Where to go camping in France in September ?

The summer crowds have thinned out and children are back at school, leaving a quieter atmosphere in which to enjoy nature and explore local attractions. The weather can still be pleasantly mild, the countryside glows in the soft light of late summer, and prices are often lower than during the peak season.<meta charset="UTF-8" />

So, where should you go camping in France in September? Here are some destination ideas to help you make the most of the quieter weeks at the end of summer, whether you prefer a tent, a mobile home or a motorhome.

Normandy: explore the countryside of the Pays d’Auge

After visiting the D-Day landing beaches or Mont-Saint-Michel, head to the Pays d’Auge, an area of Normandy known for its rolling countryside and traditional rural character.

Take time to explore the surroundings of Beaumont-en-Auge and Livarot, where country lanes, hedgerows and apple orchards invite you to slow down. A walk through the countryside is a lovely way to enjoy the gentler pace of a September holiday.

If you prefer cycling, the “Prés et vallons en pays de Livarot” route offers a 22 km loop through the local countryside, following quiet roads and returning to Livarot via the greenway. Download the route before setting off so you can plan your ride and stops along the way.

Brittany: discover Île Molène and the Landes de Lanvaux

Brittany is full of places worth exploring beyond its best-known attractions, and September is a lovely time to discover them.

Off the western coast, Île Molène offers rugged coastal scenery and a refreshing change of pace. Take your time exploring the island, enjoying the sea views and soaking up its distinctive atmosphere. Check ferry timetables before planning your day, and allow some flexibility for weather conditions.

For another side of Brittany, head inland to the Landes de Lanvaux in Morbihan. Away from the bustle of the Quiberon peninsula, this area of woodland and countryside is an appealing choice for walkers looking to explore quieter surroundings.

Camping holidays in the Pays de la Loire: Lac de Grand-Lieu and the Loir Valley

Between visits to the region’s famous châteaux, make time for Lac de Grand-Lieu, south of Nantes. This remarkable wetland is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Discover it from designated viewpoints and accessible paths, respecting the protected areas around the lake.

Another destination to explore is the Loir Valley, a quieter counterpart to the Loire Valley. Here, you can discover charming villages such as La Chartre-sur-le-Loir, enjoy leisurely walks and seek out troglodyte wine cellars.

It is a good choice for a camping holiday that combines countryside, local heritage and unhurried discoveries.

September in the Ardèche: Saint-Marcel Cave and the Drobie Valley

September is a rewarding time to explore the Ardèche, combining underground discoveries with days out in the countryside.

Close to the Ardèche Gorges, Saint-Marcel Cave is known for its vast underground galleries and striking pools. A visit offers a different perspective on the region’s natural landscapes and makes an interesting addition to a walking holiday.

For a quieter outdoor escape, head to the Drobie Valley. Steep hillsides and dense woodland create a wonderfully secluded setting for walks. Choose a route suited to your fitness level and leave enough time to enjoy the scenery without rushing.

Camping in Nouvelle-Aquitaine in September: discover the Vézère Valley

Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers plenty of opportunities to combine a camping holiday with nature and heritage.

In the Vézère Valley, stone-built villages and prehistoric sites make for varied days out. Alternate visits with walks through the countryside, leaving time to enjoy the villages along the way.

September lends itself particularly well to this kind of holiday: you can explore at your own pace and build your itinerary around the places that interest you most. Check opening times and booking requirements before visiting individual sites.

Camping in Burgundy-Franche-Comté: caves, canals and waterfalls

In Burgundy, discover the caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, where prehistoric cave paintings provide a fascinating glimpse into the distant past. Check the available tours before your visit, especially if seeing the paintings is your main reason for going.

For cycling enthusiasts, the Canal du Nivernais offers a gentler way to explore. Follow the waterside route through villages and countryside, choosing a short outing or a longer ride to suit your plans.

Elsewhere in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, the Cirque de Consolation in the Doubs offers a wooded natural setting with springs and waterfalls. It is an inviting destination for a day outdoors, with walking options to choose according to your interests and abilities.

In the Jura, the Hérisson waterfalls are another rewarding excursion. A series of waterfalls punctuates the valley, creating a memorable walking route. Wear suitable footwear and check the route conditions before setting off.

Camping in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in September: the Glières Plateau

The Glières Plateau in Haute-Savoie combines mountain scenery with an important chapter of French history. Closely associated with the French Resistance, it is a place to discover both the landscape and its past.

Walking here offers a different experience from visiting the region’s busy mountain resorts. Choose a route suitable for your group, whether you are travelling with family or friends, and check the forecast before heading out: mountain conditions can change quickly.

Tips for making the most of a September camping holiday

Camping in September can be a wonderful experience with a little preparation. Before booking, check the campsite’s opening dates and which facilities will be available during your stay. Tourist attractions may also introduce shorter opening hours after the summer holidays.

Although daytime temperatures can remain mild, pack warm layers for cooler evenings and waterproof clothing in case of rain.

A few simple checks will help your holiday run smoothly:

• Confirm campsite opening dates and the availability of pools, restaurants and other facilities.
• Check attraction opening times and book visits where required.
• Pack warm clothing, waterproofs and suitable footwear.
• Check access conditions for walking routes and natural sites before setting off.

Opening hours and activity programmes often change once the school holidays are over, so a little planning can make all the difference.

FAQ: camping Les Castels in September

Should I book a Les Castels campsite in advance for September?

Yes, booking ahead is recommended, whether you want a tent or motorhome pitch, an unusual place to stay or a mobile home. Some destinations remain popular in September, and reserving early gives you more choice.

What equipment should I bring for camping in September?

Alongside your usual camping equipment, bring warm layers for the evenings, a head torch for the longer nights and waterproof clothing. If you are staying in a tent, make sure your sleeping equipment is suitable for cooler overnight temperatures.

Which activities are still available in September?

Depending on the campsite and your travel dates, swimming pools and water parks may still be open, and some organised activities may continue.

Walking, cycling and visits to natural attractions are also possible at this time of year. Check individual opening times and access conditions, as these may change after the peak summer season.

What are the advantages of camping in September?

Quieter surroundings and the chance of pleasantly mild weather are among the main attractions of a September camping holiday.

September can also offer good value, with pitches and mobile home rentals often costing less than in the peak summer season. That may allow you to stay a little longer or leave more room in your budget for outings and local discoveries.