Camping with children aged 7 to 11: nature, sports and adventure

Does this sound like you?

Sarah and Luke, aged 43 and 47 respectively, live in Birmingham and are travelling with their two children, Chiara (7) and Harry (11). Their holidays have always had a clear goal: to enjoy the great outdoors, stay active, and discover new places. Cities and large hotel resorts simply aren't their thing.

This year, they have chosen camping as the starting point for their adventures. Chiara dreams of spotting wildlife, playing in streams, and spending her evenings outdoors, while Harry can't wait to try his hand at adventure courses, mountain biking, and kayaking.

As for Sarah and Luke, they are looking for well-marked trails, activities for the whole family, and the pleasure of winding down the day together while the children enthusiastically share stories of their adventures. If your idea of a holiday also means nature, sports, and freedom, you've come to the right place.

Is camping really the best option for an active family with children?

Absolutely. For a family like Sarah and Luke’s, camping is often a much better fit than other holiday options. A great campsite surrounded by nature offers everything a dynamic family needs: activities right on your doorstep, no travel logistics to worry about, greater flexibility, and plenty of freedom.
The main advantage over a hotel stay? The accommodation is simply a base camp. Days are spent in the great outdoors—hiking, playing sports, and discovering new things—before coming back together in the evening, tired but happy.
Seven-year-old Chiara can enjoy creative workshops, outdoor games, and wildlife watching. Meanwhile, eleven-year-old Harry finally gets the chance to try his hand at activities like mountain biking, adventure courses, kayaking, or archery. And the parents can enjoy the holiday at their own pace too, between scenic trails, moments of relaxation, and the simple pleasure of sharing the day's excitement together.

What accommodation should you choose for a family with children aged 7 and 11?

For a family like Sarah and Luke’s, a two-bedroom mobile home is the ideal solution. Chiara and Harry have plenty of space to feel comfortable, while the kitchen, bathroom, and terrace allow the family to enjoy their holiday with complete independence. Typically, these accommodations range from 30 to 40 square metres, which is more than enough for a family of four.

If you are travelling in summer, especially in the south of France or Mediterranean regions in general, air conditioning is an important factor to consider—it isn't always included in the price.

A good Wi-Fi connection can also come in handy, especially for an 11-year-old who likes to stay in touch with friends or unwind during downtime. It is always a good idea to check guest reviews, which are often more reliable than official descriptions.

Finally, for a family that loves outdoor activities, having space to store bikes, backpacks, and sports equipment is essential. Before booking, it is always advisable to ask about the availability of dedicated storage rooms or areas for bikes and outdoor gear.

What activities are available for a 7-year-old and an 11-year-old?

This is a question many families with children of different ages ask themselves, and the answer is reassuring: there is no shortage of activities to share.

For 7-year-old Chiara, easy hikes, wildlife watching, beginner's archery, walks in nature parks, and activities organized by the mini-club are perfect.

11-year-old Harry can already tackle mountain biking trails, climbing walls, kayaking, and more demanding hikes.

However, plenty of experiences are suitable for the whole family: canoeing on quiet rivers, cycling along well-marked bike paths, kid-friendly mountain hikes, days by the lake, evenings around a campfire, and stargazing. That is exactly the charm of a camping holiday: everyone finds their own adventure, but the best moments are experienced together.

How do you organize a day for an active family while camping?

One of the great things about an active holiday? By the time evening comes, the kids are pleasantly tired, and the parents can also enjoy some well-deserved, true relaxation.

Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): This is the best time of the day. Before the heat sets in, head out for a hike, a mountain bike ride, or a canoe trip. With a 7-year-old in tow, it’s important to plan regular breaks and not overdo the distances.

Lunch and Downtime (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Head back to the campsite to eat and recharge. Even older kids need a bit of rest, even if they don't always like to admit it.

Afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:30 PM): Time for lower-energy activities. Pool time, games, sports, the mini-club for Chiara, or a short stroll nearby. It's best to avoid a second major excursion on the same day.

Evening: Family dinner, a walk, stargazing, or simply a quiet moment on the terrace. These are often the moments that make the best memories.

One final tip: Don’t overpack your daily schedule. One or two big adventures a week are more than enough. When holidaying in nature, free time and unscheduled moments are just as much a part of the experience.

See more tips for a camping holiday with children.

