Camping on Lake Garda means one of the most densely served camping regions in Europe. That has advantages (huge choice, lots of facilities) and one drawback: the popular lakeside sites are booked out long in advance for midsummer. Choosing the shore is therefore the most important decision.
Our top pick: Gardaland: day ticket with fixed date
Which shore for which holiday
| Shore | Towns | Suits | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| South-east | Peschiera, Lazise, Bardolino | Families with children | Flat shoreline, cycle paths, Gardaland nearby, busy in August |
| South / south-west | Sirmione, Desenzano, Manerba | Beach holiday, short trip | Quiet coves in the south-west, good rail and motorway links |
| West shore | Salò, Gardone, Gargnano | Peace, nature | Steeper coast, less beach, see the west shore |
| North | Riva, Torbole, Arco | Hiking, cycling, water sports | Mountains at the shore, cooler water, often windy |
Season and weather
Most sites are open from April to September or October, some all year. In May, June and September it is warm enough to swim, and the sites are much emptier than in August. More on months and temperatures in the best time to visit and Lake Garda weather.
Booking tips
- Reserve early: for July and August, months ahead, with the waterside pitches first.
- Know your pitch type: a pitch for a tent, caravan or motorhome, or a mobile home or bungalow if you arrive without your own gear.
- Check the location: “near the lake” can mean a walk across a main road. A look at the map shows how close the water really is.
- Wild camping is generally not allowed in Italy. Stay on designated sites.
- With a dog: conditions and fees differ by site, so ask beforehand.
Hedge your bets: if you are unsure, book just two or three nights on one site first and look around the area afterwards. Outside peak season that almost always works.
Day trips from the campsite
From nearly every site, a day-trip target is half an hour away: boats, the theme park, or a via ferrata tour in the north.
Gardaland: day ticket with fixed date
The most-booked ticket for the theme park. 4.6/5 from over 3,000 reviews.
Peschiera: 1-hour boat tour to Sirmione
See the peninsula from the water. 4.7/5 from over 150 reviews.
Cima Capi via ferrata
For active travellers in the north of the lake. 4.9/5 from nearly 30 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Prefer a roof over your head? See the cheap hotels or Lake Garda apartments.
Compare campsitesOn Booking.com; check location and facilities in the listing
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place for camping on Lake Garda?
For families, usually the south-east shore between Peschiera, Lazise and Bardolino with its flat shoreline. If you want quiet and mountains, look at the west shore or the north around Riva and Torbole.
When are the campsites on Lake Garda open?
Most open from about April to September or October, a few all year. Exact dates are listed on each site.
Do I need to reserve a pitch on Lake Garda?
In July and August yes, and as early as possible. In spring and autumn you can often find something at short notice.
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