Camping at Lake Chiemsee: Which campsite suits your trip?
Camping at Lake Chiemsee sounds simple: lake, mountains, campervan or tent, and a few days outdoors. In practice, however, a closer look is worthwhile. The campsites around Lake Chiemsee differ significantly in location, size, lake access, dog rules, family-friendliness, and suitability for everyday life.
If you want to be right by the water, you should definitely book early. Especially during peak season, spots by the lake fill up quickly. On the other hand, if you're looking for more peace and quiet, are traveling with a dog, or want to explore the Chiemgau region, a spot a little further away from the shore might even be more pleasant.
Lake Chiemsee is a great choice if you want to combine camping with excursions, cycling, swimming, and enjoying the local Chiemgau region. However, for a purely beach holiday with plenty of space by the water, the region isn't always relaxing during peak season. In that case, good planning, realistic expectations, and choosing the right location are essential.
- Slow Travel in Bavaria
- Excursion destinations in the Chiemgau
- Chiemsee holiday tips for connoisseurs
A brief guide to camping at Lake Chiemsee
- Right on the lake: Ideal if swimming, sunsets, and short walks to the water are important. Book early.
- With children: Look for flat paths, shade, a playground, beach access, and easy local amenities.
- Camping with a dog: Check the rules carefully before booking. Not every campsite allows dogs.
- By motorhome: Important factors include access, parking space size, electricity, waste disposal, and whether you can leave the vehicle on site.
- For excursions in the Chiemgau region: A spot a little further away from the lake might be more practical if you're planning to cycle, hike, or visit places in the Chiemgau region.
- Spontaneous trips in summer: Rather difficult. During peak season, you shouldn't expect to find free spots right by the water.
Chiemsee Camping: What you should know before booking
Lake Chiemsee is no longer a hidden gem. It gets very busy, especially during holidays, long weekends, and periods of stable summer weather. This applies not only to the towns and villages around the lake, but also to campsites, swimming areas, parking lots, and excursion boats.
That doesn't have to be a disadvantage. You just need to know what kind of accommodation you're looking for. If you want to be right on the lake, you'll need to plan ahead. If you want to swim in the morning and sit in a beer garden in the evening, a place with good infrastructure is right for you. If you prefer day trips, you can stay a little further away and visit the lake as you wish.
Being right by the lake doesn't always mean quiet.
The most beautiful locations are popular. A pitch by the water means short walks to swimming, but not necessarily peace and quiet. During peak season, campers, day visitors, cyclists, and swimmers often share the same shoreline. If you're looking for relaxation instead, it's worth considering off-peak times, smaller campsites, or pitches further away from the main activity.
Reservations are especially important in summer.
For July, August, school holidays, and long weekends, you should book early. This is especially true if you're traveling with a motorhome, caravan, dog, or family. Sites with direct lake access are also usually booked first.
Chiemsee Camping - looking for available pitches
If you would like to check which campsites at Lake Chiemsee are currently available for booking, you can find a selection here:
Camping by the lake: These Chiemsee campsites are particularly close to the water
Many campsites on Lake Chiemsee are located directly or almost directly on the lake. This is convenient if you want to swim, paddle, go to the water in the morning, or enjoy the view of the lake in the evening. At the same time, you should check what the lake access is actually like: pebble beach, sunbathing lawn, jetty, bathing bay, or busy shoreline.

Chiemsee Camping Lambach in Seebruck
Address: Lambach 3, 83358 Seebruck am Chiemsee
Phone: 08667 78 89
Map
- directly on the lake
- dogs allowed
- Beer garden / Restaurant
- bread service
- Boat rental
- WiFi
Chiemsee Camping Lambach is located directly on the lake, on the road to Prien. The campsite is a good choice if you're looking for lake access, a beer garden, and a manageable size. For motorhome travelers, the location is convenient because you're right on the water and can still easily plan excursions towards Seebruck, Prien, or the Chiemgau region.
