The top 5 campsites in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a nation of dedicated campers. So where better to pitch a tent than in their home country, a land covered with surreally beautiful, rural campsites. Whether you want to stay close to the capital or venture to the islands of the north coast, here are the top 5 Dutch campsites to choose from.

Herberg De Helleborus

In a clearing in the trees, Herberg De Helleborus’ vintage caravans, cabins, and teepees are gathered around a campfire. Vases of wildflowers and painted cabinets decorate the communal outdoor (covered) kitchen and eating area. For chillier nights, you can hang out in a large, wooden cabin filled with fluffy sofas, fairy lights, piles of old books and centred around a stove, followed by a dip in the hot tub. Platters of watermelon, cheeses, and overflowing salad bowls set the sharing, friendly tone.

Texel Campings

The largest of the West Frisian Islands in North Holland, Texel is 25 km long and is covered with nature reserves broken up by small villages. Its wild coast has wide, sandy beaches that stretch far into the sunset, backed by windswept sand dunes and forest. At Texel Campings Loodsmansduin, you’ll be pitching a tent in a national park, surrounded by trees and a blanket of heather, and looking straight out onto the beach.

Vintage Caravans

The retro caravans at Vintage Caravans are based in Schiedam, a small town just outside of Rotterdam, known for producing gin and very tall windmills. Waking up to a view of quiet, tree-lined canals and the sound of birdsong, it feels like you’re camping in the middle of the countryside. Yet you’re still within easy access of central Rotterdam, as well as Schiedam’s cobbled squares, cafes, and Dutch brown bars.

De Buiten Bij

De Buiten Bij could be an English garden. Eggshell blue painted cabins that look like wendy houses are decorated with floral bedspreads, crochet lampshades, and parasols on the terrace. Bumblebees hover in the hedgerows and lawns, flowers sprout from the bushes and forest bed, and plenty of trees give you a sense of seclusion.

Camping “De Stuurmanskolk”

At the lovely Camping ‘De Stuurmanskolk’, immaculate lawns lead up to wooden bungalows and down to the small, lily pad-laden lake. There’s a playground, a communal sauna, small, sandy beach, and a little wooden pier for jumping into the water. Have an evening barbecue next to the water, with cows grazing in meadows nearby.