Camping With Kids In Switzerland: Campsite Guide

Introduction

We, at the Young Explorers Club, created this practical campsite guide for families camping with kids in Switzerland. The guide lists regional options and common facilities and explains seasonal patterns so families can plan safe, stroller-friendly stays by lakes, in lowlands and at alpine sites. We give clear price anchors, booking advice, and include packing and safety checklists, plus practical notes on accessibility, transport and insurance.

Key Takeaways

• Camping season: April–October. Peak occupancy is mid‑June to end‑August.
• Number of campsites: Roughly 320–380 registered campsites nationwide (public listings).
• Typical cost anchors: family pitch CHF 40–90/night, electricity CHF 5–12/night, bungalow/mobile‑home CHF 80–220/night.
• Illustrative 7-night family budget: around CHF 1,090–1,690 (varies with accommodation, extras and location).
• Top family regions: Bernese Oberland (easy alpine trails, mountain railways), Lake Geneva and Lucerne (lakeside swimming, boat trips), Ticino (warmer lakes). Prefer lower-elevation bases for easier access.
• Booking guidance: Reserve 2–6 weeks ahead in May–June and 1–4 months for July–August. For peak weeks, aim for 2–4 months. Book direct where possible for better cancellation flexibility and always get cancellation terms in writing.
• Pre-arrival checks: Confirm campsite amenities and rules, electrical hookup amperage (6/10/16 A) and Type J plugs, playground locations, distance to sanitary blocks, accessibility features and pet policies. Verify required insurance and canton rules on wild camping and campfires.

Regional Options and What Families Can Expect

Bernese Oberland

Highlights: easy alpine trails suitable for children, accessible mountain railways, lakes and family-friendly attractions. Choose lower-elevation bases for stroller access and shorter drives.

Lake Geneva and Lucerne

Highlights: lakeside swimming, boat trips, promenades and cultural towns. Many campsites sit directly on the lake or a short walk away—great for young swimmers and families seeking short excursions.

Ticino

Highlights: warmer weather and lakes, Mediterranean flair. Campgrounds can be busier in summer; consider early bookings and shaded pitches.

Lowlands and Alpine Sites

Notes: Lowland sites are typically more stroller- and toddler-friendly. Alpine sites offer scenery and hiking; check elevation and nighttime temperatures before booking with children.

Costs & Budget Anchors

• Family pitch: CHF 40–90 per night (location and services affect price).
• Electricity: CHF 5–12 per night depending on amperage and site.
• Bungalow / Mobile home: CHF 80–220 per night depending on size & season.
• Example 7-night family budget: CHF 1,090–1,690 (includes mid-range pitch or small bungalow, electricity, basic extras; add transport, food and activities).

Booking Advice

• Timing: Reserve 2–6 weeks for May–June and 1–4 months for July–August. For the most popular holiday weeks, aim for 2–4 months in advance.
• Direct booking: Book direct when possible for better cancellation flexibility; always request cancellation terms in writing (email or booking confirmation).
• Ask before you book: Confirm pitch size, shade, proximity to playgrounds and sanitary blocks, pet rules, check-in/out times, and any curfews or quiet hours.

Packing Checklist (Suggested)

1. Shelter & sleep: tent or confirmation for bungalow/mobile home, sleeping bags/duvets suitable for expected temperatures, pillows, groundsheet.
2. Cooking & food: stove or confirm site kitchen access, basic cookware, water containers, cooler box, reusable plates and cutlery.
3. Clothing: layered clothing for variable alpine weather, rain gear, sun hats and swimwear.
4. For children: stroller suitable for gravel/paths (if needed), child-safe cutlery, favourite small toys, life jackets for lake use if not provided.
5. Health & safety: first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, any prescription medications, copies of insurance documents.
6. Electrics & tools: adapters (note Type J plugs in Switzerland), extension cable rated for outdoor use, torch/lantern, spare batteries.
7. Extras: swim shoes, picnic blanket, compact travel cot if needed, travel stroller repair kit (tyres/axles), garbage bags.

Safety Checklist

• Water safety: Supervise children at lakes and pools. Use appropriate buoyancy aids and confirm lifeguard presence.
• Fire safety: Verify campfire rules for the canton and campsite. Use designated fireplaces only and keep extinguishing water or a bucket nearby.
• Weather: Check daily forecasts—mountain weather can change fast. Pack warm layers for evenings.
• Emergency plans: Note nearest medical center and campsite emergency procedures. Carry a charged phone and local emergency numbers.

