Escape to Dutch Campsites: Your Guide to Camping Across the Netherlands

The Netherlands has hundreds of registered campsites offering beachside coastal camping (North Holland, Friesland islands like Terschelling/Vlieland), forest escapes (Drenthe, Overijssel), countryside camping (Limburg hills, North Brabant), and lakeside sites (Markermeer, IJsselmeer) from €20-40/night for basic pitches. Most Dutch campsites operate April-October with high cleanliness standards, excellent facilities (hot showers, supermarkets, pools), electricity connections, and dog-friendly policies, though summer weekends (July-August) require advance booking.

After six years in the Netherlands, I've discovered the Dutch take camping seriously as an authentic way to explore different regions. Whether you're an expat discovering Dutch leisure culture or a seasoned camper, Dutch campsites cater to all experience levels, from tent pitches to glamping (€80-150/night), with exceptional cycling infrastructure for day trips.

Discovering Camping in the Netherlands

One of the greatest surprises after moving to the Netherlands six years ago was discovering how seriously the Dutch take camping. The Netherlands has hundreds of registered campsites, and while they're rarely wild or remote, they offer a genuinely pleasant way to spend weekends exploring different regions. Whether you're a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, Dutch campsites cater to all experience levels.

Coastal Camping: North Holland and Friesland

North Holland offers exceptional coastal camping experiences. Near Zandvoort, just outside Amsterdam, Camp Woodstock provides beachside access with modern facilities. It's perfect for weekenders from the city who want fresh air without traveling far. Further north, Den Helder's campsites offer excellent access to the islands and white sand beaches.

Terschelling and Vlieland, the islands north of Friesland, have charming seasonal campsites with an authentic island atmosphere. These require ferry access but reward the journey with pristine nature and a genuinely different pace of life. Camp Langeoog and similar facilities offer everything from tent pitches to glamping options.

Forest Escapes: Drenthe and Overijssel

If you prefer forests over beaches, head to Drenthe. Camping Ballorig near Assen sits in lovely woodland and provides excellent cycling access to the region's extensive network of forest paths. The Drenthe region is genuinely special, ancient forests, traditional villages, and very few tourists crowding the spaces.

Overijssel's Twente region offers similar forest camping near towns like Enschede. Camp Hellendoorn combines camping with an adventure park, making it excellent for families with children. The region's cycling infrastructure is exceptional, with clearly marked routes through farmland and forest.

Southern Regions: Limburg and Brabant

Southern camping takes on a different character. Limburg, especially around Maastricht and Roggel, offers countryside camping in rolling hills. Camp Bosbad near Swalmen provides lakeside camping with excellent swimming facilities. The region's Dutch-Belgian cultural blend creates a unique atmosphere.

North Brabant campsites around towns like Tilburg and Breda offer excellent access to nature reserves. Camp Duinrell near Kockengen (actually just north of Utrecht) is extremely popular with young families and provides numerous on-site activities beyond camping.

Water-Based Camping: The Lakes

The Dutch lakes offer wonderful camping opportunities. Around Markermeer and the IJsselmeer, you'll find campsites catering to water sports enthusiasts. Camp Suncamp near Volendam provides easy access to sailing and windsurfing. These locations attract an international crowd and feel more cosmopolitan than forest or countryside sites.

Practical Camping Information

Most Dutch campsites operate seasonally, with the main season running April through October. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially July and August. Book ahead if you're visiting during peak periods. Rates typically range from 20 to 40 euros per night for basic pitches, with glamping options reaching 80 to 150 euros.

Dutch campsites maintain high cleanliness standards and offer excellent facilities. Even basic sites provide hot showers, proper toilet blocks, and often small supermarkets. Many have swimming pools, play areas, or leisure facilities. Dogs are welcome on most sites, which appeals to many expat families.

Most sites provide electricity connections for a small additional fee, and many offer fresh water taps. Drainage facilities for chemical toilets are standard. Wi-Fi is increasingly common at larger sites, though don't expect high speed.

Making the Most of Dutch Camping

Rent a tent or small caravan if you don't own camping equipment, this avoids expensive purchases for occasional use. Join the Dutch camping community online to find recommendations from experienced campers. The ANWB (Royal Dutch Touring Club) publishes annual camping guides and offers member discounts at hundreds of sites.

Use camping as a base for exploring different regions. Most Dutch campsites are perfectly positioned for day trips via bicycle, the preferred local transport. A weekend camping near Giethoorn, for example, provides a completely different Netherlands experience than city life.

After six years here, I've found camping to be an authentic way to understand Dutch leisure culture and experience the country's natural diversity. Even modest weekend trips create genuine mental breaks from busy Amsterdam life.