Camping Guide | Niedersachsen

Lower Saxony is located in northwestern Germany and stretches from the North Sea coast to the inland. The region borders the Netherlands to the west, Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg to the north, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to the northeast, Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia to the east, and Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia to the south. This central location makes Lower Saxony an easily accessible destination for campers from all over Germany and neighboring countries. Arrival by car is mainly via the A1, A2, A7, and A27 motorways. The A1 crosses Lower Saxony from north to south, connecting Hamburg with the Ruhr area. The A2 leads from Berlin via Magdeburg to Hanover and further into the Ruhr area. The A7 is a major north-south axis leading from Schleswig-Holstein via Hamburg, Hanover, and Kassel to Bavaria. The A27 connects Cuxhaven on the North Sea coast with the Ruhr area. For travelers from southern Germany, arrival via the A7 is recommended. From Munich, the drive to Hanover takes about 7 to 8 hours (approx. 650-750 km). Those coming from Frankfurt can reach Lower Saxony via the A5 and A7 in about 4 to 5 hours (approx. 450 km). From the Hamburg area, Lower Saxony is quickly accessible via the A7 or A1, with travel times between 1 and 3 hours depending on the destination. Lower Saxony is also easy to reach by train. Hanover is a major rail hub served by many ICE lines. From here, there are numerous regional connections to various parts of the state. Deutsche Bahn offers regular connections from all major German cities to Hanover and other Lower Saxon cities such as Braunschweig, Göttingen, or Oldenburg. For air travelers, the airports of Hanover (HAJ), Bremen (BRE), and Hamburg (HAM) are available. From there, there are good connections to the public transport network or car rental stations to organize the onward journey to the campsite. Within Lower Saxony, it is best to travel by car or bicycle. Along the coast, there are well-developed cycle paths that are ideal for camping holidays. The bus and train network is also well-developed, especially in the coastal regions, so you can be mobile even without your own car. On the East Frisian Islands, cars are partially prohibited or only allowed to a limited extent; here, people mainly get around by bicycle or on foot.

Lower Saxony can be roughly divided into different sub-regions, each with its own character and charm. For campers, these different regions offer diverse possibilities and experiences. The North Sea coast with the East Frisian Islands is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Places like Cuxhaven, Emden, and Wilhelmshaven are popular starting points for trips to the islands. The islands themselves, such as Borkum, Norderney, Juist, Langeoog, Spiekeroog, and Wangerooge, offer endless sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and unique nature. Families and those seeking relaxation feel particularly at home here. Campsites are available in all categories, from simple tent sites to comfortable facilities with pools and entertainment. The Weser Uplands is a low mountain range region in southern Lower Saxony, ideal for hikers and cyclists. Cities like Hamelin, known for the Pied Piper legend, and Göttingen with its traditional university, are cultural highlights. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and idyllic river valleys. Here, campers find peace and relaxation in nature. There are numerous smaller campsites and pitches for motorhomes. The Lüneburg Heath is a unique heathland landscape in eastern Lower Saxony. Especially during the heath blossom in August and September, the region shines in a sea of violet colors. Places like Celle with its historic old town and Lüneburg with its medieval gabled houses are worthwhile excursion destinations. The Lüneburg Heath is ideal for hiking and cycling tours. Here, campers find nature-oriented campsites and pitches in a unique landscape. The Oldenburg Münsterland in western Lower Saxony is a rural region with many moors and lakes. Cities like Oldenburg and Cloppenburg offer cultural diversity and a cozy atmosphere. The region is ideal for cycling tours and excursions into nature. Here, campers primarily find smaller, family-run campsites and farm campsites. The Hanover region with the state capital Hanover offers a mix of city life and nature. The Maschsee, the Herrenhausen Gardens, and the Eilenriede are popular excursion destinations. Hanover is also an important transport hub and offers good connections to other regions of Lower Saxony. Here, campers find campsites near the city and in the surrounding area.

