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The 10 Best Camping Sites in Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is not just your run-of-the-mill metropolis bustling with tourist attractions and historical sites. Nope, it’s got another side to it that’s a perfect treat for camping enthusiasts like ourselves.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro with all the camping gear or just someone looking for a refreshing escape from city life, get ready to strike camp and spark an adventure.
We’ve got the lowdown on the best camping sites in Ottawa, so read on to find your perfect camping match!
Camp Hither Hills
Website: http://www.camphitherhills.com/
Address: 5227 Bank St, Gloucester, ON K1X 1H2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-822-0509
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 8 PM
Camp Hither Hills is ideally located just minutes away from Ottawa’s downtown, promising a perfect spot for a relaxed getaway without being too far removed from civilization.
You can settle in one of their numerous sites, with options for grassy and shaded tent sites or spacious RV sites equipped with full hook-ups.
Now, let’s get down to what makes this campsite extra amazing: it boasts free Wi-Fi (not too shabby, eh?), laundry facilities, a heated outdoor pool, and even a playground and games room to keep the young’uns entertained.
Oh, and did we mention they have a snack bar for when hunger strikes? Perfect for s’mores emergencies.
But what is the real secret sauce at Camp Hither Hills? It’s the warm and friendly team that will make you feel like a part of the family.
| Local tip: Don’t miss out on visiting the nearby historic Watson’s Mill in Manotick, especially if you love a bit of history with your camping! |
Wesley Clover Parks
Website: http://www.wesleycloverparks.com/
Address: 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 8T1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-271-5452
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Alright, all you fun-seeking adventurers, it’s time to shift gears to the next top-notch Ottawa campsite: Wesley Clover Parks. Nestled within a sprawling 500-acre equestrian and outdoor activities park, it is a great place for families and outdoor folks alike.
Trust us, once you take in those lush forests, stunning meadows, and picturesque landscapes, you’ll be saying, “Can we stay here all year round?” Now let’s explore what makes Wesley Clover Parks stand out from the crowd.
For starters, it offers a range of campsites, from quaint tent sites to pull-through RV sites with full-service hook-ups. No camper is left behind!
To pump up the excitement, you can enjoy a fantastic array of activities, including horseback riding lessons, archery, swimming, and a visit to the seasonal haunted walk.
What’s that you ask? Will the kids be entertained? Oh, you bet! The park boasts a fantastic playground, a creative maze, and even a bunch of cute farm animals to feed.
| Local tip: Don’t forget to check out the Nepean Sailing Club nearby, offering serene views of the Ottawa River. |
Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/ RV Park
Website: http://www.ottawaspoplargrovecamp.com/
Address: 6154 Bank St, Greely, ON K4P 1B4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-821-2973
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
Now, onto our next camping spot—Ottawa’s Poplar Grove Campground/RV Park. Just 15 minutes south of downtown Ottawa, it is perfect for reconnecting with nature while still having access to all the amenities that a modern, city-loving camper requires.
As you wander around this well-maintained campground, you’ll quickly fall in love with its beauty and towering poplar trees. You can choose from a variety of camping options, including spacious RV sites, cosy tent sites, and even a selection of seasonal sites.
Thanks to the on-site camp store stocked with essentials, you can leave your worries behind and focus on soaking up the natural splendour. Now, let’s talk about amenities, because Poplar Grove sure has them in spades!
You guys can enjoy free Wi-Fi, modern washroom and shower facilities, a heated pool, a playground, and even a weekend pancake breakfast (yeah, that’s right, pancakes!).
| Local tip: Swing by Rideau Carleton Raceway for a little gaming action; you never know what lady luck might bring! |
Sleepy Cedars Family Campground
Website: https://www.sleepycedarsfamilycamping.ca/
Address: 1893 Manotick Station Rd, Greely, ON K4P 1H2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-821-0756
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Remember those dreamy summer camps you used to hear about in stories? Well, it’s time to bring those stories to life with our next spot on the best camping sites in Ottawa—the Sleepy Cedars Family Campground.
This family-operated gem, snuggled right beside the Ottawa River, offers the perfect cosy yet adventurous atmosphere that’ll make you go, “Ah, this is life!” Picture pines, vast green spaces for your tents or RV, and the river offering picturesque views.
It’s not just about the camping spots, though. The campground masters the art of blending nature and fun, providing a playground and a sports area for volleyball or badminton, along with fishing opportunities.
And hey, they even shower you with Wi-Fi, modern washrooms, and laundry facilities.
But what lies at the heart of Sleepy Cedars Family Campground? It’s the sense of old-school camping charm merging with modern needs, making it a hotspot for both the young and the young-at-heart.
| Local tip: Make sure to grab some fresh fruits and veggies at the nearby Proulx Farm! |
Rolling Hills Campground
Website: https://www.rollinghillsottawa.com/
Address: 1566 Canaan Rd, Cumberland, ON K4C 1J5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-833-2974
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Next up, we’ve got a place, not just with a great camping vibe but also a name that gives you ‘outdoorsy’ feels. Yes, we’re talking about Rolling Hills Campground.
This campground provides a quiet, comfortable, and scenic escape from the city. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, family, or a bunch of friends seeking tranquillity, this place’s got you sorted with a wide array of camping options, including tent and RV sites.
The wide-open spaces and the tranquil natural setting create a serene canvas on which you can paint your unforgettable camping memories.
