The best waterside camping in Canada

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Waterside camping in Canada means pitching your tent or parking your campervan steps from lakes, rivers, or the ocean—think loons calling at dusk and mist rising at sunrise. With over 2,900 waterside spots from coast to coast, you’ll find everything from quiet riverbanks to lakefront meadows, and prices start at just $5 a night. Guests rave about Mouth of the Magaguadavic Camping (273 reviews), Pine the Sky (235 reviews), and Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp (232 reviews). Bring your fishing rod, binoculars, and boots—angling, wildlife-watching, and hiking are easy to find. Most campsites welcome pets, let you build a campfire, and have toilets on site. The average night runs about $55, but budget options are out there if you know where to look.

96% (17.3K) 282 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Canada

theDoighouse Earthship

1. theDoighouse Earthship

98%
(285)
Qualicum Bay, BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship (Eco-Retreat) Welcome to the Doighouse Earthship, a peaceful eco-retreat nestled in the forest just minutes from the Qualicum Bay waterfront on Vancouver Island. 📍 Great Location on Vancouver Island Our spot is ideal for both adventurers and peace-seekers. Located about an hour north of Nanaimo, we’re a great stopover for guests traveling to or from the mainland, or heading to Ucluelet or Tofino for world-class surfing. Mount Washington is just a 45-minute drive if skiing is on your itinerary. We’re also well-positioned for day trips to Hornby, Denman, and Lasqueti Islands. 🥾 Hiking, Beaches, and Outdoor Fun Nearby Explore forest trails, a children’s playground, and a bike park right in our neighbourhood. The Lighthouse Country area offers endless outdoor adventures, including: • Sunny Beach • Spider and Horne Lakes • Horne Lake Caves (great for climbers and explorers) Hikers can use the AllTrails app to find the Lighthouse Country Trail at our doorstep, including the Wilson Woodlot and Lost Runners Trails. (Urban legend says the running shoes were lost—not the runners!) ⛺ Camping, RV Sites, and Cozy Tiny Cabins Stay your way: • Pitch a tent in our gardens • Park your RV at the forest’s edge • Relax in one of our cozy, tiny cabins Wander the property and enjoy our young permaculture food forest, filled with fruit trees, hazelnuts, berries, and other good things growing with care. 🌎 Discover Our Off-Grid Earthship Have you ever imagined a house built from tires, earth, pop cans, and glass bottles? Our Earthship - currently under construction - is an exploration of low-impact, off-grid living in an energy-efficient home built from recycled materials. This project is rooted in a love for the planet, people, and sharing abundance—which is why we don’t raise our rates for holidays or long weekends. 🔍 Book a Private Earthship Tour (Optional) Guests can book a private Earthship tour, where Tony will spend a couple of hours sharing the story behind the Doighouse project and answering all your questions. 🌿 Come Visit, Tour, and Stay We look forward to hosting you. Susan and Tony Doig
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Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp

2. Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp

99%
(485)
Canal Flats, BC · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Hosted by Berny and Stuart Moore, Blacksmith Landing Eco Camp is nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountain Trench in Southeastern BC, just a short drive from Lussier natural hot springs, hiking, boating, canoeing, golfing, breathtaking WhiteSwan Lake, Premier Lake, Findlay Falls and the Kootenay and Columbia rivers Questions . Many people ask… 1) .”How far are we from Banff… 2 hours of a beautiful drive that includes kootenay national park. 2)..Important ❗️❗️Please do not bring firewood from other areas to our camp as our property is heavily treed forest and we do not want any transfer of raw wood bugs. We offer $10 generous bundles of wood. 3) When you book, One tent or RV and one vehicle per site. If you are looking to book for a group of friends/family area, we can help with that.. prior to booking. Also, we reserve the right to put you in the best possible spot to fit in a proper site for what you are camping in and what your needs are. Often people book a site that’s completely wrong for them… but that’s ok… we will fix it. 😊 4) Smoking only on sand at sites and nowhere else on our property Please use a container to hold your butts. 5) Noise restrictions after 9pm…no music or loud behaviour after that. Strictly enforced. We value respect in the camp for all campers. 6) Once you book, we will reply back with important information on the phone number you booked with. Please check for our messages to you for a smooth booking and arrival. Campers… please do Not put any garbage, of any kind, and especially diapers in our pit toilets. . thank you Blacksmith Landing is a safe, spacious and peaceful camp where minimal environmental impact is encouraged. We are faithful stewards and respect our beautiful forested lands and animals Our expectation is that campers will also share this respect for our Eco systems in an environmentally friendly way. As we take this Hipcamp journey together, we are finding little things we can do to make your stay better…Like offering a complimentary table at your site should you require one…. or adjusting the site you booked to one that would perhaps fit your needs much better as we know it’s difficult to choose a perfect site on line. If you forgot something, we probably have one…. Feel free to ask.
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Spring Arbour Magic Forest &Trails!

