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Lake Constance is considered one of the most beautiful camping destinations in Europe – yet most holidaymakers only know the crowded main campsites along the popular lakeside promenades. As an experienced camper, I'll share my personal insider tips for camping on Lake Constance , guaranteeing you authentic nature experiences away from the tourist crowds.
After over 15 years of camping experience around the Dreiländersee (Three Countries Lake), I've discovered the most beautiful hidden spots, often unknown even to locals. These special places offer not only spectacular views but also the peace and relaxation you hope for in the perfect camping holiday.
Why hidden campsites on Lake Constance are the better choice
The well-known campsites on Lake Constance are often overpriced and overcrowded. My first insider tip for camping on Lake Constance is therefore: Look for smaller, family-run sites or pitches in a more natural setting. These offer several advantages:
Advantages of hidden campsites:
- Lower prices (often 30-50% less)
- More personalized service from the operators
- Authentic atmosphere without mass tourism
- Direct contact with the local culture
- Often a better location in nature
Disadvantages of mainstream venues:
- Overcrowding, especially in the summer months
- High prices for basic parking spaces
- Anonymous atmosphere
- Long waiting times at sanitary facilities
- Noise from too many campers
My top 5 Lake Constance camping insider tips for 2025
1. Camping Wirthshof in Markdorf
This small, family-run campsite is located about 5 kilometers from the lake shore, yet still offers a beautiful view of Lake Constance. The campsite has been run by the same family for three generations and is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Special features:
- Only 25 parking spaces for maximum peace and quiet
- Own farm shop with regional products
- Bicycle rental for excursions to the lake
- Barbecue areas under old fruit trees
2. Nature Camping Langenargen-Oberdorf
Away from the bustling lakeside promenade of Langenargen, this unspoiled spot is hidden away. A true Lake Constance camping gem for nature lovers who value pristine surroundings.
Highlights:
- Direct access to hiking trails
- Small private beach (10-minute walk)
- Composting toilets for environmentally conscious camping
- Fire pits for cozy evenings
3. Parking space Hödinger Tobel
This secluded campsite is located in a romantic ravine (gorge) near Überlingen. Here you camp among tall trees with the sound of a small stream as natural background music.
4. Organic Farm Camping Uhldingen
A hidden gem for families with children: Camping right on a working organic farm with animals and its own vegetable garden. The children can experience firsthand where their food comes from.
5. Wild camping spot Degersee
For experienced campers seeking adventure: The small Degersee lake is located just a few kilometers from Lake Constance and offers legal wild camping opportunities.
The ultimate Lake Constance camping insider tip: Timing is everything.
The most important tip from my many years of experience: The best time for your Lake Constance camping holiday is not the height of summer! Late May to early June and September to early October offer ideal conditions:
Advantages of the off-season:
- Pleasant temperatures (18-25°C)
- Significantly fewer tourists
- Lower prices
- Improved availability of the most beautiful spots
- Clearer view of the Alps
Take advantage of perfect weather conditions:
In September, the lake water is still warm from the summer, but the oppressive heat is over. At the same time, the spectacular autumn colors of the surrounding forests begin to change.
Equipment for the perfect Lake Constance camping trip
The right equipment determines the success or failure of your camping adventure. Here are my practical recommendations:
Essential basic equipment:
- High-quality 3-person tent (also has extra space for 2 people)
- Warm sleeping bag (it can get cold even in summer)
- Sleeping mat with high comfort
- Camping cooking equipment with windscreen
- Waterproof clothing for sudden rain showers
Special Lake Constance equipment:
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Water sports equipment (SUP, life jackets)
- Fishing license and equipment
- Bicycles for tours around the lake
For further inspiration on useful camping gifts, you can find helpful gift ideas on campidoo.de that will enrich any camping trip.
Activities off the beaten track
A real insider tip for camping on Lake Constance are the lesser-known activities that only locals know about:
Secret swimming spots:
- Natural beach near Bodman (only accessible via hiking trail)
- Hidden cove near Sipplingen
- Shallow water area near Dingelsdorf (perfect for children)
Hiking tours for insiders:
- Premium hiking trail SeeGang (less well known as the Way of St. James)
- Gorge hikes near Überlingen
- Sunrise tour to the highest peak
Cultural hidden gems:
- Small museums in village centers
- Local festivals and markets
- Traditional inns with regional cuisine
Practical tips for sustainable camping at Lake Constance
As a responsible camper, you should not only know the most beautiful spots, but also support their preservation:
Environmental protection while camping:
- Use biodegradable soaps
- Dispose of wastewater only in designated areas.
- Pick up other people's trash too.
- Respect nature reserves and breeding seasons
Respect for the local population:
- Shop at local stores
- Please observe quiet hours.
- Park only in designated areas.
- Greet them politely and learn a few words of dialect.
Van life on Lake Constance: Conversion tips for the perfect tour
Those traveling in a camper van can benefit from specific conversion ideas. Compact solutions that still offer comfort are particularly practical for Lake Constance. After years of experience with various van conversions, I've learned which features truly make sense at Lake Constance. You can find more clever camper van conversion ideas in our comprehensive guide.
