Camping

Saxon Switzerland is a true paradise for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts and adventurers. Camping in Saxon Switzerland is the perfect choice for those who want to experience the breathtaking rocky landscape up close. Whether you are travelling with a tent, camper van or caravan, holidaymakers will find a variety of natural campsites that will make their stay unforgettable.

Why camp in Saxon Switzerland?

The region around the Elbe Sandstone Mountains is one of the most beautiful hiking and climbing areas in Germany. More than 1,000 marked hiking trails – including the famous Malerweg (Painters' Way) – invite you to take extended tours. Camping makes it possible to spend the night right in the heart of this unique landscape and wake up in the morning to views of the bizarre sandstone formations. Wild camping – spending the night in the great outdoors outside of official campsites, for example in forests, fields or by lakes – is not permitted in Germany. Violators can be fined. To preserve the beauty of our nature and ensure a safe and comfortable stay, we recommend using one of the many official campsites. These not only offer space for tents, caravans and motorhomes, but also a wide range of facilities such as sanitary facilities, electricity connections and often additional leisure activities.

Popular campsites in Saxon Switzerland

Whether you are looking for a natural and quiet place or a family-friendly and comfortable one, Saxon Switzerland has the right campsite for every taste. Among the most popular are the Ostrauer Mühle campsite in Bad Schandau – idyllically situated and an ideal starting point for hikes, the Thorwaldblick campsite in Hinterhermsdorf – particularly quiet and close to nature, perfect for hikers, and the Königstein campsite directly on the Elbe – with a view of Königstein Fortress and close to the Elbe ferry. Many sites offer modern sanitary facilities, Wi-Fi, bread delivery service and some have small restaurants or snack bars. Some also offer special accommodation options such as camping barrels – heatable wooden barrels with simple furnishings. Such barrels can be found, for example, at Camping Königstein and Camping am Treidlerweg in Königstein.

Activities around camping

Besides hiking and climbing, the region is also ideal for cycling, paddling or for excursions with the historic Elbe steamer. Families with children will enjoy nature trails, zoos and exciting caves. The region also has a lot to offer in terms of culture – for example, the Königstein Fortress, the Bastei Bridge or the small town of Pirna with its charming old town.

Best time to go camping

The main season for camping in Saxon Switzerland is from May to October. The forests display particularly impressive colours in spring and autumn. If you prefer a quieter time, travel in June or September. Many sites are also suitable for winter camping – perfect for a peaceful break in the snow.

Camping in Saxon Switzerland combines nature, adventure and relaxation in a unique way. Whether you are on a campsite by the river, in a motorhome on a pitch with a view or cosily ensconced in a camping barrel, the region has something for every camping enthusiast. It's worth booking early, as the pitches fill up quickly during the peak season.