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Rise in fees for certain camping sites - Rise in Camping Fees at Certain Sites
Campsite visitors in Thuringia, Germany, are encountering increased costs for their stays this season, with some long-term campers also affected by the price hike. This development was reported by campsite operators following a request from the dpa. The surge in operating costs for the operators, particularly increased personnel and electricity costs, is the primary cause.
Despite these increases, Reinhard Schniz, the chairman of the Thuringian Camping Association, stated that a camping vacation remains more economical compared to other types of accommodation within Thuringia and abroad. According to the "camping.info" portal, the average cost for two people this year, including pitch, caravan, electricity, and local tax, has risen by approximately 4.2% compared to 2025, amounting to around 24.21 euros on average. This places Thuringia among the most budget-friendly federated states for campers. For comparison, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, with its popular Baltic coastal destinations, costs 33.20 euros, while the national average is 28.86 euros.
A spokesperson for the campsite at Lütschesee, near Oberhof, acknowledged that recruitment difficulties necessitated higher wages to attract and retain staff. As a result, overnight prices for this site with 150 pitches for motorhomes, caravan trailers, and tents have increased this year. Similarly, the Hohenfelden campsite (Weimarer Land) has raised overnight rates due to increased personnel costs, with varying prices depending on the main or low season.
In contrast, the pricing for tourists on the Meyersgrund campsite near Ilmenau has remained unchanged, but long-term campers have faced increases. The pricing varies among locations, with some sites including showering and electricity in a comprehensive package, while others charge for these amenities individually.
Traditionally popular during the long Ascension and Pentecost weekends, many campsites are fully booked this year, as confirmed by co-owner Manuela Zanker of Meyersgrund. The favorable calendar, coupled with relatively late Easter and the 1st of May combining with a bridge day in spring weather, has brought strong attendance to campsites. According to Schniz, the reservation situation for the holidays is also promising.
In 2025, the number of overnight stays in Thuringia increased by 6.1% compared to the previous year, reaching over 846,000, as reported by the Statistical State Office. Approximately 314,000 vacationers stayed on the nearly 100 campsites and caravan parks, averaging a 2.7-day stay.
In light of the ongoing increase in energy prices and labor market challenges, campsite operators are juggling higher costs while attempting to maintain their competitive position in the tourist market. Campsites that invest in enhanced facilities, wellness packages, and improved services may justify higher prices, making them more attractive to vacationers seeking an enjoyable getaway.
The Community policy in Thuringia needs to consider the impact of rising operational costs, such as personnel and electricity, on campsite operators. To offset these expenses, some campsites have implemented increases in their community policies, affecting both short-term visitors and long-term campers.
In an effort to maximize their earnings, some campsites have opted to focus on lifestyle improvements, offering vocational training programs for their staff or creating home-and-garden themed sites to appeal to a wider range of tourists. These changes may contribute to justifying higher prices, providing a more enjoyable getaway experience for vacationers.
