Organiser votre bivouac dans les Gorges de l'Ardèche

Organize a bivouac for a canoe descent of the Ardèche gorges
can add a new dimension to your adventure.
Aigue Vive gives you advice on how to properly prepare your bivouac in the heart of the Gorges!

After your first day of canoeing in the Gorges, you arrive at the bivouac area you have chosen: Gaud bivouac or Gournier bivouac.
As a reminder, the Gaud bivouac is located a third of the way through your descent, the Gournier bivouac half way.

You will have stored all your equipment in the waterproof containers that we provided to you upon your departure.
Now is the time to prepare everything to spend an exceptional evening and night in this breathtaking environment!

For your comfort, the bivouac areas have drinking water points, showers and toilets/dry toilets.

Coffee, tea and fruit juice are on sale on site in the evening and morning (from the beginning of May to the beginning of September). €2 per drink. Bring change, payment is in cash only.

Preparation of material

Tent and sleeping

if you have chosen a bivouac ticket without a tent, choose a light and easy to assemble tent.
Make sure it is suitable for the number of people and the expected weather. If necessary, take extra cord in case of wind to secure your tent securely.
Choose a sleeping bag suitable for nighttime temperatures and an inflatable mattress or sleeping mat for greater comfort.
Temperature-wise, nights even in summer can be cool.

Rental of tents and mattresses: If you do not have the necessary suitable equipment, or if you do not wish to load the waterproof container, rental of tents and mattresses is offered when booking your bivouac.

Kitchen

The bivouac areas are equipped with barbecues that you can use as you wish. It is strictly forbidden to make fires within the perimeter of the nature reserve. Stoves are tolerated.
Remember to bring a lighter and fire starter (if you plan to have a barbecue).
Bring lightweight cooking utensils, food that is easy to prepare and pack, and bags for your waste.
Little tip, if you plan to grill, remember to freeze your meat beforehand, put it in an insulated bag with a pack of ice. When you arrive at the bivouac your meat will be ready (or almost ready) to be prepared.

Lighting

Bring headlamps or lanterns to light your camp at night.

Clothing and equipment

Pack warm clothes for the night and light clothes for the day. A second pair of shoes to keep your feet dry will not be a luxury. Don't forget waterproof clothing in case it rains (but it's always nice and warm in Ardèche!)

Respect the environment

Leave no trace: respect the environment by taking all your waste with you. The bivouac areas are not equipped with trash cans, but compost is at your disposal. Leave nothing behind except your footprints (and then again!)

Campfires: Campfires are prohibited!

Noise: respect the tranquility of the premises and avoid making excessive noise, especially at night.

Alcohol: The consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in the Gorges de l'Ardèche – Inter-prefectural Order n°2011180 -0001 of June 29, 2011.

By following these tips and being respectful of the environment, you can organize an unforgettable bivouac during your canoe descent of the Ardèche gorges. Enjoy this unique experience surrounded by nature!

Please note: The waterproof container supplied with your canoe is 38 cm in diameter and 50 cm high (capacity 55 liters). Take this into account, because some tents do not fit in the container, notably round “2 seconds” type tents.
Our advice: Check the dimensions of your equipment before booking your bivouac!