When the summer crowds fade away, autumn shows itself at its best. We consider this one of the cosiest periods to go camping. At Camping Houtum, you enjoy the calm of nature, the sound of leaves under your feet and the fresh morning air. Thanks to our heated sanitary facilities and the warm atmosphere on the campsite, you do not have to give up any comfort. In October, you can also visit the Pompoenerie, where autumn adds even more colour to the surroundings. Join us and experience autumn straight from your tent, caravan or one of our accommodations.
In this article, we share what makes autumn at Camping Houtum so comfortable and enjoyable. From practical tips to pleasant outings nearby, you will discover everything you need to make your stay in this colourful season complete.
The most beautiful autumn colours:
In autumn, the surroundings of the campsite transform into a landscape full of warm colours. Trees lose their leaves and the paths become covered with a crisp, rustling carpet. During a walk or cycling trip, you can see how nature slowly prepares for winter. It is a season that radiates calm, where small details such as morning mist above the fields stand out even more.
Walking
Several routes start directly from the campsite and lead you through forests, open fields and past the centre of Kasterlee. In autumn, the colours and falling leaves create a constantly changing setting. Even a familiar route feels different every time. View the seven loop routes that start and end at Camping Houtum >>
Cycling
Cycling allows you to explore the area at a different pace. The routes take you through forests and open landscapes where the seasons are clearly visible. Some sections are flat and easy, others require a bit more effort. This variety gives each cycling trip its own character. Read about the favourite cycling routes of our campers >>
Pumpkin fun in Kasterlee:
When you think of Kasterlee, you also think of pumpkins. Our village has been known for years as the pumpkin village of Flanders.
The Pompoenerie
Right next to the entrance of the campsite are the fields of the Pompoenerie. In autumn, these fields are filled with pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. This is the season when you can buy them directly from the field. There is a self-service stand where you can also find homemade products such as chutney, jam or pumpkin ketchup.
The Pompoenerie is more than just a pumpkin field. It is a work-experience project where people with disabilities take part in growing and maintaining the fields. This gives the project both a social and sustainable dimension. Read the full story of the Pompoenerie at Camping Houtum >>
October pumpkin month
In October, Kasterlee is entirely dedicated to pumpkins. Throughout the month, various activities are organised, ranging from markets and exhibitions to competitions and culinary initiatives. One of the most well-known events is the pumpkin regatta, where participants race each other in hollowed-out giant pumpkins. It is a unique spectacle that attracts visitors from near and far.
During pumpkin month, Kasterlee has a lively atmosphere. For campers, this means that a stay in October offers not only peace and nature, but also extra activities and experiences close to the campsite. Discover everything about pumpkin month in Kasterlee >>
Staying overnight in Kasterlee
Camping
Camping Houtum offers several types of camping pitches: basic pitches, comfort pitches, camper pitches and a tent field. In autumn, the campsite feels noticeably quieter, with less crowding and more space, while still being surrounded by nature. You are literally between forests and fields, with direct access to walking and cycling routes through the area.
During an autumn stay, it is reassuring to know that all sanitary facilities on the campsite are heated. Showering or doing the dishes can be done in a warm space, even when temperatures drop outside. This makes camping in this season much more comfortable.
The building is practically arranged with showers, toilets, a baby area and facilities for guests with reduced mobility. Everything is well maintained and adapted to different needs. Those who want to know more can take a look at the sanitary facilities at Camping Houtum >>..
Do you not have camping equipment with you, or do you prefer some extra comfort? In that case, comfortable accommodations are available. You enjoy staying in nature without worrying about cold nights or damp mornings. This is often the ideal choice for families, couples or guests who want to enjoy the region with a bit more comfort.
The Rowan | 2 persons
The White Linden | 4 persons
The Poplar | 4 persons
The Silver Birch | 6 persons
Autumn holiday
For many families, the autumn holiday is an ideal moment to take a short break. Because Belgian and Dutch school holidays do not always coincide, this period can be a bit busier on the campsite. Those who want to be sure of a camping pitch are advised to reserve in advance.
