'Wild' camping: Tips for legal trekking in Germany

It is not only in dry years that forest fires, some of them devastating, regularly occur in Germany. Campfires in the great outdoors always pose a particular risk in this respect. The rules on open fires at trekking sites vary: in some cases, open fires are completely prohibited, which may also apply to open-flame cookers (including conventional trekking gas cookers). Sometimes there are campfire sites for which firewood is even provided, or at least designated areas where a cooker can be used. Here you should always follow the rules and use common sense: In strong winds, for example, it is always better to refrain from lighting a fire, even if it would theoretically be permitted. It is even more important to check the current forest fire danger index before setting off: Increased caution applies from level 3, and any form of open flame is prohibited at levels 4 and 5.

One of the biggest differences between trekking sites and truly wild camping or bivouacking is the fact that in most cases you have to pre-book them. This takes away some of the spontaneity and flexibility, but on the other hand it ensures that you can find the peace and quiet you are looking for. And that every hiker who arrives at the overnight camp after a strenuous day will also find a free spot there. As a rule, pitches can be easily booked online. The costs are manageable at around five to ten euros per night. After booking, you will receive GPS data and directions as well as other relevant information. The pitches can fill up quickly, especially during holiday periods and at weekends, as there is usually only room for two to three tents. However, it is still worth taking a look at the booking systems at short notice and checking whether someone has cancelled a reservation.

There is usually no access to tap water at the trekking sites, but some of the sites are located in such a way that a stream or spring is nearby and can serve as a source of drinking water (don't forget a water filter or chemical agent for water treatment!) If there is no water source at or near the trekking site, it is best to check in advance using a map or an online route planner where the last possible water source is before the end of the stage. But beware: small streams can be dry, especially in summer and autumn! When planning your water supply, you should also remember to take enough water with you for the next morning so that you can get to the next water source without getting thirsty.

Everyone can contribute to the long-term success of the tent trekking project in Germany and that there will soon be many more of these legal opportunities for camping in nature. Anyone who shows consideration for nature and other hikers has already done a lot to help. In addition, each booking usually comes with information on the terms of use of the respective site, which you should always observe. This includes only pitching your tent in the designated areas and taking any rubbish back with you, as there are generally no rubbish bins at the campsites. There is always a simple dry toilet at the campsites for going to the toilet - don't forget toilet paper!

There are two types of trekking sites in Germany: those with wooden platforms and those where you pitch your tent directly on the ground. Both have their advantages and disadvantages: While on the platforms the tent stays clean and always stands up straight even in muddy weather, sleeping directly on the ground is even closer to really wild camping. A free-standing tent is particularly suitable for the wooden platforms, even if there are often eyelets on the edges of the platforms for tensioning. To be on the safe side, you can pack a few extra guy ropes to extend the tent. Otherwise, when it comes to equipment, the most important thing is not to be lulled into a false sense of security: These sites are also all located in the middle of nature, sometimes even relatively far away from civilisation and without mobile phone reception. Wind- and weather-resistant equipment adapted to the season and a certain basic knowledge of how to use it should always be part of your luggage, even when camping in the semi-wild.

By the way: Our cooperation partner Top Trails of Germany also has some helpful tips on hiking and spending the night in the great outdoors. Feel free to take a look!