Dreaming of a riverside camping holiday in the Dordogne? Visit camping La Bouysse is located in Vitrac6 kilometers from Sarlat, on the right bank of the Dordogne. The address says it all: route de la plage de Caudon. From the pitches and accommodation, the river is at the foot of the campsite, with direct access. No shuttle bus, no car to catch: just grab your towel, your buoy or your fishing rod, cross the campsite and you’re there. This is often the first reflex of our campers on arrival.
Why choose La Bouysse for a camping holiday on the Dordogne?
- Direct access to the river from the campsite
- Caudon beach within walking distance
- Campsite in Vitrac, 6 km from Sarlat
- Pitches, mobile homes, chalets and gîtes
- On-site canoeing with Canoës Azur
- Bathing, fishing and relaxation without taking the car
- Additional swimming pool/aquatic area for families
Sleeping on the banks of the Dordogne : pitches and accommodation in La Bouysse
At La Bouysse, your stay really begins outside: the traditional pitches and accommodation take advantage of a privileged natural environment, just a stone’s throw from the Dordogne river. You’ll come here to rediscover the spirit of waterside camping: have breakfast in peace and quiet, walk to the beach, swim at the end of the day or go fishing without having to take the car.
Campers who like their vacations simple and close to nature can reserve a camping pitch for tent, caravan or motorhome.
For added comfort, the campsite also offers mobile homes, chalets and gîtes for rent, suitable for families, couples or groups of friends who want to enjoy the Dordogne with the services of a 3-star campsite near Sarlat.
Whether you choose a traditional pitch or fully-equipped accommodation, La Bouysse lets you enjoy a Dordogne vacation as close as possible to the river, with swimming, canoeing, fishing, a pool and the chance to discover the Périgord Noir.
The Dordogne : a river classified as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO
The Dordogne is an ideal destination for family camping vacations. Its river, classified as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO along its entire course, offers an unspoilt natural setting, perfect for enjoying nature, swimming with the kids, fishing or gliding quietly along in a canoe-kayak.
In summer, the water of the Dordogne is clear, shallow and calm enough for children and adults alike to feel at ease. The river is also home to an abundance of wildlife: perch, pike, carp and migratory fish, as well as herons, which are often spotted on the banks. Here, swimming, fishing and strolling along the river take on a whole new dimension.
La Bouysse offers a privileged setting to make the most of it: a campsite on the banks of the Dordogne River, ideal for a simple, rejuvenating vacation with your feet in the water.
Vitrac beach and Caudon beach direct access from the campsite
There are two natural beaches just a few minutes from the campsite, each with its own character.
The Vitrac beach is the best-known in the valley. It offers wide-open spaces, shaded areas, picnic spots and a direct view of the cliffs that frame the river. It’s also the starting point for canoeing trips. Enthusiasts arrive early to avoid the midday rush. Families, groups of friends, couples: there’s something for everyone.
The Caudon beach is just opposite the campsite, accessible on foot along the shore. The scenery here is more restrained: an imposing rock, pebbles mixed with sand, a few trees providingshade in the hot summer hours and transparent water that lets you see the bottom. It’s a less crowded, quieter beach, often preferred by those seeking to swim without the crowds. Campsite regulars know it well. It’s often where they end their afternoons.
Canoeing on the Dordogne River from camping La Bouysse
The Canoës Azur base is located on the campsite site. You can rent a canoe or kayak directly from the campsite. The fleet comprises 30 boats. The activity is open to children aged 5 and over, provided they know how to swim and are comfortable in the water. Suitable life jackets are provided.
Two routes are available, depending on the time available and the mood:
- 12 km: from Calviac to La Bouysse campsite for 2 to 3 hours of descent, away from the busiest areas.
- 15 km: from the campsite to Château de Beynac, the most emblematic route, with several possible stops on the pebble beaches for swimming or picnicking.
What makes these descents special is the freedom they offer. The river meanders between cliffs, forests and listed villages. The castles of Périgord appear as you meander: Castelnaud, founded in the 12th century; Beynac, perched on its spur. Périgord is nicknamed the region of 1,001 castles, and from the water, it’s easy to see why.
The base is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Reservations recommended in high season. Bring water shoes / closed-toe sneakers and sun cream.
River fishing in the Dordogne
Want to enjoy the river in a different way during your vacation? The Dordogne is an ideal place for fishing, whether you’re an enthusiast or just curious. You’ll find a wide range of species, including perch, carp, tench, pike and whitefish.
From our riverside campsite, everything is easy. Fishing cards are on sale at reception, so there’s no need to run into town. Once you’ve settled in, all you have to do is choose a quiet spot by the water and enjoy the moment.
It’s the perfect way to slow down, observe nature and enjoy family time together. It’s easy for children to get started, thanks in particular to the numerous white fish along the banks.
Respect the regulations: depending on where you land, opening dates and minimum catch sizes change. No-kill runs, where the fish must be released, are also very common to preserve the resource.