Camping les Actinidias ***

A campsite holiday with our children (7 and 11 years old)

• The location: At the end of a small road, right by the river – peaceful, secluded, and surrounded by nature.
• A paradise for climbing enthusiasts: Climbing areas are within walking distance and cater to all levels – from bouldering to full climbing routes. Perfect for sharing this passion as a family.
• Outdoor activities on your doorstep: Canoeing on the Chassezac, exploring the Païolive forest, swimming, and cycling – everything is accessible directly from the campsite.
• A holiday at our own pace: Active when we felt like it, relaxed when we needed to be – with plenty of quality family time.

From the moment we arrived at Camping Les Actinidias, we knew this stay would be different. Situated at the end of a quiet road and right on the Chassezac River, the campsite feels almost cut off from the rest of the world. No passing traffic, no noise – just peace, nature, and a safe environment for the children.

The campsite lies directly by the river, with a small rock face opposite and a natural riverside beach within walking distance. The setting is both rugged and calming. We were seeking a genuine camping experience, far from crowded holiday parks and overdeveloped facilities – and that’s exactly what we found here.

With only a few rental units (the emphasis is on traditional camping) and a charming, natural atmosphere, we quickly fell into a pleasant rhythm, balancing activity and relaxation.

As keen climbers (both adults and children!), we were thrilled by the proximity of the climbing areas. The closest one is just 200 metres from the campsite, easily reachable on foot – a real luxury when travelling with kids.

Routes range from beginner to advanced (grades 3 to 8), so there’s something for everyone. Our children gained their first climbing experiences on the easier routes, while we challenged ourselves on more technical walls. On some days, we also tried bouldering. With the option to rent a crash pad on-site, we could do this safely and stress-free.

Being able to share this passion as a family, without needing a car or complicated planning, was undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences of our stay.

From our accommodation, we could explore the surroundings on foot or by bike.

The Païolive forest, just across the river, was a wonderful discovery: a circular walk of about 1.5 hours through striking rock formations – perfect for children. Our afternoons were often spent at the Chassezac, swimming, playing in the water, and letting the children try their first climbing adventures in designated areas.

Another highlight was a stunning canoe trip on the Chassezac. The 10 km route, suitable from age 7, allowed us to paddle at our own pace, away from the crowds. While the trip usually takes around 

Alongside all the outdoor activities, it’s often the little things that create the fondest memories – moments you look back on with a smile. For our children, it soon became a daily ritual after each meal: sorting compostable waste or feeding the campsite animals – chickens, ducks, and rabbits. Simple moments that perfectly complemented the nature experience.

While the children were occupied, we found genuine moments of calm – reading, chatting, or napping in the shade by the river.

The warm welcome and personal tips from the team, particularly Julie and Boris, were also invaluable in helping us discover the region and plan our days.

Even though you could easily spend several days at the campsite, the surrounding area offers countless opportunities for exploration. The market in Les Vans, about a ten-minute drive away, is the perfect place to sample delicious local produce. The village itself is also very charming and clearly less touristy than the well-known – and often crowded – Vallon-Pont-d’Arc.

On the recommendation of the campsite team, we also discovered Naves, a car-free “Village de caractère,” full of French charm and a peaceful atmosphere.

Between cycle trips along the Via Ardèche, walks directly from the campsite, swims in nearby rivers, and relaxed evenings at the restaurant overlooking the Chassezac, each day offered discovery and relaxation.

What stayed with us most was the freedom this place offers and its rare, genuine character. Active days when we wanted them, quiet moments when we needed them – and above all, plenty of quality time as a family.

Camping Les Actinidias allowed us to stay close to nature. We felt that our children gained independence and that we, as parents, rediscovered what truly matters: simple, active, and enjoyable moments – right in the heart of the Ardèche.

Anonymised interview conducted by the editorial team at Camping Direct following a stay in a mobile home at Camping Les Actinidias.