Brittany: rugged coasts, emerald seas, and Celtic adventures for active families

Why it’s an excellent choice: Brittany offers an incredible, wild playground for families who thrive in the great outdoors. Among the Atlantic coastline, mysterious forests, and hidden coastal inlets, there is a new adventure around every corner. You can easily alternate between days on the beach, cycling along historic paths, learning to sail, coastal hiking, and exploring medieval fortress towns—all wrapped in a unique, mythical atmosphere. The region's rich Celtic heritage adds a touch of magic to every outdoor activity, making it perfect for an energetic family holiday.

For Chiara (7 years old): Splashing in the calm, turquoise waters of sheltered bays, hunting for crabs in tidal rock pools, easy bike rides along flat coastal greenways (voies vertes), beginner-friendly tree-top adventure courses, and boat trips to spot seals and puffins around the islands.

For Harry (11 years old): Learning to surf or windsurf on the energetic Atlantic waves, sea kayaking around hidden sea caves, more challenging mountain biking trails through legendary forests, tackling higher-level tree-top ropes courses, and exploring dramatic clifftop fortresses.

For the parents: Hiking along the spectacular Sentier des Douaniers (GR34) with breathtaking coastal views, exploring bustling local markets filled with fresh crêpes and seafood, tasting fresh oysters in Cancale, wandering through historic towns like Saint-Malo or Concarneau, and watching the sunset over the pink granite cliffs.

Our selection of family-friendly campsites in Brittany for active holidays

1. Camping Les Terrasses de Bertheaume — Plougonvelin, Finistère

• Set on the Iroise Coast near the Fort de Bertheaume, with direct access to the beach and panoramic sea views in western Brittany.
• An excellent base for coastal walks on the GR34, kayaking, sailing and discovering the wild landscapes around Brest, with an outdoor swimming pool for relaxing after a day by the sea. 

2. Camping de la Plage de Cleut Rouz — Fouesnant, Finistère

• Located just 100 metres from Cleut Rouz Beach with direct beach access, in the protected natural surroundings of Mousterlin in South Finistère.
• Perfect for coastal walks, cycling and watersports while discovering the Breton Riviera, with a heated indoor and outdoor water park and bike hire available on site.

3. Camping de Kérantérec — La Forêt-Fouesnant, Finistère

• Located on the Breton Riviera between Concarneau and Fouesnant, just steps from the sea with direct access to a sandy beach.
• A perfect choice for active families looking to enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, hiking and cycling along the coast, with a large aquatic area including indoor and outdoor heated pools. 

4. Camping Au Bocage du Lac — Jugon-les-Lacs, Côtes-d'Armor

• Set beside the 70-hectare Lake Jugon in northern Brittany, just a short walk from the characterful village of Jugon-les-Lacs and within easy reach of Dinan and Saint-Malo.
• An excellent base for hiking, cycling, fishing and watersports on the lake while exploring northern Brittany, with a large indoor and outdoor aquatic area for the whole family.

5. Camping de la Plage — La Trinité-sur-Mer, Morbihan

• Located just a short walk from the beaches of La Trinité-sur-Mer, close to Carnac and the Gulf of Morbihan in a peaceful seaside setting.
• Perfect for sailing, paddleboarding, cycling and discovering Brittany's southern coastline, with spacious pitches, comfortable accommodation and family-friendly facilities. 

Discover more campsites in Brittany on Camping Direct.

Normandy: historic cliffs, expansive beaches, and countryside adventures for active families

Why it’s an excellent choice: Normandy is a fantastic destination for families who love to combine physical activity with history and discovery. From the dramatic white chalk cliffs of Etretat to the endless sandy D-Day beaches and the rolling green hills of the Bocage, this region offers a brilliant variety of landscapes. You can easily fill your days with sea kayaking under natural rock arches, cycling through traditional apple orchards, horse riding on the beach, and exploring historic landmarks—all while enjoying a refreshing maritime climate. It’s the ultimate setting for an active, educational, and deeply rewarding family getaway.

For Chiara (7 years old): Exploring the sweeping sandy beaches at low tide, pony trekking along coastal paths, easy bike rides along flat canal towpaths, fossil hunting on the Roches Noires cliffs, and visiting the fairytale-like Mont Saint-Michel at her own pace.

