Caravan storage overcrowded: can you just park a camper or caravan on the street?

Camping spirit continues to grow

The Netherlands now has more than 627,000 camping vehicles. That is almost twice as many as ten years ago. Especially the camper is on the rise. According to Gaspedaal.nl, there were as many as 85% more searches for camper vans in the first quarter of 2025 than in the same period last year. So the popularity of camping is still on the rise.

But all those camper vans also need somewhere to be when they are not in use. Long-term street parking is prohibited in most municipalities, so those who do not have space on their own property rely on professional storage.

Eight in ten stalls (almost) full

Gaspedaal.nl surveyed availability at more than 250 caravan and motorhome stalls in the Netherlands. Only 20% of the providers currently still have space for new vehicles. The remaining locations are full or work with waiting lists. In many cases there is only room for smaller models or occasional space is available.

Average cost: 440 euros per year

Those who do manage to secure a spot pay an average of 440 euros per year for it. In addition, parking a camper van is usually slightly more economical than parking a caravan. This is mainly due to the dimensions: a camper like the popular Volkswagen California is more compact than many caravans.

The price differences between provinces are significant. South Holland is the most expensive with an average of over 600 euros per year. Flevoland, with an average of 488 euros, is also well above the national average. Groningen is the cheapest, with an average storage price of about 300 euros. Drenthe and Utrecht are also relatively affordable.

Price depends on more than just size

Rates vary not only by region, but also by storage facility. Some providers charge per linear meter, others charge fixed amounts per object or per square meter. In addition, there are numerous factors that affect the price.

Covered or heated storage logically costs more than a spot in an open field. Amenities such as camera surveillance, power connection, pick-up and drop-off service or the ability to have your vehicle washed or serviced can also drive up the price.

Can’t you just park on the street then?

Most municipalities allow you to park a camper or caravan in the same spot on the public highway for a maximum of three consecutive days. That term sometimes varies by municipality – from 24 hours to seven days – but exceeding it in any case results in a fine of 129 euros.

CJIB reports that the number of fines for long-term parking has increased fivefold over the past decade. Utrecht leads the list with the most fines, followed by Eindhoven, Bodegraven-Reeuwijk and Amsterdam, among others. So municipalities are actively checking. Just moving the vehicle to another parking spot in the street does not help: time does not start running again.

You can apply for a waiver

Those who want to park longer for maintenance or a move, for example, can apply to the municipality for an exemption. The cost for this varies by municipality, but is usually between 45 and 75 euros.

Storing caravan in the garden

Whether you can place a caravan in your yard depends on where you live. Municipalities each have their own rules and conditions, often laid down in the General Municipal Regulations. In some cases, you may temporarily place a caravan in your backyard, provided the caravan is not too large and out of sight. If you want to leave the caravan longer or use it as an extra residence, chances are you will need a permit.

Smart search pays off

It also pays to look just across the provincial border when looking for a storage facility. A few kilometers away, the cost can be considerably lower. Especially in the west of the country, prices are on the high side, while in the north and east of the Netherlands you are more likely to find an affordable place.

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