Campsites where you can get up close to wildlife
At some campsites, animals are an integral part of the landscape. Set in the heart of the countryside or on former farmsteads, they offer holidaymakers an experience where nature reclaims its place.
You can encounter a variety of species: goats, sheep, donkeys, chickens, rabbits...
Children can take part in educational and fun activities: feeding the chickens, helping the farmer milk the goats, or exploring the vegetable patch and orchards surrounding the campsite. Little hands holding out hay, the curious gazes of the animals and the gentle sound of the herd create a lively and charming atmosphere, where every moment becomes an adventure.
Some examples of immersive campsites
- Camping Le Palais de la Mer – Pyrénées-Orientales: located in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, this family-friendly campsite features a mini-farm and a small animal park where children can meet a variety of animals. As you stroll around, you can see horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, llamas, as well as chickens and peacocks in a lush green space dedicated to the animals. Younger children can sometimes approach them, stroke them or help feed them, turning the visit into a fun and educational experience. A wonderful opportunity to discover animal life during the holidays, just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean Sea.
- Camping Le Moustoir – Morbihan: located in Carnac, this family-friendly campsite features a mini-farm open all season, where children can approach and stroke various animals such as goats, chickens, rabbits, a donkey or even a pony. These simple, spontaneous encounters allow the little ones to discover the animal world in a gentle way. Between camping activities or after a day at the beach, popping round to see the animals often becomes a little ritual enjoyed by the whole family.
- Huttopia Royat – Auvergne: set amidst volcanic landscapes, the campsite features a farm area with chickens and rabbits. After a hike on the Puys, returning to see the animals frolicking around the pitches is a simple and soothing pleasure.
- Domaine Léveno – Vendée: this campsite has a mini-farm with goats, sheep, chickens and rabbits. Children can feed the animals and learn about their daily lives in a natural and safe setting, adding an educational and fun dimension to their stay. Since 2019, visitors have also had the chance to observe wallabies, the small cousins of kangaroos native to Tasmania and eastern Australia. Their thick fur allows them to adapt to the European climate, and they live in small groups on the estate, offering children a unique and endearing encounter.
Farm campsites: total immersion
For those who want to take it a step further, some campsites are located directly on working farms. Here, the animals aren’t just “attractions”: they’re an integral part of daily life.
These campsites often allow you to:
- discover the rhythm of farm life
- take part in activities involving the animals
- taste local farm produce, straight from the land
- watch horses, cows or goats in their natural environment
Networks such as Bienvenue à la ferme or Accueil Paysan list these unique places, combining authenticity and comfort for holidaymakers.
An ideal experience for children
For the little ones, encountering animals during the holidays is often a memorable experience. Every encounter becomes a little life lesson: stroking a rabbit that brushes against their fingers, watching a curious donkey approach gently, or listening to the hens clucking in the morning.
In the evening, calm descends on the campsite, inviting you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, whilst memories of the animals encountered remain etched in the mind. There are many benefits for families:
- Educational discovery of the animal world
- Fun and educational activities
- Immersion in a peaceful, natural environment
- Time for observation and contemplation for young and old alike
These experiences allow children to learn whilst having fun and to forge a lasting bond with nature, making every stay an adventure that is both educational and sensory.