Winterthur to vote on campsite renovation

The municipality of Obergoms in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, is hiring a ranger to address wild camping on the Furka, Grimsel, and Nufenen passes. In summer 2025, over 120 motorhomes and camper vans were counted in a single night on the Furka Pass. Unlike fines and bans, the ranger will inform travelers about legal parking spots and collect tourist taxes. The position starts in summer 2026.

A series of burglaries and thefts were reported in the canton of St. Gallen. In Wil, an unknown perpetrator entered a parked caravan by climbing onto the roof and forcing open the skylight. The interior was searched, but according to initial findings, nothing was stolen. The damage caused is estimated at around 5,000 Swiss francs. Police arrested an 18-year-old suspect in Lichtensteig; investigations into possible links to other crimes are ongoing.

On June 14, Winterthur will hold a vote on the construction of a new campsite at Schützenweiher. Opponents fear above-average prices and the end of alternative living forms, while supporters argue that a 'no' vote could mean the end of the campsite altogether.

In the commune of Les Fourgs (Jura, France), the municipality has set up an official motorhome parking area for up to 12 French workers who cross the border daily to work in Switzerland. Mayor Roger Belot reported that the influx of cross-border workers has increased the population from 1,100 to 1,450, pushing up housing prices by 20%. The parking fee is €200 per month, and the mayor plans to raise it to €400 to avoid excessive attractiveness.

Swiss tourists have started using e-bikes to tow compact living trailers. The setup offers comfort while maintaining mobility. It is presented as an alternative to traditional motorhomes and camper vans.

At the municipal assembly in late May, the authorities of Turtmann-Unterems (Valais) presented the 2025 annual accounts and approved a preliminary building contract for a new campsite. The income statement showed a surplus of 3,600 francs, with net investments of 1.4 million francs. Major expenditures include a new multi-purpose building in Bochten and road renovations. As of December 31, 2025, the municipality's net assets stood at approximately 8.2 million francs.