The camping landscape in Lower Saxony is diverse and offers the right place for every taste and requirement. There are an estimated 450 campsites throughout the state, many of which are located directly on the coast, in the Lüneburg Heath, or in the Weser Uplands. The range extends from large resort sites with extensive facilities to small, nature-oriented sites ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. On the North Sea coast, larger campsites with extensive offers for families dominate. There are often pools, entertainment programs, and playgrounds. Inland, particularly in the Lüneburg Heath and the Weser Uplands, you will find smaller, nature-oriented sites characterized by their quiet location and proximity to nature. Agritourism or farm camping is also common in Lower Saxony, especially in the Oldenburg Münsterland. Here, campers can enjoy rural life and buy regional products directly from the farm. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. 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 significantly cheaper, sometimes under 20 euros per night. Many campsites also offer flat-rate deals for longer stays. The size of the pitches also varies. On larger sites, the plots are often parceled and offer a size of 80 to 120 square meters. Smaller sites often have generous, unparceled areas. Most pitches have an electricity connection. Shaded spots are particularly sought after in summer, while sunny spots are pleasant in the shoulder seasons. Sanitary facilities at campsites in Lower Saxony are generally clean and well-maintained. Many sites offer modern sanitary buildings with showers, toilets, washbasins, and dishwashing sinks. Some sites also have washing machines and dryers. Wi-Fi quality varies; on larger sites, paid Wi-Fi is often available, while smaller sites may have no or only limited Wi-Fi. The current strength is usually 6 to 16 amps. Reservation is recommended, especially in the high season and at popular sites. Last-minute chances often exist in the low season or at less frequented sites. It is worth checking availability early and booking if necessary.

For a relaxed camping holiday in Lower Saxony, it is helpful to know some practical information. Here is an overview of tolls, gas stations, shopping, gas supply, disposal, mobile communications, medical care, and rules. There are no tolls in Lower Saxony, as there is no distance-based toll for cars. However, a toll applies to trucks from 7.5 tons on the motorways. Diesel prices in Germany are generally quite uniform but can vary regionally and depending on the time of day. Prices are usually slightly above the European average. Gas stations are available throughout Lower Saxony, both along the motorways and in cities and municipalities. Opening hours are usually from early morning to late evening, and many gas stations are open 24 hours. There is a wide range of shopping options in Lower Saxony. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Aldi, Edeka, and Rewe are represented in almost all locations. Opening hours are mostly Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm, with some supermarkets open until 10 pm. Most shops are closed on Sundays, with exceptions for some supermarkets in tourist areas and at train stations. The gas supply for campers is well-organized in Lower Saxony. German gas cylinders can usually be exchanged without problems. However, it is advisable to check in advance whether the respective dealer has the desired cylinder size in stock. Adapters are generally not required. Disposal stations for wastewater and chemical toilets are available at many campsites and motorhome pitches. Some rest areas along the motorways also offer disposal facilities. Fees for disposal vary, but it is often included in the pitch price. Mobile network coverage is predominantly good in Lower Saxony, especially in cities and along the coast. However, there may be limitations in rural areas. Roaming charges within the EU were abolished in 2017, so you can use your mobile device without additional costs. Medical care is guaranteed throughout Lower Saxony. Hospitals and pharmacies are available in all larger towns. It is recommended to take out travel health insurance before starting your journey. Wild camping is generally prohibited in Lower Saxony. However, there are a few exceptions, for example on private property with the owner's permission. Environmental zones exist in some cities, such as Hanover and Hildesheim. Tap water in Lower Saxony is generally of good quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

To make your camping holiday in Lower Saxony even more unforgettable, here are some insider tips you won't find in every travel guide: The low season has many advantages: The months of May, June, and September are ideal for exploring Lower Saxony. The campsites are less crowded, prices are lower, and the weather is often pleasantly mild. Especially in spring, nature blooms and the Lüneburg Heath shines in lush green. Less well-known places and beaches can be found along the East Frisian coast. The beach at Neuharlingersiel is a secret tip for families with children. It is slightly away from the large tourist crowds and offers a relaxed atmosphere. The beach at Otterndorf at the mouth of the Elbe is also worth a visit. It is accessible via the B73 and offers a beautiful view of the passing ships. Local markets and direct sales are a great way to get to know regional products. The weekly market in Oldenburg takes place every Wednesday and Saturday on the market square. Here you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, sausage, and many other delicacies. The farm shop of Bauer Meyer in Wathlingen (located about 15 km south of Celle) also offers a large selection of regional products. Local festivals and events take place in Lower Saxony all year round. The Stoppelmarkt in Vechta is one of the largest folk festivals in Northern Germany and takes place every year in August. There are rides, festival tents, and many stalls with regional specialties. The Braunschweig International Film Festival takes place every year in November and shows a large selection of national and international films. Culinary tips: Be sure to try Grünkohl mit Pinkel (kale with a special sausage), a hearty specialty from the Oldenburg Münsterland. Labskaus, a traditional sailor's dish, is also typical of the region. Locals like to visit the Fischerhütte restaurant in Cuxhaven, which is known for its fresh fish dishes. Day trips that are worthwhile: A visit to the Autostadt Wolfsburg (approx. 1 hour drive from Hanover) is a must for car fans. A trip to the Harz Mountains (approx. 1.5 hours drive from Hanover) with its picturesque towns and hiking trails is also recommended. The cost of entry to the Autostadt is approx. 20 euros, and a ride on the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway costs approx. 30 euros.