3. Spring Arbour Magic Forest &Trails!

97%
(375)
Walsingham, ON · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pitch your tent in our picturesque Carolinian forest in the heart of Norfolk county! Choose from 9 tent sites and 2 lodging sites spread across 10 acres of wooded area on our 49 Acre farm. Well-kept trails to explore throughout. We are proud to have made the runner-up list for best Hipcamp in Ontario 2023 The terrain is mostly flat but interesting. Campsites are private with good separation from each other. ALL sites have 2 car parking, a picnic table, fire pit and covered wood for purchase. Campfires are permitted according to our approved burn plan before midnight. 5G/LTE cellphone service is good for Bell, Rogers and Telus networks. We have 3 outhouses on the premises and an outdoor hot shower. FREE Firewood can be gathered on the forest floor or pay for on-site pre-cut wood. Outhouses are close to campsites....but not too close 💩 Port Rowan is only 12 minutes away by car, most amenities can be purchased only 1 minute away at the local Busy Bee gas station. We are situated in the middle of a Recreation Hotspot! Our site is within 3 minutes of paddling the Big Creek, 3 to 10 minutes to several A+ hiking trails, 15 minutes to amazing freshwater beaches of Long Point and Turkey Point, and the area is abound with cycling trails, motorcycle routes, geocaching, boat launches (we have room here for your boat!), cider/wine tours, and more! We are the perfect basecamp for everything the Long Point Bay area has to offer We have some great watering holes nearby like burning kiln winery, hounds of Erie and Charlotteville brewing company. Birders Paradise! The ‘Long Point Birding Area’ in Norfolk County is one of Canada’s premier birding locales. With over 400 species of birds observed, Long Point looms large as one of the most exciting places on the continent to observe our rich birdlife. For all tourism options check out https://www.norfolkcounty.ca/visiting/ We look forward to hosting you!
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Lake Superior Hike,Fish,Pickleball

4. Lake Superior Hike,Fish,Pickleball

Rossport, ON · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping and Indoor Pickleball! Doing the Lake Superior Circle Route? Stop in for a night or two. Looking for a place to camp with year round Lake Superior access or world class spring Steelhead fishing? You can do that too! A unique experience on the shores of Lake Superior. You can camp out and enjoy indoor pickleball all year round. Spend your day exploring the numerous clifftop trails and the famous nearby Casque Isle Trail System. If the weather isn't cooperating for outdoor activities, step inside the professional pickleball facility and challenge some of the locals to a fun, competitive game or two. Or try the game out for the first time. We just happen to have a qualified Instructor on-site. Learn the basics of the game in 5 mins. Play it for the rest of your life. The main house and the pickleball facility are on the property. From May to October there is space for 1–2 campers (size dependent) to set up on the property. An outhouse is available on-site. Please note there is no electrical, water, or sewer hookup. Rate: $50/nightCA Bug Season Rate😉 Also available, year round, is a cozy, wood heated cabin with three-season running water and a shower. A different water system is provided in the winter. The cabin has a private outhouse, a fully functional kitchen, and a cozy living area complete with shuffleboard table. It sleeps 4 comfortably. Rate: $125/nightCA Bug Season Rate😮 NOTE: For larger groups, a second campground nearby is available with rental cabins where you can purchase a Stay and Play Pass. This is a great place to stop for a night or two. Located on the Canadian side of the Lake Superior Circle Route, right in the middle of one of the most beautiful stretches of the Route, between Schreiber ON and Nipigon, ON.
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Tryfan Forest

