There are lots of great places to go camping near Ottawa, specifically in the Ottawa Valley.
The Ottawa Valley is a geographical region spanning throughout Renfrew County. It encompasses the Ottawa river, skirts along the Outaouais through the Pontiac Region in Western Quebec.
The Ottawa Valley holds vast landscapes, rolling hills and even a large portion of Algonquin Park!
This region of Ontario is truly an adventure lover’s paradise.
Let’s explore the 10 best campgrounds near Ottawa. They are located in the Ottawa Valley.
Things to know before booking your campground near Ottawa:
Browse my Ottawa Valley Adventure Guides as well as the Ottawa Valley Travel site to familiarize yourself with things to do in the region. You can spend weeks exploring here and only just start to discover.
Types of camping near Ottawa:
Crown land
Crown land sites operate on a first come first serve basis – you can find maps and a detailed resource here: Crown Land Use Policy Atlas | ontario.ca
Provincial Parks
Ontario Parks are best to book in advance to guarantee a spot at a campground regardless of if you are booking front country or backcountry in the Ottawa Valley. You can book them up to 6 months in advance at this link: Ontario Parks Reservation System backcountry sites within Algonquin park are booked by selecting which lake you wish to stay at, from there the site is first come first serve basis.
Private Campgrounds
Private campgrounds are generally fairly available and can either be booked in advance or on a walk up basis, you can find a list of privately owned campgrounds throughout the Ottawa Valley here: Camping | Ottawa Valley Tourist Association
Lodges/Glamping Experiences
If you prefer to stay at a Lodge or unique accommodation there are plenty of options ranging from 5 Star all inclusive resorts to glamping, a restored grain silo, plenty of cozy cabin’s and family friendly resorts. You can find a list of lodge’s and resorts here: Lodges and Resorts | Ottawa Valley Tourist Association and a list of unique HipCamp accommodations here: Camping Near Me | Find The Best Campgrounds on Hipcamp
Alright; you’ve familiarized yourself with things to do in the region, you’ve looked into the different camp type options, now… where to camp near Ottawa?
Here are the top 10 Best Campgrounds near Ottawa:
Algonquin Provincial Park Achray Campground
The eastern side of Algonquin provincial park is absolutely breathtaking! Our family loves Algonquin Park and have stayed in many campgrounds throughout however Achray is easily the best campground in Algonquin Provincial Park.
Achray campground is a remote rustic car camping experience with site options ranging in comfortability. You can book walk in sites, yurts, sites right on the water as well as sites that are a bit more open if you’re camping with friends or family. Achray lake sits on Grand Lake within the Eastern Region of Algonquin Provincial Park past the Sand Lake Gate Entrance.
What is there to do at Achray? This park is a great starting point to explore Eastern Algonquin by foot or canoe! You can hike on many nearby trails or put your paddle in to explore nearby Baron Canyon, a natural waterslide called High Falls or any of the nearby lakes. The Petawawa River is nearby as well with options for white-water paddling. What to do at Achray campground? Hike Jack Pine Trail, swim the warm waters of Grand Lake, paint where famous Group of Seven artists have drawn inspiration from, watch for Monarch Butterflies as they preform their metamorphosis at Achray each year in August.
Is there cell service at Achray? Yes! You can get cell service at the campground however nearby hikes and paddling locations may not have service depending on your provider.
Is Achray campground remote? Yes, it is remote yet provides many amenities. There is a small park store at Achray to grab ice cream, any last-minute supplies, ask the staff for hiking recommendations and grab a cold drink.
There are flush toilets and vault toilets in the campground however no running showers or laundry facilities.
A limited number of sites can accommodate trailers and RV’s however there is no electricity on the sites and generators are prohibited.
You can book Achray Campground here: Ontario Parks Reservation System
2. Bonnechere Provincial Park
Located on Round Lake near Killaloe and Eganville is Bonnechere Provincial Park.
Bonnechere Provincial Park is the best campground for kids in Ontario. Shallow, warm sandy beaches with accessibility mats and chairs to accommodate those with mobility issues, a large wooden play structure, swing-set, an extremely fun and interactive Discovery program, a robust camp store, interactive hiking trail, canoe, kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals, large private campsites and campsites right on the Bonnechere River this campground is perfect for those traveling with children.
There are 148 campsites and 4 rustic cabins within Bonnechere Provincial Park ranging from hydro free, small and private to large hydro sites perfect for an RV or large trailer.
There is so much to do near Bonnechere Provincial park without being a very far drive away. What is the closest town to Bonnechere Provincial Park? The town of Eganville has so much charm, you can find a complete guide of where to eat and what to do nearby here.
