Gérardmer and the Vosges lakes: a nature getaway in a van or motorhome

With shimmering lakes, deep forests and rounded peaks, the Vosges offer the perfect playground for outdoor lovers in a van or motorhome. Here are five must-see spots you won’t want to miss.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 4 September 2026

Picture yourself by a mountain lake, feet in the water, with nothing but the gentle lapping of waves and birdsong for company. Gérardmer and its Vosges neighbours are made for this: breathtaking landscapes, accessible hikes and viewpoints that make you want to park up for the afternoon. Whether you prefer gentle strolls or sporting challenges, this region has it all. Ready to fill your travel journal?

Lac de Gérardmer

The jewel of the Vosges, this 2.2 km² glacial lake is surrounded by forests and mountains, perfect for a swim or a pedal boat ride. Its well-maintained shores offer picnic areas with stunning views of the peaks.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des sapins Campsite ★ 4.4 200 m from the lake, shaded pitches. Clean toilets, calm family atmosphere. › La Ferme Grandemange Campsite ★ 4.6 Authentic farm with Munster cheese, 2 grassy pitches. Warm welcome, natural setting. › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 Forest campsite 3 km from the lake. Swimming pool, bar and heated toilets. › Lakeside road parking Gérardmer Parking ★ 4 Free car park facing the lake, unobstructed view. 7-minute walk to the centre. › Chemin du Rond Faing, Gérardmer Motorhome area ★ 3.7 Paid area (€8 per night) at the foot of the slopes. Tarmac, flat, coin-operated meter. ›

Cascade des Bas-Rupts

A spectacular 20-metre waterfall, accessible after a short hike from the Col des Bas-Rupts car park. The turquoise water and lush vegetation make it a magical spot, especially in spring.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 By the shore of Lac de Longemer, spacious pitches and unobstructed view. 7-minute drive (6 km), rating 4.7. › Central village parking Liézey Parking ★ 5 Free car park in the heart of Liézey, quiet and close to hiking trails. 6-minute drive (6 km), rating 5. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly site by the River Vologne, heated toilets. 6-minute drive (6 km), rating 4.7. › Lakeside road parking Gérardmer Parking ★ 4 Facing Lac de Gérardmer, unobstructed view and recycling bins. 17-minute walk, rating 4.8. › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 On the edge of the forest, swimming pool and bar on site. 5-minute drive (5 km), rating 4.6. ›

Hohneck

This iconic peak stands at 1,363 metres and offers a 360-degree panorama of the Alps, the Black Forest and the Ballons des Vosges. The trail to the summit is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 By Lac de Longemer, 50 m from the beach. Rating 4.7, 231 reviews, 6-minute drive. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park at Lac de Lispach, view of the water. 4.6 stars, 27 reviews, 6-minute drive. › Camping la Vologne Campsite ★ 4.8 Natural setting by a stream, close to Lac Longemer. 4.7 stars, 31 reviews, 5-minute drive. › 1m90 barrier parking Wildenstein Parking ★ 4.9 Panoramic mountain car park, height restriction under 1.90 m. 4.9 stars, 7 reviews, 5-minute drive. › Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult Campsite ★ 4.6 Inn at 1,300 m, stunning views, local food. 4.6 stars, 48 reviews, 22-minute walk. ›

Lac de Longemer

Less crowded than Gérardmer but just as charming, this lake is ideal for a family walk or a paddleboarding session. Its calm waters reflect the surrounding pines and rocks.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by the lake, 50 m from the beach. Warm welcome, immaculate toilets (12-minute walk). › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly 4.7-star campsite by the River Vologne. Spacious pitches, 10A electricity (19-minute walk). › Forest alcove parking La Bresse Parking ★ 5 Free forest car park, quiet and discreet in a clearing of fir trees. Van access possible (6-minute drive). › Quiet parking with ski lifts La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 Free gravel car park at the foot of Hohneck, panoramic view. Very quiet at night despite daytime traffic (6-minute drive). › La Grange Mauselaine Campsite ★ 4.3 12-hectare meadow by the lake, natural and forested setting. Friendly welcome, limited electricity (14-minute walk). ›

Ballon d’Alsace

The highest point in the Vosges at 1,247 metres, this legendary summit can be reached by car or on foot, with breathtaking views. On clear days, you can even see the Swiss Alps.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Deux Ballons Campsite ★ 4.5 Family-friendly campsite in the heart of nature, swimming pool and large shaded pitches. 5 km from Ballon, 5-minute drive. › Ballon d'Alsace parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 Free car park at the foot of Ballon, toilets and water available 24/7. 10-minute walk, absolute quiet. › Camping-car parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 Large high-altitude ski car park, isolated and stable. 7 km from Ballon, 7-minute drive. › Flat parking near Planche des Belles Filles in Plancher-les-Mines Parking ★ 4.7 Forest car park by the river, tarmac and flat. 7 km from Ballon, 8-minute drive. › Camping à la ferme — Sewen Campsite ★ 4.7 Farm campsite with warm welcome and local cuisine. 13-minute walk from Ballon. ›

Lac Blanc

Nestled at 1,000 metres above sea level, this mountain lake is surrounded by peat bogs and forests, offering a wild and unspoilt setting. A 1.5-hour circular hike lets you walk around it.

Where to sleep nearby

Pathside parking Lapoutroie Parking ★ 4.9 360-degree mountain view, isolated and free. 7-minute drive, ideal for 2 vans. › Miclo André Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite with panoramic view, private pitches. 28-minute walk, rating 4.9. › Camping Lefébure Campsite ★ 4.7 Well-maintained municipal campsite, €20-23 per night. 6-minute drive, new toilets. › Free parking by Lac Blanc Le Bonhomme Parking ★ 4.6 Large free car park at the foot of the slopes. 35-minute walk, paid showers at the inn. › Wooded parking with stream Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.4 Wooded area with lake 100 m away, very quiet. 35-minute walk, 3-level car park. ›

See all spots on the map