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What's your favourite camping spot in Canada?

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 4:26 PM EST 20/05/08

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  1. one voice from Nanaimo, Canada writes: Our favorite spot is Rathtrevor Provincial Park, it is a beautiful spot with lots of hiking trails, a fabulous beach that goes for miles and a great campground that is well maintained and monitored. It is a great place for families with or without kids. What else could you ask for?....oh yes ... it is only an hour away for us so getting there doesn't take much gas!
  2. Sissy Schuss from Canada writes: Temagami in all its glory
  3. Tim Wright from Winnipeg, Canada writes: I believe that the best place to pitch a tent is in Canada. Specificially, a Canada Parks place called'Rushing River.' For campers, it is one of the most relaxing campgrounds that I have ever been to. You have a place for your tent, and a campfire(if the season is okay).
  4. Christine Best from Toronto, Canada writes: Silent Lake Provincial Park in Ontario (just north of Peterborough).

    It is close enough to Toronto that it is convenient, but it is 'wild' enough to be relaxing. No boats with motors are allowed on the lake (Silent Lake), which is a HUGE plus as far as I am concerned.
  5. David Carberry from Quebec City, Canada writes: Midway between Annapolis and Liverpool Nova Scotia is the Milford House, which acted as a hunting and fishing lodge and as a hotel for travellers between the two towns. Guests have their own cabin on the lake with running water, electricity, and access to a canoe. Breakfast and supper are served in the main house where one can consult the library in the lounge afterwards. Millford House is the midway point for those whose love to explore the woods (as there are many opportunities to go hiking or fishing and Kejimkujik park is also next to the lodge) and those who cannot let go of civilization and need to be pampered.
  6. Carl Weatherell from Osgoode, Canada writes: Awenda Provincial Park, Penatanguishene, ON.....the park is great for all styles of camping, family, solo, duel, fully loaded (ie amenities in 1 of the areas) or the more isolated and rugged sites. The campsites are large and most surrounded by natural trails for the hiker or biker. There are a number of beaches as well including 1 for families with their dog companions. Beaches are not immediately adjacent to the campground and this leaves the campsites in relative solitude on busy summer weekends. The neighbouring towns of Penatang and Midland are small-midsizem have numerous attractions for kids and families without the business of a big city we are all trying to escape. We have been enjoying Awenda for 10 years now!!
  7. Stand up for Social Justice The Canadian Way from Canada writes: Bruce Penisula National Park, up by Tobermory is the best spot I have been too. It has great hiking trails and the scenery is beautiful.
  8. John Hinkley from Thornhill, ON, Canada writes: David Lake in Killarney Provincial Park
  9. xrterta tutualia from Toronto, Canada writes: The most beautiful and secluded have a hard time remaining so following publication of feature articles. My favourite place to camp is molson park.
  10. Anders Robichaud from Iqaluit, Canada writes: The cofluence of the Soper and Livingston rivers in Katanalik Territoral Park.

    Privacy abounds in the steep walled valley hiding the most verdant landscape Nunavut has to offer. Further up river, rapids challenge your boat mastery, further down river, the water grows relaxed and lazy leading to the only copse of what can be considered trees to be found on Baffin Island.

    At Soper and Livingston hiking is easy and rewarding; a nearby waterfall charms, caribou poke curiously amongst the rocks and small flowers bloom every colour of the rainbow.

    It is a little-known and seldom-visited gem. A truly wonderful place to shed ones concerns and simply marvel at the diverse miracle of life on our planet.
  11. annabel lamagnere from Markham, Canada writes: Long Point Provincial Park, site 448, clean expansive beaches welcome you and this park offers beautiful large campsites with only moments to the beach. Lake Eerie is warm enough to swim in early in the season, and provides a magical backdrop to the most romantic sunsets in Ontario. The Park has beautiful marshland on one side of the peninsula providing a refuge for exotic butterflies, grass snakes and wild birds. The campsites offer some shade from the July sun, and most of the year you can light a campfire safely. The beauty of the flames as they curl into the summer night sky , the sound of the wood crackling and the frogs serenading each other as the sun slowly melts into the lake are all priceless. The beach at night is cool and soft but the sky is often lit up with outrageous firework displays as the cottagers revel in the freeedom that summer affords. Canadians are expert at enjoying the outdoors year round but Longpoint is somewhere to explore in the summer months. Port Dover and Port Rowan are both nearby and they both offer classic icecream and real fries to spoil your waistline magnificently well. They have great book stores and offer child friendly activities, summer fairs and all the amenities a summer camper might need.
  12. Liz Doesit from Canada writes: Killarney provincial park, without doubt, the most beautiful park in Ontario!
  13. M Kwad from Calgary, Canada writes: Anywhere along the middle to eastern side of Burnt Island Lake within Algonquin Park. A mere one day of paddling from the easily accessible Canoe Lake access point to find yourself in the true Canadian wilderness. Always a winner with expert and novice alike.
  14. i. ignatius from Mount Pleasant, Canada writes: Dinosaur Provincial Park, in Alberta. My family camped in this park 4 years ago on a cross canada driving adventure. Spectacular badlands scenery, great hiking through the hoodoos, a small dinosaur museum on site with the Royal Tyrell Museum an easy drive from this park. Excellent interactive programming done by park staff with lots of educational stuff for the kids. Well maintained, clean. Even had little bunnies come by for a visit at our tent site. Definately a worthwhile stay!!
  15. Birthe Jorgensen from Toronto, writes: The campsite is called Mer et Monde. It is a few hours east of Quebec City and less than half-an-hour past Tadoussac. It is at the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence and allows you to wake up to the sounds of whales blowing. The views of the river and the whales is remarkable--both transporting and mesmerizing. This region is home to the minke, fin, humpback, beluga and blue whales. The belugas are the only whales that live all year long in this area. The blue whales, the biggest of the marine mammals (these giants of the sea weigh 80 to 135 tonnes and measure 21 to 30 metres), are rare, and this is one of the only places where they can be spotted so close to land. There is no bad time to see whales--they feed constantly and you can spot them in the St. Lawrence at all hours.

