Camping Near Oktoberfest
On a budget or love the outdoors? Camping is a popular option for Oktoberfest visitors. Here's everything you need to know about camping near the Wiesn.
Camping at Oktoberfest - Your Options
Munich offers several camping options for Oktoberfest visitors, from famous backpacker camps to proper campgrounds. It's the cheapest accommodation option and a great way to meet fellow festival-goers.
Campsites Near Munich
The Tent (Das Zelt)
In den Kirschen 30, 80992 Munich
Munich's legendary backpacker camp. Not exactly camping - it's a huge permanent tent with floor space where you roll out your sleeping bag on foam mats. Famous among budget travelers during Oktoberfest.
Price
€15-25/night
Distance to Wiesn
~30 min by public transport
Transport
Tram 17 to Botanischer Garten, then U1 to Theresienwiese
Pros
- +Cheapest option in Munich
- +Great social atmosphere
- +Hot showers included
- +Lockers available
Cons
- -No privacy - large shared tent
- -Can be noisy
- -Limited availability during Oktoberfest
- -Book months in advance
Campingplatz München Thalkirchen
Zentrallandstraße 49, 81379 Munich
The closest proper campsite to the city center, located along the Isar river in the green Thalkirchen district. Offers tent pitches, caravan spots, and basic cabins.
Price
€12-18/person + €8-12/pitch
Distance to Wiesn
~20 min by public transport
Transport
U3 Thalkirchen station is a 10-minute walk, then direct to Goetheplatz (2 stops from Theresienwiese)
Pros
- +Closest campsite to Theresienwiese
- +Beautiful location on the Isar
- +Well-maintained facilities
- +Supermarket nearby
Cons
- -Very popular - books out early
- -Can be muddy in rain
- -Minimum stay requirements during Oktoberfest
Campingplatz München-Obermenzing
Lochhausener Straße 59, 81247 Munich
A quieter option in the northwest of Munich. More space, less party atmosphere. Good for families or those wanting a calmer base.
Price
€10-15/person + €8-10/pitch
Distance to Wiesn
~35 min by public transport
Transport
S2 to Obermenzing, then bus or walk to campsite. S-Bahn goes direct to Hackerbrücke near Theresienwiese
Pros
- +More peaceful atmosphere
- +Larger pitches
- +Good for caravans/motorhomes
- +Less crowded
Cons
- -Further from the city center
- -Limited public transport at night
- -Basic facilities
Wild Camping - Not Allowed!
Wild camping (camping outside designated campgrounds) is illegal in Bavaria and strictly enforced in Munich, especially during Oktoberfest. Police regularly patrol parks and green spaces. Fines start at €50 and can go much higher. Don't risk it - use an official campsite.
Camping Packing List
Sleeping bag (rated for 5°C - it gets cold in late September!)
Sleeping pad or air mattress
Tent (unless staying at The Tent)
Warm layers - evenings can drop to 5-10°C
Rain gear - Munich weather is unpredictable
Padlock for locker storage
Ear plugs - campsite can be noisy at night
Portable phone charger
Flip-flops for shared showers
Cash - some campsite facilities are coin-operated
Budget Comparison
Camping (The Tent)
€15-25/night
Pros
- + Cheapest, social atmosphere
Cons
- - No privacy, basic facilities
Camping (Thalkirchen)
€20-30/night
Pros
- + Proper campsite, good location
Cons
- - Books early, still basic
Hostel
€50-120/night
Pros
- + Indoor, lockers, social
Cons
- - Shared rooms, can be noisy
Budget Hotel
€150-300/night
Pros
- + Private room, comfort
Cons
- - Expensive during Oktoberfest
City Center Hotel
€300-800/night
Pros
- + Full comfort, close to everything
Cons
- - Very expensive, books months ahead
Insider Tip
If you're camping at Thalkirchen, take a morning swim in the Isar before heading to the Wiesn - it's the perfect hangover cure and the river is surprisingly clean. The Flaucher swimming spot is a 5-minute walk from the campsite.
Camping FAQ
When should I book a campsite for Oktoberfest?
As early as possible! The Tent and Thalkirchen campsite typically sell out by June/July for the Oktoberfest period. Obermenzing usually has availability longer.
Is it safe to camp during Oktoberfest?
Yes, the official campsites are safe. They have security, lighting, and locked facilities. Standard camping safety rules apply - lock valuables, don't leave belongings unattended.
Can I park a campervan near Oktoberfest?
The Theresienwiese area has no campervan parking. Campingplatz Obermenzing and Thalkirchen accept campervans. There are also paid campervan parking areas on Munich's outskirts with P+R connections.
How cold does it get in late September?
Nighttime temperatures in Munich can drop to 3-8°C in late September/early October. Bring a warm sleeping bag rated for at least 5°C and extra layers.
Can I store my bags at the campsite during the day?
Most campsites offer lockers or storage areas. The Tent has lockers for a small fee. Keep valuables with you at the festival.