112 Years of Camping Bakkum: A Walk Through Our Rich History

Looking for a break that blends fresh sea air with stories you can step into? Celebrate 112 Years of Camping Bakkum with a self-guided historic walk that brings the Netherlands’ oldest campsite to life. From 1914 pioneers to today’s lively open-air events, this is your invitation to discover milestones, memories, and the enduring magic of Castricum’s coast—all at your own pace. Pick up the historic route at reception, follow a trail of archive images across the grounds, and relive over a century of Dutch camping culture.

Why 112 Years of Camping Bakkum Matters

Founded in 1914, Camping Bakkum is the oldest camping site in the Netherlands. Over the decades, its visitors—many bound for the beach of Castricum—helped shape the town into a beloved seaside destination. As Castricum grew, so did Bakkum, welcoming generation after generation of campers who came for the dunes, the sea, and a community that feels like summer itself.

• Explore our heritage on the dedicated historic route, available at the reception.
• See how camping evolved—from early tents to one of the first tent houses noted in 1949.
• Experience continuity: the same dunes, the same beach, and a tradition of togetherness that still defines a stay at Bakkum.

For more background before or after your walk, browse our overview of milestones on the Rich history page.

Our Timeline: Milestones Since 1914

Here are landmark moments you’ll encounter as you trace the campsite’s story:

• 1914 — First campers arrive at Bakkum, marking the start of a Dutch camping tradition.
• 1949 — One of the first tent houses appears, reflecting new ways to stay in nature.
• 2014 — Camping Bakkum celebrates its 100-year anniversary.
• Today — On the way to 112 years and counting, with a living heritage you can walk and witness.

A favorite anecdote from the early days? Bakkum’s popularity sparked a friendly dash: campers literally ran to claim their favorite spot—a legendary scene still told with a smile.

The Historic Route: How to Experience It

The historic walking route is a curated loop through the campsite featuring 11 special archive photos that connect places you’ll see today with moments from the past. It’s ideal for an unhurried stroll and a fresh perspective on familiar paths.

• Where to get it: Pick up the route at the reception.
• What you’ll see: Carefully chosen archival images and stories that spotlight life at Bakkum “then and now.”
• When to go: Any time you want a reflective walk—many guests love it as a quiet winter activity, but it’s an inspiring addition to any stay.

Tip: Want a preview and seasonal inspiration? Read our feature, Walk the historic route.

Quick steps to get started

1. Stop by the reception to collect your map.
2. Allow time to linger at each photo stop—nostalgia is part of the journey.
3. Pair your walk with an amble to the Castricum beach; the sea is central to Bakkum’s story. Start planning with To the beach.

Open-Air Theatre De Pan: Then and Now

If there’s a heartbeat to Bakkum’s shared memories, it’s Openluchttheater De Pan. Recognizable to generations of campers, the theatre has always brought people together.

• Then: Full-house performances by icons like Willy Alberti and André van Duin.
• Now: A vibrant program—from Tropical Nights and tribute battles to talks by André Kuipers, thrilling shows, and sultry jazz evenings.

Check the latest happenings and plan a night under the stars via Activities. For an on-site view, use the Map to locate De Pan and other favorites.

From Dunes to Sea: Bakkum and the Castricum Coast

Bakkum’s history is inseparable from the Castricum coastline. Early visitors headed to the beach helped Castricum evolve into a seaside resort, while the campsite became a home base for sand-between-your-toes days and breezy evening walks.

• Nature on your doorstep: Head straight into the dunes and out to the shore.
• Easy exploring: Find route ideas and rentals through Walking and cycling.

The story of how people reached Bakkum is a charming one, too: luggage once went ahead by truck while campers arrived by bicycle, moped, or train—proof that the journey has always been part of the joy.

Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

Turn your history walk into a memorable Bakkum day—here’s how to keep it simple and special.

• Dress for the dunes: Comfortable shoes and a layer for sea breezes.
• Add an activity: Browse Activities to pair your route with a theatre event or family fun.
• Orient yourself: Use the interactive Map to find De Pan, playgrounds, sports, and food spots like Bakkum Bites.
• Stay informed: Keep your plans handy with the Camping Bakkum app.
• Extend your time: Explore our Facilities and relax into the Bakkum rhythm.

Planning a longer stay around your historic walk? Explore your options:

• Pitch your tent or park your camper at Camping pitches.
• Prefer comfort with character? See our Accommodations.
• Love the season-long vibe? Consider Seasonal camping.

Quick Answers (FAQ)

• What makes Camping Bakkum unique?

  • It’s the oldest camping site in the Netherlands, rooted in 1914, with a living legacy you can explore via the historic route and cultural life at Openluchttheater De Pan.

• Where can I get the historic route map?

  • At the reception. Just ask and set off on your walk.

• How many archive photos are on the route?

  • 11 photos, each revealing a different facet of Bakkum’s past.

• When was Camping Bakkum founded?

  • 1914.

• Which milestones should I know?

  • 1914 (first campers), 1949 (one of the first tent houses), 2014 (100-year anniversary), and today’s celebration of 112 years.

A Living Heritage You Can Feel

Camping Bakkum’s story is more than dates on a timeline—it’s the feeling of stepping into places where memories were made and still are. The dunes, the stage lights at De Pan, the breeze off the Castricum shore, and the simple act of meeting up at Bakkum Bites all carry threads of a shared history. The historic walking route ties these threads together, so you can see, stand, and smile where the past meets the present.

Ready to walk through time? Start at reception for the route map, then plan the rest of your day with Activities, To the beach, and Walking and cycling. If the walk inspires a longer stay, browse Camping pitches or Accommodations, and secure your spot via Online booking.

Call to Action

Be part of our story. Pick up the historic route at the reception, explore our Rich history, and book your stay today through Online booking. See you in the dunes—where 112 years of Camping Bakkum comes to life.