    Mer et Monde is a rustic camping experience. There are only 25 sites; it runs on solar energy; there are no showers or drinkable water, only brown dish-washing water that comes by gravity from the river. The current owners run kayaking trips from the campground as a more natural way of viewing the whales than expeditions in the numerous Zodiak tours in the area.

    Highly recommended!
  16. Szymon Wartak from Waterloo, Canada writes: Camping, climbing, kayaking in Bruce Peninsula.... sometimes in winter too :)
  17. Jack Jones from Clearwater, BC, Canada writes: No question, the Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia.

    My family makes it a yearly trip. It's such an incredibly beautiful place up behind Mt Robson in the sub-alpine. The views of the glaciers and sawtooth peaks are breath-taking. The best part of the trip is the hike. It's not for the out of shape or faint-hearted. It is a 2 night, 3 day excursion of about 50 km round trip. There are no garbage cans. Everything you pack in you must pack out. There is a grueling 1000m climb over 3 km. This is the part the separates the adventurers from the tourists. Everyone that you meet up top has the same attitude, a reverence for nature. When you camp across Berg Lake from the glacier, you can hear the glacier 'calve' at night, which means part of the glacier breaks off and falls into the water. There is this tremendous roar and then crash and then two minutes later you can hear the waves reaching the shore. It is truly spectacular. Most importantly is the journey we make as a family. When you spend that kind of time together and endure the physicality required by the trip you can't help but bond and come together as a family unit. I get choked up just thinking about it. We first did the trip when my son was 6 and my daughter 8. They were awesome! I think about his little legs doing the 50 km round trip in three days. Last year, we took Gramma who turned 60. Robson has always been one of my Mom's favorite spots but she had no idea that the best part of it couldn't be seen from the road. She had recently recovered from a hysterectomy and this was truly a life-affirming event for her. Again, the hike is a real metaphor for life. The struggle, the reward, the beauty and the journey we make together. You've got to be in shape to do it but the challenge is amply recompensed. The Berg Lake Trail in Mt Robson Provincial Park is by far the best camping experience I've ever had. We'll go again this year, see you up there!
  18. Edward Ralfe from Fernie, Canada writes: Long Beach, south of Tofino. Pitch your tent just off the edge of the sand.
  19. Stewart Young from Toronto, Canada writes: We enjoy camping at The Pinery in Ontario on Lake Huron. Close to Grand Bend with all it's summer attractions it offers seclusion for the times you want to just be alone. The camp sites and facilities are well maintained and clean.
  20. Wendy Royle from vancouver, Canada writes: Garibaldi Lake, BC, between Squamish & Whistler. The hike in is about 3 hours, uphill, endless switchbacks. I was hiking in with a few others one time, and they were feeling the burn. I was in the lead and was just rounding a switchback when I shouted out excitedly 'A deer!' to alert the others. What came back from the two panting partners was a weary 'We're here?!'. I had to tell them we had another hour to go, and there was little interest in the wildlife from then on. However, when you reach the lake, it is an impossible shade blue, it takes your breath away (if you have any left ). If you want to cool off with a swim, you know its going to be cold as you look across the calm surface of the water to the mighty glacier that drips into the lake. Watching the glacier change colours with the setting sun is a delight at dusk, preferably with a refreshing and well deserved beverage in hand. The next morning there are various hiking opportunities, through wildflower meadows to view spectacular panoramas of snow-capped peaks, plunging down to the sparkly gem that is the lake. Garibaldi is a stunning, backcountry summer escape, easily accessible from Vancouver, and the most beautiful place Ive ever pitched a tent.
  21. Bruce Watson from Smiths Falls, Canada writes: Meat Cove, Nova Scotia.

    Campsites on a cliff over looking the Altantic, incredible views.
  22. Joshua Nasielski from Toronto, Canada writes: Best Camping Spot: Big Trout Lake, Algonquin Park.

    The real Algonquin Park doesn't start before Big Trout. The two day canoe paddle from the Highway 60 access point on Canoe lake can be completed by mere mortals, but is challenging enough to keep away the crowds looking for cheap thrills. Just remember that half the fun is getting there.

    The campsites are almost exclusively on small islands, keeping away unwanted critters and bugs. But wildlife can be seen on the lake's swampy southern edges, where moose and waterfowl dine. From the rocky outcroppings over a bottle of wine, you are afforded a glorious view of the Algonquin sky at sunset, and then the stars.

    It is only two hours away from Toronto, but not even thoughts of the city enters your mind after the pleasantly warm burn of physical activity settles over you at the end of a day of paddling. But the portages are short enough that not all of civilization's accoutremonts need to be left behind. Big Trout Lake is the perfect spot for a modern Canadian to enjoy a natural camping experience.
  23. Bungalo Bill from Canada writes: Canadian? I would have to say any of the interior canoe-accessibl campsites in Kilarney.