Killaloe is a short drive away and the home of the Beavertail, a decadent Canadian dessert of fried dough and toppings worth the drive out for!
Barry’s Bay boasts unique shopping experiences while being the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee, wander around and Crooked Slide Park.
Are there hikes near Bonnechere Provincial Park? Yes! Some of our favourite hiking trails are just a short drive away from Bonnechere Provincial, Egg Rock, Payne’s Pines, High Falls on the Little Bonnechere, Fourth Chute Falls and more...
Algonquin’s oldest standing building is also nearby, you can learn more about it here.
3. Driftwood Provincial Park
What campground has the best waterfront sites in Ontario? Driftwood Provincial Park.
Large secluded sandy beach front sites… move aside Sandbanks Provincial Park you have competition! Driftwood Provincial Park is truly a nature lovers paradise and one of Ontario’s best kept secrets. If you are looking for an uncrowded, secluded, peaceful camping experience with panoramic views this park right on the Ottawa River is the park for you.
There are two campgrounds within Driftwood Provincial Park; Brumm campground is suitable for trailers and RV’s with large electric pull through sites meanwhile Ottawa Campground is ideal for those seeking beach front sites, solitude and tent camping on the Ottawa River.
How many hiking trails are in Driftwood Provincial Park? 4 trails ranging from 1 kilometre to 3.7 kilometres. The elevation gain is a moderate challenge. Trails within the Riverview Loop and Beaver Pond loop provide breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and Laurentian Mountains.
You can find more information and book here: Welcome to Driftwood Provincial Park (ontarioparks.com)
4. Wilderness Tours
Your summer adventure awaits at Wilderness Tours right in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.
If you are looking for an adventure and adrenaline filled camping trip Wilderness Tours is the perfect spot. This family owned and operated white water rafting tour agency has something for even the most hardcore adventure enthusiast!
Tours run for guests aged 5 and up, from family rafting to high adventure filled rapids there is something for everyone’s bucket list at Wilderness Adventure Tours.
Can you sleep at Wilderness Tours? Yes, there is a variety of accommodation types to choose from at Wilderness Tours. You can camp at a non-electric campsite within one of three campgrounds, there are trailer and camper hookup sites as well as lodging, cabins and yurts available to book.
The campgrounds are open for both white water paddlers and those who have booked a rafting package or tour.
What is there to do at Wilderness Tours besides rafting? Catch a live show at the on site Park Village, go for a swim, go for a hike, mountain bike at on-site trails, relax in the sauna, rent a canoe or laze through the lazy river on a tube. There is no shortage of things to do at Wilderness Tours.
Camp sites range anywhere in price from: $49-$349 per night.
Rafting tours start at: $129
You can find information on camping and rafting packages here: Wilderness Tours White Water Rafting on the Ottawa River
5. Glamping in the Woods Foresters Falls, Ontario
If you are looking for a hidden gem this off grid cabin located in Foresters Falls is for you.
This 30 acre property was once the site of a Carding Mill used for processing sheep’s wool. The cabin was constructed in 2020 using salvaged beams from the mill, you can still see beams near the opening of the creek which was at the time was a pond 10 feet deeper than current. Beaver’s have turned this area into a true aquatic habitat, we caught site of turtles, great blue herons, song birds, amphibians and more during our stay!
The Old Mill Cabin is completely off the grid. There is no cell phone service, no running water, no hydro and no flush toilet but this stay is far from uncomfortable! The cabin runs on solar energy, water is provided in a jug with pump for cooking, cleaning and drinking. There is a full sized propane barbeque, fire pit and all cooking amenities you could need! There is even a wood stove inside giving a backdrop to the perfect cozy off-grid family vacation.
The Old Mill Cabin goes for: $110/night
This cabin is located just 30 minutes from the town of Pembroke.
What to do near Pembroke, Ontario? Hiking trails surround Pembroke and area, Westmeath Provincial Park is the perfect hike and beach day location, Shaw Wood’s, Forest Lea Trails, Whitewater rafting, visit an old rail bridge in Foresters Falls before seeing the waterfall in town. Also in Foresters falls you can grab ice cream and visit the Ross Museum, visit the Bonnechere Caves just 10 minutes away in Cobden there is a family friendly waterpark, Logo’s Land is the perfect place to spend the day! You could also visit Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch to see the petting zoo, pick your own blueberries and more.
Find more information and book here: Glamping in the Woods - Hipcamp in Foresters Falls, Ontario
What is there to do in Pembroke in the winter? This cabin is the perfect winter hideaway, cozy up with a book and the wood burning fireplace, explore the property for ruins, ice fish on the pond and hike Westmeath Provincial Park nearby!
