Pack your things, load up the campervan, and get ready to set your GPS on an unforgettable adventure. Today, we’re going to explore some of the world’s most stunning campervan sites that are perfect for lovers of the open road. From epic mountain ranges to idyllic coastal retreats, these locations offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unspoilt natural beauty.
Together with the campervan and motorhome hire experts at Campstar.com, here are 7 of the world’s most spectacular campervan sites for a freewheelin’ holiday in 2024.
The Lake District, England
Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, the Lake District National Park in Cumbria offers a grandeur and tranquillity that is simply unparalleled. There are a multitude of campsites to choose from, each surrounded by sparkling lakes, verdant valleys, and craggy hilltops. Nearby, you’ll discover charming villages like Grasmere and Ambleside, brimming with cosy pubs and quaint shops. Outdoor lovers can hike Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, or enjoy a serene boat cruise on Lake Windermere.
If you’re camping in a campervan, you can choose from a multitude of campsites in the Lake District. One of the top-rated is the National Trust Great Langdale Campsite, which offers impressive views of the Langdale Pikes. For lakeside views, consider the Low Wray Campsite on the shores of Lake Windermere. Both of these sites are well-equipped for campervans and offer facilities such as power supply, showers, and toilets.
Route du Soleil, France
No campervan adventure would be complete without traversing the iconic Route du Soleil in France. This famed highway epitomises the European summer, with sunflower fields and vineyards unfolding in every direction. Driven mainly for the journey itself rather than the end destination, it’s lined with numerous campsites offering world-class amenities. Nearby attractions include the historic city of Lyon, the charming villages of Provence, and the glamorous French Riviera.
Along the sun-kissed Route du Soleil, several scenic campsites welcome campervan enthusiasts. Les Rives de Condrieu, situated on the banks of the Rhone river, and the Aloha Plage Campsite, positioned near the Ardeche Gorge, are excellent choices. These sites offer a variety of services, including electricity, sanitation facilities, and even Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
The breathtaking Great Ocean Road offers a compelling blend of rugged coastline and untouched rainforests. Known for its natural landmarks such as the 12 Apostles, this 243-kilometre stretch offers numerous campervan sites, each with its unique charm. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in sightings of koalas, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species. Surfing enthusiasts can ride the waves at Bells Beach, and foodies can savour local dishes and wines in the region’s many gastronomic hotspots.
There are several campervan sites along the Great Ocean Road. The Cumberland River Holiday Park is a top pick, nestled between cliffs and offering direct beach access. Another option is the Apollo Bay Pisces Big4 Holiday Park, which offers ocean views and is close to local amenities. These parks provide facilities like power points, barbecues, and laundry services.
Banff National Park, Canada
Canada’s oldest national park, Banff, offers stunning vistas of turquoise glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains and sprawling pine forests. Campervan sites within the park, such as the Tunnel Mountain Village, offer full facilities and are perfect for exploring this dramatic landscape. The village includes Tunnel Mountain Village II Campground offering full-service sites with hookups for electricity, water, and sewer. Nearby, you can visit the historical town of Banff, soak in the natural hot springs, or take a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views.
Another recommended site is Two Jack Lakeside, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road, or Route 1, is an epic 1,332-km journey that circumnavigates this unique Nordic island. Boasting waterfalls, geysers and rugged fjords, it’s the ultimate route for freedom camping. Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are must-visit waterfalls on the South Coast, while a detour to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon promises surreal beauty. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot puffins and seals along the journey, and if you’re lucky, catch the mesmerising spectacle of the Northern Lights.
The Ring Road in Iceland is dotted with many campervan-friendly sites. The Skógafoss Camping ground situated near the iconic Skógafoss waterfall and Hamrar Campsite located on the east side of Akureyri town provide excellent facilities including electricity, shower facilities, and waste disposal.
Garden Route, South Africa
Stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is a South African gem that promises an unforgettable campervan adventure. Amid the indigenous forests and stunning coastline, you’ll find plenty of well-equipped campsites. From Knysna’s stunning lagoons to Plettenberg Bay’s pristine beaches, there’s ample opportunity for water sports. For wildlife enthusiasts, nearby game reserves offer the chance to spot the ‘Big Five’.
Along the stunning Garden Route, the SANParks Wilderness Ebb-and-Flow Rest Camp in the Wilderness National Park is a great campervan-friendly location. The park is well-equipped with power points, barbecue facilities, and ablution facilities. Mossel Bay’s Santos Express is another unique spot where you can park your campervan right on the beach.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in America is one of the most scenic drives on the planet. From California’s sunny beaches to the lush forests of Oregon and Washington’s rugged coastline, it offers quintessential American landscapes. The region is dotted with cosy campsites, many offering spectacular ocean views. Key stops along the route include Big Sur, San Francisco and its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the towering Redwoods of Northern California.
For travelling the Pacific Coast Highway, Kirk Creek Campground in Big Sur offers coastal views and is a favourite among campers. The San Francisco RV Resort in Pacifica is another great campervan site with its clifftop views of the Pacific Ocean. Both sites offer standard services such as power and water hookups, as well as shower facilities.
The Bottom Line
These stunning campervan sites offer the perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, embark on these scenic routes to savour memorable moments and fulfil your wanderlust. Remember, the joy is in the journey, not just the destination. Happy camping!
