Cookies are essential for the smooth and secure operation of our website. They help us to monitor performance and provide you with an optimized, personalized user experience.
The cookie settings can be adjusted at any time in the footer of the page.
A vacation in Germany is always a good idea! If you want to get away for a bit, camping in Saxon Switzerland is just the thing for you. Everyone who loves being outdoors will get their money’s worth here. You can find out what awaits you there right here.
Mountains, hiking and plenty of fresh air: if that’s exactly what you’re looking for, you don’t necessarily have to travel to southern Germany. You can have this kind of vacation in the east of Germany as well. Saxon Switzerland is located just 30 km from Dresden in the federal state of Saxony. It is a national park near the Czech border. There you can enjoy exactly what you expect from a camping holiday: sightseeing, hiking, biking, paddling and, above all, enjoying peace and nature. All of this is possible in the landscape of Saxon Switzerland.
Camping Saxon Switzerland
About the region
Do you know why it’s called Saxon Switzerland, even though it has nothing to do with Switzerland? While researching this article, we definitely became a bit wiser. The origin lies with two Swiss artists who taught at the Academy of Fine Arts in Dresden in the 18th century. When they saw the rock formations, they were reminded of their homeland and from then on referred to the area in their letters as Saxon Switzerland. That’s it! In addition, the entire region used to be home to many castles and fortresses that served to protect the trade routes of fishermen, quarry workers and woodcutters along the Elbe. Today, only a few of them remain. We mention some of them further below.
Getting there: camping in Saxon Switzerland
Thanks to its proximity to Dresden, Saxon Switzerland is relatively easy to reach and therefore a popular destination among outdoor lovers. From there, you can start your vacation in about 30 minutes by camper: via the A17, you’ll quickly reach the first highlights. Ideally, you rent a camper at the Halle (Saale) location and need around two and a half hours from there to kick off your road trip.
Before you start your road trip to Saxon Switzerland, you need the right place to stay overnight. Wild camping in the classic sense is generally prohibited by law in Germany. Since Saxon Switzerland is a protected natural area, wild camping is also forbidden here in order to protect the sensitive nature. The Elbe Sandstone Mountains offer numerous campsites that are perfect for nature lovers. Whether surrounded by nature, right by the river, close to the rock formations or near a town – every camper will find something to suit them here.
Ideal starting point for hikes and outdoor activities
Private pitches at an old farmhouse
Perfect for those who can camp self-sufficiently: no water or electricity hookups at the pitches; water and electricity are available in the main building
Dog-friendly
Cash payment only
Boat rental with individual adventure boat tours on the Elbe
Tips for activities when camping in Saxon Switzerland
Bastei Bridge & the Golden Triangle hiking trail
The Bastei Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Saxon Switzerland and has long been no hidden gem. Nevertheless, it is an impressive bridge that connects several rock formations. The approximately 76-meter-long stone bridge was built in 1851 and replaced an earlier wooden bridge. It is located about 200 meters above the Elbe River and the town of Rathen, offering wide views over the rock landscape and the Elbe Valley.
More than 1.5 million people visit the Bastei every year. A popular hiking route leads from the town of Rathen to the Bastei. The path includes numerous steps and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the first viewing platform. Near the Bastei Bridge, you can also visit the Neurathen Rock Castle, a medieval ruin with a circular trail providing information about its history. If you enjoy photography, you won’t want to put your camera down here. 📸
Swedish Potholes & Gorges
From the Bastei, the trail leads to the Schwedenlöcher, an impressive gorge in Saxon Switzerland. The descent along the blue-marked path offers a hike through a narrow, canyon-like rock gorge. The trail includes numerous small bridges, stairs, caves and rock passages – perfect for getting lost in the forest. Starting the hike from the Bastei is recommended, as the route is mostly downhill. Going the other way would mean climbing more than 700 steps, which can be quite demanding.
The Schwedenlöcher got their name because locals hid here from Swedish troops during the Thirty Years’ War. If you keep right at the end of the trail, you’ll reach the beautiful Amsel Lake, which is definitely worth a visit as well.
Lilienstein
Lilienstein is one of the most distinctive table mountains in Saxon Switzerland and a popular destination for many hikers. The ascent is relatively short but can be quite steep in parts. In return, at 415 meters high, it rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding villages. On the plateau at the top, there are several viewpoints as well as a small mountain restaurant where you can take a break.