    American? I love Rocky Mountain National Park ( west of Denver) -- any site off the beaten track.
  24. Richard Hawrelak from Sarnia, Canada writes: The East/West Kootenays in B.C. Along the old Transcanada HWY 1, the most southern route in B.C. (Michel, Fernie, Cranbrook, Creston, Nelson, Grand Forks). The B.C. Forestry does an excellent job maintaining camp sites. Chopped firewood, clean sites, near rivers with trout jumping. Not too far off the beaten path. Good highways, lots of supply stores. Near Hot Springs. Can't beat it. I'm from Fernie, and worked for the B.C. Forestry. I've camped Washington, Montana, Idaho. You can't beat the Koots. Enjoy it.
  25. Piere-Giorgio Fontana from Sutton,Qc, Canada writes: My favourite campsite is located in the beautifully wild valley of the Missisquoi river in Glen Sutton (Quebec,Eastern Townships). The name of the campgrounds is 'Au Diable Vert' a French vernacular expression which could be translated as 'in the middle of nowhere'. Their website is www.audiablevert.qc.ca. This ecotourism and wilderness centre enjoys sweeping 360 degrees views of the Mount Sutton valley . The 35 campsites are widely scattered around a pristine forest on the south side of Mount Sutton and positioned in such a way as to enjoy both maximum privacy and commanding views of the Missisquoi valley and several Vermont peaks such as Jay Peak. . The 200 acres property is crisscrossed by 17 Km of hiking trails and direct access to the 55-Km trail network of the Sentiers de l'Estrie. Kayaking is also available along the Missisquoi river. When admiring the valley's pristine wilderness from the large deck of the small Auberge on site one would never imagine to be only 90 minutes drive from Montreal. This kind of 4-seasons wilderness camping close to a large city is becoming an increasingly rare find and am almost nervous to disclose such a 'well-kept' secret . But at the same time its pristine beauty should be enjoyed by many other nature loving, happy campers.
  26. Don Wells from Calgary, Canada writes: Goldstream Provincial Park B.C. without a doubt---------huge trees lots of sunnature! WOW
  27. Chris Hutchison from Toronto, Canada writes: Long Beach, Vancouver Island, BC, bar none!! No where better in the world.
  28. Keith O'Reilly from Ottawa, Canada writes: Pinery Privincial Park, Grand Bend. Windy night, walk on the beach, long campfire...... can't be beat !!
  29. Patricia McKenna from Whitehorse, Canada writes: One of the most beautiful places to pitch a tent straddles the Yukon Territory and Alaska. The Chilkoot Trail is both pristine and protected. After leaving the Alaskan rain forest and crossing the summit one hikes onto the snow fields and eventually down along flower-filled tundra. A panoramic vista of snow-topped mountains and clear, cold glacier-blue water awaits your tent. Your 360 view may be shared with a few other intrepid souls who hike in the footsteps of the Klondike gold rush seekers of 1898 or, maybe shared with just a marmot or two.
  30. wendy rodda from middleton, Canada writes: Oh, to pitch a tent in the Hemlocks at Keji National Park in the south western portion of Nova Scotia would be sheer heaven. The woods are so silent that you can hear the hemlock needles dropping . The occassional sound of tiny mice scurring in the underbush while the chickedees are carrying on a game of vocal tag.To pitch a tent on the soft moss covered ground and look out of the tent flaps at the sunlight filtering through the tall branches on the 500 year old trees . When night time falls we will be able to hear the gentle hoot of the owls calling each other to make sure they stay in their own territory. The Hemlocks are protected from dreaming campers such as myself but you can go there for a silent meditative walk.
  31. John McLean from Aurora, Canada writes: The south-western plateau of Glacier Pass in Northern Ellesmere National Park provides a number of undeveloped and frequently uneven tenting sites. The climb to the site requires a day of steady hiking of 15 kms. from the base camp on Lake Hazen. Included in this hike is a vertical rise of over 3000 feet in elevation and the numbing experience of crossing the Snow Goose River and its tributaries.

    The views from the campsite over the pass toward Roundel Glacier to the north or Blister Ice Cap to the west are spectacular. You are situated just shy of the 82nd parallel on land frequented by less than a handful of hikers in any year. Views of a small herd of Musk Oxen and foraging Arctic Hare, whose numbers are measured in the dozens, are common. It is possible as well to see the occasional Arctic Fox and Arctic Wolf. A further half day hike to the eastern end of Glacier Pass provides more exhilarating views of the Abbe River, Varsity Mountain and the Abbe Glacier.

    The north face of Everest it isn't, but it is Canadian, affordable and achievable and I highly recommend the experience.
  32. Melanie Cunningham from Canada writes: Quetico Provincial Park, Ontario. One of the largest provincial parks in Ontario situated west of Thunder Bay. It offers nature at its best. Wildlife, fishing with peace and quiet. No motorized vehicles allowed on the water. Canoeing is the only way to navigate the waters. You can camp at the formalized camp sites or you can head into the interior of the park where, if you chose, you can cross over into the U.S. It is truly one of the most unique provincial parks and because of it's location, it still offers a true north experience.
  33. Ed Mizzi from Waterdown, Canada writes: Silent Lake, near Bancroft, Ontario, is a super place to camp, especially with a family. In addition, there are great hiking trails and canoeists do not have to worry about motorized vehicles on the lake. Silent Lake has great, sandy beaches for swimming. The campsites are large and secluded, with convenient toilet and shower/laundry facilities positioned strategically throughgout the park. I highly recommend Silent Lake to both the novice and experienced camper as I am certain, no matter what your camping expertise, you will enjoy this great provincial park.
  34. harry schmidt from near Shanghai, Canada writes: Algonquin Park.
  35. Keven Bender from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada writes: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

