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We loved L'Ardechois and went back there many times when my sons were growing up.  It is busy, but not brash, has entertainment but not tacky, and when we used to go ran a really good programme of activities for all ages, every day.  For us it was ideally situated, just on the edge of town, but walking distance of markets and restaurants. I wouldn't describe it as 'low key' though, but neither is it 'full on'!  It has state of the art sanitary facilities, a good restaurant and shop, and a nice pool in a sunny situation.

Le Clapas has lots of supporters, too, and is (was?) in the Cool Camping Book.  It's definitely lower key, and very much cheaper.  L'Ardechois is expensive - though it was always worth it for us and Le Clapas will cost less than half as much!  However, it doesn't have a pool - which for us would definitely be a no no.  Even though you have river access on both sites I wouldn't want to be without a pool as we've been there when the river level has been too high for safe swimming.  If there are storms in the mountains the level can rise by a huge amount during a few hours.  The level soon goes down again, but after storms the river can be somewhat 'murky' and a bit unwelcoming for a day or two.

You'll be there during the busiest time, and you may find that L'Ardechois is booking up - so don't leave it too long - it has many repeat bookers and is always a popular site. 

Certainly a trek down to Salavas from Le Clapas, but breakfast is easy, just pick it up from the bar after ordering the night before.

Val how long is it since you stayed at L'Ardechois.

BlueExpo: Last time we actually stayed at L'Ardechois was about eight years ago!  Long time, I know, but we have friends (Dutch) we met years ago, on the next pitch who still go back there now with their grandchildren.  We've been to see them there several times since, the last time in 2011 and it's still very much the same.  That's why I feel confident in still recommending it.

Personally, though, I wouldn't want to walk into Vallon just to pick up something for breakfast!  Whilst it's not a long walk, it would be nearly coffee time before you were back with the croissants.

We were last in the area in late August 2012 - but further south on the Ceze, though we did go into Vallon twice in ten days as we like some of the restaurants there.

Heifer: there are so many beautiful areas in France and almost anywhere can be recommended, but it really depends on what you want from an area.  Some people love chateaux and old buildings, some love vineyards and wine tasting, we love wildlife and wild country, and rivers for canoeing - so these are what we like about the areas I'd recommend, but they may not suit you.