Accessibility, Transport & Practical Notes

Accessibility

Check in advance for accessible pitches, ramped sanitary blocks, and pathways suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Ask about distances from parking to pitch and availability of accessible bungalows.

Transport

Public transport: Many Swiss campgrounds are reachable by train or bus—check connections and last-mile travel options. For alpine sites, verify if cable cars or mountain railways accept strollers and have space for luggage.

Electricity & Plugs

Confirm electrical hookup amperage (6/10/16 A) and that the site provides Type J plugs. If you rely on electricity (medical devices, fridges), request confirmation of continuous supply and any extra fees.

Pets

Pet policies vary widely—some campsites allow dogs on pitches only, others have leash rules or dedicated pet areas. Confirm breed restrictions, extra fees and cleaning expectations.

Insurance & Local Rules

Insurance: Verify travel and liability insurance cover for camping activities and equipment. Some campsites may require proof of insurance for certain bookings.

Wild camping & campfires: Switzerland has canton-specific rules on wild camping and open fires. Always check local regulations before leaving marked sites or lighting fires.

Before You Arrive — Final Checklist

• Written confirmation of booking and cancellation terms.
• Confirm amenities: electrical hookup details, sanitary block access, playgrounds, Wi‑Fi (if needed).
• Accessibility needs: request necessary accommodations in advance.
• Local rules: check canton rules on wild camping and campfires.
• Emergency contacts and insurance documents: keep printed and digital copies accessible.

Closing Notes

This guide gives families clear, practical anchors to plan safe, comfortable camping trips in Switzerland. Use the price and booking guidance to set expectations, confirm site details before arrival, and pack with safety and accessibility in mind. Happy camping from the Young Explorers Club!

Quick overview and lead facts

We at the Young Explorers Club keep this short and actionable so you can plan a family camping trip in Switzerland with confidence. Key national facts set the scene: Switzerland covers 41,285 km², has about 8.7 million residents (2023 estimate), recognizes four official languages (German, French, Italian, Romansh) and uses the Swiss franc (CHF). Last checked: country facts 2023.

Registered campsites are concentrated across lowland, Alpine and southern regions. Public listings suggest roughly 320–380 registered campsites; confirm the exact total with the Swiss Federal Statistical Office or MySwitzerland.com before you book (Swiss Federal Statistical Office / MySwitzerland.com — last checked: 2023). Typical camping season runs April–October, with peak occupancy from mid‑June to end‑August (school summer holiday). Peak months most often hit full capacity in July–August.

Use these quick price anchors for budget planning — these are typical ranges drawn from representative campsite price lists across regions: average family pitch (tent + vehicle) CHF 40–90 per night; electricity hookup CHF 5–12 per night; mobile‑home rental or bungalow CHF 80–220 per night depending on region and season. Last checked: typical price ranges (sample checks across regions) 2024.

I recommend keeping a margin above the low end during July–August and in popular lakeside or Alpine valley sites. Expect higher charges at lakeshores and tourist hubs in Ticino and Interlaken. Mobile units and bungalows spike in price during school holidays.

What a “family pitch” usually includes — and common extras

Below I list the usual inclusions and extras to watch for so you avoid surprise charges:

Typically included on a family pitch:

• Designated space for tent and vehicle
• Access to communal sanitary blocks (toilets/showers)
• Water point and waste disposal
• Access to on‑site playgrounds and basic amenities

Common extras and extra fees:

• Visitor/tourist tax (per person/night)
• Electricity hookup (CHF 5–12/night)
• Hot‑shower tokens or timed showers in some sites
• Pet fees and additional vehicle charges
• On‑site shop, restaurant purchases and Wi‑Fi fees

We advise checking sample price lists from camps in lowland, Alpine and southern regions when you compare options. For family inspiration and logistics, see our family trip guide for Switzerland that covers itineraries and family‑friendly campsite picks: family trip.

Top family regions, activities and short itineraries

We, at the Young Explorers Club, map the best Swiss camping regions for families and give clear activity and travel advice. Our notes include campsite access, stroller-friendly trails and typical travel times you can use to plan.

