Alpine gems with crystal-clear waters
In the Alps, the lakes offer a picture-postcard setting, combining clear waters and majestic peaks.
Lake Annecy: a turquoise gem at the foot of the mountains
Lake Annecy, France's second largest glacial lake, charms visitors with its turquoise waters at an altitude of 447 metres. Among the thirty or so campsites around the lake, the 3-star La Chapelle Saint Claude campsite in Talloires-Montmin offers lakeside accommodation just a stone's throw from the beaches.
Sainte-Croix artificial lake: an emerald lagoon in the heart of the Verdon
Further south, Lake Sainte-Croix stretches for 10 km at the foot of the Verdon. Its emerald waters and white beaches attract kayakers and swimmers alike. Choose the Les rives du lac de Sainte-Croix*** campsite, 300 m from the lake.
Lake Geneva: the French-Swiss inland sea
Lake Geneva, between France and Switzerland, is like an inland sea. Its shores alternate between beaches and footpaths. The 4-star La Pinède campsite in Excenevex offers direct access to one of the few natural sandy beaches on Lake Geneva. See all campsites near Lake Geneva.
The lakes of the South, between nature and swimming
Under the southern sun, the lakes are transformed into ideal oases for holidays in the heart of nature.
Lake Salagou: spectacular red cliffs and deep waters
Lake Salagou, in the Hérault department, offers a striking landscape combining red rocks and deep water. It is a popular spot for sailing, paddleboarding and camping with lake views, such as Les Vailhes** in Lodève or the Lac du Salagou**** campsite in Clermont-L'Hérault.
Serre-Ponçon artificial lake: azure immensity at the foot of the Southern Alps
Serre-Ponçon Lake, a vast 3,000-hectare reservoir, combines wild coves and developed beaches. Among the 35 campsites near the lake, the Huttopia*** campsite overlooks the azure waters and offers accommodation with panoramic views.
Large natural lakes for water sports
Some large lakes are veritable playgrounds for sailing and water sports enthusiasts.
Lac du Bourget: a paradise for sailors in Savoie
Lac du Bourget is the largest natural lake in France. Its 18 km length and 16 ports make it an ideal spot for sailing. Among a dozen campsites near the lake, the Île aux Cygnes*** campsite has direct access to the crystal-clear waters.
Lake Der: a nature and sailing break in Champagne
In Champagne, Lac du Der covers 4,800 hectares and is very popular for sailing and birdwatching. The Yelloh! Village***** campsite allows you to make the most of the lake and its activities.
Montpezat Lake: wild coves and sailing in Verdon
In the Verdon, Lake Montpezat charms visitors with its wild coves and turquoise waters. The La Farigoulette***** campsite in Saint-Laurent-du-Verdon, with its water sports centre, is ideal for sporty families.
Mountain lakes and panoramic views
Nestled high up in the mountains, each mountain lake offers spectacular scenery and a climate that is perfect for recharging your batteries.
Lake Settons: a forest haven in the Morvan
Lake Settons, in the Morvan, offers a peaceful forest setting where pine trees line the shores. It is ideal for contemplation and gentle activities.
Lac de Gérardmer: jewel of the wooded Vosges
Further east, Lake Gérardmer shines in the heart of the Vosges. A few kilometres away, the Domaine de Longemer**** campsite offers a nature-filled stay just a stone's throw from Lake Longemer.
Lake Pareloup: tranquillity and fishing in Aveyron
In the Aveyron, Lake Pareloup is nestled between mountains and forests. The Soleil Levant*** campsite offers direct access to the lake shore, ideal for fishing and swimming enthusiasts.
Lac Chambon: a nature getaway at the foot of the Auvergne volcanoes
Nestled in the heart of the Massif du Sancy, Lake Chambon offers peaceful swimming in a unique volcanic setting, with beaches, water sports and panoramic trails around its tranquil waters. The 5-star Le Pré Bas campsite is an excellent choice for a camping holiday by the lake.
Lakeside campsites: comfort, nature and leisure activities on your doorstep
Some lakes combine natural beauty with facilities designed for holidaymakers. Developed without sacrificing their charm, these lakes are perfect for a lakeside holiday combining comfort, activities and the great outdoors, while remaining accessible to families.
Lac de Clairvaux: comfort and nature in the Jura
This is the case at Lake Clairvaux, in the Jura mountains, where the La Grisière*** campsite, located right on the water's edge, offers a private beach, swimming pools and a variety of activities. Choose a campsite in Clairvaux-les-Lacs or nearby.
Lake Aiguebelette: swimming and paddleboarding in Savoie
In Savoie, Lake Aiguebelette charms visitors with its emerald green waters, which are among the warmest in Europe. This haven of peace is ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. The Huttopia Lac d'Aiguebelette**** campsite in Saint-Alban-de-Montbel offers direct access to the beach and a wide range of water sports in a preserved setting.
Lake Guerlédan, the largest lake in Brittany
Further west, Lac de Guerlédan, in the Côtes d'Armor, lies at the heart of a forest massif. There are beaches, water sports centres, trails and family campsites scattered around its peaceful shores.
Lake Payolle: alpine relaxation at the foot of the Col d'Aspin
In the Pyrenees, Lake Payolle, nestled at an altitude of 1,139 metres at the foot of the Col d'Aspin, is an ideal base for combining nature and relaxation. Swimming, canoeing, hiking and mountain biking are all available throughout the summer, with campsites nearby offering an authentic alpine setting.
What are the largest lakes in France?
French lakes can be natural, formed by glaciation or volcanic activity, or artificial, created by humans for water management.
What are the largest natural lakes in France?
- Lake Geneva (234 km²): shared with Switzerland, it is the largest lake in France.
- Lac du Bourget (44.5 km²): the largest lake entirely within France.
- Lake Annecy (27 km²): known for its pure waters.
What are the largest artificial lakes in France?
- Lac du Der-Chantecoq (48 km²): bird sanctuary and water sports reserve.
- Serre-Ponçon Lake (28 km²): beaches and coves in the heart of the Alps.
- Lac d'Orient (23 km²): in the heart of the Forêt d'Orient nature park.
Discover all the campsites around the lakes and rivers in France