    There is no place in Ontario (probably the world) that you can go to experience so much beauty and have so many different experiences in one park. You can pitch your tent at the edge of Lake Marie Louise and watch the sun set & rise while watching all kinds of wild life & birds. When hot, you can get up off your lawn chair and go 2 steps into the lake for a nice refreshing swim or take a nice 5 min. drive down to Silver Islet to swim in Lake Superior. You can hike some of the most diversifying beautiful and highest climbs. You can pick fresh fruit, fresh mushrooms and fish (that can be eaten) in the lake from your camp site. Too bad, I couldn't attach photos as they would show more than my words can describe.
  36. Wendi Hadd from Canada writes: The very best place to pitch a tent in Canada is in Chance Cove, Newfoundland. Not only is the camping isolated and uncrowded but it's free also. There are outhouses which were very clean. The guidebook says water is available, but it is not so be sure to bring your own. My five young children and I loved our stay there. The cove itself is perfected for play and we were thrilled to watch seals swimming around early in the morning. We arrived to find only one other family there, a local family in their camper. When they left, they gave us the last of their water and we were all alone. You can pitch a tent on a slight rise overlooking the cove and play all day long. We lit a fire at night and watched the stars. Needless to say, the drive to the cove is spectacular as well, as is all of Newfoundland.
  37. Andrew Slater from Canada writes: By far and away my favourite camping location is Killarney Provincial Park near Sudbury. Crystal clear waters backed by the beautiful white quartz of the La Cloche mountain range; interior camp sites with lots of peaceful canoeing, hiking, etc. Can't be beat in all of Ontario.
  38. Adam Berel Wetstein from Toronto, Canada writes: The the big island of Hawaii in Febuary
  39. Cath D'Amico from Canada writes: Favourite camping spot in Canada? Its a no-brainer for me. Long Beach, Tofino BC.

    One of the campgrounds has sites right on the beach. Camping under the gigantic trees on the beach...rain or shine there is nothing like this place.
  40. don morrison from yellowknife, Canada writes: Re- favourite camping spot...
    I consider myself an expert when it comes to camping in Canada but then camping experts probably rank second only to hockey experts in this country.
    I've been a camper for more than 50 years. I've camped on the east coast, west coast, arctic coast and just about everywhere in between, including the bald prairie. I've been a car camper, a canoe camper, a hiking camper and even a fly-in camper. I've camped with family, with friends, with just my dogs, even once with my cats and of course by myself.
    Initially I scoffed at the idea of a favourite spot but on reflection, there is one place that stands out for me as the best. About half way up the east coast of Baffin Island you take a left turn down Clyde Inlet and at the very bottom of the inlet where the Clyde River charges into the sea, that is my favourite camping spot.
    Why... there are so many reasons ... the scenery is a combination of mountain, glacier, rushing water, or sparkling ice ... amazing wildlife, fox, wolf, caribou, geese, falcons and more, great fishing for arctic char, if you are lucky there will be families camped by willing to share tea, bannock and smilea, there is also the challenge of the weather, it can change from spring blizzard to dead calm serenity and then back to blizzard in a day... but collectively its the feeling of wow... this world is so special that makes this my favourite spot to pitch a tent.
  41. Jim A from Saskatoon, Canada writes: Favourite camping spot is at Greenwater Lake Provincial Park in Saskatchewan.
    Beautiful park, good for boating and fishing and a great golf course.
  42. Lynda Graham from writes: My pick is site number 5 at Parc d'environnement naturel de Sutton in Quebec's Eastern Townships. Its pretty much nothing other than a wood platform that costs $10 with a view from the Sutton mountains over the plain below thats worth $1,000,000. You could be a million miles away from civilization but its only 90 minutes by car or bus from Montreal and a 1 hour hike. Apparently you can also rent a tent making it ideal if you just want to try camping out for size. It can get busy during summer and fall weekends so try and come during the week when you can often have the view, and the mountain, pretty much to yourself.
  43. Gerard MacDonald from Charlottetown, Canada writes: Our favourite camping site is Graves Island located adjacent to Chester, Nova Scotia. We like it because of the following: 1. It is not too far from home so we can plan camping around the weather forecast. 2. It is close to Halifax and situated along the south shore so is well located as a base from which to sight see through Chester, Mahone Bay, Bridgewater and Lunenburg. 3. Being on a very small little island which is all park, my wife does not worry about intrustion by larger wild animals.
  44. anita szuster from banff, Canada writes: my all time favorite camping spot is Takaka falls in Yoho national park. You need to drive a breathtaking 20minute drive high up into the moutain valley, where you then park your car and haul all your gear ifor 1km to get into the campground wich is situated near the 13th largest water fall in the world, Takaka falls. It's breathtakingly fabulous! From there you have immediate acces to some of the best hiking on the planet!

    Anita Szuster
  45. Vern Wallace from Canada writes: Banff National Park
  46. james stewart from Canada writes: The Massasauga Provincial Park. Site 509. Beautiful
  47. Kathryn Murray from Toronto, Canada writes: The Tatshenshini River and the Alsek River meet in the wilds of northern British Columbia. There is no finer campsite in Canada than at this confluence. The flat plain at the river's edge makes for an unbelievable location for a campsite. Tents are scattered among the wildflowers. In every direction are snow capped mountains, with glaciers dotting their sides. The river, glacier fed and fast flowing is laden with salmon. During the day, grizzly bears wander the banks and sandbars feeding on the salmon. At night, the stars are forever. And in the morning, the mist hangs over the land as the sun's rays break through. Nature abounds -- eagles, ospreys, bears, lynx, owls, and the list goes on.

    I have camped for over 30 years across Canada. There is no campsite that even comes close to this. you are left with the feeling of peace and harmony and one with nature. And afterall, that is what camping is all about.
  48. ben gelfant from vancouver, Canada writes: Anywhere you can't get to by road. But...

    Fairy Slipper island. Myrtle lake. Wells Gray Park. It is inaccessible except by a well maintained portage which allows carts so easy for families. White sandy beaches everywhere on the west arm of the lake. The best water I have drunk anywhere (after filtering for potential parasites). Stunning beauty. Remote, quiet
  49. C mordhorst from Spuzzum, Canada writes: Well... Spuzzum might be an exception, as is Skookumchuk.

