Between the historical monuments of France’s gastronomic capital and the remarkable landscapes of the Rhône Valley, visitors will find no shortage of places to fill their travel journal in the Lyon region. Those travelling by motorhome or caravan enjoy a real advantage when it comes to flexibility. But don’t be fooled—despite its air of total freedom, open-air accommodation is subject to strict regulations. So, how can you find a motorhome parking spot in Lyon and its surroundings that’s both practical and legal?
What does the law say about motorhomes?
While motorhomes are free to park in designated spots, their setup (deploying awnings, stabilizing ramps, outdoor furniture, etc.) is strictly regulated.
Parking a motorhome for a short break
The parking of motorhomes or caravans hitched to a car is governed by the French road code. However, local regulations may apply through municipal orders. Parking restrictions for motorhomes on public roads are usually intended to maintain smooth traffic flow.
Staying in designated areas
Motorhome parking areas or designated caravan camping sites include:
- Starred campsites: ranging from 1 to 5 stars depending on the services offered.
- “Natural Areas” campsites: situated in natural settings, these sites can only be open for up to six months a year.
Both types of motorhome sites are classified as either “Tourism” or “Leisure.” The “Tourism” label applies to short-term stays (nightly, weekly, or monthly), while the “Leisure” category includes rentals for longer stays (over a month).
Various labels make it easy to spot sites that meet specific requirements. For example, the European Eco-label recognizes sites committed to environmental sustainability. The “Tourisme et Handicap” label ensures that facilities and services are accessible to people with disabilities.
Camping outside designated areas: the limits of wild camping
Wild camping, outside of designated areas, requires the landowner’s prior consent. In certain places, this activity is prohibited due to safety concerns or because the site is part of a protected natural area.
Places where camping is forbidden
Camping is strictly prohibited in these high-risk or protected areas:
- Classified natural sites, including those pending classification.
- Remarkable heritage sites.
- Near historical monuments.
- Less than 200 meters from a water source used for consumption.
- On sea shores.
In Lyon, wild camping is strictly prohibited. For example, motorhomes cannot park on Île Barbe, which is a protected heritage site.
How to identify an authorized camping spot outside of designated areas
In general, for obvious safety reasons, parking a motorhome on roads or public streets outside of regulated areas is prohibited and considered wild camping. Be sure to check local regulations, as the municipality may ban motorhome parking for commercial, aesthetic, environmental, or health-related reasons.
Where to check this information? Local parking restrictions are displayed at city halls and on signs placed at the entrances of restricted areas. To verify the validity of a motorhome parking spot in Lyon, check with the corresponding town hall.
Where to find a motorhome parking area in Lyon
The Lyon region offers several locations for parking your motorhome, whether on designated sites or in natural surroundings. Motorhome parking areas in Lyon are municipal spots located around the city, providing a strategic base to explore the city center and surrounding areas.
Camping de la Trillonnière in Mornant
In Mornant, Camping de la Trillonnière offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes in an incomparable green setting. Located near the A7 and A47 highways, La Trillonnière is a must-stop on the way to your holiday destination.
This designated motorhome parking area near Lyon allows travelers to explore both the city and the countryside. After a day spent discovering the historical and culinary treasures of the city of Lyon, holidaymakers can enjoy cycling or walking along bike paths and hiking trails.
Visit the Monts du Lyonnais
Southwest of the capital of the Gauls, the Monts du Lyonnais is one of those exceptional sites not to be missed during your stopover in the Rhône-Alpes region. The motorhome parking areas in Mornant, near Givors, provide an ideal starting point to explore the marked trails or take on one of the many sports routes in this well-preserved natural region.