Domein De Putten
During the autumn holiday, Domein De Putten is a popular outing for families. Normally, the domain is only open on weekends, but during the Belgian autumn holiday it is open daily. Children can enjoy both the indoor and outdoor playgrounds, while parents relax in the friendly atmosphere. There is also the option to enjoy something to eat, making it a pleasant addition to your stay at Camping Houtum.
Celebrating Halloween nearby
Autumn also brings plenty of activities in the region. Those looking for a Halloween outing will find several well-known events close to Camping Houtum.
Bobbejaanland organises an extensive Halloween programme every autumn, with attractions, shows and themed zones for different age groups. During the day, the park is accessible for families, while evenings focus more on excitement and experience.
For those looking for something more intense, there is also The Haunted Forest. This evening Halloween walk through the forest is aimed at adults and older teenagers and has a strong horror theme.
After such an outing, it is pleasant to return to the campsite, where evenings are calm again and you can unwind in peace.
Surely recommended, we will definitely come back.
A beautiful and spacious pitch in the comfort zone, with a separate artificial grass mat for the motorhome, which is certainly a plus. Friendly welcome and clean, well-heated sanitary facilities. The indoor and outdoor playgrounds, ball pit and activities for the grandchildren during the autumn holiday were once again excellent at Domein De Putten. There is plenty to do in the area and even at the end of October there was still enough activity on the campsite, which gave a good feeling. We joined the wild brunch on Sunday in Den Eyck and it was, as always, excellent. We had lovely, relaxing days, even though we live in Turnhout.
M. Van Aubel
Café de Congé
During the weekend, Café de Congé is open for a drink, a meeting or simply a cosy end to the day. After a walk or cycling trip, it is pleasant to sit inside for a while, enjoy the warm atmosphere and watch the daylight slowly fade.
In November, the café goes into a well-deserved winter break. Want to know the exact opening times? Check the current opening hours here >>
Autumn is a special season to experience Kasterlee and the surroundings of Camping Houtum. Nature shows its most beautiful colours, there are plenty of walking and cycling opportunities, and in October the pumpkins add extra atmosphere. During the autumn holiday, families also have plenty to enjoy, including Domein De Putten and cosy moments at Café de Congé.
Whether you choose camping in the fresh outdoor air or prefer staying in a comfortable accommodation, the autumn season makes a stay at Camping Houtum something unique every time.
Thank you for reading! We hope you found the article interesting. Do you have nice tips or ideas for new topics? Feel free to share them with us and follow us on Instagram for even more updates.
Looking for inspiration for a relaxing camping holiday or enjoyable activities in Kasterlee? Read our blog for tips about life at Camping Houtum and in the surrounding area. Do you have ideas of your own or feel something is missing? Send us an email at info@campinghoutum.be.
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about staying overnight at Camping Houtum
In October, Kasterlee is entirely centred around pumpkins. Throughout the month, various activities and initiatives create extra atmosphere in and around the village. You can buy pumpkins directly from the field at the Pompoenerie, complemented by homemade pumpkin products.
In addition, there are exhibitions, local initiatives and culinary activities focused on pumpkin and autumn. The best-known event is the pumpkin regatta, where participants race each other in hollowed-out giant pumpkins. Altogether, these activities create a lively yet relaxed autumn atmosphere.
A complete and up-to-date overview of all activities can be found here:
https://campinghoutum.be/pompoenmaand-oktober-in-kasterlee/
Yes. Even outside the high season, booking in advance is recommended, especially during school holidays, weekends and popular periods such as October. This way, you can be sure of a pitch that suits your plans and travel period.
In addition, we at the reception find it pleasant to know who will be arriving that day. If we are approaching reception closing time, we can contact you in advance to agree together on how your arrival will be handled.
If this is your first stay at Camping Houtum, you can also calmly check in online in advance. This means all details are already registered and the check-in on arrival goes smoothly, without time pressure.
For €6 per reservation, we can secure your booking with a lock. This means you are guaranteed your preferred location.
Only in exceptional circumstances, such as weather conditions or when a pitch is temporarily unusable, may we decide to relieve a camping pitch and move you. This will always be done in consultation, so we can look for a suitable solution together.
Camping Houtum mainly appeals to people looking for peace and quiet, walkers, cyclists, couples and families who enjoy staying in a green environment and value simplicity, comfort and a personal atmosphere.