    But most anywhere else in BC, is a favourite place.

    Too bad BC is the retirement capital of Canada, because the best kept secrets are becoming known by too many wise and astute immigrants.

    No problemo... it compels me to go farther afield to find the next best kept secret.
  50. Celia Armitage from ottawa, Canada writes: I am the 12-year-old daughter of a member, and I think the best place to camp is in your own backyard. It is convenient, no travel time and most of all, it's free. You also don't have to worry about using outhouses because there is always plumbing a couple steps away. If you decide you want to stay a little longer but didn't pack enough supplies or food, you can always go inside and get more. If you forgot something you can always just go inside and get it. You are also farmiliar with the area so will never get lost if you have to get something at a store or decide to go on a walk. Maybe it's not too natury, but the whole family might not be interested in the outdoors so it works out for the whole family. It is great family time without the cost of an expensive camping ground. The most convenient camping location is your own backyard, because it is convenient and priceless.
  51. winston freeman from Hamilton, Canada writes: Bon Echo provincial park .

    It's where I'm from ...

    before there was a hotel , or a park , there was a farm .

    I think it's the most visited park in Ontario - but I bet there are not many who have enjoyed making apple jelly from trees that a grandfather's grandfather planted .
  52. Liz Brockest from Toronto, Canada writes: My favourite spot to camp is at Lake Superior Provincial Park along the coastal trail. Its simply stunning.
  53. Kathleen Snyder from Parksville, Canada writes: My favorite camping spot is right on the water at 4 All Seasons at Cedar on Vancouver Island. There are only about four sites right on the water where you can pitch your tent. Beautiful views of the sunsets. There is a natural pool built into the rocks.
  54. shawn hutcheson from toronto, writes: There are so many great spots to camp but my favorite are the McCoy Islands that sit in Georgian Bay about a 12km canoe ride north west out of Dillon. I think what makes it great is that it isn't the easiest to access but once you'r there what a spot!
  55. Michael Banfield from Vernon, bc, Canada writes: my favourite camping spot is the Sandy Beach-3rd cove South of parkig lot at Sombrio Beach, on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Lovely sandy spot under and immense overhanging spruce tree. A fresh and potable water creek flows across the beach to the ocean. The Roicky cove (2nd one south)is full off small bits of dry firewood for the picking. Following the creek into the cleft you come across a beautiful waterfall which is carving away the sandstone. the closer to the falls, the less vegetation on the walls of the cleft. the headland between the third and fourth cove has been undercut by the ocean, producing a standing height cave with openings to the sky which can produce some spectacular ephemeral imaages. If you go around or over the headland to the fourth cove, you will see Sombrio Creek waterfall, which plunges directly into the ocean. At night you can drift of to sleep to the gentle sussurus of the waves, sometimes accompanied by by the barks of sea lions or the blowing of whales. A truely magical place, which I have been tavelling to for almost forty years now. When we first went there, my kids were in backpacks, and we hiked about 90 minutes through old growth forest. Now, one can drive to within about 100m of the first cove. A twenty minute beach walk takes you to my special place. ENJOY!
  56. John Mullrooney from Calgary, Canada writes: To me, the best place to pitch a tent in Canada is Gray Bay, Queen Charlotte Island, British Columbia. My girlfriend and I have camped from coast to coast to coast for many, many years and this place is truly magical. What could be better than watching the sun move horizontally across the sky for hours deep into the night, sleeping peacefully by the water, and making up late to the call of orcas mere metres from shore??

    It's truly heaven on earth for us and anyone else that travels the great distance to be there...

    John Mullrooney
    Calgary
  57. The Last Varlet from Canada writes: The very nicest camp-site is on Tupper Lake, next to Maple Mountain, which is the highest point in Ontario. The lake, in the Lady Evelyn Lake system, is pristine, full of fish, and affords a great view of Maple Mountain. The camp-site is set among tall pines, and can accomodate up to 3 canoeing parties. It's a 2 day paddle to get there from Mowat's Landing on the Montreal river, but the journey, and the destination are equally beautiful.
  58. Penny Douglass from Canada writes: My favorite camping spot in Canada, by far, would be Murtle Lake in the Well's Gray Park Nature Conservancy. This lake does not allow any motorized water craft and so one of the most noticeable features is the silence. The quiet is frequently broken by the sounds of wild life, most noticeably the eerie trill of loons and the late night howl of wolves. It is a beautiful pristine lake with limited camping sites. It is a wonderful place for canoes and/or kyaks. For my husband and I it has been our favorite get away for over thirty years. The mere fact that you must portage your canoe, over an increasingly improved trail, seems to deter many folk , even so it has become very popular. We are always amazed at the distances people travel to visit this beautiful lake of paradise.
  59. Deborah Pink from Halifax, Canada writes: Without a doubt, my favorite place to pitch a tent is at Camping Parc de Gros-Cap on Île du Cap-aux-Meules in the Magdalen Islands.

    In the summer of 2006 there I was, surrounded by 16 friends, with sweeping ocean views in all directions. We took the boat over from Prince Edward Island bringing everything we needed on our bicycles.

    For 5 days we explored all the islands in the archipelago and made our home in the endless beaches, sand dunes, the art galleries, cafes, cheese shops, smoke houses, chocolate shops, vineyards and jovial, bright colored homes. We biked 50-100 kms a day, cooled off in the crisp ocean waters, made campfires at night and ate savory local delicacies.