6. Parc Leslie
Parc Lisle is located within Otter Lake, Quebec a quaint small town nestled amongst towering Pine trees, rolling cliffs right in the heart of the Pontiac region. Fun fact: Otter Lake was where we were married!
A region rich in logging history this campground is located on 1000 acres of natural park land with 204 campsites to choose from as well as 3 fully equipped cabins. Parc Lisle features: a shallow shoreline beach, hiking and cycling trails, a large play structure for the kids, fishing and water sports, sporting equipment, canoe, kayak and row boat rentals!
Campsites range in price from: $49-60/night.
Cabins range from: $220-290/night.
Both campsites and cabins have cheaper rates if you stay for a week or more. You can find more information as well as how to book here: About us (parcleslie.com)
7. Chutes Coulonge
The Ottawa Valley has a few beautiful waterfalls, but none live up to the glory of Chutes Coulonge. Standing 42 metres high Grandes Chutes Falls on the Coulonge river is a wonder for the Ottawa Valley and Outaouais regions.
There is an extensive Adventure Park at Chutes Coulonge with obstacles for every skill and bravery level. You can view the falls from the viewing platform before conquering an aerial obstacle course, zipline through the canyon on one of many zipline courses, cross a suspension bridge over roaring white-water or climb along the edge of the canyon using ropes, cables and anchor points.
Day pass rates start at $5.20 and range to $119.95 depending on how many adventure obstacles you wish to do.
Is Chutes Coulonge Family friendly? Yes, there are lots of activities for young children and adults alike. There is an on site splash pad, historic walk, viewing platform for the waterfall, a low ropes obstacle course and small rock wall for kids.
If you really want to maximize your time at Chutes Coulonge there are two beautiful yurts to choose from. Hidden in the woods you will experience peace and silence while immersing yourself in nature. There is a wood stove to keep you warm on colder nights, a sky light to view the stars on clear nights and each yurt is fully equipped with electricity, a mini fridge, four chairs, two beds (one single and one double) and wood.
Yurts are $150/night, you can book and find out more here: Yurts – Chutes Coulonge
8. Deacon Escarpment
Deacon Escarpment is a unique 4 season glamping experience. Located in a unique geographic area cabin’s at Deacon Escarpment provide panoramic views of the Bonnechere Valley and Golden Lake.
There are several cabins to choose from at Deacon Escarpment ranging from cozy one room and pod style cabins to a multi bedroom solar powered cabin suitable for a family. Each cabin is completely off grid with its own private hiking trail to the cabin – you can choose if you wish to hike in all your gear, have your gear shuttled up for you or be driven to your cabin in the comfortable 5-seater side by side with all your gear! The Algonquin Wolf Cabin and Sarah Leslie Cabin’s are our family’s favourite stays, each with incredible views of the lake and valley.
There are complimentary package options you can add on to your cabin stay however if you choose not to add on any packages it is suggested to bring:
Sturdy hiking footwear
10 Hiking Essentials
Water
Cellphone or laptop
Kitchenware; dishes, utensils, frying pan, pots, dish soap and cloth, drinking water
Toiletries
Sunscreen, insect repellent
Bedding, pillows, sheets and blankets
Camera
Dog leash and bowl
What to do in Golden Lake? There is over 30 kilometres of hiking trails at Deacon escarpment – take advantage of the proximity during your stay to get out and explore some of the land! Swimming in Golden Lake and Round lake is a popular sport in summer. You can explore Deacon Escarpment via canoe with complimentary canoes and life-jackets.
Nearby you can visit Eganville, view a complete itinerary here: https://www.withloveduquettes.com/post/mini-road-trip-series-eganville-ontario
Things to do near Golden Lake:
Bonnechere Caves
Champlain Museum, Pembroke
Chutes Coulonge
Whitewater rafting
Algonquin Provincial Park
Nearby hiking trails
Petawawa Heritage Museum
Killaloe Beaver Tails
Basin Depot – Algonquin’s oldest building
Cabin’s at Deacon Escarpment range in price from $130-$260/night
You can find more information and book here: Deacon Escarpment Cabins, Camping and Trails Ltd. - Cabins, Secluded
9. Fitzroy Provincial Park
Is there a Provincial Park near Ottawa? Yes, Fitzroy Provincial Park is located 45 minutes from Ottawa on the outskirts of the Ottawa Valley only 15 minutes from Arnprior.
In our opinion Fitzroy is a really underrated park, we absolutely loved our trip here! The sites were large, shaded, private, the hiking trails were well maintained and beautiful. The kids had an incredible time at the playground and warm, shallow beaches.