Beyond the basics, Rolling Hills steps things up a notch with a swimming pool, nature trails, a games room, a playground, and a convenient camp store, promising a fulfilling and hassle-free camping experience.
| Local tip: Don’t forget to sign up for a round of golf at the nearby Metcalfe Golf Club! |
Rideau Heights Campsite
Website: https://www.rideauheightscampsite.com/
Address: 38 Rideau Heights Dr, Nepean, ON K2E 7A6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-226-4141
Welcome to Rideau Heights Campsite, the perfect blend of rustic camping and easy access to the city’s vibrant life. This place is a tranquil retreat minus the wilderness isolation, ideal if you still want a taste of Ottawa’s city charm.
At Rideau Heights, you’re directly in touch with nature’s peaceful and calming character. You can choose from plenty of spacious tent and RV sites, all nestled neatly amidst leafy trees, providing shade and privacy. But wait, there’s more!
You’ll find a whole bunch of amenities, including modern restroom facilities, a playground for the little ones, and picnic tables to enjoy those family meals. What really makes this place shine is its proximity to Ottawa’s key attractions.
Now, I just wanted to touch base about the Rideau Heights Campsite in Ottawa. It breaks my heart to share that it won’t be available for us in the 2023 season, but the good news is, fingers crossed, they’re aiming to fling those gates open again in 2024!
| Local tip: Plan a little excursion to the nearby Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach for some added water fun! |
Avonmore Oasis Camping
Website: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-CA/land/ontario-avonmore-oasis-camping-j29hjv7y
Address: 16006 Kyle Rd, Avonmore, ON K0C 1C0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-577-8867
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
You know how you might stumble upon a hidden gem? Avonmore Oasis Camping is exactly that. Nestled in the heart of Ontario, this is a place where peace meets adventure.
Oh, and get this: the campsites here are as sprawling as they are beautiful! Huge trees stand guard—the kind of natural beauty that makes you catch your breath.
And hey, they really know what they’re doing because their facilities are top-notch. Think clean restrooms, a well-stocked shop, and even laundry facilities for that longer stay.
Then add to that a playground and a pool, and you’ll agree—they seriously have thought of everything. But don’t just take it from me.
Once you’ve set foot in Avonmore, you’ll feel the thrill of new exploration mixed with the comfort of familiar amenities. Honestly, it’s like a home away from home—the one you didn’t know you needed.
| Local tip: Don’t miss the nature trail! Trust me, it’s the perfect place to escape. |
Breezy Hill Camping
Website: https://breezyhillcamping.com/
Address: 3798 Grainger Park Rd, Kinburn, ON K0A 2H0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-839-5202
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 8 PM
If you’re looking for the ultimate escape to nature that leaves you content, recharged, and eager for the next adventure, Breezy Hill Camping is for you! One of the striking gems about Breezy Hill is how it caters to each camper’s style and preference.
Prefer isolating yourself in nature’s intimacy? They got you covered with secluded spots that ensure your private commune with nature.
There are also open spaces perfectly suited for larger groups, bonfires, fun, and games. Also, the well-kept facilities and helpful staff are always at your disposal to ensure your camping trip is smooth and enjoyable.
Did I mention the bundles of outdoor activities you get to enjoy at Breezy Hill? From hiking trails that guide you through stunning landscapes to peaceful spots for bird watching or fishing, your days here will be packed with excitement.
Plus, if you prefer a laid-back afternoon, you can just lounge near the campground.
| Local tip: The eastern hiking trails are brimming with wildflowers in spring. Don’t miss them! |
Camp Can-Aqua – Ottawa HQ
Website: https://www.canaqua.ca/
Address: 116 Third Ave Unit B, Ottawa, ON K1S 2K1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-339-2969
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 11 PM
Camp Can-Aqua is more than just a camping ground; this place offers sites with stunning waterfront views. Yes, you read it right! This campsite radiates the kind of natural beauty you’d usually only find on postcards.
But it isn’t just about the stunning views. No, Can-Aqua is a place that invites you to truly disconnect from the noise of the daily grind and reestablish a connection with nature.
When it comes to amenities, Can-Aqua has us covered. With traditional camping spots and cabins, it caters to both the “hardcore tent camper” and those who prefer a tad more comfort.
They’ve got a range of water-based activities (I’m talking canoeing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding) and land-based fun (mountain biking, archery, anyone?). There’s never a dull moment here—unless, of course, you want one.
But what really sets Can-Aqua apart is its inclusive community atmosphere. From the friendly staff who remember your name to their brilliant on-site nature programs, it’s no wonder people return year after year.
| Local tip: Don’t skip the nighttime paddleboarding. There’s nothing quite like watching the stars reflect off the lake’s surface. |
Fitzroy Provincial Park
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/fitzroy
Address: 5201 Canon Smith Dr, Fitzroy Harbour, ON K0A 1X0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-623-5159
Operating hours:
- Monday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 8 AM to 9 PM
Fitzroy is a testament to the diverse natural beauty Ottawa offers. Those seeking solitude will find peaceful spots along the sweeping stretches of the Ottawa River.
One thing I really appreciate about Fitzroy is its range of campground styles. Whether you’re into stone-and-mortar facilities, enchanted by log cabins, or a tent camping enthusiast like me, Fitzroy never disappoints.
The best part? Everyone gets a chance to craft their unique camping experience to suit their desires. But wait, Fitzroy boasts more than just its accommodations.
From eye-opening nature programs to hikes that challenge or soothe, to beaches where lazy afternoons can be blissfully spent, it’s all about adventure there. Oh, and you can’t miss out on the history of the place.
Fitzroy has a rich heritage dating back to the lumber trade era, giving it a unique character that’s woven into the landscape.
| Local tip: Definitely try out their guided nature walks. Their park naturalists are as enthusiastic as they are knowledgeable, making each walk a captivating journey of discovery. |