    With the highest praise, I recommend you travel to these exquisite islands at least once your lifetime. They are a true Canadian gem!
  60. Antoine Goulet from Montreal, Canada writes: Au diable vert in the Quebec eastern townships is absolutely spectacular. Unbelieveable views, amazing hiking trails and the owners are extremely welcoming.
  61. Janna Smith from Montreal, Canada writes: Au Diable Vert, Sutton Quebec

    When I want to escape Montreal and spend some time outdoors, Sutton is where I want to be! Friends and I have visited Au Diable Vert many times and continue to go back. Besides the camping (I have both camped in the summer and rented one of their little cottages in November), it is the trails that I love. They are well maintained, well marked and offer different levels of difficulty. The property is set quite high up, so the views of the surrounding mountains and the river valley below are just stunning! The family that runs it are also quite nice and helpful. I highly recommend a visit!
  62. Rita Gordon from Manitoulin Island, Canada writes: My favourite campground is Gordon's Park Eco Resort on Manitoulin Island. It is an Attractions Canada award winner offering activities, events and accommodations including camping, tipi tenting, camping cabins, bed & breakfast, stargazing cabin, solar heated swimming pool, 18 hole miniature golf, nature interpretive centre, educational hiking trails, archery, cycling routes, birding tours, dark sky preserve, astronomy, horseshoes, children's playground, orienteering, night hikes, women's outdoor weekends, moonlight hike & wolf howls, Thursday nights astronomy, Sunday afternoon Walk A Fossil Reef, Stargazing Manitoulin, Manitoulin Star Party, Astronomy Public Observing Sessions & Laser Guided Sky Tours and more. The wilderness camping sites are situated in a hardwood forest and are big and private and woodsy. There are no permanent trailers in the park and the park caters to eco friendly campers who share a love for nature and the environment. The park has a dark sky preserve in the interior of the park that offers 7.5 magnitude, no light pollution, 360 degree viewing, and observing from the darkest skies in the Province of Ontario. The Nature Interpretive Centre features mounted animal displays of bears & wolves, hawks and owls, bones & skulls, fossils, oddities in nature and has interpretive information on wildflowers, edible wilds, astronomy, trees, birds, fossils, mushrooms, animals, eco systems and more. The educational hiking trails take you through five different eco systems in the park: Escarpment, Wetland Bog, Hardwood Forest, Fields & Meadows, and the Pond area. The 18 hole miniature golf is built into the natural terrain of a cedar grove and features putts through trees, under the ground, around rocks and more. There is a prehistoric fossil reef in the park and guided hikes are offered every Sunday during the months of July & August. In addition, Thursday Nights in July & August are astronomy nights. Great Place
  63. peter manchester from Sackville NB, Canada writes: The best place to pitch a tent in canada as anywhere is in a dry spot. The view and surroundings are another matter. In our region there is no finer spot than in the Chignecto Provincial Park on the western shore of Nova Scotia. There is a spot on the Bay of Fundy named Seal Cove. Is is a long crescent shaped beach with dramatic cliffs, plenty of driftwood for beach fires when allowed and best of all, isolation. The views are to the south and the Atlantic, to the West is Fundy Park in New Brunswick, and to the north more fabulous rock formations. To the East in case you were wondering are more staggering cliffs. To date, this park is largely undiscovered. Well worth a visit, but be sure you have some sturdy boots.
  64. Lisa Laflamme from Courtice, Canada writes: HI ... I would like to introduce my favourite place in Canada where pitching a tent is both a magical and magnificent experience. A long and winding road leads from the Trans Canada Highway through the Lake Superior Provincial Park to Gargantua Harbour. The bay there is brilliant blue in colour and the camp sites encircle the waters where solitude can be found. Camping neighbours remain at a distance and the terrain is hospitable and conducive to tent camping. My experience at Gargantua Bay provided any number of opportunities for swimming, canoeing and kayaking, for hiking close or far, and for amazing star-gazing. This magical place feels far away from hectic places and yet is quite accessible. Gargantua Bay would be the place I would choose to pitch my tent out of all the places of beauty in Canada.
  65. Chris Killey from Canada writes: In a country blessed with so many scenic spots to camp, one sticks out in my memory from 15 years ago. My wife and I were on Vancouver Island, heading to the Carmanah Valley to hike in the majestic old growth forests. Just before we took our rental car on the (forbidden, according to the rental agreement) dusty, gritty logging roads, we spent one night camped at Gordon Bay Provincial Park, by Duncan, on the shore of beautiful Lake Cowichan. Our stakes were sunk into the soft forest floor, admidst the same large old trees that we would drive 2 1/2 hours the next day to marvel at.

    I have only been there once, and have camped so many spectacular places since (rugged Gros Morne, Bon Echo with its awesome granite rock face, the reedy north shore of St. Lawrence past Quebec City, wind swept Tofino, also on Vancouver Island, Lionshead on Georgian Bay surrounded by limestone cliffs), but that one night in the peaceful forest on the shore of the clean, blue lake) is indelibly etched in my mind.

    I will be back there one day.

    Chris Killey
  66. Dave Boone from Calgary, Canada writes: Jane and my memories of great camping locations focus quickly on a remote Arctic site, nestled beside the Ad Astra ice cap at the northern end of Ellesmere Island in a National Park called Quttinirpaaq, that is the size of Switzerland. Still, it only sees a handful of visitors each year in the glory weeks of summer when flowers tougher than us bloom with a vengence born of the knowledge that it is now or never. Our bright yellow tent is pinned against a fresh wind, onto a bright rust-orange rock ledge high above a lake by our packs and a few large cobbles positioned in the corners. It is July and there is still ice on the lake that looks surreally white against a cloudless blue sky. There is no vegetation taller than our ankles as far as we can see in any direction and the view seems endless and without scale. Our tent looks out over the lake from a 100m cliff at Airforce Glacier, a sea of white ice sprinked with debris and split into two by a massive flat-topped 'mesa' of dark grey rock that has thus far resisted being ground into grit. We have front row seats for geography in action, watching slabs of blue ice crack off the leading edge of the glacier and plunge into the lake waters below with the sound of a million glasses shattering. We are basking in the midnight sun with our trekking companions, drying out overworked socks on the tent peg lines, and hoping that the polar bear that passed through our last stunning campsite two nights before, will find the smell of those socks even more repulsive than we do! We move upwind with good reason because the air blowing off the glacier is so incredibly fresh that it tingles in our nostrils. We are completely in the moment. Dave Boone & Jane Poole
  67. Jean-Marc Mangin from Chelsea, Canada writes: A myriad of spots along the Dumoine River.