5. Tryfan Forest

93%
(211)
Haliburton, ON · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Tryfan Forest is an 800 acre privately owned managed forest and wilderness reserve. It borders thousands of acres of crown land wilderness. This is truly a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. The property gives access to the lake as well as Tryfan Forest's many trails, and diverse landscape. Tryfan Forest provides something for all outdoor enthusiasts no matter what your experience level is! Choose from five different options including: Ravens Point Camping - 3 different lakeside sites accessible by 1.5-2km hike or by canoe. All three Raven's Point campsites have their own thunderbox toilet as well as picnic tables and private docks on the lake. Sand Flats - This campsite is ideally suited for large groups and for winter camping. It features a sheltered, private, flat area for tents, and a central picnic table. This site is located deep in a remote wilderness setting.
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Ball Lake Tent Camping

6. Ball Lake Tent Camping

98%
(228)
Cloyne, ON · 6 sites
A quiet place to get away with various wildlife to be seen including great swimming with more than 300 acres to explore, cleared trails for hiking, Thanks to a small blow down that went through a few years back.Dark clear nights for star gazing and so much more. There are six separate sites, each with their own picnic table, fire pit, and outhouse. This is back woods camping .There is a shared beach with plenty of room for everyone. The lake is weedy in spots but just makes it better for fishing .Great place for all ages and of course all pet's welcome. Tear Drop Trailers allowed, depending on what site. Please message first.Please practice catch and release. And No Loud Music At Any Time .
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Coutts Farm

7. Coutts Farm

99%
(152)
Utterson, ON · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This is the back of a small beef cattle farm located on beautiful Three Mile Lake in Muskoka Lakes. These sites each have their own private beach with access to approximately 1500 feet of lake front. Beautiful Sherwood creek within walking distance on the property with some beautiful spots for a picnic. Plenty of wild life to see!
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Living Large on Chilliwack River

8. Living Large on Chilliwack River

97%
(154)
Chilliwack, BC · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Camping is open and the weather is beautiful! Enjoy the beautiful acres right on the Chilliwack River! A wonderful family-friendly (including pets!) getaway with endless activities nearby. (no pets allowed for glamping) Our camp sites are great for anyone wanting to camp, including groups. Walk in tenting only. We have Glamping tents as well - we provide everything except your food, drinks and personal items! They are situated beside the river, with a eating bar overlooking the river and with beautiful views. For the romantic couple - but we also can accomodate a small child (inquire). Our campsite is available in the spring and summer and is just 20 minutes from the city of Chilliwack, BC. We provide a fire pit and campfires are allowed as long as there is no fire ban. (then you can have a propane campfire) The sites are quite private but there will be other campers nearby. We try to keep a large amount of space between sites and some are separated by trees. We are a walk in tent only site- parking is very close, 30 second walk. We can also provide access to electricity so you can charge your phones or other devices if needed. There is no cell reception, but we do have wifi that you can use. Potable water is available. We supply natural spring water but you must bring your own jug. We live in an adventure playground! Activities nearby include hiking, white rapid river rafting, fishing, watching bald eagles, Cultus Lake water slides and adventure park, mountain biking, cold plunge and sauna retreats, wine tastings and more! The stargazing at night is beautiful as there is no light pollution here. We look forward to hosting you!
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Highland Farms N Stables

