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Camping de l'Eau Mère
Sauxillanges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, FranceShow on map
4.7Accommodation from € 166,60 per week
- Free cancellation until 15 February
- Only 25% deposit
At a glance
Camping de l'Eau Mère is a 3-star family camping in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, set in peaceful countryside between rolling fields and riverbanks. It offers a serene, spacious environment ideal for families with children aged 3-14, combining relaxation with accessible outdoor activities and nearby attractions.
- Stars
- 3
- Location
- Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
- Accommodation types
- Mobile homes, glamping tents, caravan, camper and tent pitches
- Ideal for
- Families with children (3 to 14 years)
- Atmosphere
- Quiet and peaceful, with a balance between relaxation and activities
- Municipal Pool Access, Riverside Charm
- Wooded Park, Adventure Hub
- Unusual Stays, Local Guinguette
Tucked away in one of those quietly enchanting corners of France where the landscape feels untouched and wonderfully serene, Camping de l’Eau Mère is the kind of place families remember long after the holiday ends. Set between gentle rolling fields, lush riverbanks and the soft silhouettes of rural countryside, this campsite is all about breathing room — space to relax, space to explore, and space for the kids to roam safely and freely. You’ll find it surprisingly accessible, yet once you arrive, you instantly feel miles away from the rush of everyday life.
So, what makes this campsite special for families? For starters, the accommodations range from cosy mobile homes and stylish glamping tents to spacious caravan, camper and tent pitches — giving every family the chance to choose the comfort level that suits them. And with the calm water nearby, plenty of greenery, and a naturally peaceful setting, the whole site feels like a little outdoor sanctuary.
“Will the kids enjoy it?” Absolutely. Children between 3 and 14 tend to thrive here. Younger ones love the playground, the safe open spaces, and those long sunny days spent outdoors. Older kids get excited about the sports areas, the chance to cycle or paddle nearby, and the sense of independence the campsite naturally encourages.
“Is it lively or quiet?” It has that perfect in-between balance. Mornings are peaceful, afternoons full of relaxed activity, and evenings pleasantly calm. There’s enough to keep everyone entertained without ever feeling hectic.
“Is there enough to do in the area?” Definitely — charming villages, nature trails, family-friendly attractions and cultural visits are all within easy reach, making it a lovely base for exploring while always returning to comfort and calm.
- Municipal Pool Access, Riverside CharmUnwind beside the Eau Mère river with free access to the municipal open-air swimming pool just 10 min walk, open July–August.
- Wooded Park, Adventure HubSet in a shaded park with tennis, fishing ponds, playground and direct river access – ideal base for Auvergne volcano hikes and cycling
- Unusual Stays, Local GuinguetteSleep in 60s vintage caravans or Moroccan caïdale tents, then enjoy Thursday concerts, cinema + local produce at Guinguette Folle Allier
Why this campsite
✔ Rustic nature charm – Pitches and accommodations surrounded by fields and riverbank.
✔ Family-focused comfort – Facilities designed to make travelling with kids effortless.
✔ Calm holiday atmosphere – Relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding as a family.
✔ Flexible accommodations – Mobile homes, glamping tents and spacious camping options.
✔ Great for young explorers – Safe spaces ideal for kids to run, play and discover.
✔ Outdoor adventures nearby – Trails, rivers and countryside activities steps from the site.
✔ Authentic French countryside – Local markets, villages and farm shops all close by.
✔ Perfect base for day trips – Easy access to nature, culture and family attractions.
- Pool
- Outdoor pool
- Solarium
- Bathing cap
- Bathing cap not obligatory
- Bermuda
- Bermudas not allowed at pool
Swimming Pool is communal, however guests may make use of the pool free of charge. Shorts-type bathing costume is not permitted. Guests use free municipal open-air swimming pool in Prairies leisure zone, 10 min walk, open July & August only.
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Restaurant
- Take away available
- Bar
There is a bar and restaurant onsite, but there is also a Pizzeria 1km away.
