Holiday Cottages, Tiny Houses & Chalets in Southern France – Family-Friendly Camping at Its Best!
Advertisement: This article was created in collaboration with Auvergne Rhône Alpes Tourisme.
Family time à la française means warm croissants in the morning, barefoot kids running free, wild nature all around, bustling farmers’ markets, and balmy evenings under the stars – and there’s no better way to experience this magical mix than camping in Southern France with kids. Tucked between romantic landscapes and charming villages, you’ll find true camping paradises that delight families and make everyday worries fade away.
Because camping here no longer just means tents and gas cookers – it means staying in stylish holiday cottages, cozy chalets, or lovingly designed tiny houses. Fully equipped with kitchens, bathrooms, and sunny terraces perfect for lingering a little longer. Fresh pain au chocolat for breakfast, pools for splashing, lively playgrounds, and charming kids’ clubs – it’s all part of the experience.
From the Drôme to the Ardèche and Isère, we’ve handpicked our favorite family-friendly campsites that will turn your road trip through these regions into an unforgettable adventure. But what exactly can you expect from these charming accommodations? A mobile home (also known as a tiny house, cottage, chalet, or bungalow) is a fully equipped holiday rental with everything you need: a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and two to three bedrooms. Often set on wooden platforms surrounded by greenery, they come with private terraces and all the essentials – made-up beds and towels included. It’s the ideal solution for families who want to travel close to nature without bringing their own camper van.
1. Le Soleil Fruité – Citrus-Scented Camping in the Drôme
Nestled among apricot and peach trees, this campsite truly lives up to its name and instantly brings that summer feeling. The mobile homes are spread out in small, green oases across the well-kept grounds, tucked between trees and shrubs. During the day, you’ll hear kids laughing by the pool, and in the evening, you can enjoy pizza on the restaurant terrace. The playground is conveniently located right next to it.
A special highlight is the charming little farm with goats and chickens – perfect for an early-morning visit in rubber boots before breakfast. The surrounding area is ideal for bike tours. And don’t miss the Cité du Chocolat and the Train des Gorges through the Ardèche gorges – both guaranteed to make children’s eyes light up.
Weekly price: from approx. €350 for a mobile home, around €150 for a pitch
Website & booking: www.camping-rhonealpes.com
2. Domaine de l’Esquiras – Family Camping with Heart in the Ardèche
Located on the edge of Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, this warmly run campsite overlooks vineyards and exudes Mediterranean charm. All mobile homes – no matter the size – come with their own wooden terrace and a view. The restaurant is a relaxed gathering spot for young and old alike – while parents enjoy a glass of wine, the kids can run wild on the football pitch, bounce on the inflatable castle, or explore the playground. A real highlight: the three pools – one of them covered – plus a separate kids’ pool. As the day winds down, everyone comes together for a barefoot game of boules under the last rays of sunshine.
The famous Ardèche Gorge starts practically on the doorstep – perfect for a canoe tour, a visit to the Pont d’Arc, and the extraordinary Grotte Chauvet 2. Those wanting to dive even deeper into the underground world can explore the magical Aven d’Orgnac cave.
Before heading off, make sure to stop by the little shop at the reception. They sell their own honey and house-made olive oil – the perfect souvenirs to take a bit of holiday magic back home.
Weekly price: from approx. €368 for a mobile home
Website & booking: www.camping-rhonealpes.com
3. Camping La Colline – Small, Family-Run, and Tucked Away in Greenery (Drôme)
La Colline is one of those places you might almost miss – and yet it’s exactly where you want to be. Nestled in a small woodland, the mobile homes feel like hidden retreats among the trees. The pool may be small, but it’s wonderfully refreshing, and the trampoline brings out joyful cheers from the kids. In the mornings, you can look forward to freshly baked baguettes and croissants delivered straight from the local bakery.
The atmosphere is relaxed, almost village-like. Children feed the friendly sheep and play freely. And if you’re up for a little evening fun, just head a few minutes down the road to “BBest Bowling” – homemade pizza and a quick round of bowling make for a perfect end to the day.
Small adventures await around La Colline – whether it’s a walk through fragrant lavender fields, a sweet stop at the famous nougat maker in Montélimar, or an exciting visit to the nearby crocodile farm.
Weekly rate: from approx. €330 for a mobile home, around €140 for a campsite pitch
Website & Booking: www.camping-rhonealpes.com
4. Camping Détente et Clapotis – Lakeside Chalets in the Isère
If you love nature and water, this is your place: located right on the shores of Lac de Paladru, this stylish campsite features spacious wooden chalets, lots of greenery, and lake views you’ll instantly fall for. Kids will love the two playgrounds and the kids’ club, while grown-ups can unwind in the small wellness area. And best of all: fresh bread rolls are delivered right to your door each morning. Nothing better for a relaxing break.
If you’re in the mood for culture, head to nearby Grenoble with its cable car, Bastille fortress, and the archaeological museum. For more active days, explore the Chartreuse region – from gentle hikes to a biathlon taster course.
Weekly price: approx. €600 for a chalet, around €150 for a pitch
Website & booking: www.camping-rhonealpes.com
Southern France with Kids: Camping Holidays Can Be This Relaxing
Try it for yourself – and feel that wonderful blend of nature, adventure, comfort, and freedom that comes with camping in Southern France with children. It’s a mix made for families. No packed schedules, no hotel routines – just time for what really matters: being together, enjoying the outdoors, and heading off on little adventures.
Tip: Some campsites require you to book bed linen, towels, and final cleaning separately – so it’s best to double-check when booking.
You’ll find all featured spots and many more family-friendly campsites with holiday cottages gathered here: camping-rhonealpes.com.
And if you’d like to read more about our family road trip through southeastern France, you’ll find all the highlights, favorite places, and hidden gems in this blog post. Bonnes vacances!
