Camping Through the Ottawa Valley: Best Spots, Hidden Gems & Family-Friendly Tips

Over the years, we’ve pitched our tent in all kinds of places across Ontario, but there’s something about the Ottawa Valley that keeps drawing me back. Maybe it’s the winding rivers and quiet forests, the welcoming small towns, or just how accessible it is for families looking to dip their toes into outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re brand new to camping or you're planning your next road trip through the region, this guide is packed with real-life insight, family-friendly campground picks, and little spots you might not hear about on the typical “top 10” lists. I’m sharing some of our favourite places to camp, what to pack for this region, and what we’ve learned along the way — the good, the buggy, and the unexpectedly beautiful.

Let’s get into it.

1. Why Camp in the Ottawa Valley?

• It’s a quieter, more underrated region for Ontario campers — which often means fewer crowds and more space to explore.

• You get a mix of everything: paddle-in campsites, easy-access provincial parks, and even glamping if you’re easing into it.

• Great place to build confidence camping with kids — lots of trails, beaches, and town stops nearby.

  
  

2. Top Campgrounds by Vibe:

☀️ Family-Friendly Favorites:

• Bonnechere Provincial Park – Shallow beach, Discovery Program, great for littles

• Fitzroy Provincial Park – Big sites, easy hiking, close to Ottawa

• Splash valley Waterpark and Resort – Water slides, cabins, and a very different vibe for glamping lovers

  
  

🌲 Rustic & Remote Picks:

• Black Donald Tent & Trailer Park – Quiet, wooded sites right on the water

• Algonquin East Access (Achray or Barron Canyon) – More remote, incredible views, not too intense for a first backcountry adventure

  
  

💧 For the Paddlers and View Seekers:

• Driftwood Provincial Park – Gorgeous river views, peaceful vibe

• Grand Lake (Achray access) – Great paddle-in spots, perfect intro to backcountry

  
  

✨ Hidden Gems:

• Shaw Woods – Amazing trail system, worth a stop if you’re road tripping

• Pakkotinna Trail System (Pembroke area) – Local secret with fun little loops

Expanded Section 2: Campgrounds We’ve Loved (and Ones on Our List)

One of the best things about camping through the Ottawa Valley is that you can find a site that fits whatever adventure you’re craving! Whether it’s a simple tent setup steps from the beach, a deep-woods paddle-in site, or a comfy trailer-friendly spot near town. Over the past 10 years, we've explored a mix of campgrounds across the region, each with its own charm (and its own lessons... like the time we improvised meals all weekend after forgetting our camp stove!)

Here are a few of our personal highlights, plus a few more on our must-visit list:

☀️ Family-Friendly Favourites

Bonnechere Provincial Park

If you're looking for an easy, family-friendly Ottawa Valley camping experience, Bonnechere should be on your radar. With its shallow beach, gentle trails, and amazing Discovery Program for kids, it’s one of those spots where everyone — from toddlers to grandparents — can relax. We love nearby waterfalls here.

Fitzroy Provincial Park

For families wanting bigger campsites and a short drive from Ottawa, Fitzroy hits the mark. There are kid-friendly trails, a splash pad, and river access for lazy summer afternoons. Plus, the sites here are pretty forgiving if you’re learning the ropes of camping with littles or bigger groups.

Splash Valley Waterpark and Resort

For something a little different, we checked out Logos Land — and it’s definitely a camping/glamping hybrid. Think water slides, zip lines, and rental cabins if you don’t want to rough it. It’s a fun stop if you’re planning a road trip with kids who love action. Fine more information here: https://summerhillresorts.com/resort/splash-valley-waterpark-resort/

🌲 Rustic & Remote Picks

Black Donald Tent & Trailer Park

If you're craving a quieter, more rustic camping experience in the Ottawa Valley, Black Donald delivers. Tucked away along Centennial Lake, the campsites are private and peaceful. It's perfect for getting back to basics — starry skies, campfires, and maybe the occasional loon call in the distance.

