Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a camping trip near Ottawa, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the best campsites in and around Ottawa, including Gatineau Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, Wesley Clover Parks, and more. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin camping, there’s something for everyone.
Gatineau Park Camping
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Gatineau Park, located just a short drive from Ottawa, offers several camping options, including drive-in and backcountry sites. The park’s campgrounds are equipped with amenities such as showers, toilets, and potable water. You can choose from a variety of campsites, including secluded spots for tents and RVs, as well as group campsites. The park’s natural beauty offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and rejuvenating camping trip. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, go for a hike, or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, Gatineau Park is the perfect destination for a memorable camping experience. So pack your gear and head to Gatineau Park for a camping adventure you won’t forget!
Algonquin Provincial Park Camping
Algonquin Provincial Park, located about two hours west of Ottawa, is a popular destination for campers. The park offers over 2,400 campsites, including some that are accessible by car and others that are only accessible by canoe. You can choose from a variety of camping experiences, including tent camping, RV camping, and backcountry camping. Algonquin Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with over 7700 square kilometers of forests, lakes, and wetlands. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, bears, wolves, and beavers.
The park’s campsites are equipped with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and outhouses. Some campsites also have access to showers and running water. The park’s campgrounds offer a range of services, including grocery stores, laundry facilities, and canoe and kayak rentals.
Wesley Clover Parks Camping
Wesley Clover Parks, located just south of Ottawa, offers four different campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique features and amenities. The popular Wesley Clover Campground is the largest of the four, featuring over 300 campsites, including both serviced and unserviced sites. The campground is equipped with modern amenities such as showers, washrooms, and laundry facilities, making it the perfect choice for families and groups.
For those looking for a more secluded camping experience, Wesley Clover Parks also offers the Sleepy Cedars Family Camping area. This smaller campground is nestled among the trees and features just 50 campsites, creating a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The campground is equipped with basic amenities such as outhouses and potable water, making it ideal for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.
Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa
Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa, located just 20 minutes south of Ottawa, is a popular destination for campers looking to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors. The campground offers 150 campsites, including some that are equipped with electricity and water, making it easy to stay comfortable and connected during your stay.
In addition to the campsites, Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa also features a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Take a dip in the swimming pool, or let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. The campground also offers modern washrooms and showers, as well as laundry facilities, so you can stay refreshed and clean during your stay.
If you’re looking for some adventure, Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa is located near several hiking and biking trails, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Ottawa. The campground also hosts a range of events and activities during the summer months, including campfire sing-alongs and movie nights.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa is the perfect destination for a fun and relaxing camping trip. With its convenient location, comfortable campsites, and range of amenities, you’ll feel right at home in the great outdoors. So pack your gear and head to Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa for an unforgettable camping adventure!
Camp Hither Hills
Camp Hither Hills, located about 30 minutes south of Ottawa, is a family-friendly campground that offers a variety of ways to stay and play. Whether you prefer to pitch a tent, park your RV, or stay in a cozy cabin or yurt, Camp Hither Hills has something for everyone. The campground features a swimming pool, playground, and a variety of recreational activities to keep you and your family entertained.
The campsites at Camp Hither Hills are spacious and well-maintained, with options for both serviced and unserviced sites. If you’re looking for a more luxurious camping experience, consider renting one of our cabins or yurts, which offer all the comforts of home.
In addition to the campsites, Camp Hither Hills also offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Take a dip in the swimming pool, or let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. The campground also features modern washrooms and showers, as well as laundry facilities, so you can stay refreshed and clean during your stay.
Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park
Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park, located just 15 minutes south of Ottawa, is a popular destination for campers looking for a convenient and enjoyable camping experience. The campground offers 130 campsites, including some that are equipped with full hookups, making it easy to stay connected and comfortable during your stay.
In addition to the campsites, Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park also features a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Take a dip in the swimming pool, or let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. The campground also offers modern washrooms and showers, as well as laundry facilities, so you can stay refreshed and clean during your stay.
If you’re looking for some adventure, Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park is located near several hiking and biking trails, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Ottawa. The campground also hosts a range of events and activities during the summer months, including campfire sing-alongs and movie nights.
Breezy Hill Camping
Breezy Hill Camping, located about 45 minutes south of Ottawa, is a family-owned campground that offers 100 campsites, including some that are equipped with electricity and water. The campground features a swimming pool, playground, and a variety of recreational activities.
Recreationland Camping
Recreationland Camping, located about 45 minutes south of Ottawa, offers 160 campsites, including some that are equipped with electricity and water. The campground also features a swimming pool, playground, and other amenities.
Rideau Heights Campground
Rideau Heights Campground, located about 30 minutes south of Ottawa, is a family-friendly campground that offers numbers of campsites, including some that are equipped with full hookups. The campground is situated on 40 acres of beautiful land, surrounded by trees and rolling hills.
In addition to the campsites, Rideau Heights Campground also features a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Take a dip in the swimming pool, or let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. The campground also offers modern washrooms and showers, as well as laundry facilities, so you can stay refreshed and clean during your stay.
If you’re looking for some adventure, Rideau Heights Campground is located near several hiking and biking trails, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Ottawa. The campground also hosts a range of events and activities during the summer months, including campfire sing-alongs and movie nights.
Rideau Heights Campground offers a variety of campsites to suit your needs. Choose from spacious sites with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewage, or opt for a more rustic experience with a partial hookup or primitive site. All campsites are well-maintained and surrounded by beautiful trees, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for your camping adventure.
