Camping Guide | Hessen

Hesse, located in the heart of Germany, is a federal state that scores points with its central location and easy accessibility. Whether by car, train, or plane – Hesse is easy to reach from all directions. For travelers by car, various motorways crisscross the state. Coming from the north, the A7 is an important route that leads you directly to Hesse. From the south, you can best reach Hesse via the A5 or the A3. Those arriving from the east can use the A4 and then the A7. The A44 connects Hesse with the west. Note that on some motorway sections in Germany, tolls apply for trucks, but not for cars or motorhomes under 3.5 tons. The drive from Munich takes about 4.5 hours via the A3, while from Hamburg you need about 5.5 hours via the A7. Hesse is also excellently connected by train. Frankfurt Central Station is one of Germany's largest railway hubs and offers numerous connections in all directions. From here, you can easily reach many cities and municipalities in Hesse. The ICE connects Frankfurt, for example, with Munich (approx. 3 hours), Hamburg (approx. 4 hours), and Berlin (approx. 4 hours). Within Hesse, regional trains and S-Bahn trains operate, ensuring good connections. For arrival by plane, Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is the best choice. It is Germany's largest airport and offers numerous international connections. From the airport, you can reach Frankfurt city center by S-Bahn in about 15 minutes. Rental car companies are also located at the airport if you want to explore the region flexibly. To get around within Hesse, various options are available. In addition to the well-developed public transport system with buses and trains, cycling is a great way to explore the landscape. Many places have well-signposted cycle paths leading through picturesque valleys and along rivers. Those who want to be flexible can also rent a car. For campers, it is important to know that many cities have well-equipped pitches that provide an ideal base for excursions into the surrounding area. Note, however, that environmental zones have been established in some cities, for which an environmental sticker is required.

Hesse is a federal state full of diversity, divided into different regions, each with its own character. Each of these sub-regions offers unique experiences for your camping holiday. Northern Hesse, known for the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Here you will find numerous campsites in the midst of untouched nature. Places like Bad Wildungen and Frankenberg (Eder) invite you to linger with their historic town centers. Families feel particularly at home here, as there are many child-friendly hiking trails and leisure activities. Eastern Hesse, characterized by the Rhön, is a popular destination for active vacationers. The region offers numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and climbing. Fulda, with its baroque cityscape, is a cultural highlight. Campers looking for peace and relaxation will find idyllic pitches away from the hustle and bustle. Athletes appreciate the challenging mountain bike trails and climbing rocks. In southern Hesse, the Odenwald extends, a region with dense forests and picturesque villages. Darmstadt, with its Art Nouveau architecture, and Michelstadt, with its historic town hall, are places worth seeing. Couples and those interested in culture feel particularly at home here. The region is known for its numerous castles and palaces that invite exploration. Wine lovers will get their money's worth in the vineyards of the Bergstraße. Western Hesse is dominated by the Taunus, a region with rolling hills and thermal baths. Wiesbaden, the state capital, and Bad Homburg are elegant spa towns with a long tradition. Here you will find many wellness offers and luxurious campsites. Retirees and those seeking relaxation appreciate the peace and the health-promoting offers of the region. The Taunus also offers numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. The region around Frankfurt, the Rhine-Main area, is the economic center of Hesse. Life pulses here, and there are numerous cultural offerings. Frankfurt itself is known for its skyline, its museums, and its nightlife. Mainz and Wiesbaden, on the other side of the Rhine, are also cities worth seeing. This region is ideal for campers who want to combine city life with nature. There are several campsites near Frankfurt that offer good connections to the city.

The camping landscape in Hesse is diverse and offers something for every taste. From large resort sites with pools and entertainment to small, nature-oriented sites, everything is represented. In total, there are about 200 campsites in Hesse, spread across the entire state. Many sites are located in the middle of nature, surrounded by forests, lakes, or rivers. The large resort sites often offer an extensive infrastructure with swimming pools, restaurants, supermarkets, and entertainment programs. These sites are particularly popular with families with children, as they offer a wide range of leisure activities. The smaller, nature-oriented sites, on the other hand, are characterized by their peace and seclusion. Here you can enjoy nature to the fullest and escape the stress of everyday life. These sites are often more simply equipped but still offer everything you need for a relaxed camping holiday. Agriturismo or farm camping is also a popular option in Hesse. Here you can experience country life up close and buy regional products directly from the producer. Many farms also offer pitches for motorhomes. The price ranges for pitches in Hesse vary depending on the season and equipment. In the high season (July/August), a pitch for two people and a motorhome costs an average of between 25 and 40 euros per night. In the low season (May/June, September/October), prices are often significantly lower, sometimes starting from 15 euros per night. The size of the pitches also varies. On larger sites, the plots are often parceled out and offer enough space for a motorhome or caravan and an awning. On smaller sites, the pitches are often more freely arranged. Whether you prefer a shady or sunny pitch depends on your personal preferences. Many sites offer both shady and sunny pitches. The sanitary facilities at the campsites in Hesse are generally well-maintained and clean. Many sites have modern sanitary buildings with showers, toilets, and sinks. Electricity connections are also available at most pitches. However, the amperage varies, so you should inform yourself in advance. Wi-Fi is available at many sites, but the quality can vary. A reservation is recommended, especially in the high season, as the sites are often fully booked. However, there are always last-minute chances, especially at smaller sites.

For a relaxed camping holiday in Hesse, it is important to know some practical information. In Germany, tolls generally only apply to trucks over 7.5 tons. Cars and motorhomes under 3.5 tons are exempt from tolls. There are plenty of gas stations in Hesse, both on the motorways and in the cities and municipalities. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than in other European countries. Gas station opening hours vary, but many are open around the clock. Shopping opportunities are also plentiful in Hesse. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Rewe, Edeka, and Aldi are represented in almost all locations. Opening hours are usually from Monday to Saturday from 7 or 8 am to 8 or 10 pm. Supermarkets are generally closed on Sundays, with the exception of a few in tourist areas. Gas supply is unproblematic in Hesse. German gas cylinders can usually be exchanged without problems. Adapters are not required. Disposal stations for motorhomes are available at many campsites as well as at some service areas. Use is usually subject to a fee. Mobile network coverage in Hesse is good. Roaming is no problem within the EU. Medical care is guaranteed throughout Hesse. Hospitals and pharmacies are located in almost all cities and municipalities. When camping in Hesse, some rules must be observed. Wild camping is generally prohibited. However, there are a few exceptions, for example on private property with the owner's permission. In some cities, there are environmental zones for which an environmental sticker is required. Tap water in Hesse is generally drinkable. However, inform yourself in advance if there are any exceptions. It is advisable to inform yourself about current regulations and ordinances before your trip, as these can change.

Those who want to discover Hesse off the beaten tourist path will find some insider tips here. The low season (May/June, September/October) is ideal for enjoying Hesse in peace. The campsites are less frequented, prices are lower, and the weather is often pleasantly mild. A lesser-known place is the Edersee, one of Germany's largest reservoirs. Here you can not only camp but also swim, sail, or fish. The Edersee is located about 30 km southwest of Kassel and is easily accessible via the B485. Another secret tip is the Bergstraße-Odenwald Geopark, a region with unique geology and a rich cultural history. Here you can hike, cycle, or visit the numerous castles and palaces. The Geopark extends over the southern part of Hesse and is easily accessible via the A5 and the A67. Local markets and direct sales are a good way to get to know regional products. In many cities and municipalities, there are weekly markets where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, sausage, and cheese. Wineries and farm shops also offer their products directly. A well-known local festival is the Rheingau Wine Market in Wiesbaden, which takes place every year in August. Here you can taste the region's wines and enjoy the sociable atmosphere. Culinary-wise, Hesse has a lot to offer. A local specialty is Green Sauce (Grüne Soße), a herb sauce traditionally served with eggs or potatoes. Apple wine, also called Ebbelwoi, is also a typical drink of the region. In Frankfurt, there are numerous apple wine taverns where you can try Ebbelwoi. A restaurant popular with locals is "Apfelwein Wagner" in Frankfurt-Sachsenhausen. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the Wartburg in Eisenach, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Frankfurt (approx. 150 km via the A4). The Wartburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once the refuge of Martin Luther. Admission costs about 12 euros per person.

Hesse offers you a variety of leisure activities that will make your camping holiday unforgettable. Here are some suggestions: Hiking in the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park: Discover the untouched nature of the national park on numerous hiking trails. Enjoy the peace and the magnificent view of the Edersee. The national park is located in northern Hesse and is easily accessible via the A49 and the B253. There are various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty, so there is something for everyone. From easy walks to challenging day tours, everything is possible. Particularly recommended is the Urwaldsteig Edersee, a 68-kilometer circular hiking trail that leads through the entire national park. Cycling in the Rheingau: Explore the vineyards of the Rheingau on a bicycle. Enjoy the picturesque landscape and the numerous wine taverns where you can taste regional wines. The Rheingau is located in western Hesse and is easily accessible via the A66. There are various cycle paths leading through the vineyards, including the Rheingau Riesling Route and the Hessian Long-Distance Cycle Path R3. The cycle paths are well-signposted and offer a magnificent view of the Rhine. Swimming in the Edersee: Spend a day at the Edersee and enjoy the cool water. The Edersee is one of Germany's largest reservoirs and offers numerous swimming opportunities. There are various beaches and sunbathing lawns that invite you to relax. Water sports such as sailing, surfing, and fishing are also offered. The Edersee is located in northern Hesse and is easily accessible via the A49 and the B253. Visit to the Wartburg in Eisenach: Visit the Wartburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the refuge of Martin Luther. The Wartburg is located in Eisenach, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Frankfurt (approx. 150 km via the A4). The Wartburg is an impressive building with a rich history. Here, Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. Admission costs about 12 euros per person.