Camp Des Loges

Introduction

Camp des Loges, located in the lush Forêt domaniale de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, is a landmark that harmoniously blends France’s military legacy with its modern sporting achievements. Established in the 19th century as a crucial military site and later transformed into the iconic training ground for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Camp des Loges continues to play an essential role in French sports as the current home of PSG’s women’s and youth teams and, since 2024, Stade Français Paris rugby club. This guide provides a comprehensive resource for visitors, covering historical context, practical information on visiting hours and tickets, accessibility, transportation, and nearby attractions in Saint-Germain-en-Laye.

For official updates, consult the Paris Saint-Germain website, Stade Français Paris, and the Saint-Germain-en-Laye tourism office. Enhance your visit with real-time updates and multimedia guides via the Audiala App.

Military Origins

Camp des Loges was established in 1856 as a strategic military base under Napoleon III, chosen for its secluded forest setting ideal for maneuvers and training. It housed key military units, including the 526th Train Battalion and the Garde Républicaine’s cavalry regiment, and served as a NATO command center during the Cold War. The administrative and architectural remnants of its military past are still visible today (stgermaincommerce.over-blog.com).

Sporting Transformation and PSG Era

In 1970, Camp des Loges began its new chapter as the official training ground of Paris Saint-Germain. The adjacent Stade Georges-Lefèvre hosted PSG’s earliest matches, cementing the site’s reputation as the birthplace of the club’s footballing identity. For over five decades, Camp des Loges nurtured future stars and was central to PSG’s rise on the European stage (nytimes.com; fr.wikipedia.org).

After the opening of the new PSG Campus in Poissy in 2023, the men’s professional teams relocated, but the women’s and youth teams remain at Camp des Loges, continuing its legacy (fr.wikipedia.org).

Stade Français Paris and Recent Developments

Since October 2024, Camp des Loges has entered a new era as the base for Stade Français Paris rugby club. The facility has undergone modernization, with eco-friendly upgrades and enhanced training amenities, supporting its role as a multi-sport center (blog-rct.com; sofoot.com).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Camp des Loges is set within the Forêt de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, at Avenue du Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye, about 20 kilometers west of Paris.

Getting There:

• RER A: Take the RER A to Saint-Germain-en-Laye station. From there, it’s a 25–30 minute walk through the forest, or a quick bus/taxi ride.
• Bus & Tram: Bus lines 1, 1204, 7802, and 42 stop nearby; the T13 tram (stop "Camp des Loges") is an 8-minute walk from the entrance (Moovit; Fête des Loges).
• Car: Accessible via the A13 motorway or RN184/RN308. Free parking is available on-site, including PMR (reduced mobility) spaces.

Accessibility: The site accommodates visitors with reduced mobility with designated parking and accessible paths, though some forest trails may be uneven.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

As a functioning training center, Camp des Loges is not open for daily public tours. However, selected events—such as youth or women’s matches, open training sessions, and community or festival gatherings—offer limited public access.

• General Access: Grounds viewable from outside during daylight. No regular public entry into main facilities.
• Special Events: Public access is granted for specific matches, screenings, and community events. Schedules are posted on official club websites and local tourism platforms.
• Tickets: Most youth and women’s matches are free. Larger events or fan zones may require advance registration or tickets.

Facilities and Amenities

• Sports Facilities: Multiple grass and synthetic pitches, modern gym, balneotherapy, recovery rooms, and medical centers (Wikipedia EN).
• Spectator Areas: Viewing spaces are available during designated public events.
• Amenities: Restrooms and cafeterias operate during matches and festivals. On-site amenities may be limited outside major events.

Events and Activities

• Fête des Loges: An annual summer fair with rides, games, and food stalls, running from late June to mid-August, located adjacent to Camp des Loges (Sortir à Paris; JDS Paris).
• Youth Academy Sessions: The PSG Academy offers training for children, and public viewing is sometimes possible (psg-academy-france.fr).
• Community Events: Occasional public match screenings, food trucks, and family activities.

Notable Features and Anecdotes

Camp des Loges is celebrated for nurturing football legends like Luis Fernandez and fostering local sporting pride. Its diverse history has seen it host international teams for events such as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and major PSG fan gatherings (sofoot.com; Archysport). The site’s evolution—from military headquarters to elite sports hub—symbolizes the adaptive spirit of Saint-Germain-en-Laye.

Nearby Attractions and Accommodation

• Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Former royal palace with the National Archaeology Museum and stunning gardens.
• Stade Georges-Lefèvre: Historic sports complex hosting youth and women’s matches.
• Forest Trails: Ideal for walking, jogging, and picnics.
• Town Center: Offers restaurants, shops, and boutique hotels for a comfortable stay (Absolute Travel).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Camp des Loges?
A: No fixed public hours. Access is limited to specific events or matches; check club and tourism websites for up-to-date schedules.

Q: Do I need tickets to enter Camp des Loges?
A: Most youth and women’s matches are free. Special events may require tickets or registration online.

Q: Is Camp des Loges accessible by public transport?
A: Yes, via RER A, local buses, and the T13 tram.

Q: Can I watch training sessions?
A: Occasionally, open sessions are held for the public. These are announced in advance by PSG or Stade Français Paris.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are rare but may be arranged through select travel agencies or during special events (Absolute Travel).

Q: Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
A: Main paths and parking are accessible, though some forested areas may be uneven.