Camping Guide | Thüringer Wald

The Thuringian Forest is located in the heart of Germany, specifically in the Free State of Thuringia. It forms a low mountain range region approximately 150 kilometers long and up to 35 kilometers wide. The region is well-connected to the German motorway network. Arrival by car is best via the A4 (Frankfurt – Dresden) or the A9 (Berlin – Munich). From the A4, the Gotha, Erfurt, or Jena exits are ideal for reaching the Thuringian Forest. Coming from the A9, the Schleiz or Triptis exits are recommended. Please note that there is no general toll fee on German motorways for cars. For travelers from Munich, the journey takes about 4 hours via the A9. Those starting from Frankfurt will need approximately 2.5 hours via the A5 and A4. Coming from Hamburg, plan for about 5.5 hours via the A7 and A4. From Vienna, the Thuringian Forest can be reached in about 7 hours via the A9. Travelers from Zurich should expect a driving time of about 6.5 hours via the A81 and A4. As an alternative to arriving by car, the train is a good option. The nearest airport is Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF). From there, there are train connections to various locations in the Thuringian Forest. Within the Thuringian Forest, buses and regional trains operate, although they do not serve all locations directly. For flexible exploration of the region, your own vehicle or a rental car is recommended. Many campsites are also easily accessible by bicycle, as there are numerous cycle paths.

The Thuringian Forest can be roughly divided into three sub-regions: the Northwest, Central, and Southeast Thuringian Forest. Each of these regions has its own character and offers different focuses for your camping holiday. The Northwest Thuringian Forest is characterized by its rolling hills and wide meadows. Here you will find numerous small villages and towns with historic half-timbered houses. The most famous places include Eisenach with the Wartburg Castle and Bad Langensalza with its numerous gardens and parks. This region is ideal for families and those seeking peace and quiet who want to enjoy nature and take relaxed hikes. The Central Thuringian Forest is the highest and most forested region. The highest mountain in the Thuringian Forest, the Großer Beerberg (983 m), is also located here. Key locations include Oberhof, a well-known winter sports center, and Ilmenau, the university town with the Goethe House. This region is perfect for active vacationers who enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or skiing in winter. The Southeast Thuringian Forest is shaped by deep valleys and steep slopes. Here you will find numerous castles and palaces that bear witness to the region's eventful history. The most famous places include Saalfeld with the Fairy Grottoes and Rudolstadt with Heidecksburg Castle. This region is ideal for those interested in culture and history who enjoy visiting castles and museums. Regardless of the chosen sub-region, the entire Thuringian Forest offers a variety of campsites, from simple nature sites to comfortable resort campsites with extensive facilities.

The camping landscape in the Thuringian Forest is diverse and offers something for every taste. There are an estimated 50 campsites in the region, many of which are family-run and exude a personal charm. You will find both large resort sites with pools, entertainment, and restaurants, as well as smaller, nature-oriented campsites that are ideal for those seeking tranquility. Agritourism or farm camping is less common in the Thuringian Forest than in other regions of Germany, but there are a few providers offering this type of camping. Pitches for motorhomes are available at most campsites, and there are often separate motorhome stopovers. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season and the facilities of the campsite. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between 20 and 35 euros per night for a pitch for two people. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly cheaper, ranging between 15 and 25 euros per night. The size of the pitches also varies but is usually between 80 and 120 square meters. Many pitches are surrounded by trees and offer shade, but there are also sunny pitches. The sanitary facilities are generally clean and well-maintained, although the standard can vary depending on the campsite. Wi-Fi is available at many campsites, but the quality can vary. Electricity connections are available at most pitches, with the current usually being 6 or 16 amps. It is recommended to reserve pitches early, especially during the high season. While last-minute opportunities do arise, the selection is often limited.

For a relaxed camping holiday in the Thuringian Forest, it is helpful to know some practical information. Toll fees do not apply to cars on German motorways. A toll is mandatory for trucks over 7.5 tons. Gas stations are sufficiently available in the Thuringian Forest. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than in some other European countries. Opening hours for gas stations vary, but many are open around the clock. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Rewe, and Edeka can be found in the larger towns of the Thuringian Forest. Opening hours are usually 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 locations. German gas bottles can be easily exchanged in Germany. Adapters are not required. Disposal stations for camping toilets and grey water are available at many campsites and some motorhome stopovers. Disposal fees are usually included in the pitch price. Mobile network coverage is generally good in the Thuringian Forest, although there may be limitations in some remote areas. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. Medical care is guaranteed in the Thuringian Forest. Hospitals and pharmacies are available in the larger towns. Wild camping is strictly prohibited in Germany and is punished with high fines. There are no environmental zones in the Thuringian Forest. Tap water in Germany is generally of drinking water quality. However, if in doubt, check with the campsite operator or the local municipality.

Anyone who really wants to get to know the Thuringian Forest should rely on the secret tips of the locals. The low season (May/June and September/October) offers many advantages: fewer tourists, lower prices, and particularly beautiful nature. In spring, the meadows bloom in all colors; in autumn, the forests transform into a colorful sea of foliage. A lesser-known spot is the Schwarzatal, an idyllic valley with numerous hiking trails and small villages. It is located about 30 km south of Rudolstadt and can be reached via the B281. Every Saturday, a weekly market takes place in Saalfeld, offering regional products. Wineries and farm shops are rather rare in the Thuringian Forest, but some farmers offer direct sales of eggs, potatoes, and vegetables. In summer, the Rudolstadt Festival takes place in Rudolstadt, one of the largest festivals for folk, roots, and world music in Europe. In winter, there are numerous winter sports events in Oberhof. Be sure to try Thuringian dumplings (Klöße), a local specialty made from raw and cooked potatoes. This is usually served with roast meat and red cabbage. Locals enjoy visiting the "Zur Schmücke" restaurant in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig or the "Gaststätte Waldschlösschen" in Stützerbach. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the Wartburg Castle in Eisenach (approx. 1 hour driving time). The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers an impressive insight into German history.