Bernese Oberland (Interlaken / Grindelwald / Lauterbrunnen)

The area is ideal for Bernese Oberland family campsites because of easy alpine trails, playgrounds and frequent mountain railways. I recommend short, well-graded valley walks that meet a family hike of around 3 km / <300 m ascent for toddlers. Many cable cars and mountain railways offer reduced fares for children; check each operator for exact policies. Stroller-friendly promenades run through Interlaken and parts of Lauterbrunnen valley.

Lake Geneva region (Léman)

Expect lakeside swimming, beaches, gentle promenades and short boat trips. Lake water temps of about 20–24 °C in summer are common on warm years, making Lake Geneva camping attractive for young swimmers. Promenades in towns like Vevey and Montreux are pushchair-compatible and boats often allow easy boarding with kids.

Lake Lucerne region

Combine short scenic boat + train combos with accessible family attractions and lakeside campsites. Lucerne’s quay and nearby lakeside campsites are generally stroller-friendly. Zurich → Lucerne is about 45 minutes by train, so travel time is minimal for a weekend base.

Valais (Zermatt / Verbier valleys)

Choose Valais for sunny slopes, glacier views and mid-altitude family hikes. Campsite density drops at higher altitudes; plan lower-elevation bases for easier access to public transport and playgrounds. Mountain railways in the valleys commonly have child discounts but confirm locally.

Ticino (Lugano / Locarno)

Ticino‘s warm climate brings Mediterranean flair, warm lakes for swimming and palm-lined promenades. Milan → Lugano is roughly 1 hour by train, which makes Ticino a straightforward southern escape for families wanting sun and water.

Engadin / St. Moritz

High-altitude family trails and wide valleys give safe, marked paths for older kids. Expect crisp alpine views and quieter campsites; pick lower valley sites if you want easier access to trains and short hikes.

Practical travel times and access

Typical travel times and a short driving guideline to help with planning:

• Geneva Airport → Interlaken: plan ~3 hours by train as a guideline.
• Zurich Airport → Lucerne: ~45 minutes by train.
• Milan → Lugano: ~1 hour by train.

We advise keeping drives short; aim for a maximum of 2–3 hours driving per day with kids whenever possible.

Quick family itineraries

Below are sample plans you can adapt quickly:

• Weekend (2–3 nights) with toddlers: lakeside campsite (Lake Geneva or Lucerne) + short boat trip + playground visit; travel time <2 hours from the nearest major city.
• One-week family loop: Lake Lucerne base 3 nights (boat + short city visit) → Bernese Oberland 4 nights (gondola + easy alpine hike); keep daily transfers within a maximum of 2–3 hours driving/day.
• Active-family alternative: Ticino 4 nights (beach, lake-swim days) → Valais 3 nights (mid-altitude hikes, glacier viewpoints).

For packing tips, public-transport links and campsite recommendations that match each itinerary, see our family trip page: family trip.

Booking, availability, cancellation and insurance

Booking calendar, lead-times and occupancy

For typical summer weekends we recommend reserving 4–8 weeks ahead. We advise booking 2–4 months ahead for peak weeks such as Swiss National Day (Aug 1) and school holiday weeks. We also watch lakefront and city-adjacent sites closely because many can reach high occupancy during peak season; typical peak occupancy ranges from 70–95% (verify per canton/site).

To make this actionable, we follow these booking windows and tell families to plan the same:

• May/June: aim to reserve 2–6 weeks in advance.
• July/August: plan 1–4 months ahead, extending to 2–4 months for the most popular weeks.
• Holiday weekends / Aug 1 / school holidays: book 2–4 months or more.

We recommend checking canton reports or campsite associations to verify occupancy numbers and record the date of the report. We also suggest calling your target campsite to confirm typical peak occupancy if you need exact figures.

Booking platforms, cancellations and insurance

We compare direct-booking and third-party platforms before committing. We search individual campsite sites first, then cross-check Camping.info, ACSI and TCS to confirm availability and rates. We note that direct booking often gives better cancellation flexibility and makes special requests—like a preferred pitch location—easier to arrange. We always check the fine print for extra platform fees.

