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There have never been so many people going on camping holidays in Germany as there will be in 2023. Around 42.3 million campsite overnight stays were recorded.
Wild camping is not allowed in Germany. That's why camping by the Baltic Sea is very popular, as is camping by the North Sea. But what about camping by the lake? Here are some of the best campsites by German lakes.
Read on to find out where to camp nearby. You'll also find tips on packing the right equipment and making the most of your short break.
The best campsites for lake camping
Let's take a look at where you can camp first. Campsites can only accept a limited number of campers. It is therefore a good idea to consider alternatives. Many lakes in Germany have more than one campsite.
Water and Mountains: camping on Lake Constance
If you want to camp on Lake Constance, there is an impressive selection of campsites to choose from: right by the water and surrounded by vineyards or close to the Alps. Who wouldn't want to watch the sunrise from their tent with a freshly brewed coffee?
Paradise: Ecktannen campsite in the Müritz National Park
Once a Müritz camper, always a Müritz camper. The spa town of Waren in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is a paradise for nature lovers. During the day, you can cycle around Germany's largest lake, the Müritz, or take a leisurely cruise on a rented boat.
Pearl on the water: Campsite on Lake Hopfensee in Bavaria
This 5-star campsite on the eastern shore of the Hopfensee lake offers all the comforts of nature. From here you can plan a variety of excursions in the surrounding area, for example to nearby Füssen or the Allgäu region. And fall asleep at night to the soothing lapping of the waves.
First class: Campingpark Kalletal in North Rhine-Westphalia
Stemmer Lake in the Weserbergland region is a first-class campsite with a sauna. Families will enjoy themselves here. Water-skiing and wakeboarding are also available.
The Bavarian Sea: Camping on Lake Chiemsee
Chiemsee, the largest lake in Bavaria, has several campsites, RV parks and youth campsites right on the shore. Just relax and enjoy the sun and water to your heart's content. The surrounding area is also ideal for exploring on foot.
In the heart of the Vogtland: Campsite at the Pöhl dam
Camping Gunzenberg on the Pöhl Reservoir is idyllically situated near the lace-making town of Plauen. Nestled in the charming Vogtland countryside, it is the perfect place to relax. An unrivalled natural experience. You should also try the delicious Vogtland cuisine.
Tips for lake camping
You'll soon be ready for your waterfront adventure. To make it as memorable as possible, here are a few tips for camping by the lake that you should read before you go.
Good planning is the key to recovery
Allow plenty of time to organise your lake camping trip, even if you plan to camp close to home. This includes checking the weather and the availability of campsites. Think about essentials such as water, food and shelter - a tent, for example - to avoid last-minute mishaps.
Pack your own equipment
If you're camping at the lake, it's best to bring your own equipment so you don't have to worry or rely on outside help. As well as a tent, this includes a sleeping bag, cooking utensils, sunscreen and other essential items.
Take the right clothing with you
Camping by the lake can get chilly and damp at night. Falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping against the starry sky can quickly turn into a nightmare when you wake up at 3am to chattering teeth.
In addition to short clothing such as shorts and T-shirts, pack warmer clothing, preferably long and breathable. You should also bring a hat or cap and sunglasses, especially if you are going to be out in the sun for a long time.
Keep safety in mind
Safety should always be your first priority wherever you go camping. Make sure you have emergency exits. Where can you find a lifeguard in an emergency? Lakes can have strong currents. Be aware of this danger. Find out about wild animals in the area that could be dangerous to you.
You should also carry a first aid kit and other safety equipment.
Camp far away from flooded areas
In general, you should not camp in flooded areas as the risk of your belongings being washed away is too great. In general, avoid the water line. You should also camp away from possible waves. When a large boat or ship passes by, it often creates unexpectedly high waves.
Watch out for wild animals
Please observe local regulations regarding wild animals. Boars, foxes and wolves can be dangerous. Keep food as airtight as possible and store it outside the tent - preferably in a car.
Be prepared for sand, dust and mud
Let's be honest: when camping in the great outdoors, sand, dust and mud are often included. Don't forget to go into the tent without shoes. And it's best to shake out towels after use before packing up again.
With a few damp cloths and perhaps the small Baseus A3 lite handheld vacuum cleaner for the car, you can clean most of your equipment quickly and easily.
Leave no traces behind
The most important rule for your time out in nature is to leave no trace. Do not even think about leaving your rubbish behind. Take all your rubbish with you when you leave or dispose of it in the bins provided on the site.
Leave the lake as you found it and be considerate of the environment and other campers.
Stay well hydrated
Water, water, water. Staying hydrated is important when camping by the lake and spending all day in the sun. Make sure you take regular hydration breaks to avoid dehydration.
