Parking Up in France: Why Camping Car Parks Are a Game Changer

When traveling in a campervan or motorhome, finding the right place to park up for the night can sometimes be a hassle. In the UK, we often park up for free in quiet spots, but France has taken things to another level with their incredible network of Camping Car Parks. Not only are they affordable, but they also offer everything you need for a comfortable and hassle-free stay, from water refilling to electric hook-ups. Here’s why we loved using them on our travels through France.

One of the main reasons we kept coming back to Camping Car Parks is the sheer convenience. Most sites are cheap compared to full-fledged campsites, but they still provide everything you need to keep your camper running smoothly:

• Wastewater disposal

• Toilet emptying stations

• Water refilling

• Electric hook-up if you need it

  
  

  Some of the larger sites even have washing machines, showers, and Wi-Fi, making it feel like a mini holiday park without the holiday park prices!

Travel Tip: If you plan to stay a night or two, check for sites with laundry facilities—it’s a lifesaver if you’ve been on the road for a while!

One of the best things about these parks is how widespread they are. Whether you want to park up in the heart of a buzzing city or escape to the peace of a mountainside retreat, you’ll find a Camping Car Park to suit your needs. We’ve parked in quaint villages, near rivers, and even at the foot of mountains, each time in a picturesque location that felt like a hidden gem.

Travel Tip: Download the Camping Car Park app or use their website to find sites along your route. It takes the guesswork out of finding a safe and convenient spot to stay.

Anyone who’s spent time parking up for free will know the dreaded knock at the door, asking you to move on. This isn’t an issue with Camping Car Parks. You get peace of mind knowing you’re in a legal, designated spot, so you can fully relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Travel Tip: Make sure you check whether overnight parking is allowed if you're considering free parking in France. While there are many designated spots for motorhomes, it’s worth using Camping Car Parks for security and facilities.

To access Camping Car Parks, you’ll need a Pass’Étapes card, which you can easily purchase from any site when you arrive. This card gives you access to the entire network, so once you have it, you can move from park to park seamlessly without needing to worry about payment each time.

Travel Tip: You can also buy the Pass’Étapes card online before your trip and load it with credit. It’s super handy if you want to get set up before hitting the road.

The prices of Camping Car Parks range from low to high depending on location, but we found that even the more expensive ones offered good value. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stopover or want a few more amenities, you’ll find something that fits your needs. And best of all, we were never disappointed with any of the locations we visited!

Travel Tip: Off-season, you can often find lower prices at more popular sites, so it’s worth timing your trip if you want to save a bit of money.

France’s Camping Car Park system really is a game changer for motorhome travelers like us. From the ease of access to the affordable prices and stunning locations, it’s no wonder we fell in love with this way of parking up. Whether you're traveling through cities or the countryside, these parks offer a worry-free way to enjoy your journey. So, if you’re planning to explore France in your camper, grab a Pass’Étapes card and start enjoying the perks of these incredible parks!