Lambach is particularly interesting for couples, campers with dogs, and travelers who don't want to walk long distances every day. During peak season, you should therefore book early, especially if you want a spot in a good location.
When Lambach is less suitable
If you're looking for absolute peace and quiet, you should definitely consider the location by the road and the popularity of the spot. It's rarely completely quiet right by the lake at Lake Chiemsee, especially in summer.
Camping Kupferschmiede in Arlaching
Address: Trostberger Str. 4, 83339 Arlaching
Phone: 08667 446
Map
- near the beach
- dogs allowed
- Restaurant
- bread service
- nearby shopping facilities
- Wi-Fi in some areas
Camping Kupferschmiede is a larger campsite in Arlaching. It's a good choice if you're looking for typical camping facilities but still want to be close to the lake. Access to the water is via an underpass, where you'll find a pebble beach with a sunbathing area.
The campsite is also attractive for campers with dogs, as dogs are allowed. The facilities are also convenient if you plan to take day trips and then eat or shop at the campsite in the evening.
When coppersmithing is less suitable
If, on the other hand, you want to walk directly from your campsite to the beach, you should check the exact location of the site and the path to the water beforehand. Proximity to the beach doesn't always mean a campsite right on the shore.
Camping Seehäusl in Chieming
Address: At Seehäusl 1, 83339 Chieming
Phone: 08664 303
Map
- directly on the lake
- Restaurant
- Sunbathing area
- Playground
- pedal boat rental
- Internet
Camping Seehäusl is located directly on the lake and only about a 15-minute walk from Chieming. The campsite is rather small and well-suited if you're looking for a manageable stay by the water. Its location is therefore ideal for swimming days, short walks to the lake, and for trips where Chieming is also a consideration.
The restaurant with its terrace also makes the site attractive for campers who don't want to cook every evening.
Chiemsee Strandcamping in Grabenstätt-Unterhochstätt
Address: Am Chiemsee 1, 83355 Grabenstätt-Unterhochstätt
Phone: 08664 500
Map
- directly on the lake
- near the beach
- dogs allowed
- bread service
- small shop
- Bar with terrace
Chiemsee Strandcamping is perfect if you want to be really close to the water. The campsite is located directly on the lake and is therefore ideal for swimming holidays, motorhome trips, and camping with a tent or caravan. Some of the pitches are particularly close to the pebble beach.
The location is an advantage if the lake is to be the focus of your trip. However, during peak season, this is precisely why you should book early.
When beach camping is less suitable
If you're primarily looking for peace and quiet, a location directly on the water can be lively. This is often pleasant for families and swimmers. For campers who expect very quiet evenings, a spot a little further away is sometimes better.
Chiemsee Camping Rödlgries in Übersee
Address: Rödlgries 1, 83236 Übersee
Phone: 08642 470
Map
- directly on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee
- private bathing beach
- child-friendly
- Restaurant / Camping Lounge
- bread service
- Dogs not allowed
Chiemsee Camping Rödlgries is one of the larger campsites on the lake. Located directly on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee, it offers numerous pitches for touring campers. It's particularly suitable if you're looking for a campsite with its own bathing area, sunbathing lawn, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Rödlgries is an attractive option for families because daily life at the campsite is easy. Swimming, eating, playing, and excursions can all be easily combined. However, if you're traveling with a dog, the campsite isn't suitable, as dogs aren't allowed.
Panorama Camping Harras in Prien
Address: Harrasser Str. 135, 83209 Prien am Chiemsee
Phone: 08051 90 46 13
Map
- Location on a peninsula
- near the beach
- dogs allowed
- Restaurant
- bread service
- nearby shopping facilities
Panorama Camping Harras is located on a peninsula near Prien. The location is particularly appealing if you want to combine a visit to the lake, Prien, and excursions to Herreninsel. The campsite is well-suited for campers who not only want to swim but also experience the classic Chiemsee region with Prien, boat trips, and excursions.
The playground is convenient for families. Dogs are also allowed. Cars must be parked separately in one section of the parking area, which can make the stay quieter, but should be kept in mind when packing and unloading.
