Skip to main content

ANWB Classification: Criteria for the Top Rating of small Campsites

Start / Products / ANWB Classification – Small campsites

PiNCAMP inspects and evaluates campsites across Europe to provide reliable quality information to its members. Since 2022, a dedicated classification model tailored specifically for small campsites, up to 60 units (this means the sum of touristic pitches, permanent / seasonal pitches and rental accommodations), has been introduced for the ANWB Classification.

This framework assesses small campsites in a way that reflects their unique scale and operational realities. While the core criteria share natural overlap with our standard campsite classification criteria, this page focuses specifically on the benefits, adaptations, and flexible scoring rules designed for smaller campsites. Instead of expecting large-scale infrastructure, the small campsite model focuses heavily on comfort, hygiene, pitch layout, hospitality, and the surroundings.

The classification of a campsite is based on the results of the annual PiNCAMP inspections, which are carried out by independent inspectors during the summer peak season. Campsites can request an inspection by signing up via this link (a cost contribution applies). Our team builds annual inspection routes around registered sites to visit as many campsites as possible. If you already hold a classification but have completed significant upgrades or renovations, we advise signing up for an inspection again. Be sure to note your updates in the sign-up form so we can prioritize your campsite in our route planning.

The points gathered during the inspection translate directly into an ANWB classification of up to 5 Green Stars (including half-star increments). Campsites awarded five stars receive the ‘Kleine Topcamping’ rating, while campsites with 3 to 4.5 stars receive the ‘Erkende Kleine Camping’ label. This system helps campers find their ideal destination and choose campsites according to their preferences.

How the Classification Works

Not all criteria are equally important to campers. Therefore, the different campsite features are weighted differently.

  • Sanitary 50%
  • Grounds 30%
  • Supply 8%
  • Bathing 7.5%
  • Recreation 4.5%

The main strength of the small campsite model is that Sanitary Facilities and Grounds account for 80% of your total score. As long as your core infrastructure (clean and modern sanitary blocks, well-maintained pitches, spacious layouts, and peaceful surroundings) is of great quality, you can achieve a high star rating without investing in additional infrastructure like pools, different types of playgrounds, restaurants and shops, animation, or sports offers. While these additional features allow you to score extra points, they are treated as “nice to have” rather than mandatory requirements.

Sanitary (50%)

Sanitary quality and hygiene remain the heart of the PiNCAMP inspection. The rating is based on the equipment, cleanliness, and overall condition of the sanitary facilities.

Grounds (30%)

This category focuses on the general surroundings, pitch quality, layout, environment, and peaceful atmosphere of the campsite.

Supply (8%)

The focus here is on guest convenience, local hospitality businesses, and essential self-catering amenities. Small campsites do not need to operate full-service restaurants to score well.

Bathing (Pool & Natural Water) (7,5%)

Guests at small campsites appreciate refreshing swim options, whether provided through an on-site pool, pools located within 100 meters or adjacent natural water bodies.

Recreation  (4,5%)

The small campsite model values quality outdoor play space, bad-weather shelters, and outdoor activity options.

ANWB Classification Icons

Your campsite has been classified by the ANWB? Show it to your website visitors. Select the icon with the correct campsite star rating or use our general classification icon without stars.

What exactly are these icons?

The icons are the usual image files that you can integrate into your website.

How do I integrate the icons into my website?

Select the icon(s) that you want to show on your website, download the file(s) and place them in the preferred spot on your website. We also recommend that you link the icon to your PiNCAMP profile page.

Important: Make sure to link the icon to your campsite profile at www.anwbcamping.nl. Campers can then see a Dutch listing of all your equipment features and take advantage of the familiar layout and the trust that ANWB has built over many years.