What is a self-service campsite?
At a self-service campsite, campers make their own booking and check-in, either remotely or directly on site via a kiosk. Depending on the campsite, they may be able to choose their own pitch from those available. Self-service campsites mainly offer pitches for tents, caravans, campervans and motorhomes.
At the entrance, access to the campground may be controlled by various systems: an automatic barrier, a retractable bollard or another automated device. An individual access code is provided to the camper to allow them to enter the campground and access their pitch.
This system allows the site to be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with some campsites even remaining open all year round.
The concept was devised specifically to meet the needs of campers seeking greater independence, particularly motorhome owners.
What facilities are available at an automated campsite?
However, ‘self-catering’ does not mean that the campsite lacks facilities. Facilities vary from site to site: toilet blocks, self-service laundrettes, electricity, Wi-Fi and service areas for motorhomes may be available. Some go a step further by offering a grocery shop or catering service.
Are there staff at an unstaffed campsite?
Yes. Even without a traditional reception, the campsite needs to be looked after and its facilities maintained. Cleaning the toilet blocks, maintaining outdoor areas and carrying out technical work always require staff. The presence of staff may also be linked to other campsite activities, such as managing holiday rentals or a restaurant.
The Tamaris** campsite in Plouha, in the Côtes-d’Armor, operates on a hybrid model: in addition to its pitches, it has four holiday rentals and a snack bar-restaurant. These holiday rentals are managed on-site by the staff working at the snack bar, who carry out the check-in inspections and cleaning.
Finally, should any problems arise or assistance be required, a telephone number is available to contact a member of staff.
How is security ensured?
As access is automated, there are no staff permanently stationed at the entrance. Access control therefore contributes to the campsite’s security. Some sites also have CCTV cameras to monitor the entrances and various areas of the site.
Where can you find self-service campsites in France?
The concept is still not very widespread, but several French campsites already operate on this principle.
Within the Welcome network, several campsites are now self-service: Les IV Véziaux campsite in Campan, near Payolle, in the Hautes-Pyrénées – France’s first self-service campsite – has been operating in self-service mode since 2024 (following a trial on part of the campground from 2019 onwards). It was followed by the Tamaris** campsite in Plouha, in the Côtes-d’Armor. The Terre de Loire** campsite in La Ménitré, in Maine-et-Loire, adopted this system in 2025.
The municipal Les Trois Clochers*** campsite in Cambrai, in the Nord department, also offers automated management of bookings and access.
Finally, the Le Clos Fleuri campsite in Médis, Charente-Maritime, is set to reopen in April 2027 following refurbishment. It will combine staffed and automated services, with some of the 105 pitches and the motorhome area accessible independently all year round, as well as toilet facilities and a launderette available to guests.