Van equipment specific to Lake Constance:
- Compact outdoor shower for after swimming
- Electric cooler for fresh fish from the market
- Extendable awning for sudden rain showers
- Bike rack for tours around the lake
- Water tanks with a capacity of at least 100 liters
- Solar system for self-sufficient power supply
- Compact washing machine for extended stays
Lake Constance is perfect for van life, as the infrastructure is well-developed and there are many secluded campsites. Mobile solutions that can be quickly set up and taken down are particularly practical if you want to change your location.
Regional specialties and culinary insider tips
An important aspect of any Lake Constance camping insider tip is the culinary discoveries beyond the tourist restaurants. The region offers a unique blend of Swabian, Austrian, and Swiss cuisine.
Must-try specialties:
- Lake Constance whitefish (buy directly from the fisherman at the harbor)
- Dornbirn cheese from the region
- Perry pear products from local distilleries
- Wild herb dishes in hidden inns
- Regional wines from steep slopes
Secret shopping tips:
Every Saturday, a small farmers' market takes place in Konstanz, which most tourists overlook. Here you can find fresh vegetables, homemade jams, and genuine regional specialties at fair prices. Another insider tip is to visit the farm shops along the less busy country roads – here you can often find the best products in the region.
Weather and seasons: The perfect time for your Lake Constance camping insider tip
The climate around Lake Constance is milder than in other German regions, but there are still optimal times for various camping activities. Based on my experience, I can offer the following recommendations:
Spring (March-May):
- Perfect for hiking and cycling tours
- Fruit tree blossom creates spectacular landscapes.
- Few tourists yet, but already pleasant temperatures.
- Ideal for birdwatching (migratory birds)
Summer (June-August):
- Peak season with warm weather and swimming fun
- Many festivals and events
- Highest prices and most tourists
- Reservation absolutely required
Autumn (September-November):
- My personal favorite for authentic camping
- Wine harvest season with many regional festivals
- Clear view of the Alps
- Perfect temperatures for outdoor activities
Winter (December-February):
- Suitable only for experienced winter campers
- Christmas markets in the region
- Lowest prices, but limited infrastructure
- Unique atmosphere in the snow
Personalized sunshade for you
Order nowSafety and emergency preparation while camping
An often overlooked aspect of camping at Lake Constance is proper preparation for emergencies. As an experienced camper, I've learned that good preparation is crucial for a relaxing holiday.
Essential emergency equipment:
- First aid kit with region-specific additions
- Emergency telephone numbers for local rescue services
- Waterproof document folder
- Flashlights and spare batteries
- Emergency food for 2-3 days
Specific risks of Lake Constance:
Lake Constance can experience rapid weather changes. Sudden thunderstorms are particularly dangerous and can be life-threatening for water sports enthusiasts. Check the weather forecast daily and always have a backup plan for bad weather.
Environmentally conscious camping: Sustainability on Lake Constance
The natural environment around Lake Constance is unique and worthy of protection. As a responsible camper, you should actively contribute to preserving this beautiful landscape. My insider tip for sustainable camping at Lake Constance covers several aspects:
Waste prevention:
- Use reusable containers for shopping.
- Avoid disposable tableware
- Plan your meals carefully to avoid food waste.
- Also pick up trash from other campers.
Reduce water consumption:
- Take short showers and use biodegradable soaps.
- Collect rainwater for simple cleaning tasks
- Repair leaky faucets immediately
Save energy:
- Use solar energy where possible
- LED lighting saves battery and electricity
- Cook with gas instead of electricity for better efficiency
The best travel planning for your Lake Constance camping insider tip
Good planning is the key to the perfect camping holiday. Here's my tried-and-tested strategy:
3-4 weeks in advance:
- Check the long-term weather forecast
- Reserving pitches at smaller campsites
- Plan your route and research alternative locations.
1 week prior:
- Check and complete equipment
- Research local events
- Create a shopping list for regional specialties
On the day of arrival:
- Start early for the best seat selection
- Stay flexible in the face of changing weather conditions.
- Looking to connect with other campers
Conclusion: Your unforgettable Lake Constance camping holiday awaits!
A hidden gem of a campsite on Lake Constance can transform your holiday from an ordinary trip into an unforgettable experience. The combination of spectacular nature, authentic culture, and hidden treasures makes Lake Constance one of the most beautiful camping destinations in Europe.
After over a decade of intensively exploring the region, I can say with certainty: the best experiences await off the beaten track. Whether you're camping in a hidden ravine, standing alone on a secret beach at sunrise, or staying with a local farming family – these authentic moments will stay with you for a lifetime.
My most important advice: Be brave enough to leave the beaten track and try smaller, family-run campsites. The warmest encounters and most beautiful memories often arise where there is the least hustle and bustle. At the same time, you should always treat nature and the locals with respect – only in this way will these special places be preserved for future generations of campers.