Barron Canyon (Algonquin East Side Access)

If you've been thinking about dipping your toes into backcountry camping in the Ottawa Valley, Barron Canyon is an amazing place to start. The hiking trails offer unreal views, and the nearby paddle-in campsites offer a taste of remote adventure without needing a full expedition setup.

💧 Lakeside Views & Canoe Camping

Driftwood Provincial Park

One of our most relaxing weekends was spent at Driftwood — a small but mighty park right along the Ottawa River. With gorgeous sunsets, peaceful paddling opportunities, and easy access right off the highway, it's a gem if you're looking for laid-back camping that still feels like a real getaway.

Achray Campground (Grand Lake)

Located on the quieter side of Algonquin Park, Achray is a dream for families wanting a little more adventure without too much distance from amenities. The campsites are near the lake, the hiking trails lead to waterfalls, and there’s a calm vibe that’s perfect for longer stays.

✨ Hidden Gems You Shouldn't Miss

Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre

While technically not a campground, Shaw Woods is an amazing spot to explore if you’re camping nearby. Their old-growth forest trails are stunning — and a perfect low-key adventure after a morning of pancakes at the campsite.

Pakkotinna Trail System (near Pembroke)

If you want a less-touristy, more local hiking and outdoor experience, the Pakkotinna Trails are worth adding to your Ottawa Valley itinerary. Great for a quick hike before heading to your next campground or for stretching your legs on a road trip loop.

Ottawa Valley Camping FAQs:

Where are the best family-friendly campgrounds in the Ottawa Valley? We love Bonnechere and Fitzroy Provincial Parks for their beaches, family activities, and beginner-friendly setups. Both offer a great mix of comfort and outdoor adventure for kids and adults alike.

Are there any hidden camping gems in the Ottawa Valley? Absolutely! Driftwood Provincial Park often flies under the radar but has some of the most peaceful waterfront sites. Also, places like Black Donald Tent & Trailer Park offer more rustic, off-the-beaten-path vibes if you want a quieter experience.

Is camping in the Ottawa Valley good for beginners? Yes! There are plenty of drive-in campgrounds with amenities like comfort stations, playgrounds, and easy hiking trails — perfect for those new to camping or camping with young kids.

When is the best time to camp in the Ottawa Valley? Late May through early October is typically the best window. If you’re trying to avoid mosquitoes, aim for mid-to-late summer, and if you love cool nights around the fire, September camping is magic.

3. What to Pack for Camping in the Ottawa Valley

• Bug spray. Like… don’t mess around bug spray.

• Layers — even summer mornings can be chilly.

• Quick-dry everything (especially if you’re near the river or lakes)

• A tarp setup — storms can roll in quick. Learned that one the hard way.

• Our favourite family gear that’s held up season after season

  
  

4. Activities We Love While Camping

• Hikes: Eagles Nest, Shaw Woods, Driftwood trails

• Paddles: Bonnechere River, Barron Canyon

• Day Trips: Coffee in Barry’s Bay, exploring Renfrew, or hunting for waterfalls

• Camp downtime: hammock hangs, hot chocolate mornings, rock skipping contests

  
  

5. Real Talk: What We’ve Learned from Camping the Ottawa Valley

One thing camping has taught me (over and over) is that the “perfect” trip doesn’t exist and honestly, the magic usually happens in the imperfect moments.

Like the time when we forgot our stove at Achray Lake and had to get creative with no-cook meals and campfire cooking (spoiler: everything tastes better when you're starving and outside)

Camping in the Ottawa Valley isn't about ticking off a checklist of “must-dos” it’s about slowing down, soaking up the sunsets over the Ottawa River, letting the kids get muddy, and building memories that don't always fit neatly into an Instagram caption.

Here’s what I remind myself every trip:

• You don’t need fancy gear. A good tent, a cozy sleeping bag, and some flexibility go a long way.

• Things will go "wrong," and that’s okay. Rainstorms, bug bites, forgotten gear — it’s all part of the adventure.

• Kids don’t need entertainment schedules. Give them sticks, rocks, water, and open space, and they’ll create their own magic.

