Rules for the Bauges Campsite Chambéry Montagnes

Camping in the Bauges:
a wild escape under the stars

The sun sinks behind the ridges, a light breeze blows down from the mountain pastures, and already the first stars are coming out… In the Bauges mountains, camping is more than just a place to sleep: it’s a gentle and respectful immersion in the living world of nature. Here, you take your time. To look, to listen, to feel. And above all, to preserve.

Before pitching your tent, here are a few essential tips for spending a night in harmony with this unspoilt landscape.

The golden rules for camping in the Bauges

Camping is permitted, but subject to certain conditions. In a mountain range where the natural environment is both fragile and has been shaped by human activity, every action counts.

1Obtain the landlord’s consent

National regulations apply across 85 per cent of the territory. This means it is essential to seek permission from the landowner or farm operator. It’s a simple process, and a great way to strike up a conversation with the people who keep the mountains alive.

2Limit the duration of the camp

A bivouac is a stopover, not a campsite. Just one night, with the tent pitched at sunset and taken down at sunrise. Just enough to soak up the atmosphere, without imposing yourself.

3Choosing a suitable location

Give priority to open spaces, away from homes, mountain huts or holiday cottages.
Leave the tall grasslands to the cows: their hay is precious.
Keep a low profile, so as not to disturb either the animals or the people.

4Preserving the beauty of the area

Take all your rubbish away with you, even peelings.
Use a camping stove: open fires should be avoided, even small ones.

5Comply with regulations & recommended sites

In some areas, wild camping is strictly regulated or expressly prohibited. Others offer designated camping areas, allowing you to combine adventure with peace and quiet.

Camping – restricted areas in the Bauges massif10MB

Designated camping areas

Hiking and bivouacking
on Margériaz

Place à Baban

A challenging route for experienced hikers, featuring a two-day loop and a passage through the spectacular Golet de l’Agneau (secured route). Halfway along the route, the Place à Baban bivouac site offers three pitches, a wooden floor, a hut fitted out as a dining area (with a table, stove and open shelter), and dry toilets. A wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the massif, living self-sufficiently. Please note: the hut is not accommodation; it’s a place to cook and seek shelter… but you sleep in a tent!

Tips for a great night out

1Lighten your bag

A compact tent and just the bare essentials are all you need.

2Keep an eye on the weather

The weather changes quickly, even in summer.

3Respect the wildlife

Watch from a distance. At night, you can hear everything.

4Leave the place spotless, with no sign that you’ve been there

It is the finest mark of respect.

5Guided walksSee the supervisors

Hiking with a mountain guide is a brilliant way to explore the Bauges in a different light, with expert advice, tailored routes and a shared experience in complete safety.

See the supervisors

The adventure continues all year round

Outdoor activities, hiking ideas, nights in the mountains, events, accommodation and seasonal highlights: get regular inspiration to explore Chambéry Montagnes at your own pace.

Preparing for my next adventure

Take a look at the interactive map of the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park to identify the authorised areas, or enquire atthe tourist office or the relevant local councils.

Consult the map

New adventures to discover…