More than just a parking space: Why private pitch hosts are the happier people

Quick Answer: Private pitch hosts are not simply landlords with a free meadow. They are part of a growing community that benefits from the wanderlust of others, creates genuine human connections, and incidentally generates a solid additional income. Those who open up their farm, property, or open space to motorhome travelers receive far more back than money.

Key Takeaways

• With over 1.6 million registered camping vehicles in Germany (as of 2026), the demand for private pitches is higher than ever before.
• According to industry estimates, private pitch hosts earn between 30 and 50 Euros per pitch per night, with an average of 100 to 120 occupied days per year.
• Under certain conditions, farmers and private individuals with land in Germany can have up to three pitches in outdoor areas approved without complex development planning.
• Legal basis, insurance, and a clear rental agreement are mandatory before the first guest checks in.
• Platforms like Campcruisers make marketing private pitches easy and far-reaching.
• Hosts frequently report increased well-being, new friendships, and a positive image for their business.
• Common mistakes include a lack of permits, unclear liability regulations, and underestimated infrastructure costs.

What does it mean to be a private pitch host?

A private pitch host provides a space on their own property to motorhome travelers or campers, usually for a nightly or weekly flat fee. The offering ranges from a simple meadow on a farm to a lovingly equipped pitch with electricity, sanitary facilities, and farm shop sales.

Unlike a commercial campsite operator, the private host often operates on a smaller scale, with fewer pitches and more personal contact with guests. This is precisely the crucial difference: motorhome travelers are increasingly seeking the authentic, the rural, the real. A pitch on a farm in Bavaria or a winery in Rhineland-Palatinate is more attractive to many campers than the next anonymous large campsite.

Who is suitable as a private host?

• Farmers with free yard space or meadows
• Private individuals with large properties in rural or semi-urban locations
• Winegrowers, fruit farmers, and other agricultural businesses
• Garden owners with sufficient space and access

More inspiration and practical tips on renting out motorhome pitches can be found in the Motorhome pitch rental category on the Campcruisers blog.

How much money can you earn with a private pitch?

Realistically, you can achieve between 30 and 50 euros per night per pitch. With an average occupancy of 100 to 120 occupied days per year, this results in an annual revenue of 3,000 to 6,000 euros per pitch. Therefore, someone operating three pitches can generate an additional income of 9,000 to 18,000 euros without much effort.

These figures come from calculation aids from the Bavarian State Institute for Agriculture (LfL Bayern, as of 03/2025) and align with practical experience.

Factors influencing revenue:

• Location (proximity to tourist destinations, lakes, hiking areas)
• Amenities (electricity, water, Wi-Fi, sanitary facilities)
• Season and marketing intensity
• Additional services such as breakfast, farm shop, or experience offers

Investment costs at a glance:

Anyone already operating holiday apartments or other tourist offerings can use infrastructure and marketing costs proportionally, thereby significantly improving profitability.

Is offering a parking space on your own property really worth it?

Yes, it is worth it for most property owners if the location is right and investments are planned realistically. The entry is comparatively low-threshold: Anyone who initially offers only one or two parking spaces without fixed infrastructure can test with minimal effort whether there is demand.

When it is particularly worthwhile:

• Property is located in a touristically attractive region
• Existing buildings can be repurposed for sanitary use
• Business is already active in rural tourism
• Target group (transit travelers vs. multi-day campers) is clearly defined

When caution is advised:

• Property is located in a protected zone or in an undeveloped area without privileges
• High investments in infrastructure with uncertain occupancy
• No time for guest care and cleaning

Private parking space vs. classic storage or parking business

Private parking space rental for motorhomes differs fundamentally from classic storage or parking space rental. A camping parking space involves short-term overnight use with guest contact, while storage spaces involve long-term rental agreements without interaction.

For hosts who value human contact and variety, the campsite is the clearly more attractive option. Those who prefer peace and quiet and want minimal effort are better off with a parking space.

How do I start renting out my pitch?

Starting is easier than many think, but it requires a clear sequence. Those who skip the steps risk trouble with authorities or guests.

Step-by-step entry:

1. Check property: Location inside or outside the building? View the municipality's land use plan.
2. Contact authorities: Address the building authority and, if applicable, the subordinate nature conservation authority early on.
3. Apply for permit: In Bavaria, for example, as a structural facility according to Art. 2 BayBO; in Rhineland-Palatinate, up to three parking spaces are possible as a "related project."
4. Plan infrastructure: At least access road (load-bearing for 3.5 tons, at least 5.50 m wide), parking space (max. 5x10 m), waste disposal.
5. Take out insurance: Property and general liability insurance.
6. Draw up rental agreement: Regulate terms of use, liability, notice periods in writing.
7. List offer: Register on Campcruisers as a private parking space and accept bookings.

What are the legal requirements for private parking space rental?

