Family campsite by the river in the Drôme: a day in Gervanne
Welcome to Gervanne Camping, our family campsite where each day follows the rhythm of the Gervanne, the swimming pool and the Drôme.
Morning – before the campsite truly wakes up
In the morning, before the campsite really comes to life, the main sound you hear is water.
The Drôme flowing between the pebbles, the Gervanne a little more discreet… and then the birds in the park’s centuries-old trees.
Days often begin with whispered conversations in tents, coffee brewing on a small camping stove, bikes being unchained from the trees. Some are already packing their bags for a hike or a mountain bike ride. Others simply take the time to watch the campsite slowly wake up.
Sometimes a curious jay comes by on its morning round. We’ve already seen it land on campers’ chairs, on the saddles of our rental bikes, as if it were inspecting the campsite before everyone else.
Late morning : everyone chooses their water, everyone their own pace
Around 11 a.m., everyone finds their own spot.
There are the regulars who head straight to the Drôme: they know their favourite pebbly places where they can sit with their feet in the water, watch the fish glide by and listen to the current. Others prefer the Gervanne, wilder and more secret, perfect for sitting quietly as a couple or for peaceful fishing.
And then there is the swimming pool, with its harmonious shapes, natural stones and lush vegetation. Children invent the most impossible games, grandparents settle onto sun loungers with a book, neighbours chat with their feet in the water.
People often stop by reception to ask, “What would you recommend today?”
That’s where the best days begin: an easy walk, a hilltop village just 15 minutes away, a cycling route through the valley… or nothing at all, just water and sunshine.
Afternoon : games, rest and little adventures
The afternoon unfolds at its own pace. Sporty guests head out canoeing on the Drôme, mountain biking towards the Vercors, or horse riding. Families choose to discover small wildlife through our nature activities: beavers, insects, animal tracks…
Some campers set off to explore hilltop villages and colourful local markets in the valley. Others prefer to stay put, alternating between the swimming pool and a nap.
Evening : the magic of shared moments
In the evening, Catherine takes us on a slideshow journey through the most beautiful landscapes of the valley.
At other times, Guy, a former cinema professional, now retired and a camper here for many years, organises our outdoor cinema evenings. Denis, also a camper, offers juggling workshops.
The children of the campsite prepare their own show too: songs, dances, little stories… In their eyes, you can see the same sparkle as in those who have been coming here for generations.
Night : natural calm
After a full day, children drift off to sleep naturally. Conversations fade away, and the sound of the rivers takes over once again.
It’s easier then to spot beavers along the water’s edge, owls, and bats dancing in the twilight sky. In summer, it’s mainly daytime birds and the constant murmur of the rivers that gently lull the campsite to sleep.
It’s this kind of calm that brings families back, sometimes for a third generation. They talk about their first years here, their favourite spots, their childhood memories by the Drôme or at the swimming pool. For them, Gervanne Camping isn’t just a campsite – it’s a part of their own story.
We reopen on 1 April to live all this again. Some of you will be coming back for the second time – or more. Others will be visiting for the very first time. Either way, we can’t wait.
Learn more about the valley : https://www.valleedeladrome-tourisme.com/
River regulations: http://drome.federationpeche.fr/543-ou-pecher-dans-la-drome.htm
Our canoe partner : https://canoe-drome.com/