    This treasure located about 100 km from Ottawa will hopefully become a provincial Park. This river offers everything - foam flecked rapids, smooth chutes, thundering falls, beautiful lakes, a canyon and excellent campsites all surrounded by pine and spruce forest.

    Jean-Marc
  68. Tara Smith from Holland Landing, Canada writes: After going to Provincial parks I have Fallen in Love with Haliburton Forest.
    The sites are very Large and extremely private.
    All of their camp spots are on water and the trails and extras (such as the Wolf centre) are great ways entertain kids.
  69. Darryl Harding from Toronto, Canada writes: Philip Edward Island, south of Killarney, has too be one of the most spectacular's tent camping destinations in Canada, and a favorite of mine.

    Launch a kayak from the town of Killarney and then paddle east among countless islands for most of a day before reaching stunning beautiful and sheltered coves on Philip Edward Is. Set up camp here and rest, relax and leave the stress of life back at the dock while embracing the rugged labdscape of Georgian Bay.

    The South shoreline of wind-warped pines and granite cliffs, this area offers both respite from Georgian Bay breezes and easy paddling access to the Fox Archipelago, and other Crown Lands that stretch from McGregor Bay to Parry Sound.

    No reservations, no permits all you need is desire.
  70. Byron Mellon from Etobicoke, Canada writes: My favourite place to pitch a tent is Manitoulin Island ( Ontario), along the North shore in between Gore Bay and Barries Bay. Setting up the tent, starting a campfire and listening to The Tragically Hip while sitting back in my camping chair enjoying the view of Lake Huron...what could be more Canadian?.
    Byron Mellon
  71. M Smith from Canada writes: Tsusiat Falls, West Coast Trail is my pick for best place to pitch a tent. Giant driftwood logs provide private little 'rooms' in which to set up camp; smaller logs are perfect for an evening fire, enjoyed against the sun setting over the Pacific. The 'never-ending falls' make a naturally beautiful backdrop for the pool below where one can enjoy a refreshing dip after the day's hike. And there is nothing like drifting off and waking up to the sound of the surf washing up on the golden sand.
  72. Joanna Tiemessen from Yellowknife, Canada writes: The best place to pitch a tent is on an island in the middle of Hidden Lake (or any lake for that matter!) in the Northwest Territories. After a beautiful paddle and a few portages (just to ensure you have to do a little work for this glory) you are in majestic and solitaire surroundings. Pick an island, any island, and stake your ground for the weekend or however long you can stand to be away from civilization. The water is a breathtaking aqua colour due to the shallow sand bottom of the lake and it is warm enough to spend the entire day swimming in. Fish jump out of the water and beg to be caught for dinner. The sun shines 24 hours a day in the summer months and the sky never seems to touch the horizon. And even when the days begin to shorten in August, the sunsets into the lake are amazing. And best of all, the local bears usually don't make the effort to swim over to your island for a visit. So, this is the best place for my family and I to set up a tent - and we are so blessed that it is close enough to our backyard, we can do it as often as possible.
  73. Jake Kayak from Canada writes: The Broken Group Islands in Barkley Sound, part of Pacific Rim National Park is one of my favorite places to camp. Accessible by paddling, water taxi or the Francis Barkley out of Port Alberni. We have kayaked here a number of times on self-guided trips (inexperienced people should consider a reputable tour operator for safety and comfort). On all of our trips, we have brought friends or family who have had limited if any previous kayaking experience. This is a wonderfully beautiful area with pretty islands and some amazing beaches. It can get busy in the summer, but we enjoy meeting other fellow voyagers. Last summer, we hired a water taxi so that our four-year old could experience this with us. We base-camped and did day trips. Upgrading our gear from ultralight to ultracomfortable really helped (thicker sleeping pads, bigger tent, two stoves, etc.). Check out Alberni Marine Transport for more info (they rent kayaks and have a lodge at Sechart Whaling Station). I hate to share this with everyone! If you are looking for something more secluded, take the Uchuck III from Campbell River to get to Kyuquot (and the Bunsby Islands).
  74. greg yass from Toronto, Canada writes: Lake Ohara in Yoho National Park. Imagine Lake Louise with out the parking lot, cars, noise and garbage. Only more stunning. While the campground has no services besides potable water it is a wonder that one won't forget. Surrounded by mountains on all sides the view is breath taking. When the lake is still and the wind quiet it reflects like a mirror. Almost impossible to take a bad picture. At night the happy campers hang around the communal fire swapping stories. Trailheads are a five minute walk. The trials system is as challenging or easy as one wants. A great place to read. To reach Lake Ohara you can ride the bus service or hike up, and I mean up. 11kms worth. No cars allowed. Go there soon.
  75. Steven Brass from Ottawa, Canada writes: While I always love the classic canoe-in interior Algonquin experience I had a truly unique camping experience at the Hole in the Wall Campground on Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick.

    The island itself is fascinating but they have these cliff side campsites that offer the most spectacular view of the sea. You walk down a little trail from your car and they have it all set up for your tent and a fire and picnic table in amongst the Spruce and right beside a cliff into the Bay. They have a little cable fence set up but as it's maybe 3 feet high you still need to be very careful because if you go over you will not be hurt. You will be dead. It's like 8 stories down onto the rocks and the sea.

