Italy is a land of culinary delights. Pasta, pizza and gelato, to name a few, are all highlights. Campsites at Lake Garda combine great food and breathtaking scenery. Lake Garda, a popular German destination, is also a wonderful place to camp.
Italy is more than gelato, the sea and beaches. Lake Garda is a great example of this – the fresh water and mountains create a beautiful landscape with mountains, water sports, and vacation feelings that are far removed from traditional beach vacations.
What you should know before planning a camping trip at Lake Garda.
Why Camp on Lake Garda?
Lake Garda will satisfy all types of campers. You can choose to be active on a vacation by hiking, biking, or climbing, or you can try one of the many water sports, such as sailing, swimming, or windsurfing. Or, explore the history of nearby cities like Verona, Sirmione, or Bardolino.

Olive groves and high-quality olive oil are produced in the region surrounding Lake Garda. Around the lake, you will find many olive groves and places to buy the best olive oil. Bardolino is one of the places where you can find good olives and oil. Here, an olive oil fair is held once a year. This region is known for its outstanding cuisine and wine. You can sample the local cuisine in the many restaurants that surround the lake.
Lake Garda offers something for everyone, whether you’re alone, with your family, kids, dog, or friends.
Lake Garda Activities
Lake Garda offers some stunning scenery. It depends on your preferences, whether you want to relax at the beach or swim in the best spots around the lake. Or if you are more interested in exercising and looking for mountain bike trails that will challenge you.
Sun, Beach, and Lake Garda
Larzise Beach and Jamaica Beach in Sirmione, located to the south-west and southeast of Lake Garda, are two of the most beautiful beaches on the lake. Jamaica Beach is a beach with turquoise, crystal-clear water and large stone slabs that are reflected in the water. The beach of Larzise, on the other hand, offers a combination of action and relaxation, such as windsurfing.
Isola di San Biagio is one of five islands in Lake Garda and the ideal destination for a romantic weekend for two, or for a peaceful day for yourself. The western island can be reached by water taxi or on foot during low tide. You can expect to find pure nature and water that is as clear as a dream.
Adventures
Punta Larici is a great place to hike if you are feeling adventurous. It’s located in the north of Lake Garda, and it’s probably the most picturesque viewpoint. The hike can be started in Pregasina village, which is easily accessible by car. The hike can be completed in 2 hours, depending on your level of fitness and skill. This hike is relatively easy, with an altitude change of about 450 meters. It is mostly through wooded areas. The last part of the hike is more difficult, but you will be rewarded by a stunning view of Lake Garda.
Race bike routes are also very popular in the north of the Lake. There are tours for road cyclists of all levels.
A Great Day Out on Lake Garda
Desenzano has a variety of nightlife and clubs, including the Coco Beach Club.
Lake Garda Water Temperature and Climate
In summer, the average water temperature is between 20 and 23 °c. The maximum temperature can be reached at 27degC in August. The water temperature in winter can fall to as low as 4 °c. In spring, the temperature can drop to as low as 18-22degC. Even in the fall, the water remains between 17-21degC. There are warm bathing water temperatures available almost year-round and, for those who dare to be brave, even all year.
Lake Garda has a sub-Mediterranean climate. The winters are mild, and the summers can get very hot. In winter, the average temperature hovers around 4.6degC. However, midsummer in July, which is the warmest month, has an average temperature of just below 29degC. In the south-west part of the lake, you can enjoy a mild climate and warm temperatures for bathing. The mountainous terrain in the north brings cool air and winds, and thus cooler water temperatures.
What is the cost of a campsite at Lake Garda?
Costs for camping pitches in and around Lake Garda can vary according to the comfort level booked, the booking month, and the location. Camping in the summer is always expensive. This is why it is worth considering a trip during the off-season.
In April, the campsites that are located directly on the lake at the two campsites previously recommended, Camping San Francesco or Camping Piantelle, cost around 30 EUR/night per family of three. Some campsites allow children under six to enter free of charge. In high season, prices can be doubled.
What are you still waiting for? Rent your camper and enjoy the lower prices during the low season.
Around Lake Garda, cheaper pitches start at around 18 EUR. However, here, you can expect less comfort. The price of a deluxe pitch on Lake Garda varies depending on the equipment and season. This is the exception to the standard and does not fit into the camping norm.
Campings on Lake Garda
Lake Garda, one of Italy’s most popular camping destinations, offers stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and well-equipped sites. Here’s a guide to the top places to camp on the lake.
Camping San Francesco
The Campsite San Francesco is one of the best 5-star camping sites on Lake Garda. It leaves nothing to the imagination. The spray park and pool will make the hearts of children beat faster. The mini club offers a special entertainment program to children aged 5 and over. You can also enjoy a variety of activities while your children are entertained. There are many sports available, such as soccer, volleyball or tennis, or more relaxing activities like water gymnastics and walks. You can rent bikes at the campsite if you want to go on a tour by bike and don’t own your own. You can choose from a variety of tours, either on foot or by bike. Of course, you can explore the area alone and enjoy peace.
You will also find on the campsite a restaurant that serves national and international cuisine, as well as a small shop where you can do your shopping. This campsite is a real gem. San Francesco offers a wide range of services, but if you don’t want to take advantage of them, it’s fine. The campsite is the most important part of camping, right? San Francesco offers a price that’s simply unbeatable. In Desenzano and Sirmione, you can be in the front row, just 80 metres away from the shore of the lake. Isn’t this location and proximity to nature a dream?
Camping Piantelle
Campsite Piantelle is another very popular campground. This campground, located in the south-west of Lake Garda, is quieter and hillier. This campsite is situated directly on the Lake with a jetty and pebble beach. You can walk to the harbor in Moniga del Garda from the campsite. You can take a boat across Lake Garda from the harbor, or you can have a drink or enjoy some delicious food in the many bars and restaurants that surround the harbor.
Take a walk around the lake or to the weekly market in nearby Desenzano. There is an antique market every month. You can also take the boat to Desenzano if walking is too much for you. A boat trip to the peninsula of Sirmione would also be a good idea. The campsite is quieter than others, but you can still get a lot done if you want to. The campsite is also a great place to relax. The campsite has its restaurant and also offers a children’s entertainment program, a play area, and sports activities for both young and old. There is also a sauna and a pool. The site also offers bicycles for rent, and the first six years are free!
Plani Di Clodia
PlanI Di Clodia is located on the western side of the lake, near the town of Lazise. Camping enthusiasts will also find a lot to enjoy here: The sanitary facilities are a big hit with guests. You can also book a bathroom just for your family.
A great program for children, sports and leisure is available. You can expect seven pools with adrenaline slides, as well as many surprises. Tennis, fitness studios, bicycle rentals, trampoline parks and other exciting experiences await you. Camping Plan Di Clodia can also be the ideal destination for those looking to relax during their holiday. There are not only pool areas for fun, but also wellness and massage areas and sun decks to relax. If you’re on a lake this beautiful, it would be a shame to only swim in the pool. The Plane Di Clodia camping offers direct access to a beautiful beach with the same name.
Lazise’s historic centre is only 3 km away and well worth the trip. You will feel 100% Italian in the narrow, small streets, the white-pink promenade Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, and the harbor, with its colourful, small boats, and the best restaurants for fish. You will find more beaches on the way to Lazise from the campsite.
Conclusion
Lake Garda makes a great place to camp. Lake Garda offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure. Dolce Vita is guaranteed, whether you are on a family vacation, a romantic vacation for two, or even an individual vacation. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Lake Garda for a short holiday. The prices of the pitches will be cheaper, and the mild climate allows you to enjoy a pleasant (water temperatures.