The laughter of a child sliding down a slide, the shouts of joy on a bouncy castle... When camping, these magical moments transform a simple holiday into unforgettable memories.
Why are playgrounds a must-have at campsites?
A playground is not just a leisure area: it is a living space at the heart of the campsite. Children find it the ideal campground to climb, slide, run and test their balance, such as the one at Village Le Vieux Port Resort & Spa***** in Messanges (photo above). These moments of play promote their motor development and stimulate their creativity.
It is also a great way to socialise. Children quickly make friends with their holiday companions and invent new stories together. This social role makes the playground a real meeting place, not only for children, but also for families who chat with each other while their little ones play.
Finally, parents enjoy some precious peace and quiet. They know that their children are having fun in a dedicated space designed for their safety, with a playground for children aged 5 to 12 featuring slides, swings and play structures. Meanwhile, they can relax or enjoy a friendly chat on the terrace, without losing sight of their children.
Traditional playgrounds: still popular with families
So-called "traditional" playgrounds can be found in the vast majority of family campsites. They appeal because of their simplicity, accessibility and universal appeal: all children, from toddlers to older children, can enjoy them.
Slides and slides
An essential feature, the slide remains a favourite among children. Whether single or double, it inevitably attracts little adventurers and promises endless fun.
Illustration: Le Moulin de Cadillac**** campsite in Noyal-Muzillac or Le Ridin**** campsite in Le Crotoy.
Swings, roundabouts and spring toys
Swings, roundabouts and spring toys shaped like animals or vehicles are a delight for young children. They allow them to swing or discover the first sensations of movement in complete safety.
Illustration: Les Marsouins***** campsite in Argelès-sur-Mer.
Multi-activity play structures and equipment
Many campsites offer structures that combine several activities: climbing, sliding, crawling, jumping... These multi-purpose facilities allow children to enjoy a variety of activities and explore different sensations in the same place.
There are many examples of campsites offering these facilities, such as the Elysée*** campsite in Le Grau-du-Roi and the Médoc Plage***** campsite in Vendays-Montalivet.
Trampolines
Trampolines are also a standard feature at some campsites. Bouncing, jumping and performing simple tricks is great fun for children and accessible to all.
Illustration: L'Oasis***** campsite in Eclassan
Themed playgrounds: when play becomes an adventure
Some playgrounds go far beyond the traditional. They transport children into imaginary worlds and stimulate their creativity while entertaining them.
Illustration: Pontaillac Plage**** campsite in Royan
Pirate and castle worlds
Pirate- and castle-themed playgrounds are among the most common and iconic features of family campsites. Almost all children have played in them, and their popularity continues from one generation to the next. These structures are not just simple decorations: they are designed to offer a real adventure course. Children can climb towers, slide down slides, cross suspension bridges, go through tunnels or even climb walls and walkways adapted to their age.
Illustration: Tensch Jolie**** campsite in Francaltroff
Original and creative themes
Some campsites offer even more original themes: jungle, animals, boats or dragons. These immersive areas allow children to become actors in their own adventures and discover new stories to invent every day.
Illustrations: Mer et Soleil**** campsite in Agde (first paragraph of the article), Le Cénic**** campsite in Pénestin
Inflatable structures
Inflatable structures have become a must-have at many campsites, particularly appreciated for their fun and spectacular nature. They offer an original and very dynamic campground where children can jump, slide and crawl through a variety of courses. Giant slides, mazes, bouncy castles, animals and original shapes create a real world of adventure, stimulating both the imagination and energy of younger children.
Illustrations: La Mirabelle***** campsite in Volstroff, Le Moulin de Cadillac**** campsite in Noyal-Muzillac
Other types of playgrounds at campsites
In addition to traditional and themed playgrounds, some campsites offer additional facilities that expand the range of entertainment available to children. These facilities are often less common but add an extra touch of fun and originality.
Water play areas
Water games are particularly appealing on hot summer days. Splashpads, mini water slides and water jets offer children a place to cool off while having fun. These water play areas allow younger children to play safely under parental supervision, and older children to have fun on the slides and water games.
Illustration: Les Sablons***** campsite in Portiragnes
Multisport areas and spaces for wheeled activities
For older children and teenagers, multi-sports campgrounds remain very popular. Football, basketball, volleyball and badminton are great ways to play team sports and develop team spirit.
More and more campsites are also offering areas dedicated to skateboarding, scooters and bikes, often in the form of small tracks or secure modules.
Illustration: Lou Village**** campsite in Vendres.
Indoor playrooms and play areas
Some campsites also have indoor games rooms or play areas. These allow children to continue playing even in rainy or bad weather, ensuring an active holiday in all seasons with board games, table football or table tennis. In addition to the campsites' indoor games rooms, mini-clubs usually have a room for younger children.
Illustration: La Boutinardière**** campsite in Pornic.
Safety and supervision in play areas
Campsite playgrounds are designed to be safe, with soft flooring, structures suitable for different age groups and regular maintenance. However, children are still under parental supervision when playing there.
However, in mini-clubs, it is often the activity leaders who supervise the children, allowing parents to enjoy their free time with peace of mind.
From laughter on the slides to new friendships made around the bouncy castle, campsite playgrounds create those little moments of happiness that make for a great holiday. So, are you ready to give your children their next campground?