Camposauro Park is one of the largest and most fascinating natural areas in Southern Italy. Located just a few kilometers and a short drive from the city of Benevento, the park was established in 2006 and spans an area of over 20,000 hectares, including forests, meadows, trails, and a wide variety of wildlife.
This park offers a unique experience for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, as well as for those simply looking for a break from the hectic pace of city life and wishing to spend time surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility.
Thanks to its wide range of activities and attractions, the park is the perfect destination for a day outdoors.
An ideal place for a variety of activities
Camposauro Park is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. Visitors are sure to appreciate its rich flora and fauna, as well as the hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the woods, mountains, and the Volturno River valley that flows through the area.
The park offers many activities such as hiking, trekking, archery, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.
For those interested in discovering the park’s wildlife, guided tours are available, where visitors can learn to identify local birds and animals such as deer, wild boars, foxes, and many bird species native to the region.
Hikes in the park cater to both beginners and experienced trekkers. Visitors can choose from several trails, including the one leading to the summit of Mount Camposauro, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, or the trail to the Grotta delle Fate (“Fairy Cave”), a spectacular limestone cave accessible only with expert guides.
Mountain biking, picnics, and family fun
For cycling enthusiasts, Camposauro Park offers some of the best mountain biking trails in Southern Italy. Routes vary in difficulty and are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, all offering stunning views of the park’s untamed landscape.
There are areas equipped for bike rental and maintenance. The park is also an ideal place for more relaxing activities, such as picnics with family and friends, thanks to the numerous designated picnic areas.
Children can enjoy the play areas set up throughout the park, where they can have fun safely under the watchful eyes of their parents. One of the highlights is the Outdoor School Field, where kids can take part in nature-based educational activities.
But Camposauro Park is not just about adventure and fun. It also offers opportunities to explore the history and culture of the local area. Several excursions are organized to nearby villages and towns, where visitors can discover ancient art, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Attractions near Camposauro Park
The area surrounding the park features many tourist attractions, including:
- Limatola Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress just a few kilometers from the park.
- San Gerardo Maiella Sanctuary, an 18th-century church dedicated to the patron saint of farmers, located in Materdomini, in the town of Caposele (Avellino).
- The city of Benevento, an ancient city rich in historical landmarks such as the Arch of Trajan, the Roman Theatre, and the Santa Sofia complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Rocca dei Rettori in Sassinoro, a 13th-century castle overlooking the Tammaro River.
- The Castle of Torrecuso, a 13th-century fortress located on a hilltop.
- The Aeclanum Archaeological Park, an ancient Samnite city later conquered by the Romans, situated in a valley just a few kilometers from the park, covering about 18 hectares.
- The town of Pietrelcina, birthplace of Saint Padre Pio, the friar who received the stigmata and performed many miracles during the 20th century.
Best times of year to visit Camposauro Park
The best time to visit Camposauro Park is from spring to early summer, when the days are longer and the weather is milder. During these months, you can enjoy the view of an incredible variety of blooming plants, including broom flowers, and lush green landscapes.
In summer, although it can get quite hot, the abundant shade from trees and rocks, as well as numerous natural water sources, make hiking more pleasant.
In autumn, the park is painted in shades of red, yellow, and orange, creating a magical atmosphere. However, shorter days and potentially slippery trails may limit hiking activities.
In winter, the park is often blanketed in snow, making for a charming and peaceful landscape. That said, the cold temperatures mean visitors should dress appropriately.
Before setting out on a hike, it’s always advisable to check the local weather forecast to avoid being caught in bad conditions
