What are the best places to go camping in summer?
I'm looking for some nice camping spots not too far from Paris where I can go with friends this weekend. We'd like to find somewhere with water nearby and not too crowded. Any recommendations?
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The thing is, late August is a bit late to find really quiet spots near Paris - almost everywhere will be packed this weekend! But if you're flexible, the banks of the Marne or Oise have some nice little areas with water, like around Meaux or Pontoise, where there are fewer tourists than the really well-known spots. Otherwise, head more towards Fontainebleau Forest - it's wild and there are plenty of hidden little streams, even if it's barely any further. Really, the ideal thing is to check the reviews on the ground the day before to figure out where people aren't camping too close together!
If you can push it back a week or two, that'd be way better because after September 1st school holidays are over and campsites empty out fast. But if you're really stuck this weekend, the less-known spots around La Bassée or the Yonne valley marshes don't attract as many tourists as the super popular ones, you just gotta look a bit off the beaten path. Also check out farm campsites instead of the big commercial ones - they're usually quieter and always have water, plus you'll have better chances of finding a spot even last minute.
I tested the spots near Paris around that time and honestly the real problem isn't just the crowds but also the small campsites that shut down in early September - you could end up without electricity or facilities if you're aiming for somewhere less touristy. Check out Fontainebleau or the Chevreuse valley, but definitely call ahead to make sure it's open and there's availability, because late August is the last rush before everything starts closing down gradually for the back-to-school season.
Personally, I'd say you could check out La Bassée or some of the little spots around Fontainebleau - it's not too far and there are some less-known spots than the big campgrounds. But yeah, September is really better for avoiding the crowds, so if you can wait a week or two it makes a huge difference.
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