What you should pack for camping at Lake Chiemsee
- packing list for campers – helpful if you are traveling with a campervan or motorhome.
- Camping packing list – for tents, caravans and camping holidays in general.
- packing list for the beach vacation – when swimming in the lake is important.
- Portable BBQ – if barbecuing is allowed on your site.
- picnic accessories – for excursions to the lake or to the Chiemgau region.

Camping away from Lake Chiemsee: When does it make sense?
Not every good campsite has to be right on the shore. If you want to explore the Chiemgau region, cycle, hike, or plan excursions, a site a little further away can actually be more practical. You're not in the middle of the crowds, but you can still easily reach the lake, towns, and mountains.
Hofbauer campsite in Prien
Address: Bernauer Str. 110, 83209 Prien am Chiemsee
Phone: 08051 41 36
Map
- approximately 1,5 kilometers from Lake Chiemsee
- Pool
- dogs allowed
- Restaurant
- bread service
- WiFi
- Bike Rental
Camping Hofbauer isn't directly on the lake, but rather a bit further away in Prien. This can be a disadvantage if you want to jump straight into the water every morning. However, it can be an advantage if you're looking for less hustle and bustle and plan to visit Prien, the Chiemgau region, or take excursions around the lake.
The campsite is attractive for families thanks to its swimming pool, paddling pool, and playground. It can also be a good option for those traveling with a dog. The beach is about 1,5 kilometers away. This is easily manageable by bicycle or car; on foot, it depends on how much equipment you want to carry.
Which Chiemsee campsite is suitable for which trip?
| Your journey | Suitable location | Why this makes sense |
|---|---|---|
| You want to swim right by the lake and have the shortest possible distances to the water. | Seebruck, Chieming, Grabenstätt, Übersee or Harras | These locations are more suitable when the lake is the central focus. |
| You are traveling with a dog. | Lambach, Kupferschmiede, Strandcamping, Harras or Hofbauer | Dogs are allowed there according to the available information. However, please check the current rules before booking. |
| You are traveling with children. | Rödlgries, Hofbauer, Seehäusl or Strandcamping | Short distances, play areas, shade, and easy access to supplies are important. |
| You want to combine Prien, Herreninsel and a boat trip. | Harras or Hofbauer | This side of the lake is well suited for classic Chiemsee excursions. |
| You want to combine camping and excursions in the Chiemgau region. | Prien, Übersee, Chieming or a place a little further away | Then, access to roads, bicycles, cars, and connections are more important than a parking space directly by the water. |
| You want to travel spontaneously in the height of summer. | stay flexible | Directly on the lakefront, berths are often booked early. Check out alternatives away from the shore. |
What you should pay attention to before booking
Reservation during peak season
When booking accommodation at Lake Chiemsee in the summer, you shouldn't wait too long. This is especially true for pitches right on the water, for larger motorhomes, for families, and for trips with dogs. If you only want to stay one or two nights, the selection may be even more limited.
Seaside resort or excursion base?
A campsite right by the lake is lovely, but not necessary for every trip. If you're frequently traveling in the Chiemgau region, planning hikes, or want to visit places like Prien, Seebruck, Chieming, or Übersee, a campsite with good transport links might be more important than a direct lake view.
Check dogs beforehand
Many places allow dogs, but not all. Rödlgries, for example, is not suitable for dogs. Even at dog-friendly places, you should check whether dogs are allowed on the beach, whether they must be kept on a leash, and which areas are accessible.
Parking space size and shade
Shade is essential at Lake Chiemsee in the summer. Therefore, check before booking whether your pitch is large enough for a motorhome, caravan, awning, or canopy. Not every pitch directly on the water is automatically the most practical.
Car, bicycle or bus.
Around Lake Chiemsee, cycling is often a good option. For excursions into the Chiemgau region, hikes, or visits to smaller towns, a car is sometimes more practical. If you're traveling by campervan, you should consider beforehand whether you want to leave it parked at your destination and how you'll get to the lake, shops, or the boat dock.