- Tennis court
- Multi sports terrain
- Horseback riding
- Jeu-de-boules
- Tabletennis
- Hiking
- Sports tournaments
- Bouncy castle
- Table soccer
- Board games
- Animation
- For children
- Limited in low season
- Animation languages
- French
- Night Watchman
- Defibrillator onsite
- Languages spoken
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Pets allowed
- Dogs allowed
- Some accommodations only
- Small dogs allowed
- Medium dogs allowed
- Bakery
- Pitches for tents
- Pitches for campers and Caravans
- Fresh water near pitch
- Pitch with water connection
- Sanitary block
- Standard WC (Sitting)
- Squat WC (Squatting)
- Sanitary facilities for disabled
- Hot water for dishes
- Hot Showers
- Launderette
- Washing machines
- Clothes dryers
- See pitches for further details
- Sauna
- Yoga Sessions
- Free
- Available in all areas
- Available in accommodations (included)
Details
- Location
- Near a lake, Near a river
- Terrain
- Hilly, Flat, Terraced, Wooded
- Distance sea/lake
- 5 km - 10 km
- Accommodation type
- Chalet, Pitch, Mobile home
- Suitable for
- Children (4-12), Seniors, Adults
- Luxury level
- Standard
- Address
- Chemin des Prairies - Sauxillanges, 63490, Sauxillanges
The surroundings
Gentle Eau Mère river valley unfolds into oak woodland and open “Prairies” meadows around Sauxillanges. Rolling Livradois-Forez foothills rise east with chestnut forests, while volcanic plains stretch west toward Issoire. Patchwork farmland, fishing lakes, and hedgerows frame quiet lanes perfect for cycling. The nearby Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park adds forested ridges and panoramic views.
Distances
- Distance sea/lake
- 5 km - 10 km
- Nearest airport
- (NTE)118 km
- Distance from Utrecht
- 990 km
Getting there by bus
Closest bus stop: In Sauxillanges village, 10 min walk / 0.8 km
- Supermarket
Sights & attractions
Issoire Market & Old Town: 18 km – Auvergne architecture, Saturday market, abbey
Sauxillanges Village: 0.8 km – Bakery, restaurants, weekly market
Livradois-Forez Park: 15 km – Hiking, volcano views, chestnut woods
Vulcania Theme Park: 65 km – Volcano science park, interactive fun
Lac d’Aydat: 45 km – Volcanic lake, swimming, pedal boats
Château de Parentignat: 20 km – “Little Versailles of Auvergne”
Puy de Dôme: 55 km – Panoramic rack railway, hiking
Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise: 50 km – Medieval stone village, ski resort
Issoire A75 Access: 10 min – Quick motorway link for day trips
Clermont-Ferrand: 45 km – Michelin museum, cathedral, culture
- +70 more photos
- +69 more photos
Pets
Pets are allowed in some accommodations, check your accommodation details to see if they are allowed. Category 1 & 2 dogs not allowed; others must be kept on a leash at all times.
Cars and parking
Parking near mobile homes or in central parking areas.
Reception
High season : From 09:30 to 11:00,From 16:30 to 19:00, Low season From 09:30 to 11:00, From 16:30 to 19:00, Campsite gate closes at 22:00
Supermarket
Closest supermarket: Sauxillanges shops, 10 min walk / 0.8 km, but there are plenty of artisanal farm shops in the area.
Costs on site
Tourist Tax, Pets, Bedsheets, Bathroom towels, Final Cleaning, Baby Package
Additional information
A security deposit of €300 is required for accommodations. Optional final cleaning for room type accommodations Eur 80,00. Swimming pool is communal however campsite guests enter free and are the main users. Utrecht, Netherlands → Sauxillanges: Approx. 925 km Calais, France → Sauxillanges: Approx. 685 km Pozzallo, Sicily → Sauxillanges: Approx. 1,950 km via ferry + road. Closest International Airport: Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE), 45 km / 45 min drive The site has 49 pitches for tents and campers, 7 heated accommodations, 11 unusual cabins and 1 group marabout tent. Pitches: 49 for tents, caravans, camper vans Rentals: 7 accommodations sleeping 34 + 11 cabins sleeping 34 + 1 marabout sleeping 14 The River Eau Mère runs along the site and is ideal for paddling. The site is a wooded park with shaded grass pitches.
Closest train station: Issoire, 18 km Petrol station: Issoire, 18 km Pharmacy: Sauxillanges, approx. 1 km Municipal pool: July & August, free access Restaurant/Guinguette: Summer season, Thursday evenings for events Animation: Thursday concerts/cinema in summer Check-in/out: 15:00/10:00.
