What is a camper stop? The difference between a camper stop, a farm camper stop, and a free rural stopover

When travelling with a motorhome, campervan or caravan, choosing where to stop is one of the most important decisions. In Italy, besides campsites and farm-campsites, there are three different types of stopovers that often create confusion:

• Camper stop (area sosta camper)
  
• Farm camper stop (area sosta agricola)
  
• Free rural stopover (Agricamper model)
  

If instead you’re looking specifically for information about campsites and farm-campsites, we recommend this guide:

Camping in Italy: discover farm-camping, the authentic way to travel in nature

 

This guide will help you understand the differences between the three types of stopover.

Camper stop

A camper stop is a designated place for short stays with motorhomes, caravans and campervans. It’s designed as a practical stop where you can rest and manage your vehicle’s technical needs.

Main features:

• Fresh-water refill
  
• Grey and black water disposal
  
• Waste bins
  
• Night lighting
  
• Electricity (available in many areas)
  

Some areas also offer extra services such as showers, Wi-Fi or picnic zones.

Length of stay:
Usually short: from a few hours up to 48–72 hours. These areas are not intended for long holidays.

Where they are located:
Often near towns, tourist villages or main roads. Perfect for travellers who want convenience and essential services.

Farm camper stop

A farm camper stop offers the same essential services as a standard camper area—water refill, waste disposal, and often electricity—but in a completely different setting: the countryside.

Main features:

• Similar technical services to classic camper rest areas
  
• Grass or gravel pitches
  
• Quiet, natural surroundings
  
• Authentic rural atmosphere, away from traffic
  

Ideal for self-sufficient travellers who want contact with nature without giving up basic services.

Free Rural Stopover (Agricamper Model)

The free rural stopover is a unique form of hospitality in Italy. With a simple annual membership, you can stay free of charge for 24 hours at participating farms throughout the country.

With one annual subscription, you gain access to a national network of rural hosts, with the possibility of stopping in a new place every day.

It is not a campsite and not a classic camper area: it’s a way of travelling that is authentic, itinerant and sustainable.

Key features of the Agricamper model:

• Free 24-hour stay, changing host every day
  
• Unlimited access to participating farms
  
• Some hosts may offer water or electricity when available
  
• Reserved for self-contained vehicles (motorhomes, caravans, campervans)
  
• No tourist infrastructures or long stays
  
• Direct connection with rural life and local producers
  
• Opportunity to buy local products, enjoy tastings or dine in the farm restaurant
  

Supporting the host farm by purchasing their products is always appreciated and helps sustain the local economy.

A quick comparison

Type of stop	Services	Length of stay	Setting	Ideal for
Camper stop	Water, waste disposal, bins, electricity	1–3 nights	Towns, tourist areas	Travellers seeking convenience
Farm camper stop	Same essentials as camper areas	1–2 nights	Countryside	Those seeking peace and authenticity
Free rural stopover (Agricamper)	Some services may be available	24 hours	Participating farms	Self-sufficient travellers who enjoy itinerant travel

And where does Natura Camping fit in?

Natura Camping allows you to book farm camping, glamping sites and farm camper stops for longer stays. It’s ideal for those who want nature-immersed facilities, bookable in advance, with dedicated tourist services.

Conclusion

You now have a clear overview:

• Camper stops → practicality and essential services
  
• Farm camper stops → the same services in a natural setting
  
• Free rural stopover (Agricamper) → an authentic, itinerant way to travel and meet local producers
  
• Natura Camping → longer stays in bookable nature-based structures
  

Whatever your travel style, Italy always has the right place for you to stop and enjoy the journey.