Realistically assess costs
Camping at Lake Chiemsee isn't automatically cheap. Prices depend on the season, location, number of people, type of pitch, whether you bring a dog, electricity, tourist tax, and facilities. For two people with a pitch, you should roughly expect to pay between €25 and €70 per night, depending on the season and the specific pitch. Check what additional costs apply before booking.
Camping at Lake Chiemsee with a motorhome
Lake Chiemsee is easily accessible by campervan, but the region requires some planning. Campsites directly on the lake are popular. Besides, you don't want to drive to crowded lakeside towns every day with a larger vehicle.
If you're staying longer, it's worth choosing a spot from which you can easily get around by bike or on foot. Our tips will help you prepare. RV Camping as well as those packing list for the motorhomeIf you want to rent a vehicle first, you can find information here on how to do so. Book a holiday with a motorhome .
Cooking at the campsite on Lake Chiemsee
After a day at the beach or an excursion in the Chiemgau region, it's nice to be able to cook at the campsite. A small camping kitchen is especially useful by the lake, as you don't have to look for a restaurant every evening.
For example, our recipe is suitable for motorhome travelers. Bake pizza in the mobile homeIt works with the Omnia oven and just a few ingredients. You can find more ideas in the article. Cooking and baking in the mobile homeIf you prefer to cook outdoors, you can also use a portable grill, Dutch Oven or suitable Camping cooking accessories It would be a good idea. Check beforehand what is allowed at your campsite.
Camping at Lake Chiemsee and Slow Travel in the Chiemgau region
Camping at Lake Chiemsee is perfect for a slower-paced trip through Bavaria. You don't need to plan a full itinerary every day. Often, a morning at the lake, a bike ride, a short trip to Prien or Seebruck, and an evening at the campsite are enough.
If you'd like to see more of the Chiemgau region, you can find further ideas here:
- Excursion destinations in the Chiemgau
- Hiking in the Chiemgau
- Three tips for a weekend in Prien
- Freshly smoked trout or char from the Chiemsee fisherman
- Camping Waging am See in Chiemgau
Campsite Chiemsee with dog
According to the available information, dogs are allowed at these campsites on Lake Chiemsee:
- Chiemsee Camping Lambach*
- Camping Kupferschmiede*
- Chiemsee Strandcamping*
- Panorama Camping Harras*
- Hofbauer campsite*
Before booking, always check the current rules. It's not just important to know if dogs are allowed on the campsite. It's also crucial to know if dogs are allowed on the beach, if they must be kept on a leash, and if there are nearby walking paths.
Where can you camp at Lake Chiemsee?
Camping is permitted at designated campsites around Lake Chiemsee. Wild camping is therefore not a good idea and can lead to problems. If you are traveling with a tent, pay particular attention to the ground, shade, wind protection, and access to sanitary facilities.
You can find tent pitches or places to set up tents at several campsites around the lake. These include, for example:
- Chiemsee Camping Lambach*
- Camping Kupferschmiede*
- Chiemsee Strandcamping*
- Panorama Camping Harras*
- Hofbauer campsite*
- Chiemsee Camping Rödlgries*
- Camping Seehäusl*
Farm camping at Lake Chiemsee
Not directly on the lake, but nearby, several farms also offer pitches for motorhomes. This can be interesting if you prefer a quieter setting and don't need a traditional campsite.
Examples are:
- Motorhome pitch at the Steiner farm, Almfischer 11, 83236 Übersee
- Schmid parking space, Stegen 4, 83236 Übersee
These types of pitches are more suitable if you're traveling self-sufficiently and don't expect full campsite facilities. For families with children or longer stays directly by the lake, a traditional campsite is usually more practical.
How much does camping at Lake Chiemsee cost?
Prices vary depending on the season, number of people, location of the pitch, vehicle, whether you have a dog, and the facilities offered. Pitches directly on the lake generally cost more than simpler pitches further away from the shore.
