Camping Guide | Baden-Württemberg

Baden-Württemberg is located in southwestern Germany and borders France, Switzerland, and Bavaria. The region is characterized by a diverse landscape ranging from the mountains of the Black Forest to the vineyards of Lake Constance. Several motorways are available for arrival by car. From the north, the best way to reach Baden-Württemberg is via the A5, which leads south from Frankfurt am Main. Coming from the east, take the A8, which runs from Munich via Stuttgart to Karlsruhe. Those arriving from Switzerland can use the A81, which leads from Singen to Stuttgart. Please note that a toll is charged on some motorway sections in Germany for trucks over 7.5 tons. However, there is no toll for cars and motorhomes under 3.5 tons. For travelers by train, Baden-Württemberg is well connected to the Deutsche Bahn (DB) network. Stuttgart is an important hub from which numerous regional and long-distance trains run to all parts of the country. From Munich, for example, there are regular ICE connections to Stuttgart (travel time approx. 2 hours). Direct connections also exist from Frankfurt (travel time approx. 1.5 hours) and Hamburg (travel time approx. 5.5 hours). The nearest airport is Stuttgart Airport (STR). From there, you can reach Stuttgart city center in about 30 minutes by S-Bahn (line S2 or S3). Alternatively, taxis and rental cars are available. Within Baden-Württemberg, the public transport network is well-developed. In many cities and municipalities, there are buses and trains that allow for convenient travel. For excursions in the surrounding area, bicycles are also a great option and can be rented locally. Cycling tours along Lake Constance or through the Black Forest are particularly recommended. From Munich, you can reach Stuttgart in about 2.5 hours via the A8. The distance is around 230 kilometers. Those starting from Frankfurt will need about 2 hours via the A5 for the approximately 210-kilometer route. From Hamburg, the journey via the A7 and A5 takes about 6.5 hours with a distance of around 680 kilometers. Vienna is about 700 kilometers away, with a travel time of around 7 hours via the A8. From Zurich, it is about 200 kilometers, which can be covered in around 2.5 hours via the A81. Please note that delays may occur depending on the traffic situation.

Baden-Württemberg can be roughly divided into different regions, each with its own charm and character. The Black Forest is known for its dense forests, picturesque valleys, and traditional cuckoo clocks. Hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers feel particularly at home here. Places like Freiburg, Titisee-Neustadt, and Triberg invite you to linger. The Swabian Jura (Schwäbische Alb), on the other hand, impresses with its rolling hills, vast meadows, and numerous castles and palaces. This region is ideal for families, those seeking peace, and culture enthusiasts. Be sure to visit Lichtenstein Castle, Hohenzollern Castle, or the old town of Tübingen. Hiking and cycling are also popular here. Lake Constance (Bodensee) is a popular holiday destination for water sports enthusiasts, swimmers, and gourmets. Here you can go sailing, surfing, swimming, or simply enjoy the sun. Places like Constance, Meersburg, and Lindau also offer a variety of cultural sights and gastronomic options. There is also much for families with children to discover here. The Rhine Valley is characterized by vineyards, picturesque villages, and historic cities. This region is a paradise for wine lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts. Visit the cities of Heidelberg, Mannheim, and Karlsruhe, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the numerous wineries. Hiking and cycling along the Rhine are also very popular. The Allgäu, part of which is also located in Baden-Württemberg, is known for its impressive Alpine landscapes, idyllic lakes, and charming villages. Hikers, skiers, and nature lovers feel particularly at home here. Be sure to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Lake Eibsee, or the Breitachklamm gorge. There is also plenty for families with children to experience here. The Stuttgart Region is the economic and cultural center of Baden-Württemberg. Here you will find a variety of museums, theaters, concerts, and events. Gastronomy is also a highlight here. Visit Mercedes-Benz World, the Porsche Museum, or the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart. There are also many opportunities for shopping enthusiasts. Each of these regions offers unique camping opportunities. Whether you are looking for a pitch directly on the lake, a site close to nature in the forest, or a comfortable campsite with a pool – you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for in Baden-Württemberg. Find out about the various offers in advance and book your spot in good time, especially during the high season.