Motorhome parking spaces are legally considered structural facilities and generally require a permit in Germany. The exact requirements vary by federal state, but some basic rules apply everywhere.

Important legal points for Germany:

• From four parking spaces onwards, the camping ground regulations in most federal states apply with stricter requirements for sanitary facilities, fire protection, and access roads.
• Up to three parking spaces in rural areas can be approved under certain conditions as a "related project" of an agricultural business (§ 35 BauGB, confirmed by LWK Rhineland-Palatinate, 2022).
• Rental income from parking space rentals is subject to VAT (generally exempt according to § 4 No. 12a UStG, but option for VAT liability is possible).
• A written rental agreement according to commercial space rental law (§§ 535 ff. BGB) is strongly recommended.
• Clarify tourist tax or tourism levy with the municipality.

Attention: This article does not replace legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult the building authority and, if necessary, a lawyer before starting.

Insurance and Liability: What private hosts need to know

No guest should enter the pitch without insurance. As a landlord, you are liable for damages caused by a lack of safety precautions, such as poor lighting, slippery driveways, or defective connections.

Necessary insurances:

• Property liability: Covers personal injury and property damage due to the condition of the property.
• Business liability: Important if the rental is commercial.
• Recommendation to guests: Comprehensive insurance for the motorhome is the guest's responsibility, but a note in the rental agreement creates clarity.

Minimize liability risks:

• Regular inspection of driveways, lighting, and connections
• Display an overview plan with escape routes and fire extinguisher locations
• Hand over house rules and terms of use in writing

Typical mistakes when renting out private pitches

The most common problems arise not from malice, but from a lack of preparation. These mistakes cost time, money, or the enjoyment of the activity.

The most common errors:

• No permit obtained: Those who simply start risk fines and demolition orders.
• Infrastructure underestimated: Motorhomes can be up to 12 meters long and weigh 3.5 tons. Driveways that are too narrow or soft ground can quickly lead to damage.
• No written contracts: Verbal agreements are not sufficient when disputes arise.
• Targeting the wrong audience: Travelers need different equipment than multi-day campers.
• Ignoring tax obligations: Income must be taxed, even if it's "only" a few parking spaces.
• No liability insurance: A single accident can be expensive.

How do I find tenants for my private parking space?

The best marketing strategy combines a strong online presence with targeted outreach to the right audience. Motorhome travelers predominantly book digitally today, often spontaneously and with their smartphones.

Effective ways to attract guests:

• Listing on Campcruisers as a dedicated platform for motorhome and camping spots
• Professional photos of the parking space (light, surroundings, amenities)
• Clear description with details on parking space size, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and special features
• Actively collect reviews and respond to feedback
• Seasonal offers or package deals with farm products

Tip: Flexible and uncomplicated booking options are crucial. Automatic booking confirmation and upfront payment via bank transfer or card significantly reduce communication effort.

Why Campcruisers is the right platform for private parking space hosts

Campcruisers is the only platform that specifically markets private parking spaces on farms, wineries, and private properties to motorhome travelers. Registering as a private provider is straightforward, and the 12% commission on the gross revenue facilitated is only charged for actual bookings.

Benefits for private hosts on Campcruisers:

• No basic fee, only commission upon success
• Payment processing via Stripe, secure and transparent
• Reach through an established booking platform
• Support with offer presentation

Anyone already offering or planning to offer a pitch can register directly on Campcruisers and benefit from the growing demand for private camping experiences.

Pitch rental in city vs. country: Where does it work better?

Rural locations benefit from campers' longing for nature, peace, and authenticity. Pitches near cities score points with accessibility and the opportunity to visit attractions without parking stress.

Rural locations:

• Longer stays of guests (several nights)
• Better opportunities for additional services (farm shop, animals, nature)
• Less competition from commercial campsites
• More pronounced seasonal fluctuations

Urban locations:

• Higher demand from travelers passing through and city tourists
• Shorter stays, but more consistent utilization
• Less space for infrastructure
• Higher building law requirements possible

Decision rule: Those on a farm or country estate should focus on multi-day campers and prioritize the experience. Those with land near a city are well-positioned with a simple, easily accessible overnight pitch.

Can a tenant of an apartment sublet a parking space?

No, as a rule, not without explicit permission from the owner. Those who rent and use a parking space on the property may not rent it out to third parties without further ado. This applies to both garage parking spaces and outdoor areas.

Conversely, those who own their property generally have the right to rent it out, but must meet building law and tax requirements. Tenants should request written permission from the owner before any subletting.

More than just a parking space: Why happy hosts are the best hosts

More than just a parking space: Why private pitch hosts are happier people cannot be explained by numbers alone. Hosts regularly report that encounters with travelers from all over Europe enrich their everyday lives. A motorhome couple from the Netherlands, a family on a journey through Germany, a retiree on his first solo tour: these encounters only happen because someone has opened up their meadow.

