Bivouacs are made without heavy equipment or with minimal shelter, or even without shelter under the stars. This type of improvised camp must be set up after 7pm and removed before 9am.
Bivouacs are not permitted everywhere in the Pays de Gex Monts Jura, where there are two distinct areas. Regulations differ between the Haute-Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve and the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park!
Before taking full advantage of the magic of the night, a quick look at the restrictions is in order.
Haute Chaine du Jura National Nature Reserve
Les restrictions à connaitre
In the Haute-Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, tents, tarps and other shelters are strictly forbidden. However, you do have the right to enjoy the beautiful starry sky!
There are several refuges in the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve that are open to the public to provide shelter, especially in bad weather.
Discover the refuges
Fires are not permitted. Gas stoves permitted.
For more information on the regulations governing the National Nature Reserve. Click here for more information!
jaut-jura regional nature park
Les restrictions à connaitre
In the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, bivouacs with tents are permitted, except in certain special cases. Tents must be set up close to signposted paths, villages or refuges to reduce the environmental impact.
Sleeping with or without a tent is forbidden in the areas covered by the Prefectural Orders for the Protection of the Biotope (APPB) of the “Haut-Jura High-Altitude Forest”, from 15 December to 30 June.
The zones are as follows:
- The Massacre forest,
- Ban-Arobiers Wood,
- The Risoux forest,
- The Haute-Joux forest,
- The Combe Noire forest.
Unlike wild camping, bivouacs are generally permitted in France, although there are certain exceptions and rules to be observed to protect the environment and its inhabitants (fauna, flora and local population).
Bear in mind that, whatever the location, you may be on private land. Ask yourself the right question: “Am I allowed to spend the night here?
Need more information?
Some communes have set up areas that can accommodate tents. Please contact us to find out more.
Adopting a responsible and respectful attitude in all circumstances
Les bonnes pratiques
- After my visit, I collect ALL my rubbish, including organic waste and toilet paper.
- To respect nature as much as possible, I use as many degradable products as possible, especially for personal hygiene and washing my utensils. I don’t dump my waste water.
- I don’t make fires and use a stove on a stable area at a distance from the vegetation. I find out about prefectural decrees banning fires, especially in times of drought.
our top tips
🌙 For a good night’s sleep
- A floor mat, or even better: a compact inflatable mattress. Comfort + space saving = the perfect combo.
- A sleeping bag adapted to the season: thicker for winter, lighter for summer.
- If you’re not too keen on the cold, you can opt for a minimalist but effective meat bag.
- A tent? Not compulsory, but it can make all the difference depending on the weather!
🔥 For cooking like a pro (or almost)
- A practical, space-saving folding gas stove. Don’t forget the gas cartridge!
- Lightweight, stackable camping crockery is the best.
- A filtering water bottle or hydration bag with purifying tablets for safe drinking.
- Camping cutlery and above all… your trusty Opinel!
🧰 The little extras that make all the difference
- Safety pins (multi-purpose, always useful)
- Headlamp to keep your hands free
- Lighter or firelighter (this is no joke)
- Appropriate clothing: warm, waterproof, windproof
- Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots
- First-aid kit: bandages, disinfectant, compresses, survival blanket.
- A minimalist toiletry kit: glove, soap, solid shampoo and toothpaste
For ideas on hiking in the Haute Chaîne du Jura, please visit our dedicated page: here!
Thematics