For Harry (11 years old): Sea kayaking or paddleboarding around the towering cliffs of Etretat, sand yachting (*char à voile*) on the wide beaches of the landing zones, tackled challenging tree-top adventure courses in the Eure valley, and cycling the hilly trails of the "Norman Switzerland" (*Suisse Normande*).

For the parents: Hiking the spectacular clifftop trails with panoramic sea views, exploring historic towns like Honfleur or Bayeux, enjoying local markets packed with world-famous cheeses (like Camembert) and fresh apple cider, and experiencing the breathtaking magic of the Mont Saint-Michel bay at sunset.

Our selection of family-friendly campsites in Normandy for active holidays

1. Camping Le Marqueval — Hautot-sur-Mer, Seine-Maritime

• Set in peaceful countryside just 1.2 km from the Normandy coast near Dieppe, with two fishing ponds and spacious pitches in a green setting.
• An excellent base for exploring the Alabaster Coast, coastal walking trails and the historic town of Dieppe, with several swimming pools and family entertainment on site. 

2. Camping Le Grand Large — Les Pieux, Manche

• Located on the west coast of the Cotentin Peninsula with direct access to Sciotot Beach, offering a peaceful seaside setting close to the Channel Islands.
• Ideal for beach walks, surfing, hiking and discovering the rugged Normandy coastline, with a heated indoor pool, aquatic area and spacious pitches. 

3. Camping Abijune — Le Tilleul, Seine-Maritime

• Family campsite in the heart of the Alabaster Coast, just a short distance from Étretat and its famous cliffs, surrounded by the Normandy countryside.
• A great starting point for hiking along the coastal paths, cycling and exploring nearby beaches and picturesque villages, with a heated swimming pool for relaxing after a day outdoors. 

4. Camping Port'Land — Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, Calvados

• Set between the D-Day Landing Beaches and Bayeux, close to the fishing harbour of Port-en-Bessin, in a landscaped and family-friendly environment.
• Perfect for combining outdoor activities with Normandy's historic sites, offering easy access to coastal walks, cycling routes and beaches, alongside a large aquatic area and sports facilities. 

5. Camping L'Étang des Haizes — La Haye, Manche

• Nestled in the heart of the Cotentin countryside, just a few minutes from the west coast beaches and surrounded by peaceful bocage landscapes.
• An ideal base for hiking, cycling, watersports and discovering the Cotentin Peninsula, with a heated aquatic area, fishing lake and family-friendly atmosphere. 

Discover more campsites in Normandy on Camping Direct.

Dordogne: medieval castles, winding rivers, and prehistoric valleys for active families

Why it’s an excellent choice: The Dordogne—often called the Périgord—is a dream come true for families who love nature, history, and active exploration. The landscape is shaped by lush green valleys, limestone cliffs, and a winding river that feels like a giant outdoor water park. You can easily blend active days of canoeing past clifftop fortresses, exploring deep underground caves, and cycling through beautiful countryside with a relaxed, sunny atmosphere. It’s a place where history comes alive through physical adventure, making it an incredibly rewarding destination for an energetic family.

For Chiara (7 years old): Splashing in the calm, shallow waters of the river beaches, easy canoe trips down gentle sections of the Dordogne, exploring the spectacular stalactites in the Gouffre de Padirac, walks through fairytale castle gardens, and discovering prehistoric cave art.

For Harry (11 years old): Kayaking down the river while navigating mild rapids, tackling high-rope adventure courses in the oak forests, cycling along more challenging limestone trail tracks, trying his hand at rock climbing on monitored cliffs, and exploring medieval fortresses like Castelnaud.

For the parents: Hiking along the scenic clifftop trails overlooking the valley, exploring some of France’s most beautiful villages (like Sarlat or La Roque-Gageac), discovering world-famous local gastronomy (duck, truffles, and local wines), and watching the sunset light up the golden stone of the valley's castles.

Our selection of family-friendly campsites in Dordogne for active holidays

1. Camping La Butte — La Roque-Gageac

• Set on the banks of the Dordogne River in one of the region's most beautiful villages, with direct river access and spacious, shaded pitches surrounded by nature.
• An excellent base for canoeing, riverside walks and exploring nearby highlights such as La Roque-Gageac, Beynac and Sarlat, with several swimming pools available for relaxing after a day outdoors. 

