It’s just camping season, which means it’s time to kick back and explore some of Quebec’s wonderful wilderness.
From national parks to stunning rural landscapes to jaw-dropping waterfalls, here are 10 must-visit camping areas where you should pitch your tent this summer.
Just south of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, this national park offers incredible views with the highest Appalachian peak in Canada. Local wildlife includes salmon and caribou.
Although the area is full of campgrounds and activities available, hiking is definitely the highlight of the park.
Distance from Montreal: 754 kilometers
With 200 species of birds, more than 30 species of mammals and the third largest lake south of the St. Lawrence, Frontenac National Park is full of wonders to explore. It is also an exact area to get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard or anything else that floats on your boat.
Visitors have the option of renting a cabin or camping on site.
Distance from Montreal: 39 kilometers
Although not very close to Montreal, this national park is breathtaking. The Mingan Archipelago region includes a string of approximately 40 islands and nature trails. The area is also ideal for marine wildlife viewing of creatures like whales, dolphins and seals.
Its defining factor is its array of massive limestone outcrops that formed naturally as the continent slowly rose after the last glaciation.
Distance from Montreal: 1,115 kilometers
Gatineau Park is just minutes from Ottawa.
With over 160km of hiking and biking trails, there’s a ton of space to explore the terrain. There is also a lively beach and a peaceful lake on the grounds.
Because of its variety, the Gatineau Park campground network allows you to choose the type of experience you want to have.
Distance from Montreal: 212 kilometers
This scenic national park includes a pebble beach, forest and cliffs. Three separate indoor camping areas are also available for short or long stays.
One advantage of visiting Forillon is its proximity to the town of Gaspé, a must-see destination recognized by the National Geographic Traveler as one of the 50 places of a lifetime in Canada.
Distance from Montreal: 927 kilometers
With ziplines, rock climbing, hiking trails, and a 42-foot-tall waterfall, this park prides itself on its dedication to adventure and fun.
Parc Des Chutes Coulonge is also full of historical artifacts with its own on-site museum.
Distance from Montreal: 349 kilometers
Located in the Laurentians, at the gates of Mont-Tremblant, Chute-Aux-Iroquois is a five-star campground with a sandy beach and a vast river where activities abound.
With cabins and ready-to-camp sites available, it’s an obvious choice for a family getaway.
Distance from Montreal: 189 kilometers
Although a popular ski destination during the winter months, the Mont-Sainte-Anne campground is surrounded by 100 km of bike paths, making it a cyclist’s dream.
Online “Bike + Hike” packages are even available for purchase on their website.
Distance from Montreal: 57 kilometers
Massive canyons, explorable caves, ocean views and grand waterfalls are just a few of the highlights of beautiful Anticosti. The provincial park and camping area is located in the 572 square kilometers of land at the center of Anticosti Island.
Although it is a hunting and fishing paradise due to its diverse wildlife, it is also considered a hiking paradise.
Distance from Montreal: 1059 kilometers
This five-star campsite in Vaudreuil-Soulanges offers cozy and charming cabins, a spa, a swimming pool, a mini-golf course and more. For the campground’s 60th anniversary, they’re offering two-night stays for $60. Be sure to take advantage of it while you can.
The best part? It’s only about 30 minutes from Montreal.
Distance from Montreal: 60 kilometers
