You're heading out on a wild trek in complete self-sufficiency, or perhaps a three-day hiking trip in a remote corner of nature far from civilisation. And you're tempted by bivvying. This experience out in the wild isn't always straightforward, however — it's regulated, you can't do it just anywhere, and it requires specific equipment. To save yourself problems and mishaps, and above all to make the most of this peaceful outdoor rest, we recommend following a few key rules. Here is everything you need to know about bivvying.
Key takeaways:
- A bivvy takes place in the heart of nature and involves setting up a rudimentary, temporary and lightweight camp.
- It is a regulated activity and it is not possible to pitch a tent just anywhere in France.
- It's not advisable to head out for a bivvy on a whim — it's far better to bring equipment such as a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, a tent and a stove.
- Choosing where to spend the night is no trivial matter, and it's essential to pitch your tent before nightfall.
- France has 11 national parks and 58 regional nature parks for bivvying in the best possible conditions.
- Bivvying allows you to reconnect with nature, and it's important to respect it so that other lovers of the great outdoors can enjoy it too.
What is a bivvy?
What is a bivvy?
Before heading off on an adventure, you need to start by understanding what a bivvy is. It is a rudimentary, temporary and lightweight camp. It is practised across natural environments, often during leisure activities such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering or cycling. The principle is to set up camp at sunset and head off again the following day. Hikers generally prefer to sleep in a lightweight tent, a hammock, or to do a bivvy without a tent, under the stars. Unlike traditional camping, a bivvy is characterised by its minimalist and mobile nature. Equipment and gear are kept to a minimum so you only carry what you need to sleep in decent conditions.
Going on a bivvy is the perfect opportunity to live an immersive experience in nature. It's a great way to take a break from daily life and reconnect both with nature and with the people who matter to you. The activity delivers intense emotions and, above all, the chance to be fully present in the moment. Practising it independently in a natural environment brings you back to life's simple pleasures. You'll need to meet your basic needs in rudimentary conditions, all while taking in stunning landscapes and a truly memorable experience. Another advantage of bivvying is that it's accessible to everyone. Seasoned hikers and young children alike can try a night out, whether high in the mountains or just a few kilometres from home.
The difference between a bivvy and wild camping
What is the difference between bivvying and wild camping? While both activities involve setting up camp in nature, it's worth knowing that they are quite different. Bivvying is regulated and favoured by nature lovers, who want to take an overnight break along their route before heading off again.
On the other hand, wild camping is often practised by travellers who decide to pitch their tent in order to spend several nights in an area where camping is normally prohibited (fields, roadsides, beaches…). Wild camping is illegal in France. It poses a particular threat to fragile ecosystems due to poorly managed campfires, abandoned waste and trampled sites.
What are the regulations in France?
While some European countries such as Norway allow bivvying almost anywhere in nature, France is a different story. With no clear legal distinction between bivvying and wild camping, many areas prohibit pitching a tent. Regulations have been put in place to protect the environment. Those who fail to comply face fines of up to €1,500.
Under article R111-33 of the French Urban Planning Code, bivvying is prohibited, except by special exemption:
- In nature reserves and protected or classified forests and woodlands;
- on public roads and highways;
- within the perimeter of classified heritage sites;
- within 200 m of a drinking water source;
- on beaches and coastal areas.
Certain areas such as national parks and regional nature parks are generally accessible for bivvying, but the activity is also subject to specific regulations. You should therefore check the rules specific to your chosen location before heading out on a hiking trip. As a general rule, bivvying is permitted for one night in areas immediately surrounding refuges or hiking trails. A lightweight tent may only be pitched from sunset to sunrise.
In any case, rules always apply to bivvying or wild camping. It is your responsibility to find out what they are and to comply with them. If bivvying is prohibited, don't push your luck — look for alternative solutions. If there's a fee, pay it. And when in doubt, always ask for permission. That said, many locations remain open to those who practise responsibly and with good sense. Bear in mind that every instance of bad behaviour is another step towards stricter bans.
Tips for a successful mountain bivvy
You're heading out on a wild trek in complete self-sufficiency, or perhaps a 3-day hiking trip in a remote corner of nature far from civilisation. And you're tempted by bivvying. Here are a few rules to help you avoid problems and mishaps, and above all make the most of this peaceful outdoor rest.
What gear do you need for a bivvy?
