Eco-Friendly Camping: Protecting the 5‑Hectare Private Lake and Forest Surroundings at Domaine des Messires
Looking for Eco-Friendly Camping where your holiday keeps nature pristine? At Domaine des Messires in the Vosges, a 5‑hectare private lake with spring‑fed, high‑quality water and a 12‑hectare wooded park set the scene for swimming, paddling, and quiet nights under the trees. This guide shows how small, simple choices from arrival to departure help protect the lake, forest, and wildlife—so every guest can enjoy crystal‑clear water, shaded pitches, and unspoiled trails.
You’ll learn how the site works, easy low‑impact habits for the beach and your pitch, best practices for catch‑and‑release fishing, and sustainable ways to explore the Vosges by foot or bike.
Know the place you’re protecting
Domaine des Messires sits at the end of a small road, surrounded by forest and meadows—in the heart of the Vosges Mountains.
- 5‑hectare private lake with excellent water quality, constantly fed by springs.
- Swim, canoe and paddle on calm water; canoes and paddles are provided free of charge during your stay.
- No‑kill fishing is permitted for guests on the lake’s shores; bring your own tackle.
- Sandy beach with deckchairs and umbrellas for relaxing and picnicking.
- 120 spacious pitches blend into a 12‑hectare wooded park—by the lake, next to the stream, or in the cozy center.
- Every pitch has electricity (10A), cold water, and drainage, plus access to a modern, well‑maintained sanitary block.
- Pets are allowed on pitches.
- A bar‑restaurant terrace overlooks the water, perfect for coffee or a meal with mountain views.
- On site you’ll also find a cross‑country track for mountain biking, and mountain bike rentals are available.
Tip: If you love waking to water views, explore our lakeside pitch options: Lake location and Lake location comfort plus.
Low‑impact habits that make a big difference
Eco‑friendly camping isn’t about sacrifice; it’s about thoughtful choices that keep the lake clear and the forest alive for the next morning’s sunrise.
Keep the lake crystal‑clear
- Rinse off sunscreen and lotions well in advance and allow them to absorb before swimming; choose water‑friendly products when possible.
- Never wash dishes, clothes, or gear in the lake. Use the sanitary facilities and avoid detergents near the shoreline.
- Pack it in, pack it out. Secure all litter (even small items like tea tags or bottle caps) and keep the sandy beach spotless.
- Inflatables welcome—microplastics not. Avoid glitter, confetti, or single‑use decorations that can fragment.
Gentle fishing, healthy fish
- Catch and release only on the campsite lake. Land fish quickly and release them promptly.
- Wet your hands before handling to protect the fish’s slime coat; keep fish in the water as much as possible.
- Bring your own tackle and check your line frequently to prevent break‑offs.
Quiet shores, thriving wildlife
- Use marked paths and existing lake access points; avoid trampling vegetation and shoreline plantings.
- Give wildlife space. Observe birds and small mammals from a distance; never feed them.
- Travel with pets responsibly. Keep dogs under close control and collect waste to protect water quality.
Share the water and the gear
- Canoes and paddles are free to use. Share fairly, return equipment after your session, and stow it as directed so the next family can enjoy the lake.
- On the sandy beach, shake towels and gear away from the waterline to limit debris blowing into the lake.
Energy and waste sense on your pitch
Every pitch at Domaine des Messires includes electricity (10A), cold water, and drainage. A few smart habits keep your footprint light.
Smart power, safer stays
- Use the euro plug outlet provided at each pitch; bring an extension cord if needed.
- Electricity is included in the price, except for charging electric cars—please check arrangements at reception.
- Avoid high‑load appliances that can overload a 10A supply (common sense for comfort and safety).
Water and drainage, done right
- Connect correctly to drainage when available and keep grey water out of the soil and lake area.
- Hot water is free in the sanitary block—use facilities rather than washing at the pitch.
- Refill, don’t rebuy. Tap water is municipal and drinkable—carry a reusable bottle.
Smarter shopping, lighter bins
- Plan grocery runs to Bruyères (5 km) to consolidate car trips.
- Choose minimal packaging and reusable containers for picnics on the sandy beach or by your pitch.
- Sort and compact waste so nothing escapes on windy days.
Move sustainably in the Vosges
The Vosges are built for low‑impact exploration.
- Hike and bike directly from the campsite. Hundreds of miles of trails run through the Ballons des Vosges and Vosges du Nord natural parks.
