Camp in a private garden in France

Camping in France (legislation, how, why, duration)

Free camping is not allowed in France. Or at least it is allowed with very rare exceptions, you can be punished in some cases up to 1500 €. However, it is possible to travel in a van, tent or camper.

Here are the ways and means to camp and travel in France ?

By van, caravan, camping-car

Some villages have free places for van, caravan and camping-car. You will have to ask the mayor of the village for authorization.
Nb : Sleep in the two places above only if you are sure to be safe and quiet in these places. Avoid busy parking lots, close to major roads or cities.
On private property with the consent of the owner. You can book easily thanks to waycamper.com

In a tent

Bivouacking is allowed in national parks (between 7pm and 9am). Take only what you need for your bivouac (a sleeping bag and a tarp in case of bad weather)
On private property with the consent of the owner. You can book easily with waycamper.com

How many nights can you camp in France ?

There is no time limit to sleep in wilderness camping or at the inhabitant’s house in France. However, wild camping is very complicated, bivouacking is tolerated but you will have to be extremely careful. If you want to go in contact with the nature in all security and legality, you can camp with the inhabitant with WayCamper.
However if you travel in tent it is strongly advised to do it during the good season (between the beginning of March and the middle of October depending on the regions).