Early Spring Splash: Dive into Wildhoeve’s Indoor Swimming Paradise from 1 April
Ready to swap chilly spring days for warm water and happy splashes? From 1 April, you can dive straight into Wildhoeve’s indoor swimming paradise—your heated haven for family fun at the very start of the camping season. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a full spring holiday, the pool, the forest setting, and our family-friendly facilities make early-season camping feel effortless and cozy.
When does Wildhoeve’s indoor pool open?
- The indoor swimming pool opens every year on 1 April.
- Opening hours vary by season (details below), so you can plan swims around your day trips and on-site activities.
What to expect in the heated swimming paradise
Wildhoeve’s water offering is built for families. You’ll find several pools—including a heated swimming paradise—for a comfortable dip whatever the weather, plus an outdoor water playground for sunny spells. The warm water and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for little ones and a soothing reset for adults after a forest walk or bike ride.
Highlights at a glance:
- Heated indoor swimming paradise (open from 1 April)
- Multiple pools for different swim moods
- Outdoor water playground for kids (weather permitting) — explore more: Water playground
- Clean, family-friendly sanitary buildings with dedicated children’s areas (including the playful tree-shaped shower)
- Optional massage shower: €0.50 for 3 minutes
Tip: Pair a morning swim with a forest stroll in the Kroondomein right from the campsite gate, or plan a lazy lunch and then dip back in during the afternoon session.
Pool opening hours (by season)
Pool times are split into morning and afternoon sessions, with extended evening hours on select days.
- Low season
- Sunday–Thursday: 09:30–12:30 and 14:00–17:00
- Friday–Saturday: 09:30–12:30 and 14:00–20:00
- High season
- Monday–Saturday: 09:30–12:30 and 14:00–20:00
- Sunday: 09:30–12:30 and 14:00–17:00
Pro tip: Use the longer evening slots on Fridays and Saturdays in the low season to make the most of your day—adventures first, swim later.
The perfect early-spring base: comfort, calm, and nature on your doorstep
A great swim is even better when everything around it is simple and stress-free. That’s why Camping de Wildhoeve pairs warm water with practical comforts:
- Car-free, child-friendly grounds: Park centrally after setting up; handcarts at the barrier help you move luggage and groceries with ease.
- Comfort pitches for everyone: Each pitch includes an individual water tap with drain, CAI TV connection, 8-amp electricity, and campsite-wide free WiFi.
- Award-winning and sustainable: Recognised by ANWB and ADAC, ACSI Award winner (2023), member of Leading Campings, and Green Key certified.
- Dining on site: Brasserie de Houtvesterij serves food and drinks, with a dedicated Kids & Teens menu and allergy-aware options.
- Laundry made easy: “Wassen & Afwassen” facilities with contactless PIN payment for washers, dryers, and irons.
- Reception and shop: Pick up daily essentials, activity info, and local tips — details: Reception & camping shop
Plan your early April getaway (key dates, check-in, and bookings)
- 2026 season opening: 27 March 2026
- Indoor pool opens: 1 April (every year)
- 2026 season ends: 25 October 2026 (inclusive)
- Check-in/out
- Pitches: check-in from 14:00; check-out before 12:00
- Rentals: check-in from 15:00; check-out before 10:00
- Booking: Reserve via the on-site “Zoek & Boek” system or contact reception by phone or email.
- Payments: iDEAL and Wero are accepted for on-site and online payments.
- Cancellation insurance: Available when booking (see policy terms on the website).
Good to know for early spring: Outside the peak season, the reception is closed on weekends, but information materials are laid out in the reception hall. From April through September, the team is reachable day and night in emergencies via intercom; an AED and first-aid post are located at reception.
Make a day of it: nature walks, cycling, and kid-approved fun
- Walks from your pitch: Step straight into the Veluwe forests and follow trails through Koninklijke Houtvesterij Het Loo. For DIY routes, pick up the Struinkaart at reception.