    From the little chair built into the fence side you can see fishing boats going by and see the whales breach. At night you can hear the whales blowing and the ring of the bell on the buoy in the passage. It's a really spectacular experience.

    http://www.grandmanancamping.com/

    Steve Brass
    Ottawa
  76. Anne Jeannet from Montreal, Canada writes: Imagine well-groomed hiking, snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing trails that meander through the most peaceful and beautiful forest. Discover the clear, cool waters of the streams crossing through the site as well as the unexpected wood carvings that a local artist has placed here and there through out the forest trails for us all to discover.

    Imagine having the choice of sleeping in a prospector tent or cabin, at the Diable Vert Inn or just using your tent,tarp or night sky as your canopy when wilderness camping. Imagine rolling hills and forest, starry nights and gorgeous views. Imagine the most friendly and eager to please hosts, ready to help in any way they can. Imagine.

    I prefer to stop imagining and start enjoying the calm and peaceful beauty of Diable Vert. I try to get out there as often as my schedule permits and introduce my friends, family and student to the beauty of these surroundings. My favorite spot and perhaps one day, yours as well is Diable Vert, in Glen Sutton, Quebec.

    Check it out at: http://audiablevert.qc.ca/ and discover it for yourself.
  77. Rosalie Cerro from Varennes-Montreal, Canada writes: Au Diable Vert in Glen Sutton, Eastern Townships of Québec is a fabulous spot for camping. The camp grounds & trails are well kept, the view of the Vermont mountains are absolutely breathtaking! Very friendly and helpful owners Julie & Jeremy run this 'Station de Montagne' year round! Wilderness at its best!! Our family thoroughly enjoy our stays there, we highly recommend it! Send Julie & Jeremy an email and visit their site: www.audiablevert.qc.ca
  78. Paula Greenwood from Peterborough, Canada writes: According to my girlfriend, the best spots are on the elephant islands in the French River in Ontario. They're referred to as the elephant rumps - great tenting.
  79. S. Richens from Winnipeg, Canada writes: The greatest campsite I ever stayed at is Hideaway Lake in Pukaskwa National Park, located 4 km north of the starting point of the coastal trail. The North shore of Lake Superior is breathtakingly beautiful, and this site is no exception. But not only is it located in a bay between dramatic granite headlands topped with spruce and aspen, it is set back just enough to escape the wind without losing the presence of the Lake. The water is crystal clear, showing the myriad colours of each submerged boulder. It's one of the last places left on Earth where a hiker can just dip a mug into the water and drink it untreated. The only signs of human existence are the tent pads and the contrails overhead. Not a trace of litter can be found, as this site is only visited by the kind of people who are willing to pay a few hundred dollars for a water taxi into the park, and then to hike and often crawl the 58 km of unmarked trail back to the parking lot. Not a walk in the park, the trail's reputation for ruggedness is well deserved. Best of all, being only a couple of hours from the start of the trail, one can carry a gourmet meal with wine and all the trimmings for the first supper before reverting to the usual hikers' fare of GORP and ramen noodles for the rest of the week. My pictures are at: http://www.mts.net/~srichens/pukaskwa.htm
  80. Rebecca Shields from Vancouver, Canada writes: I have never seem more beauty then Desolation Sound on the north end of the Sunshine Coast in BC. The water access only protected marine park boasts the most stunning array of wildlife, where you can pick fresh oysters right off the bottom of the inlet floor. Take or rent a kayak and enjoy!
  81. jordan stclair from ingersoll, Canada writes: What is my favourite camping spot in Canada. Well i will tell i you. Ive been out camping a lot of times for my age i think. I havint been to far. Money is the problem there. Well there is a place in ontario called Bancroft . Ive bin going there sine i can remmber we had a cottige there. Now i camp there. i love it when i can camp . There is so much to do up ther. You can go hiking, biking and wailking too. Its is sweet . And there more people that will agrie with me on that. But there is a spot that i like the most it is called eagles nest . IT just out side of bancroft and it so hight up to. i like to bike up it ,it hard . Or if u want to wast gas going up ther it will take a bit to get up there. There is trils to you can see the town too. Its nice to be up in that spot.There is a lots of lakes in that area . I like to fish to. And bancroft is like a 20min drive to Algonquin park . So it is a nice place to go camp . Thats where i love to camp . If i did not have to work 5 day a week .Thats where i would be. o yea . Well thats my favorite camping spot . thanks . and sorry iam not that good at spelling .
  82. dj curran from Canada writes: Cliff edge campsites, Hole-In-The-Wall Campground, Grand Manan Island, NB.

    It's hard to beat the experience of pitching a tent on one of the cliff-edge platform sites on Grand Manan. Perched several hundred feet above a sheer drop to the Bay of Fundy, with views that you'll never forget, this is one of my favourite spots to tent. Whale music and softly crashing waves lull you to sleep. If you're anywhere nearby with a tent, don't miss it!

    dc
  83. Laurie Paterson from Bradford, Canada writes: We love camping in Algonquin park. The Lake of Two Bays camping area is the best. The walking trails are perfect for any type of fitness level.
    Laurie Paterson
  84. piere duchaine from pontiac, qc, Canada writes: I have camped across Canada for the last 35 years, but the site that comes to mind as the most remarkable is 'the Ovens', on the southern shore of Nova Scotia near Bridgewater.
    From our site, on the top of the caves, we could count over 7 lighthouses around the (Mahone) Bay, and the noise of the wave entering the caves created a repeated thunder that was actualy soothing.

    The park also has a small museum that explains the gold exploration of the caves as well as a beach.
    http://www.