Franche Comté / Jura

Franche-Comté & Jura, France: lakes, waterfalls and unspoilt family camping

Looking for a region in France where nature still feels truly wild and spacious? Franche-Comté and the Jura, right up against the Swiss border, are a brilliant choice for a relaxed family camping holiday. Expect quiet forests, clear lakes, dramatic waterfalls and charming towns—plus a good mix of smaller, friendly campsites and larger parks with extra facilities.

Families can choose exactly the holiday style that suits them. Many campsites rent out mobile homes and static caravans, as well as safari tents and bungalow tents. That makes it easy to combine “outdoors time” with everyday comfort: proper beds, a kitchen and a terrace for long breakfasts. Travelling with children? A campsite with a swimming pool, playground and on-site dining can be a real advantage—especially after an active day in the hills.

The Jura is the big draw for nature lovers. Think wide views, deep woods and a landscape shaped by water. One of the best-known family outings is the Cascades du Hérisson: a series of waterfalls linked by walking paths and viewpoints. It’s a bit of a climb in places, but the reward is big—fresh air, rushing water and plenty of “wow” moments for kids. The region also has caves, rivers and lakes where you can swim, paddle, canoe or simply picnic by the shore.

There’s plenty of culture too, and it fits perfectly into a camping holiday. Visit citadels, castles and local museums, or plan a day trip to a spa town such as Lons-le-Saunier. Wine lovers can head towards Arbois, known for Jura wines and vineyard scenery. Many villages also show the region’s traditions in woodcraft, local cheeses and smoked specialities—great for market days and easy family dinners back at your accommodation.

Franche-Comté and the Jura are ideal if you want a family-friendly camping region with fresh temperatures, lots of outdoor variety and interesting day trips—without the crowds of the far south.