What hosts say about their experiences:

• Increased well-being through social contact
• Positive image for the agricultural business
• Pride in one's own offer and guest feedback
• Motivation to further develop the pitch

Those who are curious about how other regions handle pitch offers will find exciting insights on the Campcruisers blog, for example how a new motorhome pitch in Arguedas with high occupancy was opened for Easter.

What happens if a guest damages the pitch?

If a guest damages the pitch, for example by driving over a lawn, damaging a power connection post, or leaving behind trash, the rental agreement initially applies. Clear liability regulations in the contract are therefore essential.

Practical security:

• Document the condition of the pitch before and after use (photos)
• Agree on a security deposit in the rental agreement (usual: 50 to 150 Euros)
• Clearly regulate claims for damages in the contract
• The host's business liability insurance covers their own liability, not that of the guest

For major damages, it is advisable to involve a lawyer. Platforms like Campcruisers facilitate contact and document the booking, which serves as proof in case of disputes.

More than just a parking space: The happier people behind the offer

In the end, this is exactly what summarizes this article: More than just a parking space: Why private pitch hosts are the happier people has to do with a simple truth. Those who give, receive back. Those who open their space also open their lives to new experiences, new people, and new sources of income.

The camping boom in Germany and Europe is not a short-term trend. With over 42.9 million camping overnight stays in Germany alone in 2024 and a continuously growing number of camping vehicles, the market for private pitches is structurally attractive. Those who enter now will benefit from a demand that is far from saturated.

Those who want to dive deeper into the world of camping will also find inspiration for travel destinations on the Campcruisers blog, for example the most popular motorhome travel destinations 2026 or the question of whether one travel through China in a motorhome can.

Interactive revenue calculator

FAQ: Private parking space rental

How many parking spaces can I offer without a major permit? In many German federal states, agricultural businesses can have up to three parking spaces in outdoor areas approved as a "co-initiated project" according to § 35 BauGB. From four parking spaces onwards, stricter campsite regulations apply.

Do I have to register a business? For regular rentals aimed at generating income, a business registration is usually required. For agricultural businesses, the offer may be considered an agricultural sideline activity under certain conditions. Consult a tax advisor.

What minimum amenities does a private parking space need? For transit travelers, a paved or load-bearing surface, access for vehicles up to 3.5 tons, and a waste disposal facility are sufficient. For multi-day campers, electricity (CEE 16A) and water are highly recommended.

How does booking through Campcruisers work? Hosts register their parking space on Campcruisers, set availabilities and prices. Guests book directly on the platform; payment is processed via Stripe. The host receives the booking amount minus commission seven days after booking.

Are revenues from parking space rentals taxable? Yes. The rental of parking spaces is generally subject to income tax. VAT exemption according to § 4 Nr. 12a UStG is possible, but not always advantageous. Involve a tax advisor.

What happens if a guest stays longer than booked? The rental agreement should contain clear regulations on extension and overstayers. Without a written agreement, disputes over back payments may arise.

Can I offer my parking space only seasonally? Yes. Many private hosts only open their parking space from April to October. Campcruisers allows flexible availability settings.

Do I need special insurance for camping guests? Property and general liability insurance is mandatory. It covers damages caused by the condition of the property. The motorhome's comprehensive insurance is the guest's responsibility.

How large does the parking space need to be? Motorhomes can be up to 12 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. The parking area should be at least 5 x 10 meters, the access road at least 5.50 meters wide and load-bearing for vehicles up to 3.5 tons.

What distinguishes Campcruisers from other booking platforms? Campcruisers specializes in motorhomes, campervans, and parking spaces and specifically targets travelers looking for private and authentic accommodation options. Private parking space providers only pay a commission on actual bookings.

Conclusion: Act now and take the first step

Anyone who has a plot of land, a farm, or an empty meadow has a real opportunity. The market for private motorhome parking spaces is growing, demand is real, and the barriers to entry are manageable. Those who clarify the legal basis, create solid infrastructure, and list their offer on Campcruisers can generate initial income within one season and build up a stable additional income in the long term.

Concrete next steps:

1. Check property and land use plan, contact building authority.
2. Define target group: transient travelers or multi-day campers?
3. Plan infrastructure and calculate costs realistically.
4. Arrange insurance and rental agreement before the first guest.
5. List offer on Campcruisers and start bookings.

Anyone who wants to learn more about the world of camping will also find insights into current topics on the Campcruisers blog trends in the camping industry with a focus on comfort and individuality as well as practical tips for hosts and travelers alike.

Tags: Rent out parking space, private motorhome parking space, farm camping space, motorhome host, Campcruisers, parking space income, Camping Trend 2026, rent out land, parking space permit, rural tourism, motorhome parking space law, additional camping income