As a rough guide, you can expect to pay between €25 and €70 per night for two people with a pitch, depending on the season and the specific site. Additional charges often include electricity, tourist tax, dog fees, reservation fees, or other services. Therefore, always check the campsite's current price list before booking.
Conclusion: Camping at Lake Chiemsee is worthwhile if the location and travel style are suitable.
Camping at Lake Chiemsee is particularly appealing if you want to combine the lake, the mountains, and excursions in the Chiemgau region. The best campsites aren't necessarily those with the shortest walk to the water. What matters is whether the campsite suits your trip.
For beach holidays and short walks to the lake, campsites directly on the shore are ideal. For families, shade, play areas, and infrastructure are just as important. If you're traveling with a dog, you need to check the rules carefully. If you're traveling with a campervan, it's crucial that you can remain mobile on-site without having to constantly move your vehicle.
If you're traveling during peak season, you should book early. For quieter days, spring, late summer, or autumn might be more pleasant. Then Lake Chiemsee reveals its more relaxed side: a morning by the water, a trip to the Chiemgau region, an evening at the campsite.
Questions and answers about camping at Chiemsee
Are there campsites directly on Lake Chiemsee?
Yes, several campsites are located directly on or very close to Lake Chiemsee. These include Chiemsee Camping Lambach, Camping Seehäusl, Chiemsee Strandcamping, Rödlgries, and Panorama Camping Harras. However, before booking, please check the exact lake access and the location of your pitch.
When should you book a camping spot at Lake Chiemsee?
For summer, holiday periods, and long weekends, you should book early. Pitches right by the water, shady spots, and those suitable for dogs or larger motorhomes fill up quickly.
Which campsites at Lake Chiemsee allow dogs?
According to the available information, dogs are allowed at Chiemsee Camping Lambach, Camping Kupferschmiede, Chiemsee Strandcamping, Panorama Camping Harras, and Campingplatz Hofbauer, among others. Since rules can change, you should check the current dog policy directly with the campsite.
Is camping at Lake Chiemsee good for families?
Yes, many campsites are suitable for families. Important features include short distances to the water, shade, play areas, sanitary facilities, and basic amenities. Rödlgries, Hofbauer, Seehäusl, and Strandcamping can be good choices depending on your travel style.
Is it possible to camp with a motorhome at Lake Chiemsee?
Yes, most campsites around Lake Chiemsee are equipped for motorhomes. When booking, pay attention to pitch size, access, electricity, waste disposal, and shade. During peak season, don't expect to find a suitable spot spontaneously.
Is camping at Lake Chiemsee expensive?
Prices vary greatly depending on the season, location, and amenities. For two people with a pitch, you should roughly expect to pay between €25 and €70 per night. It can be more expensive directly by the lake and during peak season.
Is it possible to camp wild at Lake Chiemsee?
Wild camping is not a good idea at Lake Chiemsee. Use designated campsites or official RV parks. This protects nature and prevents problems with local authorities or landowners.

Continue planning your camping holiday in Bavaria
Camping and motorhome
- Winter camping in Bavaria: What should you pay attention to?
- Guide to Camping Accessories: RV, Tent and Outdoor
- Camping packing list: everything you need for camping
- Everything you need to know about campsite reservations
- Motorhome camping made easy
- Traveling by campervan: Tips from our experience
Chiemsee and Chiemgau
- Three tips for a weekend in Prien
- Apartments on the Chiemsee for connoisseurs
- Holidays on the farm at the Chiemsee
- Freshly smoked trout or char from the Chiemsee fisherman
- Chiemsee holiday tips for connoisseurs
- Camping Waging am See in Chiemgau
Camping kitchen and equipment
- Bake pizza in the mobile home
- Cooking and baking in the mobile home
- Cool box for camping
- Camping lamps for tent and camper van
- Gifts for campers
Source: On-site research; Chiemsee-Alpenland Tourism; Chiemsee Camping Lambach; Chiemsee Strandcamping; Chiemsee Camping Rödlgries. However, our opinion remains our own, as always.
Text: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline