Thank you all for your replies, keep them coming as this wont be the only trip just the first of many. Jo
Routes through France and camp sites are a very personal thing but I would take in the Loire Valley en route. Everyone likes chateaux and most of the camp sites in the region are family friendly with swimming pool eyc.
Friends of mine just visited us on their way to your area, and booked into a campsite in cambrai, les trois cloches.....it cost € 9 a night.,....that included electricity.....they said it was great, if that's of any help!
This one is a must! I am sure you they would have a great time there and the owners are great! There would be plenty for the children and some sociable evenigs which would be good for Dad. I just hope they have space for them.
The are also on Facebook.
The campsite in the town I live in has won a fair few awards and gets great reviews. It’s in st Gervais les bains (next to Mont Blanc), st Gervais is a gorgeous town with loads to do on its doorstep. Even if it is out of your way it really is worth a visit, I had no intention of moving to France until I visited it, several visits and a couple of years later I was living in France, I’ve been here 3 years and still can’t believe how lucky I am to have found somewhere so stunning to live!
This link should take you there http://www.camping-mont-blanc.com/en/. If not Google some de miage camping st Gervais. Kathryn
He could try to post to this page, it's in dutch, but most dutchies speak english to, and there are lots of dutch campingowners active on this page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NederlandstailgeVakantieverblijvenEnFrance/
Good luck! Michael.