• Campfire chats beat screen time every time. Some of our best conversations have happened under the stars, bundled up in hoodies and sleeping bags.

  
  

So if you're planning your first Ottawa Valley camping trip [or your fifteenth] take the pressure off. Pack the basics, bring your sense of humour, and leave room for the unexpected. That’s where the real stories live.

Pro Tip: Always book Ontario Parks sites as early as possible, especially for weekends! Spots at Bonnechere, Fitzroy, and Driftwood fill fast during summer.

6. Sample Camping Itineraries for the Ottawa Valley

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a full family camping road trip through the Ottawa Valley, a little pre-planning goes a long way. Here are a few itinerary ideas to spark your trip planning:

🌲 Weekend Warrior: Easy Family Camping Trip

Perfect for: First-timers, young kids, or a low-stress outdoor weekend.

Base Camp: Fitzroy Provincial Park (or Bonnechere if you’re farther west)

Day 1:

• Set up camp, explore the campground trails.

• Picnic dinner by the river or beach area.

• Campfire and s'mores night.

  
  

Day 2:

• Morning hike (Carp Trail at Fitzroy or the Whispering Pines Trail at Bonnechere).

• Afternoon swim or paddling session.

• Visit a nearby town (like Renfrew or Barry’s Bay) for coffee and a local treat.

• Easy nature scavenger hunt for the kids at camp.

  
  

Day 3:

• Lazy morning with pancakes at the site.

• Pack up and hit a short trail or lookout on your way home.

  
  

🛶 Adventure Seeker: Canoe and Camp

Perfect for: Families with a little camping experience who want to level up.

Base Camp: Driftwood Provincial Park or Barron Canyon Access (Grand Lake)

Day 1:

• Set up camp at Driftwood or a drive-in site near Barron River.

• Short paddle along the Ottawa River or Bonnechere River.

• Sunset campfire with a warm-up story session for the kids.

  
  

Day 2:

• Morning hike to a lookout (Driftwood Lookout or Barron Canyon Trail).

• Picnic lunch packed along the trail.

• Optional paddle or visit a hidden waterfall if energy levels are good.

• Relaxed night around the campfire.

  
  

Day 3:

• Optional quick paddle or river-side breakfast.

• Easy pack-up and drive home with lots of snack stops.

  
  

🚙 Road Trip Style: Explore More Than One Campground

Perfect for: Families with older kids or a flexible schedule.

Route Idea:

Start at Fitzroy Provincial Park ➔ Stop at Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre ➔ End at Bonnechere or Driftwood for two nights.

Mix a bit of hiking, town exploring (Renfrew, Eganville, Pembroke), and lazy campsite mornings to keep everyone happy.

This is a great way to experience the variety across the Ottawa Valley without feeling rushed, and to discover which camping styles your family loves most.

7. Where We’re Headed Next

As much as we’ve fallen in love with camping through the Ottawa Valley — the quiet mornings by the river, the rocky trails, the hidden beaches — we’re always itching for the next adventure.

For the next itinerary blog post, we’re packing up and heading a little farther west to explore the Muskoka region! It's a spot that's been on our family’s “camping wishlist” for a while now, and we’re excited to dive into some classic Ontario cottage-country vibes, think towering pines, crystal-clear lakes, and plenty of new campfire stories to collect.

We’ll be trying out a few family-friendly campgrounds in Muskoka (both Provincial Parks and private ones) and testing out some new gear and setups we’ve been wanting to share with you. Stay tuned for lots of tips on camping in Muskoka with kids, our favourite waterfront campsites, and a few lessons we’ll no doubt learn the real-life way, because you know by now, we never gatekeep the messy, magical parts of getting outside.

Until then, if you’re planning an Ottawa Valley camping trip, I hope this guide gives you the nudge you need to hit the road. Whether it’s your first time pitching a tent or your fiftieth campfire breakfast, there’s something pretty special waiting for you out here.

See you on the trail — and don’t forget your marshmallows. 🏕️✨

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With love,

The Duquette's