- Ride the on‑site cross‑country track or rent a mountain bike for the day to discover forest loops.
- Vary your blue spaces. Nearby lakes—like Lake Gérardmer—offer swimming, pedal‑boats, windsurfing, and canoeing. You can walk or cycle the 6 km around Lake Gérardmer when you’re in town.
For inspiration, see: Discover the Vosges, What to do on Lac de Gérardmer, and Discover the picturesque lakes of the Vosges.
FAQs: Eco‑Friendly Camping at Domaine des Messires
- Is fishing allowed in the lake? Yes. Guests may fish for free on the campsite lake, catch‑and‑release (no‑kill) only. Bring your own tackle.
- Are canoes free to use? Yes. Canoes and paddles are provided free of charge during your stay.
- Is the tap water drinkable? Yes. It’s municipal drinking water—refill bottles to reduce plastic.
- Do I need tokens for hot water? No. Hot water is free in the sanitary facilities.
- Is electricity included? Yes, 10A is included in the price, except if you want to charge your electric car.
- Where can I buy groceries? In Bruyères (5 km)—combine errands to reduce car trips.
- Are pets allowed on pitches? Yes, pets are allowed on pitches.
Practical eco‑checklist before you arrive
- Reusable bottles, mugs, lunch boxes, and cutlery
- Quick‑dry towels; a small basin for washing up at facilities
- Biodegradable toiletries for use in sanitary blocks
- Headlamp or solar lamp instead of high‑wattage lights
- Lightweight tarp or mat to protect ground cover under your table
- Sealable trash and recycling bags; clips for windy conditions
- Compact first‑aid and repair kits (mend gear, don’t bin it)
- Fishing gear (for catch‑and‑release) if you plan to angle
- Bike helmet and basic tools if you’ll ride the cross‑country track
Do and Don’t at a glance
| Do | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Swim, paddle, and picnic—then leave no trace on the sandy beach. | Keeps wind‑blown litter out of the lake. |
| Use sanitary blocks for washing up; keep soaps away from the shoreline. | Protects the lake’s excellent, spring‑fed water quality. |
| Share and return free canoes and paddles promptly. | Ensures fair access and reduces wear. |
| Stick to paths and the cross‑country bike track. | Prevents erosion and protects plants and wildlife. |
| Refill from the drinkable tap water at your pitch. | Cuts single‑use plastic and transport emissions. |
| Check with reception about EV charging. | 10A power is included except EV charging; safe, fair use. |
Choose a pitch that supports your eco goals
Whether you want shade among the trees or water views, pitches are designed to fit the landscape—not the other way around. All include electricity (10A), water, and drainage and welcome up to 6 people.
| Pitch type | Surface | Inclusions | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake location | Typically around 100 m² (lakeside pitches from 80 m² to 120 m²) | Water + sewerage connection; Electricity 10A; Pets allowed | €32.25 per night |
| Lake location comfort plus | 150 m² (lakeside pitches from 150 m² to 200 m²) | Water + sewerage connection; Electricity 10A; Pets allowed | €39.25 per night |
Prefer a stay without your own equipment? The campsite also offers mobile homes, including mobile homes for people with reduced mobility (with ramp and wheelchair‑friendly areas).
Explore more nature‑friendly ideas nearby
- Water activities at Lac des Messires: swim, canoe, paddle, or relax on the sandy beach.
- Discover the Vosges: from the rounded peaks to valley paths across natural parks.
- What to see in Gérardmer: the lake, the Mérelle observatory, and family‑friendly walks.
- Discover the picturesque lakes of the Vosges: Longemer, Lispach, and more.
- Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park: hikes, bike rides, and summits.
- Le Champ de Roches (Rock Fields): a striking glacial stone field with an educational trail.
- Discover Épinal: good food, convivial squares, and easy day‑trip vibes.
Conclusion: Your light touch keeps the Vosges wild
Eco‑Friendly Camping at Domaine des Messires is about enjoying more—clear water, quiet trails, starlit nights—while using less. With a few mindful habits, you’ll help protect our 5‑hectare private lake, the 12‑hectare forested park, and the wildlife that make this place special.
Ready to sleep by the water and wake to birdsong? Book your Lake location or Lake location comfort plus pitch, or choose a mobile home for extra comfort. Call +33 (0)3 29 58 56 29 or book online and start planning a low‑impact stay in the Vosges.