Global meaning of the term “campground”
The concept of camping and the word “campground” have different meanings in different countries. Camping has been a favorite pastime of people all over the world for centuries and has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, the camping experience and the appearance of campgrounds can vary greatly due to factors such as topography, environmental protection and local camping traditions.
In North America, camping usually takes place in the wilderness, in vast nature reserves, national parks or open grasslands. On the other hand, Europe is much more densely populated, campgrounds are everywhere, and camping regulations vary from country to country.
In parts of Scandinavia, for example, there is a concept of “free roaming”, which allows camping in the wild. In much of Europe, however, camping is restricted to designated campgrounds or private land for environmental and wildlife protection reasons. While both types of camping have their merits, many campers in Europe prefer to stay in campgrounds where they can enjoy the comforts of modern amenities such as toilets, running water, and electricity while getting close to nature and embracing the outdoor lifestyle.
Types of campsites: from garden to luxury glamping
Campsites come in all shapes and sizes and, like camping itself, they vary from country to country. In Western Europe, for example, campgrounds are often thought of as large sites with hundreds of parking spaces for tents, motorhomes, campervans and trailers. These commercial campgrounds may also offer recreational activities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, game rooms and cafeterias.
However, in recent years, the camping experience has evolved and more innovative ways have emerged to meet the needs of a younger generation who are looking for privacy, a sense of luxury, or a deeper level of contact with nature. Today, there are a variety of camping options, including garden campgrounds, luxury campgrounds, and small-scale campgrounds, offering camping enthusiasts a unique experience like no other.
Garden campgrounds and private landowner campgrounds
Often referred to as “garden camping,” private landowner campgrounds have become a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more personalized, intimate camping experience. This trend allows landowners to share their beautiful private gardens, fields, farmland, and forests with guests, offering hundreds of unique and easily accessible options for exploring nature without having to travel long distances. Thanks to the rise of these privately owned campgrounds, it is now easier than ever to find a nearby campground.
Garden campgrounds are often run by community members who enjoy sharing the beauty of their land with others, whether they are locals or travelers from abroad. This type of camping is growing in popularity as more and more landowners realize the benefits of providing camping sites for guests on their own land. For example, you can explore the Ultimate Guide to Wild Camping in Europe for more unique camping experiences.
With options for garden campsites and private land campsites, outdoor adventurers can explore a new and personalized way to experience nature, one that combines comfort, intimacy, and an authentic connection to the land.
Discover the charm of CoreVibe’s unique campgrounds
As the demand for more accessible camping options continues to grow, so do the opportunities to enjoy nature vacations. Private garden campgrounds are growing in popularity, and many outdoor enthusiasts are abandoning commercial campgrounds in favor of a more personalized, intimate camping experience.
The appeal of garden campsites
Camping in someone else’s garden offers a unique and relaxing atmosphere that is hard to match at large commercial campgrounds. These small, private campgrounds usually only accommodate one tent at a time, making it easier for guests to interact with their hosts and enjoy a peaceful stay. Whether it’s enjoying friendly conversation, getting personalized advice, or sitting around a campfire sharing a meal, garden camping fosters a sense of community.
Garden campsites are smaller and more secluded, so they allow for more flexible arrangements, such as allowing guests more freedom to bring pets or children. Because of their smaller size, there is less noise and fewer crowds, making the camping experience more peaceful and relaxing.
Turning your garden into a dream vacation destination
The creativity of private garden campsite owners can turn even the simplest of spaces into extraordinary camping resorts. While some hosts focus on providing basic amenities, many go above and beyond by adding guest toilets, showers, outdoor kitchens, lounge areas, and even unique features such as zip lines, tree houses, or luxury camping facilities. For hosts looking to create a one-of-a-kind experience, the possibilities are endless and the only limit is their imagination.
Luxury camping: for the discerning traveler
With the growing popularity of outdoor vacations, many campground owners are beginning to offer a higher-end form of camping – luxury camping. At CoreVibe, luxury camping is designed for those who love the outdoors but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Luxury tents, such as bell tents, hunting tents, and yurts, often come with beds, lighting, and even heating to make the camping experience closer to a hotel or resort stay.
Whether guests want a full luxury campsite or a designated luxury camping area within a traditional campsite, this upgraded camping option offers the perfect blend of nature and luxury. Guests don’t need to bring camping gear because everything they need for a cozy night under the stars is already in place. For many, this is the ultimate outdoor vacation experience, offering unparalleled relaxation and comfort.
Small Campgrounds, Quiet Secludes
Many campers seek peace and quiet, and small campgrounds are ideal for this type of retreat. Often referred to as “mini-camps” in Europe, these campsites offer a quiet escape from the crowds and noise of the campground. They focus on creating a peaceful, nature-filled environment while providing modern amenities such as clean showers, dishwashing areas, running water and campfire areas.
These campgrounds are designed with privacy in mind, and guests often find the experience to be more relaxing and private than larger commercial campgrounds. Smaller campgrounds also offer essential services for RV or campervan travelers, such as electrical hookups and sanitation.
Farm campsites: experience the countryside
Farm campsites are becoming increasingly popular in Europe and offer visitors the opportunity to experience country life. These small campgrounds are run by farmers who use part of their land for camping. Whether it’s a fallow field or an unused orchard, these rustic campgrounds offer visitors a peaceful stay in the midst of nature.
For those planning a self-drive tour of Europe, especially in a motorhome, discovering the best wilderness campsites can add significantly to the adventure. Check out our guide to nature camping in France: the best places for outdoor adventures for more picturesque campsites.
Staying at a farm campsite allows you to experience both authentic farm life and a well-maintained camping experience. It’s a great way to combine relaxation, nature, and rustic charm, and is becoming a favorite of many outdoor enthusiasts.
At CoreVibe, we believe that camping should be an experience that reconnects you with nature while enjoying comfort and relaxation. Whether you are interested in the unique charm of garden camping, luxury camping, or prefer the tranquility of a small or farm campground, we offer a variety of experiences to suit every camper.
Some farmers only offer sites to pitch a tent or park an RV, camper or recreational vehicle. However, many ranchers go beyond the basic requirements to offer a full range of experiences as Campspace hosts. These hosts will equip their campsites with basic amenities such as electricity, modern bathroom facilities, cooking and washing areas, and canopies to ensure that every visitor enjoys a comfortable stay.
For those planning a road trip, you may want to explore how to plan your ultimate European road trip to ensure you make the most of your journey.
CoreVibe’s commitment to creating a truly unique camping experience is evident in these well-designed spaces that blend nature and convenience.