Riverside camping in Loire, peacefully

The Loire department has 13 listed wateside campsites, virtually all installed on riverbanks: twelve out of thirteen establishments. This figure reflects the weight of the Loire itself, which crosses the department from south to north, between Roanne and the Loire gorges near the Grangent dam.

The Loire gorges, upstream of Saint-Étienne, offer an enclosed, wooded setting, with a reservoir formed by the Grangent dam that creates at times an almost lake-like atmosphere while remaining classified on river banks. Further north, towards Roanne, the Loire widens in an agricultural plain.

With an offering tightened to 13 campsites, the Loire department remains a discrete destination for riverside camping, between Forez and the Massif central.

to discover

What to see and do in Loire

The Loire department is crossed by the river of the same name, still far from its estuary and marked here by mid-mountain landscapes. The Loire gorges, between Saint-Étienne and Saint-Just-Saint-Rambert, offer a preserved natural setting, with the Grangent dam reservoir conducive to water activities.

The Forez massif and the Lyon hills, which frame the department, are appreciated for hiking and viewpoints over the valley. Saint-Étienne, the former industrial and mining capital, retains architectural heritage linked to this history, today valued particularly around design.

Between Loire gorges and mid-mountain Forez, the department offers a natural setting still little frequented by mass tourism.

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our method

How we select every campsite

1

A verified criterion, not a promise

Every by the water campsite is checked against its official listing and real photos, not a marketing pitch.

2

Reputation, backed by reviews

We cross-check public Google ratings and reviews. An establishment below family standards doesn't make the selection.

3

Direct booking, transparent pricing

You book directly with the campsite, no middleman or hidden markup. The price shown is the price you pay.

Selection curated by Théo, editorial manager of Aimer Camper and specialist in by the water campsites. His method & guides →

Your campsite isn't listed yet? Contact Théo

comparison

Compare campsites by the water in Loire

Campsite	Rating	by the river	From	Rating
Camping Bel’epoque du Pilat	3 ★	—	—	4.6/5
Camping M. Camille Rival	—	✓	—	4.0/5
Camping Val du Ternay	3 ★	✓	—	4.3/5
Camping Le Dorier	1 ★	✓	—	4.6/5
Camping La Route Bleue	3 ★	✓	—	4.3/5

frequently asked questions

Finding a lakeside or riverside campsite in the Loire for a waterside family holiday

What kinds of riverside campsites can you find in the Loire?

Riverside campsites in the Loire are often located along accessible waterways with natural swimming areas. You'll find direct, sometimes laid-out, water access, with shaded spots and an immediate connection to nature.

Can you swim easily at a lakeside campsite in the Loire?

Yes, swimming at a lakeside campsite in the Loire is generally easy thanks to laid-out beaches and authorised swimming zones. The water there is calmer, with gradual access suited to families and regular checks in season.

Are waterside campsites in the Loire suited to children?

Yes, waterside campsites in the Loire can be well suited to children where facilities are in place. Shallow zones, signage and, at times, summer supervision help reinforce safety.

What water facilities are offered at campsites in the Loire?

At waterside campsites in the Loire, you'll often find pools, paddling pools or water areas. These facilities meet strict hygiene standards and undergo regular checks to ensure they run properly.

How can you check the safety of a riverside campsite in the Loire?

To check the safety of a riverside campsite in the Loire, it's advisable to look at the quality of the facilities, whether zones are clearly marked, and the signage in place. Some campsites also set up supervision during peak season.

What's the difference between a lakeside and a riverside campsite in the Loire?

The difference between a lakeside and a riverside campsite in the Loire lies in the setting. The lake offers more stable swimming, suited to water sports, while the river provides a more natural setting with variations in current.

Can you do water sports from a campsite in the Loire?

Yes, water sports from a campsite in the Loire are common. Canoeing, paddleboarding or fishing are available depending on the area, often through nearby centres or partnerships with local providers.

Are lakeside or riverside campsites in the Loire suited to long stays?

Yes, lakeside or riverside campsites in the Loire are well suited to long stays thanks to a varied natural setting and facilities designed for comfort. Being close to water makes for an enjoyable experience over several days.