Tip from our team
What I always tell guests about Camping de l’Eau Mère is this: the magic of the place reveals itself when you give yourself over to its natural rhythm. The campsite is wonderfully peaceful, and that calm atmosphere is something families always mention to me afterward — it’s the kind of place where kids rediscover the joy of simple outdoor play while parents finally get that deep breath they’ve been needing. My tip? Start your mornings slowly. Grab a fresh baguette at the campsite's little shop, wander towards the riverbank paths and let the kids spot birds and frogs in the reeds. It’s an easy, off-the-screens moment everyone appreciates. Late afternoon, the pool area becomes a favourite. It’s never overly busy, and the separate zones make it easy for toddlers and older kids to enjoy themselves safely while you relax with a book (or, let’s be honest, enjoy doing absolutely nothing). If you're staying in one of the mobile homes, you’ll love the outdoor decks — perfect for lingering dinners. I always suggest bringing a small lantern or fairy lights; it instantly turns your terrace into a cozy evening corner. Families in glamping tents often comment on how quiet the nights are. The countryside hush makes it genuinely soothing to fall asleep. Another insider suggestion: take advantage of the nearby farm stands. Local producers sell fruit, honey and cheeses within a 5–10 minute drive. Stock up for a picnic and head to the lakeside area just outside the village — it’s one of the best little secrets around here. And if you enjoy stargazing, stay up one clear night. The rural setting means almost no light pollution. It’s something kids remember for years.
Reviews
4.7Excellent26 reviews via Tripadvisor
All reviews on Tripadvisor 26 reviews via Tripadvisor
A place to discover without hesitation!“A campsite where it is truly good to live! An original, unique, and charming place, perfect for a change of scenery and enjoying the calm. Very shaded, with a pleasant stream that brings even more serenity. The welcome is warm and the whole team is smiling, available, and friendly. The open-air café is a real plus: a friendly atmosphere and excellent fries! The campsite is secure and ideal for families with children, but also for anyone looking for tranquility and nature. The accommodations are clean, comfortable, and very original; there is something for everyone. We also appreciate the many little tips and decorations made with recycled objects, which give a lot of character to the place and show great creativity. The children loved the bikes made available for free, with different models adapted to all ages, as well as the helmets. A very appreciable gesture that allowed them to have fun in complete safety. An authentic, friendly, and rejuvenating place where you immediately feel at home. We will return with great pleasure!”
Voyage233933- Coming and coming back
“After a few days at this campsite, we are leaving with the idea of coming back. Well shaded, with the free swimming pool just a stone's throw away, everything is done to make your stay pleasant, not to mention the open-air café for entertainment. I recommend it to you for a peaceful vacation”
N6264BScatherined - Calm and serenity
“A quiet and very pleasant place in the shade of magnificent oak trees. A warm welcome and a perfect open-air café to take a break and grab a bite...the hosts are lovely and everything is clean and well-maintained. Original accommodations, vast and shaded pitches, in close proximity to the municipal swimming pool...We highly recommend it!”
266krysk
Frequently asked questions
Is er wifi op Camping de l'Eau Mère?
Yes, free wifi is available throughout the campsite and included in all accommodations.
Mag ik mijn hond of kat meenemen naar Camping de l'Eau Mère?
Dogs are allowed at Camping de l'Eau Mère, including small and medium-sized dogs, though pets are only permitted at certain accommodations. Please check the specific accommodation details for more information.
Heeft Camping de l'Eau Mère een zwembad?
Yes, Camping de l'Eau Mère has both an outdoor swimming pool and a children's pool, complete with a sun terrace.
Hoe ver is Camping de l'Eau Mère van het strand of een meer?
The campsite is located 5-10 km from the nearest lake or sea, with public beach access and a pebble beach nearby.
Zijn er restaurants of een supermarkt op Camping de l'Eau Mère?
Yes, there is a restaurant, takeaway restaurant, and bar on-site, plus a nearby supermarket.
Is Camping de l'Eau Mère geschikt voor gezinnen met kinderen?
Yes, Camping de l'Eau Mère is excellent for families with children aged 4-12, offering a playground, multisports field, kids' animation, and plenty of safe outdoor space.
Welke talen worden er gesproken op Camping de l'Eau Mère?
The campsite staff speak French, English, and Spanish, with children's animation offered in French.
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