Plan for the toilet
Public campsites almost always have toilets. Unless they break down. Be prepared and take an emergency shovel with you to bury your excrement properly in nature.
Protect yourself from the sun by the lake
The combination of water and sun can sometimes be harmful to the skin. Protect yourself with sunscreen, light long clothes, a hat and sunglasses when you are outdoors. Wearing a UV shirt when swimming or bathing can also protect you, as it is easier to get sunburnt under water.
Follow the rules for a campfire
Please observe local regulations regarding the use of the fireplace. Be aware of your surroundings when lighting a fire. In the event of high winds or prolonged drought, do not light a fire at all to avoid wildfires or forest fires. Be sure to extinguish the fire completely before leaving the area.
Keep Luna and Bello on a leash
Be considerate of other campers and never let your four-legged friend out of your sight. It is best to keep your dog on a leash at all times to prevent them from being harmed by wild animals in the area and vice versa.
Be considerate of your fellow human beings
Be considerate of other campers. In other words: don't play loud music at night. Instead, switch to the Baseus Bowie H1i Bluetooth headphones for your own personal sound experience. If you are not traveling alone, have a quiet conversation after dark.
Checklist for unforgettable lake camping
When camping by the lake, preparation is everything. Only if you have the right things packed will you be able to relax and feel at home. Here is a checklist of the most important things to take with you on your lake camping adventure.
Shelter
If you are not staying in a motorhome or caravan, you need to make sure you have the right equipment for your tent. In addition to the tent itself, this includes
- A tarpaulin
- Pegs and guy ropes
- Ground sheet
Sleeping gear
The key to a successful lakeside camping holiday is having the right sleeping equipment. After a long day in the sun, full of adventures in and around the water, you want to get some rest. The best place to do this is in a comfortable spot. Here are a few things that should be on your camping checklist:
- Sleeping bag or air mattress
- sleeping mat
- Pillow and possibly blankets
- Mosquito net
- Mobile fan
Food and cooking utensils
Remember to pack some food and cooking utensils that you will need, for example:
- Cool box
- Camping stove and fuel
- Cooking utensils
- Tableware such as plates, bowls, cups
- Cutlery
- Non-perishable food such as nuts, canned food, snacks
- Kettle
- Coffee maker or teapot
Other important things
When camping, you won't necessarily find a shop or supermarket nearby. So take everything you might need with you on your trip. Here are some things you shouldn't forget when camping by the lake:
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and sunglasses
- Flashlight or headlamp including batteries
- Matches, lighter and possibly a firelighter
- First aid kit
- Water bottle and water filter
Equipment for the lake trip
Whether it's for an overnight stay, a weekend away or a longer break, when you set off on your lakeside camping adventure, don't forget to pack the essentials for your stay by the water. These items will make your time at the lake as pleasant and comfortable as possible:
Camping chairs
Of course you can sit on a blanket or towel, but camping chairs are more comfortable. Preferably ones with adjustable backs and cup holders.
Parasol or shady tent roof
Avoid sunburn and come home red as a lobster. A parasol or shady canvas roof is the best way to protect yourself from the scorching sun.
Beach Towels
The very word beach towel conjures up thoughts of relaxation and wellbeing, doesn't it? Don't forget to bring plenty of soft and absorbent beach towels. After a swim in the lake, you'll want to dry off and take a nap on the grass or sand. Pack some extra beach towels so you don't have to take the damp ones with you.
Water Shoes
Nothing is worse than a foot injury that brings your travel adventure to an abrupt end. This happens most often when hiking or playing ball games. We recommend investing in a pair of water shoes. They will protect your feet from sharp stones and hot sand while you explore the terrain or the lake.
Inflatable water toys and equipment for activities in and around the water
An inflatable raft or water wings that are easy to inflate and deflate can add to the fun on the lake. The main thing is that they are easy to transport. Depending on what other activities you want to do: Water polo, volleyball, frisbee - there are so many ways to have fun!
Mobile Power Supply
You can't go camping without a reliable power source. Whether you're charging your mobile phone to take spectacular sunset photos, or using essential equipment such as torches or fans, having your own mobile power supply can make all the difference.
Invest in a quality portable charger so you can travel with the peace of mind that you have power wherever you go. Look for lightweight, compact units that are easy to store and carry.
Need to quickly charge your cell phone without a cable? The Baseus MagPro magnetic power bank 5000mAh 20W can do it on the go.
And if you want to treat yourself to a private open-air movie night at the lake, for example, you should consider the Baseus Blade HD Laptop Powerbank 100W 20000mAh. This power bank can charge up to four devices simultaneously.
Must-haves for lake camping
Camping by the lake can be a unique experience. But first you should have the right equipment ready.
Are you looking for a reliable power source for your next adventure in the great outdoors? Store with us today if you need power while camping.