You need to head out with a minimum of bivvy kit. You can't just head off to sleep in the wild on a whim — you'll be asking for trouble! Here is the list of basic items you need for a successful bivvy:
- Sleeping bag: always choose a sleeping bag of quality with a comfort temperature rating suited to the conditions you'll encounter. If you're torn between 2 comfort zones, go for the one rated for the colder of the two. It's a precaution well worth taking.
- Sleeping mat: self-inflating mats are now available in slim profiles and are very practical to carry. They're not the most comfortable option, but they're usually enough for a decent night's sleep.
- Tent: choose a hiking tent suited to the conditions. At altitude, you'll need a low-profile tent to shelter from the wind. Models with a small porch are preferable — ideal for cooking under cover and stowing shoes and your pack for the night.
- Stove: petrol stoves are the preferred option for your bivvy meals if you're travelling abroad, whereas in our part of the world (without air travel), gas will do the job. Multi-fuel options are worth looking into closely based on pricing to avoid multiple purchases.
In even mildly hostile terrain (or frankly anywhere), a hiking hammock is an appealing and practical option. However, make sure you sleep across the width of the hammock to avoid a deep sag and significant muscle aches.
Finally, never forget water filters and/or purification tablets — they are essential for your health and safety.
Choosing a spot for your bivvy
Beyond the regulations mentioned above, common sense is also essential when choosing your spot. Here are a few basic rules to know.
- Keep away from roads, paths and tracks.
- Also avoid camping near livestock or watercourses whose flow can change rapidly. As a general rule, keep away from low-lying areas, rivers and water sources. Gain a little height relative to these natural features. Your bivvy will be all the more enjoyable for it!
- It goes without saying — also steer well clear of cliff edges, sheer drops, caves and high-risk terrain.
- You can favour grassy areas or spots near small trees, but avoid if possible pitching at the foot of very large trees with heavy branches.
- Finally, before settling on the right spot for your bivvy, do a quick inspection of the surrounding area within a 50-metre radius — it saves all kinds of nasty surprises!
Pitching your tent
Don't wait too long to pitch your tent — it should actually be the very first thing you do once you've carefully chosen your spot. Pick a flat area and clear it of any stones.
If you find dry grass nearby, you can lay some down to create a kind of natural bedding. Also observe the wind direction and orient your tent so that the entrance is sheltered from it.
Finally, if you're expecting rain, dig a drainage channel around the tent to channel away the water.
Making a fire
Here too, the rules in force must be strictly followed. Very often, fires are simply prohibited. On top of that, a fire has an impact on the area concerned. The use of fire is therefore only recommended in extreme emergencies (to counter the cold or to signal your position).
Leave no trace
Inspect the area before leaving to make sure you leave no waste or food scraps behind. Make sure you take all rubbish and litter with you — sometimes even what was left by previous visitors. Bury any human waste in holes fifteen to twenty centimetres deep, dug away from the camp, paths and water sources. Cover each hole once your bivvy is over.
Never leave food at a bivvy site for wild animals. It can obviously be harmful to their health and encourage unnatural behaviour if this kind of thing happens regularly. What's more, it draws wild animals towards campsites.
Where can you go bivvying in France?
As mentioned above, bivvying is a regulated activity. So where exactly are you allowed to bivvy? The best spots are in national or regional parks. France is fortunate to have 11 national parks: the Forêt, La Vanoise, Port-Cros, Écrins, Mercantour, Cévennes, Pyrénées, Guadeloupe, La Réunion, Amazonie de Guyane and Calanques national parks. And if that's not enough, there are also 58 regional nature parks.
Once again, bivvying is regulated within these natural areas. It is, for example, strictly prohibited throughout the Port-Cros, Calanques and Amazonie de Guyane national parks. It is also not permitted in the heart of the Forêts or Mercantour national parks.
In most other national parks, bivvying is generally permitted. However, you must set up camp more than one hour's walk from the park boundaries, near refuges, for one night only, and only within hours that typically range from 7 pm to 9 am. The best approach is to check the website of your chosen park to make sure you're organised accordingly. A trekking trip over two or three days can be a great way to start bivvying and get familiar with the experience.
Finally, one last piece of advice… enjoy it! A bivvy gives you a truly precious and unique sense of freedom. A night in the heart of nature is a rare thing these days, and it's worth savouring every moment. By following our advice and your own common sense, you're now well equipped to make every future experience a pure pleasure. All that's left is to go for it — hit the trails and discover the bivvy experience for yourself.
Photos: ©Cyrille Quintard
