Expanded trekking opportunities found in Thuringia for outdoor enthusiasts
Exploring off-the-beat-path campsites in Thuringia's Green Belt
Get ready for a unique camping experience as Thuringia is extending its trekking and eco-friendly overnight stops along the Green Belt! The Environment Ministry in Erfurt confirmed this plan in response to an inquiry.
A significant portion of the approximately 1,400-kilometer-long former inner-German border strip, now a nature haven and a symbol of German division, is housed in Thuringia, where it holds the status of a natural monument.
Following the introduction of the first official campsites for campers near Lichtenhain in Saalfeld-Rudolstadt last year, the ministry plans to add three more in 2025: sites near Rhönwald adventure world in Kaltennordheim (Schmalkalden-Meiningen district), Truckendorf near Schalkau (Sonneberg district), and Generalsblick on the Isaak mountain near Frankenblick (Sonneberg district).
Inspired by the Environment Ministry, funded by the Nature Conservation Foundation, and coordinated by the Thuringian Nature Friends, camping will take place in tents or under tarp-like shelters away from heavy tourist groups.
"These rustic accommodations serve as perfect starting or ending points for hikes along the Green Belt or national natural landscapes," said Environment Minister Tilo Kummer (BSW). "Thuringia's nature is a treasure," he added, highlighting the significance of soft and nature-friendly tourism.
Book your stay online!
Thuringia boasts its own trekking booking platform. Each campsite caters to up to five tents for two people each on ground or wooden platforms, and they're located close to hiking trails, available for one night only.
According to Anja Zachow of the Thuringian Nature Friends, there are also trekking sites in the Free State at Blankenstein (Saale-Orla district), at the Arche Rhön, and at Geopfad Pinsenberg in Krölpa (Saale-Orla district).
The Green Belt is a network of diverse biotopes encompassing an impressive 1,200 endangered animal and plant species, remnants of the former DDR border patrol roads, and watchtowers.
As of now, there's no definitive information about the exact opening dates for booking at the new campsites along Thuringia's Green Belt. To stay informed about opening dates and booking availability, it's best to visit official Thuringia tourism websites or contact local tourism offices directly.
Embrace a serene lifestyle as you explore outdoor-living opportunities, with the home-and-garden concept extended to the campsites along Thuringia's Green Belt. Similar to the existing sites at Blankenstein and Geopfad Pinsenberg, the upcoming campsites aim to integrate gently with the local nature and wildlife, promoting a harmonious home-and-garden style of camping.