- Family cycling: The campsite sits between cycle-route junctions 42 and 44; start curated rides right from the gate or rent bikes on site — see: Bicycle rental
- Wildlife moments: Squirrels and hares often appear near pitches; guided nature activities and wildlife discovery tours run during holidays.
- Play more: Tennis court bookings are free at reception (borrow rackets and balls if needed). There’s also a BMX track next to the large play field; helmets are mandatory.
- New for summer 2026: The indoor playground “De Dassenburcht” adds even more all-weather fun later in the season.
Wellness next door: Veluwse Bron (5 km away)
If you want to extend your water-themed day, Veluwse Bron—just 5 km from the campsite—offers over 9,000 m² of spa and relaxation facilities on a 21-hectare estate. It’s an easy add-on to a morning at Wildhoeve’s indoor swimming paradise when you’re craving deeper relaxation.
Practical essentials for a smooth splash
Pack smart and plan around the spring rhythm for maximum fun and minimum fuss:
- Swim gear checklist
- Swimwear for each session
- Flip-flops and a cozy towel (bring an extra for the afternoon slot)
- A small bag for locker essentials
- Timing tips
- Aim for morning swims on days with afternoon excursions.
- Use extended evening hours on Friday and Saturday (low season) for a quieter pool.
- Family comfort
- Use the children’s wash areas and the playful tree-shaped shower to make routines fun.
- Try the optional massage shower (€0.50/3 minutes) for a quick warm-up.
- Tech and power
- Free WiFi is available across the campsite for planning routes and checking weather.
- Four Shell Recharge stations are on site; please move your car once charging is complete.
- Getting around
- Remember the car-free policy: grab a handcart at the barrier for luggage and groceries.
- Food and breaks
- Brasserie de Houtvesterij is ideal between pool sessions; mention any allergies to the team so they can prepare suitable meals.
- Activities to pair with a swim
- On bright days, blend indoor pool time with the outdoor water playground.
- Explore nearby nature areas: Veluwe nature reserves.
Quick answers (for featured snippets)
- When does the indoor pool open? 1 April every year.
- Is it heated? Yes — enjoy a heated swimming paradise and several pools.
- What are the pool hours? Low season: Sun–Thu 09:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00; Fri–Sat 09:30–12:30 & 14:00–20:00. High season: Mon–Sat 09:30–12:30 & 14:00–20:00; Sun 09:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00.
- Can I rent bikes on site? Yes; start routes from the campsite and rent directly at reception or the bike rental desk.
- Are pets allowed? No — pets are not permitted on the campsite.
- Are barbecues allowed? Charcoal barbecues are only allowed when the regional fire risk is at “code green”; all barbecuing is forbidden in Phase 2 (see signs and natuurbrandrisico.nl).
Rates and stays (at a glance)
- Camping pitch from €39.50 per night (low season, 2 guests) and €64.50 (high season), plus €1.00 tourist tax p.p.p.n.; prices may vary.
- Rental accommodations from €554.50, up to €1,735.50 in high season, plus €1.50 tourist tax p.p.p.n.; prices may vary.
- Accommodation options include Boshuis, Boshut, Artcamp, Astro Mobile Home (4 persons), Safaritent (6 persons), and Bostent.
Accessibility and family-friendly details
- An accessible children’s restroom is available in the sanitary building near the Reeënweide.
- The large Reeënweide field features a wheelchair-accessible playground structure.
- Quiet hours begin at 23:00 to keep evenings peaceful for families.
Conclusion: Make 1 April your first swim of the season
Warm water, fresh forest air, and everything families need—Wildhoeve’s indoor swimming paradise turns early spring into prime camping time. Book your stay, pack your swim bag, and be the first to splash into the season.
- Book now via “Zoek & Boek” on our website.
- Questions or special requests? Call +31 (0)578 66 13 24 or email info@wildhoeve.nl.
- Find us at Hanendorperweg 102, 8166 JJ Emst.
Dive in from 1 April—your spring swim is waiting at Wildhoeve’s indoor swimming paradise.