The 5 most beautiful places to camp in Canada this summer

Planning a great Canadian camping adventure this summer? Whether you’re a backcountry backpacker or more the car-camping type, there’s no better way to connect with nature than a visit to one of Canada’s most beautiful campsites. From west to east, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best spots to enjoy the great outdoors across Canada.

Photo Credit: iStock.com/ tslphoto

Note: At time of writing (June 2020) many of Parks Canada properties remain closed or are in the process of gradually re-opening so be sure to check with the parks before you plan your visit.

It’s impossible to talk about Canada’s greatest places to camp without a mention of Pacific Rim National Park. This reserve, located on Vancouver Island’s pristine and rugged west coast, is home to Long Beach, the spectacular 16-kilometre stretch of crashing waves that draw surfers from around the world as well as the famously challenging West Coast Trail. Campsites at Green Point Campground overlook the ocean, with a backdrop of ancient rainforests and majestic mountains.

Named a UNESCO world heritage site for its incredible flora and wildlife, Waterton Lakes National Park is a hiker’s paradise with over 300 kilometres of maintained trails. Backcountry camping options abound while the popular and aptly-named Townsite Campground is located within the limits of Waterton Village. If the woods get too wild for you, the town’s quaint shops and restaurants are only a short stroll away.

In the middle of Ontario, just three hours from Toronto, you’ll find the province’s largest park teeming with wildlife, especially moose and deer. This is also paddling country, with over 2,000 kilometres of routes and portages, so contact a local outfitter for gear and a guide. Visitors can rough it in a tent or, if you reserve well ahead, nab a cute but rustic cabin for the real park ranger experience.

Sitting at the north entrance of the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, Baie-Sainte-Marguerite’s beluga population draws whale watchers from all over. It’s an easy woodland hike out to the edge of the fjord to the ‘Beluga Stopover’ where park guides are actively tracking beluga spottings, and ready to lend you a pair of binoculars for a better look at the famous white whales. Sea kayaking and fishing excursions are also a must-try while you’re here. Tents and RVs are welcome throughout the park.

The world-famous Cabot Trail winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering stunning views of both ocean and mountain scenery. Cyclists and hikers are equally entertained by the park’s many lookouts and observation points to enjoy the rugged coastline or even catch a glimpse of a pilot whale breaching in the distance. There are six front-country and one backcountry campgrounds within the park to choose from, and several private campgrounds nearby. Cap off a memorable trip with a meal at one of many local restaurants offering fresh-caught lobster.