Campsite at the gateway to the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve

In short: Your stay at Les Truffières

1. 📍 Strategic location: At the gateway to the Ardèche Gorges (8 km/10 mins), between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (25 km/30 mins) and Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche (8 km/10 mins).
2. 🌿 Immersion guaranteed: Direct access to the 1, 950 hectares of the National Nature Reserve (hiking, canoeing, swimming).
3. 🦅 Exceptional birdwatching spot: Privileged observation of rare and protected species (Bonelli's eagle, Egyptian vulture).
4. ⛺ The spirit of camping: Ecotourism, tranquillity, unspoilt nature and total disconnection in the heart of the garrigue.

Choose the experience that suits you in Ardèche

The southern Ardèche offers a wide range of accommodation options. But staying at the gateway to the National Nature Reserve offers a fundamentally different experience. As locals and passionate managers of Les Truffières campsite, created in the 1960s, making it one of the oldest establishments in the south of the Ardèche, we have been walking these trails since we were born. With this knowledge of the area, we have designed this comparison of camping styles in the region for you:

Comparison: Nature Camping vs Camping Club in Ardèche

Do you dream of a holiday in the heart of nature?
Located near the Gorges de l'Ardèche National Nature Reserve, Les Truffières campsite offers you total immersion in one of the most spectacular natural areas in France. Between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche, come and discover a preserved sanctuary of biodiversity, ideal for ecotourism, hiking and rejuvenation.

The Ardèche Gorges National Nature Reserve: A Preserved Gem

Created to protect an exceptional geological and ecological heritage, the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve covers 1,950 hectares. Straddling Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Occitanie, this majestic, protected and extensive territory, which has been protected since 2018, offers landscapes of scrubland, limestone cliffs and wild rivers.
When you stay at Les Truffières campsite, you have a front-row seat to explore this unique area, a paradise for hikers, kayakers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Why choose a campsite near the Nature Reserve?

By choosing an ecotourism-focused campsite like Les Truffières, you’re not just renting a spacious pitch of over 100m²: you’re choosing a strategic and unspoilt base. You avoid the crowds of hyper-touristy areas whilst being just a few minutes’ drive from canoe launch points and the long-distance hiking trails of the Gorges de l’Ardèche.

Wildlife watching: Protected birds of the Ardèche Gorges

The Ardèche Gorges are not only a spectacular canyon; they are also a vital refuge for birdlife. During your stay at the campsite, look up: you may be lucky enough to spot two of France's most emblematic and protected species.

Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata): the emblematic bird of prey of the garrigue

A symbol of the Mediterranean, Bonelli's eagle is a rare species. After seeing its population decline by 60% in 50 years, it is classified as "Endangered" on the red list of nesting birds in France.

• A glimmer of hope: Thanks to local conservation efforts, the situation is improving! In twelve years, ten new pairs have settled in our territory.The Ardèche is now one of the best places in France to hope to catch a glimpse of this lord of the skies.

Discover the secrets of this majestic bird.

The Egyptian Vulture: The Magnificent Ecological Cleaner

As fascinating as it is useful, the Egyptian vulture is a sight to behold:

• Recognising the adult: It is distinguished by its contrasting black and white plumage, ruffled head with a bare yellow to orange face, and thin blackish beak.
• Development: Young birds have much darker plumage. They have to wait until their fifth or sixth year to don their magnificent adult plumage. Keep a close eye on the cliffs during your walks from the campsite!

Discover the secrets of this majestic bird of prey.

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FAQ: Your questions about the Ardèche Nature Reserve

Is Les Truffières campsite located in the immediate vicinity of the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve?

Yes. Our establishment is located at the edge of the reserve. A few steps outside the campsite, you are directly within the National Nature Reserve. Although located 8 km from the Gorges tourist route, this adjoining location offers you instant immersion in nature, while sparing you the traffic jams of crowded areas.

Is the Ardèche Nature Reserve a large protected area?

Yes. Since its expansion in 2018, the National Nature Reserve covers a total area of 1,950 hectares. It is a strictly protected natural area dedicated to the preservation of biodiversity andecotourism.

Can rare animals be observed from the campsite or in the Gorges?

Yes. This area is an exceptional refuge for wildlife. Throughout the year, you can observe protected birds of prey such asBonelli's eagle (an endangered species with around ten local pairs), Egyptian vultures, as well as beavers and wild goats. What's more, during migration periods, look up and you can also admire flocks of common cranes, golden eagles and wild geese flying directly above the campsite. Don't forget your binoculars!

Do I have to drive long distances to go canoeing in the Gorges?

No. You don't need to use your vehicle. Thanks to our official canoeing partner, Ardèche Aventure (free shuttle bus from the campsite entrance), you can book your canoe trip directly at reception. A free bus is available to take you to and from the Gorges.

Is Les Truffières campsite noisy in high season?

No. Unlike camping clubs with water parks and entertainment all day long, we favour peace and quiet and immersion in nature. There are no loudspeakers or late-night dances. On a daily basis, the only sounds you'll hear are the chirping of cicadas and birds in the scrubland. Entertainment is limited to one evening per week, exclusively centred around the bar, ensuring total tranquillity on the pitches.

Does the campsite offer large pitches to ensure privacy?

Yes. Our pitches blend perfectly into the natural surroundings beneath the holm oaks and are particularly spacious. It’s ideal for completely unwinding.

Is it true that you can see Mont Blanc from the campsite?

Yes, surprising as it may seem! Thanks to our unobstructed geographical position and altitude, on days when the sky is very clear (especially in the early morning or after a mistral wind), our guests can admire the summit of Mont Blanc on the eastern horizon, beyond the Rhône valley.

Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind and fall asleep under a sky free from light pollution and wake up to the majestic flight of Bonelli's eagle.