Behind the Scenes: Building ‘De Dassenburcht’ Indoor Playground
Planning a family break where the weather doesn’t get to call the shots? De Dassenburcht indoor playground is set to open in summer 2026 at Camping de Wildhoeve on the Veluwe—bringing year‑round, all‑weather fun to one of the Netherlands’ most nature‑rich regions. In this behind‑the‑scenes preview, you’ll learn why we’re building De Dassenburcht, how the project is coming together, what to expect at opening, and how to plan a stay that blends indoor play with unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Why an indoor playground at Camping de Wildhoeve?
As a family‑friendly destination on the Veluwe, Camping de Wildhoeve already combines nature, comfort, and activities for all ages. The new De Dassenburcht indoor playground extends that promise to every season and any forecast.
- It adds a weather‑proof space that complements our swimming pools (including a heated swimming paradise) and waterspeeltuin.
- It supports our year‑round focus on recreation for children, including school‑holiday programs and nature‑driven adventures like “Ontdek de kleine wonderen.”
- It fits our car‑free setting, giving children room to explore while parents relax.
Together with on‑site options such as the BMX baan, tennis and Jeu de Boules courts, and the surrounding forests and heathlands, De Dassenburcht helps families balance indoor energy with outdoor exploration.
The vision for De Dassenburcht
De Dassenburcht is being created to deliver high play value in a comfortable, practical setting that works for families.
- All‑weather play: A dedicated indoor space means children can climb, explore, and imagine—no matter the season.
- For many ages: Families can enjoy activities side by side, with room for varied energy levels and interests.
- Seamless days: Start at the pools or waterspeeltuin, switch to indoor play, and end with a relaxed family evening—without leaving the campsite.
- Rooted in place: As part of our Veluwe‑based experience, De Dassenburcht is designed to sit naturally alongside our broader focus on nature walks, cycling routes, and wildlife encounters.
While the final details debut at opening, the goal is clear: an indoor playground that feels at home on the Veluwe and elevates family time at Camping de Wildhoeve.
How the build is taking shape
Constructing an indoor playground is a multi‑step process. Here’s a high‑level look at what goes into bringing De Dassenburcht to life.
1) Planning and design
- Zoning the space: Thoughtfully mapping areas to support different types of play and easy supervision.
- Flow and visibility: Clear sightlines help caregivers keep track of kids while maintaining open, welcoming spaces.
- Comfort: Practical touches—like seating areas and easy access to facilities—support longer, happier play sessions.
2) Safety and infrastructure
- Surfaces and materials: Durable, easy‑to‑clean flooring and finishes that support active play.
- Lighting and ventilation: Bright, even lighting and good air quality to keep the space inviting across the seasons.
- Access: Straightforward entry and movement to and from other facilities on the campsite.
3) Fit‑out and finishing
- Installation: Assembling play elements and final fixtures according to strict safety standards.
- Testing: Trial use and fine‑tuning to make the experience smooth for families from day one.
Expected opening is summer 2026. Camping de Wildhoeve itself reopens for the season on 27 March 2026, so you can already plan a spring visit and return later in the season to be among the first to enjoy De Dassenburcht.
What to expect when the doors open
You can look forward to a welcoming indoor playground that adds flexibility to your family holiday—especially on cooler or wetter days. Pair indoor time with our existing facilities and activities to shape your perfect rhythm:
- Make a splash in our pools, including a heated swimming paradise, or head to the waterspeeltuin when the sun is out.
- Ride and play on the BMX baan, pick up a friendly match on the tennis court, or try Jeu de Boules.
- Join the fun with our recreation program during official school holidays and nature‑first activities such as “Ontdek de kleine wonderen.”
- Venture out onto the Veluwe: walk through Koninklijke Houtvesterij Het Loo, and keep your eyes open for wildlife.
When it’s time to unwind, choose the stay that fits your style:
- Comfort pitches: Every pitch includes a private water tap with drainage, CAI connection, and 8‑amp power.
- Accommodations: Options include the Astro Mobile Home (4 pers.), Safaritent (6 pers.), Artcamp (5 pers.), Boshuis, Boshut, and Bostent—each offering a unique way to experience the Veluwe.
On‑site conveniences make life easier:
- Car‑free campsite: Park after setup and enjoy a calmer environment. Handcarts are available for groceries and extra luggage.
- EV charging: Four Shell Recharge stations are available for guests.
- WiFi: Connect via Wildhoeve 1, 2, or 3 (performance is for general use).
Plan your family stay on the Veluwe
De Dassenburcht sits within a landscape rich in nature and culture. From our location in Emst on the Veluwe, you’re close to:
- Forests and heathlands: Start directly from the campsite along a connected cycling network or set out on foot.
- Kroondomein Het Loo: Walk the royal forests and discover the area’s wildlife.
- Attractions: Family‑favorite parks Julianatoren and Walibi are within about a half‑hour’s drive.
- Towns and cities: Explore characterful Elburg, lively Apeldoorn, and the inspiring Hanseatic cities.
- Museums and culture: Make a day of it at one of the many museums in the region.
Whether you’re here for the pools and play spaces or the silence of the woods, you can mix and match days to suit your family’s pace—indoors and out.
Quick answers about De Dassenburcht (featured‑snippet friendly)
- When will De Dassenburcht indoor playground open? Expected opening is in summer 2026.
- Where is it located? At Camping de Wildhoeve in Emst, on the Veluwe.
- When does the campsite open for the season? Camping de Wildhoeve reopens on 27 March 2026.
- What else can kids do on site? Enjoy swimming pools (including a heated swimming paradise), a waterspeeltuin, a BMX baan, tennis, Jeu de Boules, and school‑holiday recreation programs.
- Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on the campsite.
- Is the campsite car‑free? Yes. After setup, cars are parked, and handcarts are available.
- Can I charge my EV? Yes. There are 4 Shell Recharge stations for guests.
- What defines a comfort pitch? Each pitch has its own water tap with drainage, CAI connection, and 8‑amp power.
- Is there WiFi? Yes—connect via the Wildhoeve 1, 2, or 3 networks.
Practical takeaways for your trip
- Time your visit: Book a spring or early‑summer stay to enjoy the campsite’s reopening, and plan a return visit for De Dassenburcht’s expected summer 2026 debut.
- Choose your base: Prefer your own setup? Go for a comfort pitch. Want turnkey ease? Consider the Astro Mobile Home, Safaritent, Artcamp, Boshuis, Boshut, or Bostent.
- Pack for variety: Bring swimwear for the pools and waterspeeltuin, walking shoes for the Veluwe, and layers for relaxed evenings.
- Build flexible days: Mix morning nature walks with afternoon indoor play so everyone stays energized.
- Check the program: If you’re here in a school holiday, look out for the recreation schedule and nature activities like “Ontdek de kleine wonderen.”
- Plan your charging: If you drive electric, note the on‑site Shell Recharge stations.
- Stay connected: Use WiFi networks Wildhoeve 1, 2, or 3 for general browsing and trip planning.
Conclusion: Be among the first to play at De Dassenburcht
The De Dassenburcht indoor playground brings a new dimension of all‑weather adventure to Camping de Wildhoeve—perfectly paired with pools, a waterspeeltuin, nature activities, and the wild beauty of the Veluwe. With an expected opening in summer 2026 and the campsite reopening on 27 March 2026, now is the time to plan.
Ready to experience it all? Search & Book your stay at Camping de Wildhoeve, or contact us at 0578 - 66 13 24 or info@wildhoeve.nl to find the option that suits your family best.