## So Why Are Holiday Parks in Europe Called ‘Camping’ Or 'Campsites'? If you’ve ever searched for a holiday park in Europe, you’ve probably come across the word 'camping' or 'campsite' everywhere. Unlike in the UK, where we call them holiday parks or caravan parks, many European sites—whether they have tents or luxury mobile caravans and lodges—are simply known as Camping or Campsites. So why the difference? And does it mean you’ll end up sleeping in a tent when you book a ‘Camping’ holiday in France, Spain, or Italy? Let’s break it down!

![La Baume Holiday Park, France](/img/holiday-parks/europe/france/la-baume/540x404-la-baume.webp)

### How Holiday Parks And ‘Camping’ Differ Across Europe And The UK? In the UK, when we think of holiday parks, we picture places like Haven or Parkdean Resorts—large resorts with static caravans, entertainment complexes, swimming pools, and kids’ activities. Camping, on the other hand, usually means pitching a tent or bringing your own caravan to a site with shared facilities.

But in Europe, the term Camping covers a much wider range of accommodation. Yes, you’ll find traditional tent pitches, but many European Camping resorts also have mobile homes, chalets, bungalows, and even glamping tents with all the modern comforts. Some of them look more like full-scale resorts than what we’d call a ‘campsite’ in the UK!

### The Cultural And Linguistic Origins Of ‘Camping’ In Europe The reason for this terminology difference comes down to culture and language. Across countries like France, Spain, and Italy, Camping has long been associated with family-friendly outdoor holidays, often in scenic locations near beaches, lakes, or forests. Over time, these camping sites evolved into full-scale resorts with more permanent accommodation options like static caravans, wooden lodges and glamping units, but the name Camping stuck.

In France, for example, ‘Camping’ is deeply ingrained in holiday culture, with thousands of well-equipped campsites offering everything from water parks to kids’ clubs. Similarly, in Italy, Camping Villages are often luxury resorts with pools, restaurants, and direct beach access. In Spain, coastal Campings can include everything from budget pitches to high-end bungalows with sea views.

### What About Eurocamp? If you’re a British traveller looking for an easy way to book these European holiday parks, you’ve probably come across [Eurocamp](/holiday-parks/eurocamp) . They specialise in offering pre-set-up mobile homes, glamping tents, and lodges across some of the best Camping resorts in France, Spain, and Italy. Their holidays are perfect for families who love the idea of an outdoor holiday with modern comforts—think kids’ clubs, splash parks, and restaurants, without the need to bring your own tent!

![Camping Pra Delle Torri, Italy](/img/holiday-parks/europe/italy/pra-delle-torri/540x404-pra-delle-torri.webp)

### Tips for UK Travellers Booking European Campsites If you’re booking a Camping holiday in Europe for the first time, here are a few things to keep in mind:

**Don’t be put off by the word ‘Camping’** Many sites are more like full-scale holiday resorts with pools, restaurants, and entertainment.
**Check the accommodation type** Whether you want a mobile home, bungalow, or glamping tent, make sure you select the right option when booking.
**Facilities vary** Some sites are all-singing, all-dancing resorts, while others are more traditional. Check for pools, kids’ activities, and entertainment options if that’s important to you.
**Book early in peak season** Popular sites, especially those near beaches, can get booked up months in advance for summer holidays.

So, the next time you see ‘Camping’ in Europe, don’t assume it’s just about pitching a tent! From luxury lodges to beachfront resorts, the European Camping experience is more diverse than the name suggests. Whether you book through Eurocamp or directly with a site, you’ll find plenty of options that feel just like the holiday parks you know and love in the UK—just with a bit more continental flair!

Blog

Why Are Holiday Parks Called Campsites In Europe?

Check Out Our Other Blog Posts