Tent camping - Discover natural tent pitches with private hosts
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Tent Camping - F...

Tent camping - Discover natural tent pitches with private hosts

Discover natural tent sites on private land in Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria – far away from crowded campsites.

Do you love camping and want to spend a relaxing holiday in nature? On Nomady, you'll find tent pitches with private hosts – far away from crowded campsites and mass tourism – in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy – and you can book them directly online.

What awaits you

It's more than just a campsite. Spending the night at these tent camps opens the door to unforgettable experiences and adventures. Immerse yourself in the nature around your camp and leave everyday life behind. Often, you'll have the spot entirely to yourself, complete with a campfire pit. Enjoy the peace and quiet right outside your tent or set off – whether with hiking boots along scenic trails, by bike along the local river, or with a basket in search of wild garlic or mushrooms. There is something for everyone.

What awaits you

About Nomady

Nomady is for everyone who loves being outdoors. Whether with a campervan or motorhome, a tent, while hiking, on holiday, or just passing through. The accommodation options are diverse: a simple meadow, a pitch next to a stream, a large garden, a rustic cabin, or a secluded spot in the forest. Adventurous travellers can even book a night in a hayloft, construction trailer, or barn. One thing is guaranteed: these will be experiences to remember forever.

About Nomady

"One of the most beautiful spots ever with panoramic views, sunrise and lovely hosts."

Review of the camp "Heckenfenster Rossweid"

"One of the most beautiful spots ever with panoramic views, sunrise and lovely hosts."

General guidelines to keep in mind

No noise, leave no trace

No noise, leave no trace

Respect the privacy of others and observe nighttime quiet hours. Wildlife also deserves a peaceful night's rest. Avoid noise and disturbances, and leave your pitch clean and tidy.

Washing dishes and showering

Washing dishes and showering

Do not do your dishes directly in natural bodies of water or dispose of wastewater in them. Use biodegradable dish soap and toothpaste. Washing yourself in a stream or river is fine, but body wash should be eco-friendly or left out altogether.

Answering nature's call

Answering nature's call

Only do your business when necessary and stay well clear of water sources. Faecal bacteria can harm wildlife. Use a plastic bag to pack out your toilet paper, or burn it (never during forest fire danger) after burying your waste. True wild campers always carry a small trowel.

Campfires

Campfires

Making fires is prohibited in some areas, as it disturbs wildlife. Pay attention to signs indicating restrictions. Always be cautious when lighting a fire, use existing fire pits, and check current wildfire risk levels. In Ticino and Italy, we advise against open fires altogether.

Download the free Nomady app now

Plan your next trip to our Nomady tent pitches conveniently from your phone.

Download the free Nomady app now
Your next tent adventure awaits

Your next tent adventure awaits

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Tent camping: The most beautiful tent campsites for your camping adventure in nature

Tent camping is more than just a type of holiday – it's a way of life. Experiencing nature up close, watching the starry sky through the tent canvas, and waking up to the sound of birds chirping: for many, this is the most beautiful way to travel. Whether at a classic campsite with a tent, trekking across the Alps, or on an adventure trip by motorcycle – tent camping offers endless possibilities.

In this guide, we show you everything you need to know about tent camping: from choosing the right tent to the most beautiful campsites in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. Complete with first-hand tips – for families, bikepackers, and adventurers alike.

Buying a tent: Which tent suits you best?

Before planning your tent holiday, the most important decision comes first: Which tent is right for you? The selection is huge – but don't worry, we're here to help you navigate it.

Types of tents:

  1. Dome tent: The all-rounder – quick to pitch, wind-resistant, and ideal for 1–3 people.
  2. Tunnel tent: Offers plenty of space, perfect for families and longer stays.
  3. Geodesic tent: Extremely stable – ideal for trekking tours in challenging terrain.
  4. Pop-up tent: Ideal for festival-goers or spontaneous overnight stays.
  5. Tarp & bivy tent: For minimalists and adventurers – lightweight, compact, and functional.

Tip: Pay attention to weight, pack size, and hydrostatic head – especially important for trekking tours, bikepacking, or motorcycle camping.

The most beautiful spots for tent camping

Whether in the heart of the forest, by a glistening lake, or with an Alpine panorama – here is some inspiration for your next tent camping trip.

Tent camping in Germany

Germany offers a wide variety of campsites for tent fans. Especially popular:

  • Black Forest & Allgäu: Forest vibes and mountains – ideal for families and hikers.
  • Mecklenburg Lake District: Water, forest, and wide-open spaces – a paradise for canoeists and nature lovers.
  • Bavarian Forest: Ideal for tent campers seeking peace and quiet with close ties to nature.

Tent camping in Switzerland

In Switzerland, camping turns into a deluxe nature experience:

  • Grisons & Valais: Perfect for mountain lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
  • Lake Maggiore: Mediterranean flair meets alpine mountains.
  • Jura & Emmental: Peaceful, green regions with authentic farm camping.

Tent camping in Austria

Between mountains, lakes, and alpine pastures, you'll find ideal conditions for nature camping:

  • Salzkammergut & Carinthia: Crystal-clear lakes and family-friendly campsites.
  • Tyrol: Campsites with Alpine panoramas – popular in winter, too.
  • Styria: A blend of nature and culture – perfect for connoisseurs.

