A few months before our trip, I ordered our camping gear from Amazon, excited, but completely unsure when or how we’d actually use it. My husband and I were eager to try something new as a family: spending time outdoors, unplugging from screens, and creating simple memories with our children.
Since this was our very first family camping trip, we didn’t want to venture anywhere too isolated or remote with young kids. We searched online for beginner-friendly camping sites around Lake Balaton and picked a sunny weekend in June to pack up the car and set off on our adventure.
Here is our honest experience camping at Lake Balaton, what we learned along the way, and practical tips for camping in Hungary with kids.
Choosing the Campsite: Napfény Camping in Révfülöp
After a smooth two-hour drive from Budapest, we arrived at our destination:Napfény Camping, located in Révfülöp on the northern shore of Lake Balaton.
As first-time campers, we were relieved to find a clean, well-organized campsite that catered perfectly to families with young children.
Campsite Amenities & Facilities:
- Private Sandy Beach: Safe, shallow water entry ideal for toddlers and young kids.
- Family Activities: A playground, mini-golf course, and dedicated bike rental station.
- On-Site Essentials: Clean shower blocks, modern restrooms, grocery markets, and local restaurants.
Walking around the site was inspiring, we passed elaborate camper vans, large family tents, and seasoned campers with impressive outdoor setups. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxed and welcoming.
Packing Checklist for Camping with Kids in Hungary
What We Packed (And Recommend):
4-Person Family Tent: Easy to pitch and spacious enough for two adults and two kids.
Inflatable Air Mattress & Sleeping Bags: Essential for a good night’s sleep.
Kid-Friendly Gear: Beach toys, scooters, and lightweight extra clothing layers.
What We Forgot (Lessons Learned!):
Folding Camping Table & Chairs: Sitting on the ground gets old fast when eating meals.
Camping Pillows: We improvised with folded jackets, but proper travel pillows are a must.
Camp Stove or Portable Grill: While on-site restaurants were convenient, having a stove for morning coffee would have been ideal.
Highlights of Our Camping Trip at Lake Balaton
Pitching our tent turned out to be surprisingly easy, and the kids were thrilled with the novelty of sleeping outdoors.
We kept meals simple, grabbing lunches at local beachside bistros (büfés) and picking up snacks from the campsite market. A short walk took us directly into the charming town centre of Révfülöp, packed with ice cream stands, shops, and family-friendly waterfront areas.
Top Activities for Families in Révfülöp:
Stargazing & Unplugging: Evening walks along the shoreline without digital distractions.
Lake Swimming & Paddle Boating: Spending hours building sandcastles on the lake shore and renting a paddleboat with a slide.
Cycling the Balaton Bike Trail: Renting bicycles with a child trailer cart to explore the paved, scenic bike paths surrounding Lake Balaton.
Is Camping in Hungary Worth It with Kids?
This trip reminded us how little children actually need to be happy: sunshine, open space, water, and focused quality time together.
Yes, we forgot a few essentials, and yes, sleeping in a tent takes some getting used to! But the sense of freedom and joint adventure made it unforgettable. We left sun-kissed, exhausted, and already planning our next outdoor trip (this time, with proper pillows!).
Have you been camping with your family? Or are you planning your first trip? I’d love to hear your stories or questions in the comments below! 💬 Subscribe to Szia Soul for more.