Due to the height of the Lilienstein, there is a good chance that you’ll be above the fog at the viewpoints. This makes the mountain a perfect photo spot for all photography lovers. For the perfect shot, it’s best to position yourself facing east near the obelisk at sunrise. On the western edge, there is a climbing school where you can book courses. If you prefer to go on your own, there are plenty of opportunities to do so, giving you a unique perspective of the region once again.
Königstein Fortress
Königstein Fortress is one of the largest mountain fortresses in Europe and a true highlight of Saxon Switzerland. Perched high atop a 240-meter-high table mountain, it offers fantastic views over the Elbe Valley and the surrounding landscape. Its history dates back to the 13th century – originally a monastery, it was later expanded into a fortress.
During a walk around the site, you can explore the old walls, towers and casemates. In the past, Königstein served as a state prison and a place of refuge for Saxon rulers. Today, it is a popular excursion destination with a museum that provides fascinating insights into the history and daily life at the fortress.
Elbe Cycle Path
The Elbe Cycle Path is one of the most popular cycling routes in Germany and runs along the Elbe through Saxon Switzerland. Along the well-developed route, which is around 1,000 km long, you can cycle at a relaxed pace while exploring the landscape of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The path passes by all the highlights mentioned above. Particularly beautiful sections include the route to Bad Schandau and the stretch between the town of Pirna and Königstein. In many places, you can take breaks, explore the surroundings or take a small ferry to cross to the other side of the Elbe.
Upper Lock & boat rides
The Upper Lock in Saxon Switzerland is a popular destination for nature lovers, especially because of the idyllic boat rides. On the Kirnitzsch River, you glide leisurely through the narrow gorge, surrounded by steep rock faces and dense forest. The boat rides start at the Upper Lock in Hinterhermsdorf. Damming the water at the lock makes it possible to travel through the gorge, with the ride lasting about 20 minutes. A one-way ticket currently costs €8, while a round trip costs €14. Especially in summer, the gorges are pleasantly cool and wonderfully quiet.
Best time to visit Saxon Switzerland
The best time to visit Saxon Switzerland depends largely on your personal preferences, as each season has its own advantages.
🌿 In spring, the first hikers arrive in the region. With the first warm days, you can literally watch nature awakening from its winter sleep. Since the high season hasn’t started yet, the hiking trails are much less crowded. A walk through the stream valleys of the Polenztal, such as the Märzenbecher meadows, is especially beautiful in spring when countless flowers are in bloom.
☀️ Summer is considered the high season in Saxon Switzerland. Temperatures rise, the days are long, and the region can be perfectly explored on foot, by bike, canoe or climbing shoes. During the summer months, all trails are at their busiest. Summer is also the season with the most rainy days, which can often cause hazy conditions and limit the famous panoramic views from the rock formations. So if you prefer clear views and fewer people around you, it’s better to opt for spring or autumn. 😉
🍁 Autumn is considered the best time for hiking in Saxon Switzerland. The forests glow in a wide variety of colors, and the first crisp autumn air fills the surroundings. Especially in October, there are many clear days when you can enjoy far-reaching views into the distance. In addition, the trails are less crowded, creating a calmer and more relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for anyone who prefers to enjoy nature in peace.
❄️ In winter, the region becomes even quieter. Hiking trails are often covered in snow, which makes conditions more challenging for hikers. However, with proper equipment, winter hiking and camping in Saxon Switzerland are still possible. In general, all hiking trails are accessible year-round. Caution is advised in case of heavy snow, snowdrifts, and icy conditions. At the Aktivzentrum Bad Schandau, you can rent suitable hiking equipment such as microspikes (anti-slip spikes), hiking boots, and backpacks.
Camping in Saxon Switzerland: Our Conclusion
Saxon Switzerland has a lot to offer and camping here is anything but boring. Whether you’re looking for amazing hiking trails, relaxed boat trips, or simply a great place to unwind, you’ll find everything your camper heart desires during your stay. The range of campsites goes from pitches with stunning views to small, private hidden gems. And if you feel like trying something different, there are plenty of other cool activities to choose from. So pack your bags and head to Saxon Switzerland – there’s no reason why your next camping holiday shouldn’t take place here! 🚐🏞️