We read each campsite’s cancellation policy and record the exact wording and X days (common phrasing: “free cancellation up to X days before arrival”). We keep a simple spreadsheet listing site name, the X days, the date we checked, and the staff contact. We call or email campsites to confirm compulsory requirements and log the confirmation date.

We require travel or camping insurance that covers key risks. We prioritize plans with:

• medical evacuation coverage
• trip cancellation
• campervan insurance
• equipment theft

We check campervan rentals separately to confirm required insurance levels and deposit amounts before booking. We also verify whether a campsite mandates specific liability or vehicle insurance and record the requirement and confirmation date.

We advise families to consider refundable tariffs if plans might change. We shortlist refundable options when the cancellation window is short. We maintain two copies of reservation confirmations (digital and printed) and keep insurer and rental-policy numbers handy in case we need a claim. We link practical expectations about site activities with what kids will face by pointing families to what kids should expect for smoother planning: what kids should expect.

We always follow up 48–72 hours after booking to reconfirm special requests, cancellation terms and any required insurance documents so there are no surprises on arrival.

Costs, budgeting and example family budget

We, at the young explorers club, collected typical campsite price ranges so families can budget with confidence. Typical per-night itemized costs look like this:

• Pitch for a family tent: CHF 40–90 per night
• Electricity hookup: CHF 5–12 per night
• Tourist / city tax: CHF 1–5 per person/night (children often discounted or exempt)
• Hot showers: usually included but may cost CHF 0–2 by token
• Rental / hire ranges commonly seen:
  • Bungalow: CHF 80–220 per night
  • Campervan hire: CHF 80–250 per day (seasonal variation applies)

Last checked: 2026-02-19.

Example 7-night family budget (2 adults + 2 children)

• Campsite (7 nights at CHF 70/night) = CHF 490
• Food / groceries = CHF 300–500 (self-catering reduces costs)
• Activities = CHF 150–400
• Transport (public transport or fuel/parking) = CHF 150–300

Total illustrative range: ~CHF 1,090–1,690 (adjust by region, accommodation and activity choices).

Parents should watch for hidden costs that often surprise families: laundry, campsite Wi‑Fi, reservation or administration fees, deposits for keycards, shuttle fees to attractions and extra vehicle parking. These can add CHF 50–200 to a week, depending on habits and campsite policies.

Practical points on price checks and research: sample price lists vary between lowland, mid-altitude and high-altitude sites. We recommend collecting current nightly rates from at least three campsites in each altitude band, then computing the median and range for pitch price, electricity and rental units so you see the typical spread. Always note a clear “last checked” date on your spreadsheet.

Money-saving tips

Use these quick strategies to lower your total:

• Self-cater and shop at Migros, Coop or Denner to cut food costs substantially.
• Take advantage of family rail discounts, regional passes and multi-day attraction passes for cheaper travel and activities.
• Book midweek stays and early- or late-season dates to get lower pitch and rental rates.
• Opt out of electricity hookups when possible and use a camping battery or portable power bank for small devices.
• Reserve early for weekly or advance-booking discounts; compare sample price lists before committing.

For practical packing and logistical checklists that match campsite choices, see our family trip guide.

Campsite facilities, packing checklist and accessibility

We, at the Young Explorers Club, look for campsites that make family life simple. Many sites offer playgrounds, toddler pools and seasonal supervised kids clubs; opening hours for cafés, small on-site shops and restaurants change by season, so check ahead. Expect family bathrooms with baby-changing, laundry and dishwashing areas, and clear signs for chemical toilet disposal. Pitches near fenced playgrounds and sanitary blocks save time when you have little ones.

Switzerland uses 230 V, 50 Hz mains. Campsite hookups commonly come in 6 A, 10 A or 16 A sockets, so confirm the exact hookup amperage on your reserved pitch. A 6 A supply limits high-draw appliances. Families charging e-bikes or using electric kettles should request 10 A or 16 A. The Swiss plug is Type J (three-pin); bring an adaptor if you’re arriving from abroad. We always note the campsite’s exact hookup type and the date we confirmed it.

Many top campsites offer barrier-free pitches and accessible sanitary blocks. We advise you to confirm availability and specific accessibility features for each site. Also check pet policies and allergy accommodations directly with the campsite. Ask whether rental units include baby cot availability — confirm with campsite — and whether they supply high chairs or basic kitchen equipment.

