Nature road trip: the Jura lakes and Hérisson waterfalls by campervan

Discover the Jura’s hidden gems: turquoise lakes, roaring waterfalls and untouched landscapes. A 100% nature itinerary for road-trippers in a campervan.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 27 June 2026

Between deep forests and shimmering waters, the Jura is a land of contrasts where nature speaks without restraint. Here, you don’t need to travel far to find wonder: the lakes of Chalain and Clairvaux, the Hérisson waterfalls and secret viewpoints await, all accessible even to the widest vehicles. Ready to hit the road?

Lac de Chalain

This alpine lake with crystal-clear waters is an ideal spot for swimming, paddleboarding or a lakeside stroll. Its wild setting, surrounded by limestone cliffs, makes it a magical place for a nature break.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping à la ferme — Chevrotaine Campsite ★ 4.8 Secluded forest clearing, pay what you wish (£5). Car access 6 min, 4.9/5 from 90 reviews. › Scierie des Lacs Campsite ★ 4.8 Mini-farm and waterfalls 2.5 km away, very quiet. 4.8/5, 6 min drive. › Parking behind town hall Monnet-la-ville Parking ★ 4.4 Free municipal car park, Voie Verte nearby. 4.4/5, 6 min drive. › Camping-Car Park Marigny Motorhome area ★ 3.1 5-10 min from the beach, full amenities. £16/night, 16 min walk. › Parking forest path Hauteroche Parking ★ 4.3 Secluded forest pitch, 4G depending on provider. 4.4/5, 5 min drive. ›

Lac de Clairvaux

Less crowded than its neighbour Chalain, this lake offers a peaceful atmosphere and preserved landscapes. Perfect for a hike around its shores or a picnic by the water.

Where to sleep nearby

Scierie des Lacs Campsite ★ 4.8 Exceptional natural setting 18 min walk, mini-farm and play area. 4.8/5, 407 reviews, £10-15/night. › Aire Camping-Car Clairvaux-les-Lacs Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Modern aire 8 km from the lake, electricity and hardstanding. 4.1/5, 100 reviews, £11/night. › Isolated parking in the wild Bonlieu Parking ★ 4.6 Large secluded meadow 5 km away, absolute peace. 4.6/5, 123 reviews, free. › Camping à la ferme — Chevrotaine Campsite ★ 4.8 Forest clearing 5 km away, pay what you wish (£5). 4.9/5, 90 reviews, shaded. › Woodland parking near waterfall La Frasnée Parking ★ 4.7 Shaded car park 8 km away, waterfall nearby. 4.7/5, 19 reviews, free. ›

Cascades du Hérisson

Seven spectacular waterfalls follow one another along the Hérisson river, with breathtaking viewpoints. A well-maintained path allows you to admire this classified natural site with ease.

Where to sleep nearby

Scierie des Lacs Campsite ★ 4.8 18 min walk from the waterfalls, mini-farm and children’s play area. Absolute peace, compost toilets and water fountain. › Camping à la ferme — Chevrotaine Campsite ★ 4.8 Secluded forest clearing, £5 for electricity. 5 min drive, shaded and secure pitch. › Isolated parking in the wild Bonlieu Parking ★ 4.6 Large natural meadow, access via stony track. 6 min drive, vast and very quiet. › Aire Camping-Car Clairvaux-les-Lacs Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Modern aire 8 min drive, £11/night. Grass pitches with electricity, close to the lake. › Belvedere parking Bonlieu Parking ★ 4.6 Stunning view over Lac de Bonlieu, 4-5 pitches. 7 min drive, very quiet at night. ›

Belvédère de la Roche au Dade

This viewpoint offers an unrivalled view over Lac de Chalain and the surrounding mountains. Accessible by car, it’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable sunset.

Where to sleep nearby

Isolated parking in the wild Bonlieu Parking ★ 4.6 Large secluded meadow on a plateau, stony access. Remarkable peace, plenty of space. › Camping à la ferme — Chevrotaine Campsite ★ 4.8 Secluded forest clearing, pay what you wish (£5 for electricity). Shaded and secure pitch for vans. › Scierie des Lacs Campsite ★ 4.8 18 min walk from the Cascades du Hérisson. Mini-farm, play area, compost toilets, water fountain. › Aire Camping-Car Clairvaux-les-Lacs Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Modern aire 8 min from Clairvaux-les-Lacs. £11/night, grass pitches with electricity. › Woodland parking near waterfall La Frasnée Parking ★ 4.7 Shaded car park at the foot of a waterfall. Picturesque setting with tables and benches in the woods. ›

Fort des Rousses

A former military fortress, this historic site overlooks Lac des Rousses and offers guided tours. Its spacious car park makes access easy for campervans.

Where to sleep nearby

Hiking trailhead parking La Bourbe Les Rousses Parking ★ 4.3 Uninterrupted view over Lac des Rousses. 6 pitches, 5 min drive. › Free parking near playground Les Rousses Parking ★ 4.2 Close to the town centre and shops. Large flat car park, 10 min walk. › Upper station parking Les Rousses Parking ★ 4.1 Large tarmac plateau, clear view of lake and mountains. 42 min walk, quiet. › Route du Tabagnoz, Les Rousses Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Spacious and flat, at the foot of the slopes. 49 min walk, quiet at night. › Motorhome area Parking de l'Aube Les Rousses Motorhome area ★ 3 Drainage and drinking water services. Large car park near the centre, 17 min walk. ›

Reculée des Planches

This spectacular canyon, carved by the Loue river, is a renowned spot for hiking and climbing. The viewpoints provide dizzying panoramas over the cliffs and lush vegetation.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Au Cœur des Vignes Campsite ★ 4.2 Family-friendly campsite in the vineyards, free pool 10 min away. 4.2/5, 26 min walk. › Quiet parking hiking start La Châtelaine Parking ★ 4.2 Mountain car park, absolute peace. Viewpoint access 300 m away, 34 min walk. › Parking near tourist office toilets Salins-les-Bains Parking ★ 4.4 Central car park in Salins, near the Salines. 2-3 pitches, 8 min drive. › Vineyard viewpoint Pupillin Parking ★ 4.5 Viewpoint over vineyards, flat pitch. 125 reviews, 49 min walk. › Municipal riverside motorhome area Salins-les-Bains Motorhome area ★ 2.7 Free aire in the town centre, river view. 111 reviews, 8 min drive. ›

See all spots on the map