For most campers, the number of stars awarded to a campsite is a guarantee of its quality and facilities. That's true, but it's not as simple as it seems, especially since the new classification introduced in 2012 and the new standards due to come into force in April 2019, applicable to all campsites in France...
The campsite is assessed according to a grid of almost 200 qualitative and quantitative criteria and is re-evaluated every 5 years, resulting in a visit certificate. Find out more about the main star criteria for a campsite below:
How are stars awarded at a campsite?
Classified or unclassified campsites? How to find your way around
Campsites are rated from 1 star to 5 stars for the top-of-the-range campsites. Campsites that can be awarded a star rating include :
- Tourist campsites, where more than half the pitches are rented out for periods ranging from one night to one month.
- Leisure campsites: more than half the pitches are occupied for more than one month.
- Parc Résidentiel de Loisirs (PRL). A Parc Résidentiel de Loisirs lets plots of land on a year-round basis, where you can set up your mobile home, chalet or bungalow (find out more about buying a mobile home on a year-round basis).
It should be noted that it is not compulsory for campsites to be classified, and establishments may choose not to apply. At the same time, natural areas (with a maximum of 25 pitches), farm campsites and rural campsites (generally limited to 6 pitches) cannot be classified.
Pitches and accommodation, the key criteria for evaluating a campsite
Pitch surface area is one of the key factors for awarding stars. The average camping pitch is 80m² for a 1-star or 2-star campsite (at least 70m²) and 89-114m² for 3-star , 4-star and 5-star campsites (at least 80m²). A regulation also enforces a land occupancy rating. Basically, a rental shouldn't cover more than 30% of the pitch surface area.
Electricity connections for example are only compulsory near pitches at campsites rated 3* or more and the minimum amperage will depend on the land's rating.
The criteria for a campsite's star rating are that all the campsite pitches must be clean and tidy, the outside of the rental, its fixtures and fittings must be clean and in good condition; this applies to all campsite categories and is a priority among "new" rating norms in 2019. Upon application for a rating, an inspection is conducted to check this point.
Facilities and services, criteria for more stars on a campsite
Other existing criteria. For example, a 2-star campsite must have washing facilities with individual cabins.
For a 3 star, a children's play area is required with more extensive services: internet access in communal areas, drinks for sale etc.
For a 4-star or 5-star campsite, the campsite must have secure vehicle access at the entrance and there must be an eatery and bar on-site as well as somewhere to pick up supplies at the campsite. It should also have at least 4 pieces of equipment in the fitness area.
What's so special about a 5-star campsite?
Last but not least, the top of the 5-star campsite pyramid requires a compulsory bathing area (lake or pool), deckchairs nearby and heated washing facilities. Plus there are optional services such as a spa area with massage, gym coach etc.
Reception and booking, basic standards
Compared to a 1-star, a 2-star campsite must have a reception that's staffed during the day. A 3-star campsite must be staffed 24 hours a day in two languages including English. 4-star campsites must have reception staff with two foreign languages, a website and information tools in two foreign languages including English etc. Basically, 5-star campsites stand out for features like three foreign languages at reception including English or being able to book online 24/7.
How about Wi-Fi?
In theory, Wi-Fi access is required at all pitches for campsites rated 2-star or more since July 2019 so you should at least be able to read your emails at a low bandwidth. But there are exceptions e.g. if the campsite works with a deliberately "no Wi-Fi" establishment (ideal for zero-wave holidays or to really switch off from digital) or where there are real technical impossibilities. So check with the campsite beforehand.
Are there any luxury campsites?
It's true that there is no 'luxury campsite' classification, but most 5-star (or even 4-star) campsites offer very top-of-the-range services and facilities.
On the rental side, you'll often find top-of-the-range accommodation with exceptional comfort and superior facilities at a 4-star or 5-star campsite. These luxury accommodations are generally located in 'Premium districts', set in landscaped areas with their own plantations, lagoons, bridges, and sometimes private pools and spas.
The notion of a 'Premium Space' also includes 'hotel' services. These range from beds made up on arrival, to a private spa on the terrace, top-of-the-range bicycles for the whole family included in the rental price, packages for access to the wellness area and treatments, and much more.
Discover our selection of luxury campsites in France.
Is it possible to find a campsite in France by number of stars?
On CampingFrance.com, nothing could be easier than selecting your campsite by the number of stars:
- When searching, either geographically or by theme, in "Refine your search" on the left, tick the number of stars you want in the "Rating" filter: the list of corresponding campsites will be displayed
- Use the Which campsite? guide to define the ideal campsite for your next holiday: in step 5, you can define the expected rating for your campsite, among other search criteria.
In 2024, the campsites in France are divided into the following categories: 463 1-star campsites, 1,616 2-star campsites, 2,522 3-star campsites, 1,327 4-star campsites, 275 5-star campsites, and around 2,000 unclassified campsites and farm campsites or rural, not equipped.