Camping Guide | Rheinland-Pfalz

Rhineland-Palatinate is located in southwestern Germany and borders Belgium, Luxembourg, and France. The region stretches along the Rhine, which forms the natural border with Hesse and Baden-Württemberg. To the north, Rhineland-Palatinate borders North Rhine-Westphalia. Arrival by car is straightforward via a well-developed motorway network. From the north, the best way to reach Rhineland-Palatinate is via the A61, which runs from Mönchengladbach to Hockenheim. Those coming from the east use the A3, which runs from Frankfurt am Main along the Rhine. From the south, the A5 is a good choice, leading from Karlsruhe to the A61. The A6 crosses the state from west to east. Most motorways in Germany are toll-free. However, there is a truck toll on all motorways. For cars and motorhomes under 7.5 tons, no tolls apply. The only exceptions are the Warnow Tunnel in Rostock and the Herren Tunnel in Lübeck, which will not be on your travel route. Those wishing to arrive by train benefit from numerous ICE connections to Mainz, Koblenz, or Trier. From there, you can reach smaller towns and camping regions via regional trains. Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is the nearest international airport. From there, you can reach Mainz in about 30 minutes by S-Bahn. From Munich, you can reach Rhineland-Palatinate in about 6 hours via the A63 and A61. Those starting from Hamburg need about 6.5 hours via the A7 and A3. The journey from Frankfurt takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the destination in Rhineland-Palatinate. On-site, it is best to get around by car or bicycle. There are well-developed cycle paths along the rivers. The bus network is also good for exploring the region.

Rhineland-Palatinate can be divided into various sub-regions, each with its own character and charm. The Moselle region is known for its steep vineyards and picturesque towns like Bernkastel-Kues and Cochem. Here you can combine a camping holiday with wine tastings and boat trips on the Moselle. The region is ideal for couples and gourmets. The Hunsrück offers dense forests and idyllic hiking trails. The region is perfect for nature lovers and families looking for peace and relaxation. The Geierlay suspension bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in Germany, is well worth seeing. The Eifel is characterized by volcanic lakes and rolling hills. Here you can hike, cycle, or explore the maars created by volcanic activity. The Eifel is a paradise for outdoor activities and families with children. The Palatinate is known for its wine festivals and the German Wine Route. Here you can combine camping with culinary experiences and enjoy regional specialties. The Palatinate is ideal for gourmets and those interested in culture. Cities like Speyer and Worms invite you to visit. The Rhine Valley impresses with its castles and palaces lined up along the Rhine. Here you can combine a camping holiday with historical discoveries and enjoy the romantic landscape. The Rhine Valley is a popular destination for couples and those interested in culture. Places like Koblenz and Rüdesheim are worth a visit. The Nahe region, somewhat less known, offers a relaxed atmosphere with rolling hills and vineyards. Bad Kreuznach is a well-known spa town. The region is excellent for a quiet camping holiday away from the major tourist crowds.

The camping landscape in Rhineland-Palatinate is diverse and offers something for every taste. There are an estimated 250 campsites in the region, many of which are located directly on the riverbanks or in the vineyards. You will find large resort sites with pools, animation, and extensive leisure facilities. These sites are ideal for families with children who value comfort and entertainment. However, there are also smaller, nature-oriented sites that are particularly suitable for those seeking peace and nature lovers. Many of these sites offer only a few pitches and simple facilities, but a relaxed atmosphere and direct access to nature. Agriturismo/farm camping is also possible in Rhineland-Palatinate. Here you can experience country life up close and buy regional products directly from the producer. Pitches for motorhomes are also widespread. Many campsites offer special pitches with electricity and water connections as well as disposal facilities. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. In high season (July/August), a pitch for two people costs an average of between 25 and 40 euros per night. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly cheaper, ranging between 15 and 30 euros per night. The size of the pitches also varies. Usually, the plots are between 80 and 120 square meters. Many sites offer both shaded and sunny pitches. The infrastructure at the campsites varies. Most sites have modern sanitary facilities with showers, toilets, and sinks. Some sites also offer family bathrooms and barrier-free facilities. Wi-Fi quality varies. On some sites, Wi-Fi is available for free, on others you have to pay for it. The power supply is generally good, with connections from 6 to 16 amps. A reservation is recommended, especially in high season, as the most popular sites are often fully booked. Last-minute chances exist mainly in the low season or at less well-known sites.

For a relaxed camping holiday in Rhineland-Palatinate, it is helpful to know some practical information. Tolls apply on German motorways for vehicles over 7.5 tons. For motorhomes under this weight, the use of motorways is free. Diesel prices in Germany are generally slightly higher than the European average. Petrol stations are usually open from 6 am to 10 pm, some also around the clock. Payment can usually be made with cash or credit card. Supermarkets like Lidl, Rewe, and Edeka are widespread in Rhineland-Palatinate. Opening hours are usually from 8 am to 9 pm, and some supermarkets are also open on Sundays. German gas cylinders can be easily exchanged in Rhineland-Palatinate. Adapters are not required. Disposal stations for chemical toilets and grey water are available at many campsites. Some service areas along the motorways also offer disposal facilities. Mobile network coverage is good in Rhineland-Palatinate. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. Medical care in Germany is very good. Hospitals and pharmacies are available in most places. The emergency number is 112. Wild camping is generally prohibited in Rhineland-Palatinate. However, there are a few exceptions, for example on private property with the owner's permission. Environmental zones exist in some cities, such as Mainz and Koblenz. Check in advance if your vehicle is affected. Tap water in Germany is of drinking water quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

Anyone wanting to explore Rhineland-Palatinate off the beaten track will find some secret tips and insider information here. The low season (May/June and September/October) offers many advantages. The campsites are less crowded, prices are cheaper, and the weather is often pleasantly mild. Especially in September, the vineyards shine in the most beautiful colors. Less well-known places and beaches can be found, for example, at Lake Laach (Laacher See), the largest lake in Rhineland-Palatinate. It is located about 3 km south of Maria Laach and can be reached via the L149 road. Here you can swim, hike, or simply enjoy nature. Local markets and direct sales are a great way to get to know regional products. Every Saturday, a large weekly market takes place in Mainz, where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, and other specialties. Many wineries also offer direct sales where you can taste the wines on-site. A special culinary highlight is the Palatine Saumagen, a hearty specialty made from pork, potatoes, and spices. You should definitely try it in one of the numerous inns along the Wine Route. Locals like to visit "Zum Weissen Ross" in Bad Dürkheim. A worthwhile day trip leads to Eltz Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Germany. It is hidden in a side valley of the Moselle and can be reached by car in about 1 hour from Koblenz (approx. 50 km). Parking fees are 4 euros. A real insider experience is the balloon festival in Warstein in September. Although Warstein is not directly in Rhineland-Palatinate, it is easily accessible from many places in the region. Here you can admire numerous hot air balloons and even take a ride yourself.