Guest article by Jenny Krutzinna: Camping fun without a long journey: These are the ultimate insider tips

Berlin offers much more than urban flair – just a few kilometers outside the city limits, camping enthusiasts will find idyllic lakes , tranquil forests, and well-equipped campsites. Whether for water sports, family outings, or relaxing weekends, these campsites combine relaxation with proximity to the capital.

Jenny Krutzinna holds a PhD in philosophy and is a passionate camper. When switching from a tent to a motorhome presented her with challenges in finding a campsite, she and her partner quickly developed a digital solution. For eight years, they have been running a leading camping app that helps hundreds of thousands of campers find suitable overnight spots across Europe. Jenny also regularly gives talks on camping and travel topics at camping trade fairs and van life events. She spends about six months of her year on the road in a camper van.

1. Krossinsee campsite (Berlin-Schmöckwitz)

The Krossinsee campsite is located in the green heart of Berlin, directly on the lake of the same name. The natural grounds offer semi-shaded pitches under tall pine trees and are open year-round. The exclusive lakeside pitches with picturesque views of Lake Krossin are particularly popular. Families and water hikers with tents benefit from the convenient location of the tent area, which offers direct views of the adventure playground and the lake.

2. Campsite Berlin Gatow

Idyllically situated on the Havel River in western Berlin, this site offers a tranquil atmosphere yet is well connected to the city center. The family-friendly Gatow campsite offers a playground and a bike path on site, as well as plenty of space for dogs. From there, you can walk to the Neukladow Estate Park and the Military History Museum.

Located on the western outskirts of Berlin in Spandau, this site offers a peaceful atmosphere yet is well connected to the city center. Kladow Campsite is located on the former Berlin Wall and thus directly on the Wall Cycle Route. The large Glienickersee lake is also easily accessible from there, making it the perfect spot for a day of swimming.

Anyone who knows Hamburg knows its special blend of metropolis and maritime serenity. The campsites surrounding the Hanseatic city reflect this as well – here you can camp with a view of the Elbe, close to the beach, and close to the city. Perfect for a spontaneous getaway without a long commute.

Located directly on the Elbe River, this site offers natural pitches, a beach club with a sunset ambiance, and a restaurant serving regional specialties. Stover Strand Camping is located in the idyllic Elbe River landscape , just outside Hamburg. Enjoy the tranquility of nature on the pitches right next to the Elbe River and take an exciting day trip to Hamburg's HafenCity or the old salt town of Lüneburg using public transport.

Located in Falkenstein Forest Park, directly on the Elbe beach, this nature campsite offers picturesque surroundings and direct access to the water. Camp right on the Elbe River, where large container ships and cruise ships pass by. Enjoy the sandy beach and nature, surrounded by greenery, yet only 25 minutes from the center of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.

3. Camping Land on the Elbe

A family-run campsite on Stover Strand, established since 1960, it offers natural pitches in a park-like setting. Our campsite on the Elbe River has two park-like, natural pitches. One is picturesquely located directly on the Elbe River, offering plenty of open space and panoramic views.

The Ruhr region surprises with its green oases and charming campsites in the heart of the Ruhr area. Between river landscapes, local recreation areas, and historic industrial monuments, you'll find a variety of places for relaxing days – without having to travel for hours.

1. Wehlingsheide Recreation Park (Datteln)

The Wehlingsheide recreation park in Datteln offers a well-maintained meadow landscape with a swimming pond, beach area, sauna garden, and a restaurant with a covered terrace. The site offers a bread delivery service, a children's playground, and modern restroom facilities. Of particular note is its quiet location surrounded by nature, making it attractive for both short-term and long-term campers.

2. Ruhrbrücke campsite (Hattingen)

Located directly on the Ruhr River, this campsite is ideal for families, cyclists, and canoeists. The site offers simple yet well-maintained facilities and is located in close proximity to the Ruhr Valley Cycle Path. The natural surroundings and convenient access to the Ruhr region make it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation.

3. Ludbrock campsite (Oer-Erkenschwick)

Located on the northern edge of the Ruhr region in the Hohe Mark Nature Park, the Ludbrock campsite offers a tranquil setting with direct access to hiking and biking trails. Of particular note is its proximity to the "Die Haard" recreation area, which invites you to take long walks and bike rides.

Munich is ideally located: Crystal-clear lakes, impressive mountains, and family-friendly campsites are just a short drive away. Whether for a quick weekend getaway or a short break in nature, the Bavarian countryside offers camping at its finest.

1. Pilsensee campsite

Located southwest of Munich, the beautiful Pilsensee campsite offers tent and RV pitches right on the lakeshore with views of the Alps. The modern, newly constructed restroom facilities are also available, and boat and SUP rentals are available right on site.

The idyllic Ampersee campsite is located directly on the lakeshore in Olching near Munich and offers comfortable pitches for camper vans, tents, or caravans. Dogs are welcome, and the site features a dog beach and a children's playground.

The Großseeham campsite is located directly on Lake Seeham and offers a tranquil atmosphere with plenty of natural charm. Travelers with caravans or motorhomes will find the large meadow an ideal place to stop, while tents can be pitched on the smaller meadow.

The metropolis on the Main River combines urban life with the joys of nature. Around Frankfurt, there are numerous campsites with views of the Rhine, close to forests, or direct access to the Main River. Ideal for those who love nature but still want to be close to culture and city life.

1. Mainkur campsite (Maintal)

The Mainkur campsite is a small, family-run site located directly on the Main River, on the outskirts of Frankfurt-Fechenheim. It offers clean, modern sanitary facilities, designated pitches, a children's playground, and a bike path directly into Frankfurt's city center.

Located in the heart of the countryside, approximately 600 meters outside the Dreieich district of Offenthal on the edge of the forest, the Dreieich campsite offers a peaceful setting with easy access to Frankfurt and Darmstadt. A wide range of recreational activities are available in the immediate vicinity.

3. Ankergrund campsite

The Ankergrund campsite is located a little further away from the city, directly on the Main River in the picturesque wine-growing town of Volkach. The site offers premium and comfort pitches and modern restroom facilities. The surrounding area is ideal for cycling, water sports, and cultural excursions.

This article is from the EXPERTS Circle – a network of selected experts with in-depth knowledge and many years of experience. The content is based on individual assessments and is aligned with the current state of science and practice.