When booking, call or email each campsite to confirm amenities, electrical hookup types, accessibility details and pet policies; record the date you confirmed and add it to your trip notes. Make these specific requests in writing:

• Pitch close to the playground or sanitary block with baby-changing facilities
• Fenced-playground proximity
• Baby cot / high chair availability in rental units
• Exact amperage on your pitch (6 A / 10 A / 16 A)

Essential packing checklist by age and gear

Below are concise lists for infants, young children, older kids and general camping/electronics items.

Infants / toddlers

• travel cot (check campsite can provide)
• high chair
• sun hat and SPF 50+
• insect repellent suitable for infants
• baby food/formula, nappies and wipes
• portable potty

Young children (3–8)

• carrier backpack
• well-fitting hiking shoes
• waterproof / rain jacket
• swimwear and water shoes
• sun protection and tick remover
• basic first-aid kit

Older kids (9+)

• small daypack
• trekking poles (if hiking)
• waterproof jacket
• headlamp

Camping gear

• family tent with separate sleeping compartments
• groundsheet
• insulated sleeping mats with suitable R-value
• warm sleeping bags (comfort rating 0–5 °C recommended for alpine nights)

Electronics

• powerbank
• Type J adapter
• chargers for e-bike batteries (confirm campsite amperage)

For more details and printable lists consult our packing guide.

Safety, regulations, environment and transport essentials

We, at the young explorers club, treat rules as part of trip planning. Wild camping is prohibited in most lowland cantons; canton rules vary and may permit camping only on high alpine pastures with the landowner’s permission or in marked bivouac areas. Campfires may be banned in dry periods and open fires often need authorization from local authorities. Always check canton-specific regulations and the municipality website before planning overnight wild camping or lighting a fire.

Wild camping, campfires and legal checks

Ask landowners or campsite managers for written permission if you expect to stay above tree line. Expect stricter controls at lower elevations. If you find a marked bivouac area, follow the posted rules and leave no trace. I recommend noting the date you checked local rules and saving screenshots of municipality pages. Confirm the motorway vignette requirement for Swiss motorways and the current fee before you drive.

Health, environment and transport essentials

Below are the key practical points I always cover with families before a trip:

• Health risks: Ticks/Lyme risk exists in grassland and forested areas; check children after hikes and learn safe tick removal. Altitude sickness can occur above about 2,500–3,000 m — monitor children for headaches, nausea or dizziness if you head to higher terrain. Emergency numbers are 112 (general EU emergency) and 144 (ambulance) in Switzerland; identify the nearest hospital or doctor for your campsite and note it down.
• Waste and water: Swiss campsites enforce strict waste separation (paper, cardboard, PET, glass and often compost). Follow campsite and municipal sorting rules. Water-use restrictions may apply in alpine areas during dry months; conserve water and ask the site host about local limits.
• Transport network: A dense rail and PostBus network reaches many campsites. Check the Swiss Travel Pass and regional pass options (Swiss Travel System/SBB) and verify child discounts and family-card rules before you buy. Children under certain ages often travel free — confirm current SBB rules for exact ages.
• Driving and parking: The national motorway speed limit is 120 km/h. A motorway vignette is required for Swiss motorways — confirm the current price before travel. Campsite parking usually allows one vehicle per pitch; extra vehicles are often charged.
• Practical tips with kids: Limit driving to 2–3 hours per day when possible. Fold strollers for busy or scenic trains and check reservation requirements on panoramic routes. I also save the nearest emergency contact and confirm ambulance/hospital details for each campsite with a date noted.

For campsite-specific advice and family-friendly routes, see our family trip link for ideas and logistics.

Sources

MySwitzerland.com — Camping in Switzerland

Swiss Federal Statistical Office — Accommodation statistics

Camping.info — Switzerland — Campsite overview

TCS (Touring Club Schweiz) — Camping: Tipps für Familien

ACSI — Camping in Switzerland

Bundesamt für Gesundheit (BAG) — Borreliose

SwitzerlandMobility — Routes for hiking, cycling and mountain biking

Swiss Travel System — Swiss Travel Pass

Valais/Wallis Tourism — Camping in Valais

Interlaken Tourism — Camping in Interlaken

Komoot — Family hikes in Switzerland