Fitzroy Provincial Park has two campgrounds and 236 sites to choose from: the Pine River campground and the Two Rivers campground. Waterfront sites are available on the Carp River and the Ottawa River. There is a small beach within the Two Rivers campground which is perfect for families and those with young children.
Electrical and non-electric sites are available in each campground with site options suitable for small tents and large campers.
Are dogs allowed at Fitzroy Provincial Park? Yes, dogs must remain on leash on the hiking trails, dogs are not permitted on the beach at anytime but welcome throughout the park and campgrounds while remaining on leash.
What to do near Fitzroy Provincial Park?
Visit the nearby town of Fitzroy Harbour, a small fishing community thriving on the Ottawa River. Go on one of many interpretive hiking trails and be sure to visit the Fitzroy Waterfall.
Arnprior’s downtown core only 15 minutes away has lots of small shops, a beautiful waterfront with walking trails and playground. Grab a coffee from Ottawa Valley Coffee and enjoy a scenic walk through town.
Hungry? Arnprior has an extensive foodie scene however our family favourite spot is a fry truck called Wes’ Chips. Located at: 198 Madawaska Blvd, Arnprior, ON K7S 3S1 this fry truck has been in operation since 1960 and is sure to crave even the most picky-eaters appetite!
10. Algonquin Backcountry camping
What is the best part of Algonquin Park? Regardless of if you like to hike, prefer a gentle paddle or a strenuous multi-day trip through white water Algonquin backcountry camping has a route for everyone. The Eastern Section of Algonquin contains backpacking hiking loops: Eastern Pines, various canoe launches, paddle in campsites, two white water river routes and even a few secret drive on backcountry sites for a serene off grid car camping experience.
I have hiked the Eastern Pines backpacking trail several times.
Eastern Pines backpacking trail contains loops ranging from 4.5-15 kilometres. The trails are moderate-difficult with some steep sections however all loops are beginner friendly and very manageable! There are a number of campsites within the loops, one on the Berm Lake section – this one is extremely small, sloped and water access is scarce due to the marshy shoreline. We found this site to be private, sufficient and with walking 200m we were able to access the water in a safe spot to filter water for drinking, cooking and washing.
There is a thunder box 100m away in good condition and the view of the sunset on the Eastern Pines will stay with me forever.
If you are looking for something a bit more built up the sites near High Falls, a natural waterslide and adventure pool playground are the sites for you. These sites are very popular, so it is recommended to book them 6 months in advance, backcountry sites near High Falls waterslide in Eastern Algonquin are perfect for groups and families. Hike in your gear and enjoy a few days soaking up the summer sun and playing at this stunning geological feature.
Where do I find canoe routes and maps for Eastern Algonquin Park? You can find a full list of canoe routes, access points, maps and more at: Algonquin Park Canoe Routes Network | Algonquin Provincial Park | The Friends of Algonquin Park
Secret camp sites in Algonquin Provincial Park: located in the Ottawa Valley near Bonnechere Provincial Park you can access Algonquin Park via road. There are several hikes along the road like: Payne’s Pines, High Falls on the Little Bonnechere, Egg Rock, and Basin Depot Cabin which is the oldest standing building within Algonquin Park. There are also campsites you can book through the backcountry, canoe reservation system however these sites are fully accessible by car.
Getting there: You can access the North Eastern side of Algonquin Park via Basin Lake Access Point. From Highway 58 7.3 kilometres north of Round Lake Centre turn left onto Turner’s road/Basin Lake Road across from Bonnechere Provincial Park entrance. Reset your odometer and travel 30.3 kilometres to the Basin Lake access. From here you can continue 11.3 kilometres to Foys Lake to put in your canoe or you can either put in your canoe at Basin Lake for further paddle in site options or camp in your car right at Basin Lake.
Book a reservation: Ontario Parks Reservation System
Things to note: visit Basin Depot, Algonquin Park’s oldest standing building and sign the log book! Explore the ghost town that was once a logging depot, farm and post office, where you can see 2 cemeteries, plantation ruins, abandoned logging trucks and more!
There you have it! Our top 10 Campsites near Ottawa!
Helpful resources:
Be sure to check out a few of withlove Duquette’s featured posts, nearby attractions and adventure guides to further aid in planning your trip.
Download Alltrails and save any hiking trails you wish to do in an easy to refer to folder as most trails in the Ottawa Valley are scarcely marked.
The Ottawa Valley Travel website and Ontario Highland’s Tourism sites are great resources when planning out other aspects of your trip such as food recommendations, where to swim, regional guides etc.
Thanks for reading!
withlove, Duquettes