Do you dream of a holiday where your children play outside, observe insects and explore nature like true adventurers?
Eco-camping with children is a wonderful way to teach them about protecting the planet… without them even realizing it. Between walks in the forest, outdoor games, and small eco-friendly actions, these holidays become a true school of nature. Children explore, ask questions, and experiment. And above all, they develop a simple and instinctive relationship with their environment.
At Sunêlia, this philosophy is lived naturally: taking the time, breathing and sharing moments with family in the heart of preserved landscapes.
What is eco-camping? Definition and principles
Eco-camping , or ecological camping , is a form of responsible tourism that aims to reduce the environmental impact of holidays while promoting direct contact with nature. It is based on several principles: limiting waste, using renewable energy, preserving biodiversity, and raising awareness among holidaymakers about nature conservation.
For families, it's an excellent way to teach children to adopt environmentally friendly habits while enjoying an outdoor vacation.
Nature getaway with children - let yourself be inspired:
- Sunêlia Les Sablons
- Sunêlia Le Clos du Rhône
- Sunêlia L'Hippocampe
- Sunêlia L'Argentière
Why is eco-camping ideal for raising children's awareness of ecology?
Essential equipment for an eco-friendly family camping trip
Make responsible purchases
Do you really need brand-new gear ? A new tent, new hiking boots, a new sleeping mat… Do you really have to give in to the temptation of buying new? Not necessarily! Before filling your shopping cart, take a look in your closets. Those old sleeping bags and almost-forgotten tents just need a little TLC to get back on the road. A patch here, a stitch there, and presto, they're good to go. Even so, some of your gear might no longer be suitable? Consider selling or donating it instead of throwing it away.
Do you only use a few items once a year? Then the key is to "borrow." Friends, family, or colleagues—you'll be surprised at what a goldmine your network is. Plus, many shops offer rentals, an excellent option for trying out equipment without buying it.
Our advice: Is a purchase absolutely necessary? We recommend second-hand equipment. Second-hand platforms are full of great deals.
The essential eco-camping checklist
Here is a simple checklist for practicing eco- camping as a family , while reducing your impact on the environment:
- Biodegradable soaps, shampoos and toothpaste.
- Microfiber towels: lightweight, quick-drying.
- Compostable garbage bags.
- Portable compost bin: for food scraps.
- Reusable utensils: cutlery, plates and glasses made of stainless steel or bamboo to avoid disposable plastic.
- Reusable packaging and containers: avoid disposable plastic bags.
- A stainless steel water bottle to say goodbye to plastic bottles.
- A rechargeable headlamp to avoid disposable batteries.
- Solar string lights: ambient lighting to add a warm touch to your campsite.
- Fuel-efficient gas stove or portable wood stove: cook in the great outdoors without leaving a trace.
- Tents made from recycled or sustainable materials: lightweight, durable and designed to reduce carbon footprint.
- Clothing made from natural fibers: organic cotton, wool or bamboo.
Our advice: use multi-purpose cleaning and hygiene products like Marseille soap. It can be used as shower gel, shampoo, dish soap, or even laundry detergent.
Zero-waste camping with children: simple and effective tips
A zero-waste lifestyle is based on the 5 Rs:
How to Reduce and Manage Waste in an Eco-Friendly Campsite
In the eco-camping concept, the key is to plan ahead. Before you leave, remember to bring reusable containers for your meals, stainless steel water bottles, and fabric shopping bags. In short, say goodbye to unnecessary packaging. You can also prepare homemade snacks and store them in jars or compartment lunch boxes.
Once you arrive, turn waste management into a fun activity. Our favourite game to play with children is waste sorting. Everyone becomes an eco-adventurer, learning how to separate recyclable and compostable materials properly while minimising what is left to throw away.
Our tip: follow the “Leave No Trace” principle. Make sure your campsite is just as clean — or even cleaner — than when you arrived.
Eco-Friendly Meal Ideas to Prepare with Children
Have you ever wondered how to make your camping meals both delicious and environmentally friendly?
To begin with, choose local ingredients found at nearby markets. It’s better for the environment, and it also allows your children to discover new flavours. Prepare colourful vegetable skewers together to grill over the campfire. Peppers, tomatoes, courgettes… a real feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!
Here are a few simple and eco-friendly meal ideas to prepare while camping with your children:
- Pasta salad with raw vegetables (tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, carrots…)
- Stir-fried rice with vegetables
- Wraps filled with whatever ingredients you have on hand
- Nuts and dried fruit in your bag for healthy and energising snacks
Sharing a love of nature during the holidays
Eco-camping with children transforms holidays into a true educational adventure. Between exploring nature, practicing eco-friendly actions, and sharing moments as a family, each experience becomes an opportunity to learn to respect the planet.
Sunêlia's tip: To fully experience eco-camping with your children, choose destinations where nature is omnipresent: forests, the seaside, or mountains. These environments encourage exploration and natural learning.
What if your next vacation became an opportunity to pass on to your children a love of nature… quite simply?
Explore our eco-friendly campsites in France:
- Sunêlia Lanniron's Orangery
- Sunêlia Forge Estate
- Sunêlia Ibardin
- Sunêlia The Hollow Needle
- Sunêlia The Gardens of Tivoli
- Sunêlia Les Pins
FAQ – Eco-camping and children
To make children sensitive to the protection of nature, they need to have positive outdoor experiences that create an emotional connection with the environment.
Eco-friendly camping with children involves adopting simple practices: reducing waste, using durable equipment and raising children's awareness of nature.
Nature activities with children while camping include hiking, insect watching, creating a herbarium, or building shelters.
Children love camping holidays because they play outside, explore nature and experience simple adventures that stimulate their curiosity.
Teaching children about ecology during the holidays involves games, nature activities and simple actions like sorting waste.
Camping is an excellent activity for children as it promotes independence, creativity and the discovery of nature.