Top Eco Friendly Camping Sites in Bavaria
Let’s Go Green Without Giving Up the Campfire Fun!
Hey everyone! I’m Syed Zarif, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from all my outdoor trips, it’s this — nature rewards those who treat it well. I’ve camped all across Germany, but Bavaria holds a special place in my heart. Snow-capped peaks, forest trails, mirror-like lakes — and yes, eco-conscious campsites that don’t harm the land.
In this post, I’ll take you through my favorite eco-friendly camping spots in Bavaria. These places not only offer stunning views and peaceful nights under the stars but also do their best to protect the environment. I’ll also share how to get there without a car, what gear works best, and a few personal stories that you might laugh at—or learn from.
So grab a snack and scroll on—this one’s for every camper who loves the planet (and maybe forgets bug spray once in a while… like me).
1. Camping am Bannwaldsee (Near Neuschwanstein Castle)
This is the kind of place that looks like it came out of a fairy tale. Picture this: You’re sitting by your tent with a hot drink, and in the distance, you can see Neuschwanstein Castle glowing in the sunset. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it’s magical.
Getting There:
Take the train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Füssen (takes about 2 hours). Then catch bus 73 or 78 to Schwangau. From there, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the campsite. Easy peasy.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- They use solar panels to power showers and lights.
- They have proper waste separation, so your banana peel won’t mix with your plastic wrap.
- You can rent e-bikes to explore the area, which I highly recommend — great way to skip traffic and zoom around like a mountain ninja.
What to Pack:
Even in summer, nights can be chilly. My must-haves here are:
- A 4-season sleeping bag
- A windproof fleece or hiking jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes (for castle-hopping and lakeside wandering)
2. Naturcamping Isarhorn (Near Mittenwald)
If peace and quiet had a home, this would be it. Naturcamping Isarhorn sits by the Isar River, surrounded by forest and tall peaks. I once saw a deer while brushing my teeth here—nature doesn’t get more real than that.
Getting There:
Train from Munich to Mittenwald (just under 2 hours). From Mittenwald station, it’s about a 30-minute walk to the campsite. The path is scenic, so don’t rush it.
What Makes It Green:
- They use solar energy to heat water.
- You’ll find composting toilets, and honestly, they’re not as scary as they sound.
- You’re encouraged to hike or bike—no noisy cars all over the place.
Pack These:
This area is known for sudden weather changes. I learned the hard way.
- Waterproof jacket
- Dry bags to keep clothes safe
- A light tarp in case you need quick shelter
3. Camping Gitzenweiler Hof (Near Lake Constance / Lindau)
Looking for something with a bit more comfort? Gitzenweiler Hof is a fun, family-friendly site near Lake Constance. You get a mix of eco-consciousness and cozy vibes. I once camped here with my cousins, and let’s just say we spent more time laughing than sleeping.
How to Get There:
Train to Lindau Hauptbahnhof, then take bus line 2 straight to the campsite.
Eco-Friendly Features:
- Certified by ECOCAMPING Germany
- Natural swimming pond instead of chlorine pools
- They use collected rainwater to water the plants (which stay impressively green!)
What I Bring:
It’s warmer near the lake, so no need for heavy gear.
- Mesh tent for airflow
- Camping stove
- Sun hat and eco-friendly sunscreen
4. Trekker Camps in Bavarian Forest National Park
Want to camp in the wild but still follow the rules? Bavaria’s National Park has Trekker Camps—small sites in remote areas where you can legally pitch a tent in the middle of the forest. I hiked here for 3 days with just a backpack. No phone signal. No noise. Just me and the trees.
Public Access:
Train to Spiegelau or Grafenau, then hop on the Igelbus, a special eco-shuttle that runs inside the park.
Sustainability Rules:
- No car access
- Leave no trace policy — if you bring it, carry it out
- You need to book your Trekker Camp spot in advance (max 2 nights)
Essential Gear:
- Lightweight tent or bivvy bag
- Solar charger
- Food-safe bear bag (okay, not for bears here, but foxes are sneaky!)
5. Jugendzeltplatz Vestenbergsgreuth (Near Nuremberg)
This one is less known, but it’s a true gem. Located in the Steigerwald Nature Park, it’s more basic but very peaceful. No WiFi, no city sounds — just trees, birds, and campers who wave at each other.
How to Get There:
Train to Höchstadt (via Nuremberg), then bus 123 to Vestenbergsgreuth.
Green Features:
- Solar cooking stations
- Wildlife-friendly zones
- Focus on learning and youth education, but adults are welcome too!
Don’t Forget:
- Bug repellent (learned that the itchy way)
- Biodegradable soap
- Hammock for chill afternoons
Gear Tips for Eco-Camping in Bavaria
After years of trial and error (including a broken tent pole on a windy night), here’s what I now swear by for camping the green way in Bavaria:
Clothes:
- Merino wool base layers – light and odor-free
- Quick-dry pants and T-shirts
- Waterproof hiking boots – because Bavaria has trails worth getting lost on
Eco-Gear:
- Solar-powered battery bank
- Biodegradable wet wipes & toothpaste
- Reusable water bottle with built-in filter
- Bamboo utensils and collapsible bowls
Final Thoughts: Camp Smart, Leave Light
Camping in Bavaria is not just about nature. It’s about how you experience it. Whether you’re relaxing by Lake Constance or trekking through the Bavarian Forest, your actions matter. Say no to single-use plastic, follow the signs, and always leave your spot cleaner than you found it.
Have you been eco-camping in Bavaria?
Got a hidden gem?
Or a camping fail (we all have them)?
👉 Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Let’s build a little Boundless Room community — full of campers, hikers, and nature lovers like you and me.
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Thanks for reading! I’ll see you on the trail — and if you see a guy drying socks on a tree branch… that’s probably me.