2. Camping Au P'tit Bonheur — Pechs-de-l'Espérance

• Family-friendly campsite in the heart of the Périgord Noir, ideally located between Sarlat and Rocamadour in a peaceful countryside setting.
• Perfect for discovering the Dordogne Valley, with organised outdoor activities in high season, a heated swimming pool and easy access to canoeing, walking and local heritage sites. 

3. Le Plein Air des Bories — Carsac-Aillac

• Peaceful campsite just a few kilometres from Sarlat, in the heart of the Périgord Noir and close to many of the Dordogne's best-known attractions.
• A great choice for families looking to combine sightseeing with outdoor activities, including canoeing on the Dordogne, cycling and visits to castles and prehistoric caves, with a swimming pool on site. 

4. Camping La Peyrugue — Daglan

• Nestled in the wooded Céou Valley, close to picturesque villages such as Domme, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and La Roque-Gageac.
• An ideal base for hiking and cycling directly from the campsite while exploring the Dordogne countryside, with a swimming pool and a quiet natural setting for families. 

5. Camping La Ferme de Perdigat — Limeuil

• Family campsite near the meeting point of the Dordogne and Vézère valleys, offering a rural setting with farm animals and eco-friendly facilities.
• Guests can enjoy cycling along the nearby greenway, canoeing, fishing and exploring the surrounding villages, with a heated swimming pool, restaurant and children's play areas on site. 

Discover more campsites in the Dordogne on Camping Direct.

Provence: lavender fields, hidden canyons, and sun-drenched adventures for active families

Why it’s an excellent choice: Provence is far more than just postcard-perfect villages; it is a spectacular natural playground for families who love to move. From the turquoise waters of the Verdon Gorge to the pine-scented trails of the Luberon and the beautiful coastal inlets of the Calanques, the variety of landscapes is unmatched. You can easily alternate between kayaking through towering limestone canyons, cycling past endless lavender fields, exploring Roman ruins, and swimming in hidden Mediterranean coves. Bathed in year-round sunshine, it’s the perfect setting for an energetic, sun-kissed family holiday.

For Chiara (7 years old): Pedalo rides or gentle canoeing on the calm, emerald waters of Lake Sainte-Croix, easy hikes through the magical, bright-orange ochre trails of Roussillon (often called the "French Colorado"), exploring family-friendly fortresses, and cooling off in splashing river streams.

For Harry (11 years old): Kayaking deep into the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, mountain biking through the pine forests of the Ventoux foothills, tackling sports-oriented tree-top adventure courses, rock climbing on world-famous limestone cliffs, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Calanques.

For the parents: Hiking scenic clifftop trails with panoramic views over the Mediterranean, cycling along quiet backroads lined with vineyards and olive groves, exploring vibrant open-air markets packed with fresh tapenade, melons, and local rosé wine, and enjoying warm, relaxed evenings in hilltop villages like Gordes or Saint-Rémy.

Our selection of family-friendly campsites in Provence for active holidays

1. International Village Sport & Spa — Hyères, Var

• Located just a short walk from Almanarre Beach on the Giens Peninsula, an excellent spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking.
• Ideal base for coastal walks, diving excursions and exploring the Mediterranean coastline, with a swimming pool and spa facilities on site.

2. Camping La Montagne — Sorgues, Vaucluse

• Small family campsite set among pine and oak trees in the heart of Provence, close to Avignon and the Luberon.
• A great starting point for cycling, hiking and discovering villages such as Gordes, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, with a heated aquatic area for relaxing after a day outdoors.

3. Camping L'Hermitage — Le Pradet, Var

• Peaceful family campsite under Mediterranean pine trees, only 400 metres from the beaches and coastal paths of Le Pradet.
• Guests can easily explore the coastline on foot or by bike, with bike and paddleboard rentals available and a swimming pool on site.

4. Village Camping Les Pêcheurs — Roquebrune-sur-Argens, Var

• Set beside the Argens River at the foot of the Roquebrune Rock, just a short drive from the beaches of Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël.
• Heated pools, a wellness area and easy access to hiking, cycling and water-based activities make it an excellent choice for active families exploring the French Riviera.

5. Camping Nostradamus — Salon-de-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône

• Located on a former rural estate shaded by centuries-old plane trees, just north of Salon-de-Provence.
• A peaceful base for walking, cycling and discovering Provence, with a swimming pool and convenient access to the Alpilles, Camargue and the region's historic towns.

Discover more campsites in Provence on Camping Direct.