The camping landscape in Baden-Württemberg is diverse and varied. There is a wide selection of campsites, from simple pitches for motorhomes and tents to large resort sites with extensive leisure facilities. In total, there are about 500 campsites in Baden-Württemberg. Many of them are located in the heart of nature, for example in the Black Forest or on the shores of Lake Constance. You will find both large, well-equipped campsites with pools, restaurants, and entertainment programs, as well as smaller, nature-oriented sites that are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Farm camping is also very popular in Baden-Württemberg. Here you can experience country life up close and buy regional products directly from the producer. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should 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 cheaper, sometimes starting from 15 euros per night. The size of the pitches also varies. Generally, the plots are between 80 and 120 square meters. Many campsites offer both sunny and shady pitches. It is advisable to state your preferences when booking. The sanitary facilities at campsites in Baden-Württemberg are generally clean and well-maintained. Many sites have modern sanitary buildings with showers, toilets, washbasins, and washing machines. Electricity connections are also available at most pitches. The current strength is usually 6 to 16 amps. Wi-Fi is available at many campsites, although the quality often varies. Usually, the Wi-Fi is better in public areas (e.g., reception, restaurant) than at the pitches. It is advisable to check in advance whether the campsite offers Wi-Fi and what the conditions are. Especially in the high season, it is advisable to reserve your pitch in good time. Many campsites accept bookings several months in advance. While there are last-minute opportunities, the selection is often limited. It is best to check the booking conditions and deadlines directly on the campsite's website.

In Germany, there is no general toll for cars and motorhomes under 3.5 tons. However, a toll is mandatory for trucks over 7.5 tons on motorways and some federal roads. Payment is made electronically via on-board units or manually at toll stations. Diesel prices in Germany are relatively high by European standards. On average, a liter of diesel costs about 1.70 to 1.80 euros. However, prices can vary depending on the region and time of day. Gas stations are usually open from 6 am to 10 pm, and some are open 24 hours. There is a large selection of supermarkets in Baden-Württemberg. The best known include Lidl, Aldi, Rewe, and Edeka. Opening hours are usually from 7 or 8 am to 8 or 10 pm. Some supermarkets are also open on Sundays, especially in tourist areas. German gas cylinders can usually be exchanged without any problems. However, it is advisable to check in advance whether the dealer has the appropriate cylinder size in stock. Adapters are generally not required. Disposal stations for wastewater and toilets are available at many campsites. There are also disposal facilities at some motorway service areas and truck stops. The costs for disposal vary, but it is often included in the pitch price. Mobile network coverage in Baden-Württemberg is good. 4G is available in most regions, and 5G in some cities. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. Medical care in Germany is very good. Hospitals and pharmacies are located in all cities and municipalities. In an emergency, you can reach the rescue service by calling 112. Wild camping is generally prohibited in Baden-Württemberg. Violations can be punished with high fines. It is recommended to stay exclusively at designated campsites or pitches. In some cities, there are environmental zones that only vehicles with a green sticker may enter. Find out in advance whether your vehicle meets the requirements. Tap water in Germany is of high quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

The low season in Baden-Württemberg (May/June and September/October) is ideal for everyone looking for peace and relaxation. The campsites are less crowded, prices are lower, and the weather is often still pleasantly warm. Especially in spring, the fruit trees and meadows bloom, transforming the landscape into a colorful sea. A lesser-known place is Maulbronn Monastery, a former Cistercian abbey that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located about 30 kilometers northwest of Stuttgart and is easily accessible via the A8 and B35. Here you can admire the impressive architecture and immerse yourself in the history of the monastery. A secret tip for nature lovers is the Urach Waterfall, located near Bad Urach. The waterfall plunges over a cliff and is an impressive natural spectacle. You can reach it via the B28 and a short walk through the forest. Local markets are a great way to get to know regional products and buy directly from the producer. In many cities and municipalities, there are weekly markets where you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, sausage, and other specialties. A particularly beautiful market is the Stuttgart weekly market, which takes place every Saturday on the market square. A culinary must in Baden-Württemberg is Spätzle, a type of egg noodle traditionally served with sauce or cheese. Also try Maultaschen, a type of filled pasta dumpling often served in soup or with melted butter. This pairs well with a glass of Trollinger, a typical red wine from the region. A restaurant appreciated by locals is the Weinstube Fröhlich in Stuttgart. Here you can enjoy regional dishes and wines in a cozy atmosphere. It is located near the market square and is easily accessible by public transport. A worthwhile day trip is a drive to Lake Constance. From Stuttgart, you can reach the lake in about 2 hours via the A8 and B31. Here you can take a boat trip, visit Mainau Island, or simply relax. The costs for the trip and activities vary, but plan for at least 50 euros per person.