As summer draws to a close, there’s no better way to savor its final moments than with a peaceful weekend at Tonsee. Nestled in the Dahme-Spreewald region, this lakeside retreat offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities, making it an ideal escape for those looking to unwind before the season ends.
Located by the small, clear lake of Tonsee in Brandenburg, Wald- und Naturcampingplatz am Tonsee Süd is a serene and secluded camping spot. Despite its remote feel, the campsite is easily accessible via public transport, making it a convenient destination for a last-minute getaway. The nearest town, Groß Köris, is quaint and small, adding to the campsite’s peaceful atmosphere.
The campsite offers basic amenities such as running water and bathroom facilities with showers. However, it also includes some thoughtful extras like a covered pavilion with a lounge area, picnic tables, and a mini-kitchen equipped with a stovetop. The well-maintained campgrounds are divided between a hilltop area and a lakeside section, both offering shaded spots. The friendly staff is always ready to assist, though they might be occasionally hard to find, and cold drinks are available for purchase.
One of the highlights of Naturcampingplatz is its balanced atmosphere. It manages to maintain the calm of stricter Brandenburg campsites while still fostering a sense of community among campers. The grounds are a mix of permanent camping spots and regular tent sites, encouraging interaction among visitors.
In the evenings, the campsite comes alive with a gentle hum of activity. Older couples gather around portable TVs, friends play cards, and parents strum soft guitar tunes for their children. For those who prefer a later night, the pavilion offers a perfect spot to share beers and conversations at the picnic tables without disturbing others.
The Lake
Tonsee, though small, offers a variety of beach experiences. Directly accessible from the campsite are shaded, flat dirt spaces near the lake, reminiscent of Krumme Lanke or Schlachtensee, providing a quiet spot for those seeking solitude.
A five-minute walk from the campsite leads to two sandy beaches. The first is FKK-friendly and features a small floating dock that’s perfect for early arrivals. The second beach is more family-oriented, staying sunny until late in the day, making it a good choice for afternoon visitors. These beaches, along with a grassy area beyond, are managed by a different campsite and require a €2 daily fee. The fee collector makes rounds, so there’s no need to check in.
Although the paid beaches lack amenities such as bathrooms or water fountains, there are ways to enjoy the lake without the cost. By continuing along the path to where the tall grass begins, you’ll find plenty of space and direct lake access without the need to pay.
Rest and Relaxation
As September ushers in cooler evenings, the Naturcampingplatz offers a unique advantage: a spacious wood-fired sauna overlooking the campsite. The sauna can accommodate up to eight people and features a shower and a large deck with recliners, providing a perfect spot to relax between sauna sessions. A cozy ‘waiting’ room is also available for those who want to acclimate before entering the sauna.
For those not keen on saunas, the campsite offers other ways to enjoy the weekend. Activities such as forest bathing and fire-making courses are available, and yoga classes are offered, though they only run regularly until the end of August. To extend your relaxation, consider joining one of the two yoga retreats scheduled for September. The Wild Femininity Retreat, designed for women over 40, runs from September 3-6 (€260 plus overnight fees), while the Late Summer Retreat is set for September 6-8 (€160 plus overnight fees). If these retreats are fully booked, don’t worry—a simple weekend by the lake after a summer of outdoor adventures can be just as rejuvenating.
At a Glance
Getting There:
Train: Take the RE7 towards Senftenberg and get off at Groß Köris. From there, it’s a 10-minute cycle or a 35-minute walk to the campsite. Alternatively, you can take the 726 or 727 bus towards Klein Köris, which reduces the walking time by 20 minutes. Note that bus services may be less frequent in the afternoons.
Car: The campsite is approximately a 45-minute drive southeast of the city.
Hours & Pricing:
Stays start at €20 per night, which includes a €10 pitch fee for a small tent and €10 per guest. Additional amenities and services, such as showers (€1 for 4 minutes) and electricity for caravans and motorhomes (€3.50 per day for the first three days, €0.75 per day thereafter), are available at extra cost.