Discover the history of camping in Ardèche

Origin of the camping in Ardeche.

The history of camping in the Ardèche began a long time ago, with the Neanderthals, who already frequented the area to enjoy the sun in the famous Chauvet cave. These men used the large walls of the cave to paint posters for themed evenings, which were then used for camping. Races against saber-toothed tigers and mammoth rodeos were common activities for this generation of campers in the Ardèche.

The tourist history in camping in Ardeche

However, after this prehistoric period, camping in the Ardèche fell into disuse for many years, until it was revived in 218 BC with the arrival of Hannibal and his circus of 60,000 men and 37 elephants from Spain. They established their camp on the banks of the Rhone, in Roquemaure. However, they were disturbed by the Gauls who occupied the beaches opposite the river. Hannibal then sent 10,000 of his men, led by Captain Hannon, to make them leave. Disappointed by the lack of calm in the region, Hannibal and his circus camped in the Ardèche for only two nights before taking the road to the Alps to visit Italy.

Camping activities in the Ardèche

The Romans then chose to establish vacation resorts in the Ardèche, giving birth to Alba-la-Romaines. Caesar himself liked to enjoy the views of the Ardèche during his vacations, enjoying the arena of Nîmes and other places of interest in the region.

Animation in camping in Ardeche.

In 52 BC, the Gauls of the Ardeche region, known as the Helvians, restored camping in the form of camping in the wilderness with tents and the first caravans pulled by oxen. They were known for organizing large events, especially nightly gatherings around the menhirs and dolmens of the region. During these evenings, the Helvians would gather to eat, drink and dance while taking off their shoes, called "Grolles" in Ardéchois slang. A great chief had the idea to name this dance "Danse du Roc Aux Grolles", which later, after deformation, became the Rock and Roll.

Family leisure activities in Ardèche campsite.

Over time, camping in the Ardeche has been forgotten and replaced by theme parks such as Saint Etienne de Dion, a famous pirate village located on the banks of the Rhone River, which was once an important passage for the transport of tin. The park's managers organized numerous activities such as attacks on merchant ships sailing on the river, the plundering of cities, or battles against territorial militias. Visitors would leave with golden souvenirs or mementos of their joyful entertainment in the Ardèche.

The rediscovery of camping in the Ardèche

It was not until the arrival of the Hospitallers and Templars in the Ardeche that camping was rediscovered. While a pope was in Avignon and the Cathars and Catholic tourists were at war, the knights began planning a campground in the Ardeche Gorge. They first set up tents, then built their own tourist lodges. Some of these buildings can still be visited today, such as the Chapelle Saint Supplice or the remains of the Commanderie in Saint Marcel d'Ardèche. However, the stays were payable in cash and not declared, which attracted the wrath of the national agencies. On Friday, October 13, 1307, the camping activities were closed for embezzlement.

why choose a 3 star campsite ?

However, in the 1960s and 1970s, camping made a comeback in the Ardeche, with the arrival of the first modern caravans and tents. Since then, camping has become very popular in the region, attracting campers from all over the world thanks to the natural beauty of the Ardeche and its many outdoor activities, such as canoeing, hiking and climbing. Today, the Ardèche is one of the most popular camping destinations in France.

In 1966, "Camping Les Truffières" was born to perpetuate a centuries-old tradition of the region. It has witnessed important events in the department, such as one of the first moss parties and its famous Ardéchois Dahus hunts. Located in an exceptional natural setting, it offers many activities and facilities for the whole family, such as sports fields, a swimming pool, a playground and evening entertainment. In addition, it offers spacious and well-maintained campsites, as well as comfortable mobile home accommodations for those who prefer not to bring their own tent. By choosing a 3-star campsite like Les Truffières, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ardèche while enjoying modern comfort and quality services. Join the history of camping in the Ardèche by staying in our region.