Tent camping in Italy

Italy combines la dolce vita with the joy of nature:

  • Lake Garda & South Tyrol: Ideal for active campers and families.
  • Tuscany: Camp among vineyards and olive groves – pure romance.
  • Abruzzo & Marche: Insider tips for peace-seekers well off the beaten track.

Camping with a tent: What should you keep in mind?

A pitch for a tent is often more affordable and closer to nature than motorhome pitches. When choosing a spot, look out for:

  • Shaded spots and wind protection
  • Sanitary facilities and cooking amenities
  • Proximity to hiking trails or swimming lakes
  • Quiet hours and environmental rules

Tip: Many spots on Nomady offer nature-focused pitches – often on farms or in protected areas.

Tips for your tent holiday

A great tent holiday starts with good preparation. Here are our top tips:

  1. Check the weather: It can rain even in summer – bring a good tarp or awning.
  2. Packing list: Don't forget your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, headlamp, camping stove, and mosquito spray!
  3. Stay organised: Use dry bags or packing cubes to quickly find your essentials.
  4. Meals: Plan simple, nutritious meals – one-pot recipes are ideal.

Things tent campers should know

Important topics when tent camping:

  1. Leave no trace: Leave your pitch as you'd like to find it – clean and environmentally conscious.
  2. Safety first: Never cook inside your tent with open flames; be aware of wildlife and weather.
  3. Respect quiet hours: Even when you're outdoors – consideration for others is a must.
  4. Light & power: A good headlamp is worth its weight in gold. Solar chargers are handy for smartphones and other devices.

Camping with kids: Family adventures in nature

Camping with children is a wonderful way to spend quality time outdoors and create unforgettable memories. Nomady offers numerous child-friendly camps specially tailored to the needs of families.

Top camps for families in Switzerland:

  • Biohof Tschingelgut – Tent camp: A quiet camp in Glarnerland with a nearby playground and hiking trails.
  • Trieguhof Camp Bürchen: A secluded camp in Valais with an indoor kitchen, fire pit, and direct access to hiking trails.
  • Dexter Hof Mösli: Organic farm with a stream, small pool, and farm shop offering regional products.
  • Sichle-Vreneli: Meadow camp at the edge of the forest with a BBQ area and views of the Emmental.
  • Bergblick: Camp with a fire pit, playground, and lounge area, ideal for families with children.

Tips for your first camping trip with kids:

  • Start small: Test camping in your own garden or nearby to gain confidence.
  • Stay close to home: Choose a campsite nearby so you can head home quickly if needed.
  • Plan rainy-day activities: Bring along games and activities for rainy days to keep boredom at bay.​

Camping with kids

Trekking: Multi-day hikes with overnight tent stays

For adventurers, Nomady offers the chance to combine trekking tours with overnight stays at nature-oriented tent camps. Experience the outdoors intensely and embrace the freedom of hiking.

Popular trekking routes:

  • Gantrisch Nature Park (Switzerland): Scenic 3-day hike from Schwarzsee to the Gurnigel Pass with overnight stays at Nomady camps.
  • Albsteig Black Forest (Germany): 65 km route from Albbruck to Feldberg through gorges and along rivers.
  • Saalach Valley (Austria): Trekking from camp to camp through idyllic landscapes and unspoilt nature.

Tips for your first trekking adventure:

  • Plan your route carefully: Consider your fitness level and plan your stages accordingly.
  • Pack light: Take only the essentials to keep weight to a minimum.
  • Preparation: Train beforehand and check the route and weather conditions in advance.​

Trekking with overnight stays at Nomady tent camps

Motorcycle camping: Freedom on two wheels

Motorcycle camping combines a passion for riding with the adventure of camping. Nomady offers dedicated camps for motorcycle travellers seeking peace and nature after a day on the road.​

Recommended motorcycle routes:

  • Gurnigel Pass (Switzerland): Winding route with overnight accommodation in the Gantrisch Nature Park.
  • Jaun Pass (Switzerland): Connects the Simmental with La Gruyère, ideal for a tour with a stopover at Camp Paradiesli.
  • Klausen Pass (Switzerland): 48 km road with spectacular views and the nearby Biohof Tschingelgut tent camp.​

Packing list for motorcycle camping:

  • Lightweight and compact gear: Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat should take up minimal space.
  • Waterproof panniers: Protect your gear from rain and road spray.
  • Multitool: Essential for small on-the-go repairs.​

Motorcycle camping

Bikepacking: Cycling trips with a tent

Bikepacking combines cycling with tent camping, allowing you to discover new regions in an eco-friendly way. Nomady offers matching tent camps along popular routes.​

Recommended bikepacking routes:

  • High Black Forest (Germany): Gravel bike tours through varied landscapes with overnight stays at Nomady camps.
  • Rhine Route (Switzerland): 4-day tour from Kreuzlingen to Basel along the Rhine with comfortable stopovers.​

Tips for your first bikepacking adventure:

Tent camping – your gateway to the wild

Whether a family holiday by the lake, solo trekking in the mountains, or a romantic weekend in Tuscany – tent camping blends freedom with nature, adventure with relaxation. With the right gear, great tips, and the most stunning spots, your campsite with a tent becomes your personal oasis of well-being.

Start your adventure today – with the right tent, the perfect destination, and plenty of excitement for unforgettable moments under the open sky.

Regions

All regions at a glance

Germany