Explore the Area
Rideau Heights Campground is located near many attractions and activities, making it the perfect base for exploring the region. Visit the nearby village of Manotick, which offers a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Take a boat tour of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit the Canadian Museum of History.
Nature Lovers’ Paradise
Rideau Heights Campground is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Explore the nearby trails, including the scenic Rideau Trail, or take a short drive to the Rideau River Provincial Park. The campground is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and birds, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Ottawa Additional Camping Options
In addition to the traditional campsites, there are several other camping options available in the Ottawa area for those seeking a more unique experience.
A. Backcountry Camping
For those who are adventurous and willing to venture off the beaten path, backcountry camping is an excellent option. This type of camping involves hiking into the wilderness and setting up camp in a secluded area, away from designated campsites. Backcountry camping allows for a truly immersive experience in nature, and the opportunity to see wildlife and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Ottawa area.
B. Yurt Camping
Yurt camping is a fun and unique way to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Yurts are circular, fabric structures that are equipped with beds, furniture, and sometimes even electricity. They offer a cozy and comfortable way to camp, while still allowing you to connect with nature. Yurt camping is a great option for families or groups, and is often available in scenic areas near hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
C. Wild Camping
Wild camping, also known as dispersed camping, is the act of camping outside of designated campsites. This type of camping allows for a truly immersive experience in nature, as you can set up camp in a secluded area and enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness. Wild camping is a great option for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a more rustic camping experience. However, it’s important to note that wild camping may require additional permits and follow specific guidelines to minimize your impact on the environment.
D. Glamping
For those who want to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, glamping is a great option. Glamping involves staying in luxurious accommodations, such as yurts, cabins, or even luxury tents, that offer amenities like electricity, running water, and real beds. Glamping is a great way to experience the beauty of nature without the hassle of setting up camp or sacrificing comfort. There are several glamping options available in the Ottawa area, ranging from luxury campsites to eco-lodges.
No matter what type of camping experience you’re looking for, there are plenty of options available in the Ottawa area. From traditional campsites to backcountry camping, yurt camping, wild camping, and glamping, there’s something for everyone. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the beautiful outdoors!
Camping Tips and Resources:
Are you ready to hit the great outdoors and enjoy a camping trip near Ottawa? Before you go, check out our camping tips and resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
What to Pack:
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Flashlight/Headlamp
- Camping stove
- Cooking pot
- Utensils
- Plates
- Bowls
- Cups
- Clothing
- Rain gear
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- First aid kit
- Map/Compass
- Fire starter
- Toiletries
- Personal hygiene items
How to Make Reservations:
Reservations for campsites in and around Ottawa can be made through various websites and booking platforms. Some popular options include:
- Parks Canada: Reserve campsites in national parks, including Gatineau Park and Algonquin Provincial Park.
- Ontario Parks: Reserve campsites in provincial parks, including Wesley Clover Parks.
- Campground websites: Many private campgrounds, such as Rolling Hills Campground Ottawa, Camp Hither Hills, Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park, Breezy Hill Camping, and Recreationland Camping, offer online reservations through their websites.
- Booking platforms: Websites like Campgrounds.com, RV Parks.com, and ReserveAmerica.com allow you to search and book campsites in your desired location.
Additional Tips:
- Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Respect the environment and follow the principles of Leave No Trace.
- Bring a map and compass, and know how to use them.
- Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time.
- Be mindful of wildlife and keep a safe distance.
- Bring a first aid kit and know how to use the items in it.
- Be prepared for emergencies and know what to do in case of a fire or other emergency.
By following these tips and resources, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable camping trip near Ottawa
Outdoor Activities While Camping Near Ottawa
Ottawa and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of outdoor activities that allow you to connect with nature and enhance your camping experience. From hiking and kayaking to canoeing and fishing, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Hiking
Ottawa has numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. The nearby Gatineau Park offers over 160 km of hiking trails, including the scenic Skyline Trail and the challenging Wolf Trail. Algonquin Provincial Park, located about two hours west of Ottawa, offers over 2,400 km of hiking trails that take you through breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities in Ottawa, with numerous waterways and lakes to explore. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle through the calm waters of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore the Ottawa River. For a more leisurely experience, take a guided tour and enjoy the scenic views of the city from the water.
Fishing
Ottawa is surrounded by excellent fishing spots, with a variety of species to catch, including bass, trout, and pike. Try your luck in the Ottawa River, Lake Ontario, or one of the many nearby lakes and streams. If you’re new to fishing, consider hiring a guide to help you get started.
Other Outdoor Activities
In addition to hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, the Ottawa area offers a range of other outdoor activities to enjoy. Go cycling along the scenic bike trails, take a horseback ride through the beautiful countryside, or try your hand at whitewater rafting or zip lining for an adrenaline rush.
Connection to Camping
Camping and outdoor activities go hand in hand, and Ottawa’s campsites offer the perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. After a day of hiking, kayaking, or fishing, return to your campsite and enjoy a well-deserved rest amidst the peaceful surroundings. Many campsites also offer amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and playgrounds for families, making them an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
By combining camping with outdoor activities, you’ll create unforgettable memories and deepen your connection with nature. Experience the thrill of a new adventure, the tranquility of the wilderness, and the joy of quality time with friends and family.
