Camping Guide | Lüneburg Heath

The Lüneburg Heath extends in the northeast of Lower Saxony, between the cities of Hamburg, Hanover, and Bremen. It includes parts of the districts of Celle, Heidekreis, Lüneburg, and Uelzen. The region is known for its extensive heathlands, which offer an impressive play of colors, especially during the blooming season in August and September. Arrival by car is straightforward via various motorways. From the south, the best way to reach the Lüneburg Heath is via the A7, which runs from Würzburg via Hanover to Hamburg. Take the Soltau-Ost or Soltau-Süd exits to get to the heart of the heath. Those arriving from the Ruhr area can use the A1 to the Bremer Kreuz and from there switch to the A27 towards Hanover to then get onto the A7. From Berlin, the A24 leads to Hamburg, from where you can reach the Heath via the A7. For travelers from Munich, the route via the A9 heading north to the Potsdam interchange is recommended, then continue on the A10 and finally on the A7. This route takes about 7.5 hours and is around 750 km long. Those starting from Frankfurt drive via the A5 and A7, which means about 5 hours and 500 km. From Hamburg, the driving time via the A7 is about 1.5 hours for a distance of around 150 km. The Lüneburg Heath is also easily accessible by train. Many IC and ICE trains stop in the larger cities such as Lüneburg, Uelzen, or Celle. From there, you can reach the smaller towns and the campsites by regional trains or buses. The nearest airport is Hanover (HAJ), from which you can travel by S-Bahn to Hanover Main Station and then continue by train. Within the Lüneburg Heath, it is best to move around by car or bicycle. Many places are connected by well-developed cycle paths. The bus network is also relatively dense, so you can explore the region even without your own vehicle. During the heath blossom, special bus lines also operate, taking you to the most beautiful heath areas.

The Lüneburg Heath can be roughly divided into various sub-regions, each with its own charm and character. The northern area around Bispingen is known for its tourist attractions such as Heide Park Soltau and the Snow Dome Bispingen. Families and active vacationers feel particularly at home here. Numerous campsites offer a good starting point for excursions in the area. Bispingen itself is a lively place with many restaurants and shops. In the east, around Uelzen, vast agricultural land and small heath areas characterize the landscape. Uelzen itself is a charming Hanseatic city with a historic center and the famous Hundertwasser station. This region is ideal for those seeking peace and nature lovers who want to enjoy the rural idyll. Campsites here are often smaller and close to nature. The south, around Celle, impresses with its historic old town with numerous half-timbered houses. Celle is a lively city with a diverse cultural offering. The campsites in this region are often somewhat larger and offer a good infrastructure. Both families and couples feel at home here. In the west, around Soltau, lies the heart of the Lüneburg Heath. Here, the largest heathlands extend, offering an impressive play of colors, especially during the blooming season. Soltau is a central location with many shopping opportunities and restaurants. The campsites in this region are diverse and offer something for every taste. From here, many hikes and bike tours through the heath can be undertaken. Particularly worth seeing is the Wilseder Berg, the highest elevation in the Lüneburg Heath, from which you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view. The Pietzmoor, a raised bog with unique flora and fauna, is also worth a visit. No matter which sub-region you choose, the Lüneburg Heath offers something for every taste. Whether you want to explore the tourist attractions around Bispingen, visit the historic old town of Celle, or hike through the vast heathlands around Soltau, you are guaranteed to find the right place for your camping holiday.

The camping landscape in the Lüneburg Heath is diverse and offers the right place for every taste and budget. There is a wide range of campsites, from large resort sites with extensive infrastructure to small, nature-oriented sites that are ideal for those seeking peace. In total, you have over 80 campsites to choose from. The large resort sites, often equipped with pools, animation, and restaurants, are particularly popular with families. There are often special offers for children, such as playgrounds or kids' clubs. These sites usually offer spacious pitches with electricity, water, and sewage connections. The sanitary standard is usually very high, and Wi-Fi is often available. Those who prefer it a bit quieter and closer to nature will also find numerous small campsites in the Lüneburg Heath, which are often family-run. These sites are often idyllically located on the edge of the forest or by a small lake. There is usually less infrastructure here, but instead a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of peace. The pitches are often a bit smaller and more simply equipped, but still comfortable. Agriturismo or farm camping is also possible in the Lüneburg Heath. Here you can experience country life up close and buy regional products directly from the farm. These sites are often very small and familial and offer an authentic experience. For motorhome drivers, there are special parking spaces in many towns, which are often equipped with electricity and water connections. These spaces are ideal for a short overnight stay or for a longer stay if you want to explore the region. The prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, the size of the site, and the equipment. In the 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 slightly lower, between 20 and 30 euros per night. The size of the typical pitches varies depending on the site. On the large resort sites, the pitches are often generously sized and offer enough space for a large tent or a motorhome. On the smaller sites, the pitches are often a bit smaller, but still sufficiently large. Many pitches offer shade from trees, but there are also sunny spots. It is recommended to book early, especially in the high season, as the campsites in the Lüneburg Heath are very popular. While there are always last-minute opportunities, it is better to be on the safe side and reserve in time.

