will find a wide range of activities here. The Vorwald, which borders the actual Bavarian Forest to the north, is a gently rolling landscape with numerous lakes and rivers. Here you can swim, fish, go canoeing, and enjoy nature. Places like Sankt Englmar and Viechtach offer a good infrastructure for holidaymakers and a variety of leisure activities. This region is ideal for a relaxed camping holiday, especially for families with children.

The camping landscape in the Bavarian Forest is diverse and offers the right choice for every taste and budget. There are about 80 campsites in the region, ranging from large resort sites with extensive infrastructure to small, nature-oriented sites. Many campsites in the Bavarian Forest are family-friendly and offer animation, playgrounds, and swimming pools. However, there are also numerous sites that specialize in nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. These sites are often located in remote areas and offer a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Agriturismo or farm camping is also a popular option in the Bavarian Forest. Here you can experience rural life up close and buy regional products directly from the producer. For motorhomes, there are special pitches with supply and disposal facilities. The prices for a pitch in the Bavarian Forest vary depending on the season, equipment, and location of the site. In the high season (July/August), you can expect prices between 25 and 40 euros per night for a pitch for two people. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly lower; here you can expect 15 to 25 euros per night. The size of typical pitches in the Bavarian Forest also varies. Many sites offer generous plots with sufficient space for a tent, caravan, or motorhome. However, there are also smaller sites with limited space. Most pitches are parceled out and have an electricity connection. Some sites also offer water and wastewater connections. Whether your pitch is shady or sunny depends on the location of the site and the forestation. The sanitary facilities at the campsites in the Bavarian Forest are generally clean and well-maintained. However, the standard varies from site to site. Wi-Fi is available at many sites, but the quality can vary. Electricity connections are standard, usually with 6 or 16 amps. It is recommended to reserve a pitch in the Bavarian Forest in good time, especially if you are traveling during the high season or on public holidays. Some sites also offer last-minute deals, but the choice is then often limited.

For a relaxed camping holiday in the Bavarian Forest, it is important to know some practical information. Tolls in Germany only apply to trucks over 7.5 tons. Cars and motorhomes are exempt from the toll. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than in other European countries. Petrol station opening hours are usually from 6 am to 10 pm, but many petrol stations are also open 24 hours. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Edeka, and Rewe are widespread in the Bavarian Forest. Opening hours are usually from 7 am to 8 pm; some supermarkets are open longer. On Sundays, most supermarkets are closed, but there are some exceptions in tourist areas. German gas cylinders can be easily exchanged in Germany. An adapter is not required. Disposal stations for motorhomes are available at many campsites and at some service areas along the motorways. Mobile network coverage in the Bavarian Forest is generally good, but there may be restrictions in remote areas. The roaming situation for EU citizens is unproblematic, as no roaming charges apply within the EU. Medical care in the Bavarian Forest is good. There are numerous doctors and pharmacies in the region. The nearest hospital is usually not far away. Wild camping is fundamentally prohibited in the Bavarian Forest. However, there are a few exceptions, for example on private property with the owner's permission. There are no environmental zones in the Bavarian Forest. The tap water in the Bavarian Forest is generally of good quality and can be drunk without hesitation. There are no special camping regulations in the Bavarian Forest; the general provisions of the Road Traffic Act and the Nature Conservation Act apply.

The Bavarian Forest holds some secrets that can make your camping holiday an unforgettable experience. The low season (May/June and September/October) offers many advantages: fewer tourists, lower prices, and a pleasant temperature for hiking and cycling. In autumn, the Bavarian Forest shines in the most beautiful colors. A less well-known place is the Rachelsee, an idyllic mountain lake in the National Park. It can be reached via a hiking trail from Riedlhütte (approx. 2 hours walking time). The lake is nestled in a wildly romantic landscape and offers a magnificent view. Every Saturday, a weekly market takes place in Freyung, where regional products such as cheese, sausage, bread, and vegetables are offered. A visit is worthwhile to get to know the local specialties and buy directly from the producer. A culinary must in the Bavarian Forest is the Zwetschgenknödel (plum dumpling). This sweet specialty is made from potato dough and filled with plums. You can try it in many inns and restaurants in the region. Another highlight is the National Park beer, brewed with ingredients from the region. Locals like to visit the "Zur Resi" inn in Spiegelau. Here you can find traditional Bavarian cuisine at fair prices. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the Weißenstein castle ruins near Regen. The castle perches on a rock and offers a magnificent panoramic view over the Bavarian Forest. The drive from Regen takes about 15 minutes. Admission is free. Another insider tip is the treetop walk in Neuschönau. Here you can walk through the treetops on a 1.3-kilometer-long walkway at a lofty height and enjoy a unique view of the National Park. The path is barrier-free and therefore also suitable for families with strollers.