For a relaxed camping holiday in the Lüneburg Heath, it is helpful to know some practical information. Toll fees generally do not apply to cars in Germany. Motorways are also free for motorhomes under 7.5 tons. For heavier vehicles, a distance-based toll is charged, which is recorded electronically. Gas stations are available throughout the Lüneburg Heath. Diesel prices in Germany are relatively uniform and are usually slightly below the European average. The opening hours of gas stations are mostly from early morning until late evening; many gas stations are also open 24 hours. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Edeka, Rewe, and Penny can be found in almost all towns in the Lüneburg Heath. Opening hours are usually Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. Supermarkets are generally closed on Sundays, with the exception of a few that have a special permit. The supply of gas cylinders is well-regulated in Germany. German gas cylinders can be exchanged at many hardware stores and camping specialty shops. Adapters are usually not necessary, as German connections are standard. Disposal stations for wastewater and chemical toilets are available at many campsites. There are also disposal stations at some motorway service areas. Mobile network coverage is predominantly good in the Lüneburg Heath. However, there may be restrictions in some remote areas. Roaming is not a problem within the EU, as roaming charges have been abolished. Medical care in Germany is very good. There are doctors and pharmacies in almost all towns. The nearest hospital is usually not far away. In an emergency, dial 112. Wild camping is fundamentally prohibited in Germany and is punished with high fines. However, there are a few exceptions, such as bivouacking in emergencies. There are no environmental zones in the Lüneburg Heath. Tap water in Germany is generally of very good quality and can be drunk without hesitation. When camping in the Lüneburg Heath, you should ensure compliance with nature conservation regulations. Making fires is only allowed at designated fire pits, and trash should always be disposed of properly. Follow the rules of the respective campsite and respect nature.

The Lüneburg Heath has a lot to offer away from the well-known tourist paths. Anyone who really wants to get to know the region should go in search of its hidden beauties. A real insider tip is the low season. In the months of May, June, and September, the Heath shows its quiet side. The campsites are emptier, prices are cheaper, and nature awakens or prepares for winter. Especially in September, after the main blooming period, the Heath shines in a very special light. Less known, but no less charming, are the small heath areas away from the large nature reserves. For example, the heathlands around the Totengrund near Schneverdingen. Here you can hike undisturbed and enjoy nature. A visit to one of the local markets is a must for every camping vacationer. At the weekly markets in Lüneburg, Celle, or Uelzen, you can try and buy regional specialties such as Heidschnucke meat (moorland sheep), buckwheat pancakes, or heath honey. Many farms also offer direct sales from the farm. A special highlight are the local festivals and events. In August, the Heath Blossom Festival takes place in Schneverdingen, where the Heath Queen is crowned. In September, there are harvest festivals in many places with traditional parades and customs. Culinary-wise, you should definitely try Heidschnucke meat. The meat of the Heidschnucke, an old breed of sheep, is particularly tender and aromatic. It is often offered as a roast or as a sausage. Buckwheat pancakes, a specialty from the Lüneburg Heath, are also very delicious. Cranberry sauce goes well with them. Locals like to visit the restaurant "Zum alten Landhaus" in Bispingen or the "Gasthaus zur Linde" in Müden (Örtze). Here you can find regional cuisine at fair prices. For a day trip, a visit to the Hanseatic city of Lüneburg is worthwhile. The city is about 30 minutes by car from Soltau and impresses with its historic old town with numerous half-timbered houses. The trip costs about 5 euros in parking fees. Those who like it a bit more adventurous can take a canoe trip on the Örtze. The Örtze is a small river that flows through the Lüneburg Heath. The tour takes about 3 hours and costs approx. 30 euros per person.