9. Highland Farms N Stables

95%
(22)
Bancroft, ON · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to a private, off-grid cabin or campsite tucked in the wilderness just outside Algonquin Park—all the magic of camping without the hassle. Our cabins offer nature and seclusion. No visible neighbors. Plenty of room to relax. Many quiet beaches nearby. Water available at the gate for showers and dishes. With easy drive-in access and 8 km of gentle trails right from your doorstep, our cabins are the perfect place to slow down and reconnect. Spend your days exploring thousands of acres of Crown land—kayak, canoe, hike, swim, fish, birdwatch, ATV, or snowmobile—with horseback riding just minutes away. Each stay includes a private cabin, large campsite with plenty of parking, extended deck, fire pit, screen tent, BBQ (propane included) and optional heat in select cabins—everything you need for a comfortable, unplugged getaway. If your dates are full, take a look at Cozy Cabin 2, Fox Den 3, Moose Run 4, and Meadowlark 5—each one just as special. Firewood is available on-site, and supplies are close by. Come experience the heart of Ontario’s wild beauty—Algonquin Park is waiting. 🌲
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Domaine Lockbøw | Private Waterfall

10. Domaine Lockbøw | Private Waterfall

98%
(49)
Lac Simon, QC · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
62 acres of wilderness, 15 feet high waterfalls, rapides, lake, 1.2km of river shores, enchanted forest and next to all commodities while in the middle of nature. Fishing, Kayaking, Paddle, Hiking (5kms of private trails), Swimming, Camping, Private Toilets, Reception, Drinking Water, Fire Wood, Campfire, Private Waterfall, Rapids, Lake, Forest, Mountain, Private Beach, 1h40 from Montréal, 1h from Ottawa, 30mn from Parc Oméga, 3mn from Chénéville accomodations, 3mn from Lake Simon N° CITQ: 628318
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The Secret Sanctuary

11. The Secret Sanctuary

98%
(360)
Wetaskiwin, AB · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are passionate about nature and the environment. Living close to off-grid makes this area low in EMF, light and noise pollution. The well water is clean, pure and delicious. We are excited to share this Alberta wilderness with like-minded outdoor-type individuals who enjoy community glamping. There are two beautiful lakes (Battle Lake and Pigeon Lake) within a 10-minute drive that offer boating, fishing, beaches, biking and walking trails. Our property is about 1 hour south of Edmonton, Alberta. We have 2 different listings to choose from. Our Tiny Home Cabin and unique Glamping tents. Come enjoy this tranquil piece of nature with us - we look forward to hosting you!
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Murphy's Gold Creek Ranch

12. Murphy's Gold Creek Ranch

95%
(202)
Wardner, BC · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
I sold a business in Toronto and moved West in 1990 and drove all over North America looking for a new place to settle and raise a family. While camping in the Kootenay's I found this oasis and bought it. I have raised a family living totally off the grid since and love it. The water here is so clean and and the air is so fresh is why I stay. The night sky is so hard to explain it has to be seen to believe. Come check it out and you will agree. Learn more about this land: Enjoy camping on our 25-acre property just outside of Cranbrook, BC! We have multiple spots to choose from. You can camp beside the creek, in an open field, or up high with beautiful views of the valley. It all depends on your preferences and the privacy that you desire. We welcome tent and RV campers. If you're bringing an RV, there are sites that do not require levelling and we can accommodate vehicles up to 75ft in length. Bring your animals - there are a lot of great spaces for them to play! Our yard is equipped for horseback riding with a horse ring and stable.  The property is a great step-off point for ATV, dirt bikes, horseback and hiking adventures.  Potable water, toilet, picnic table, wifi and showers are available. Pets welcome, campfires permitted.  We are a 15-20 minute drive to Cranbrook. As the basecamp of the Kootenay Rockies, Cranbrook has it all - From all the trails one can dream of to multiple award-winning golf courses all within a 20-minute drive out of town, Cranbrook is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. PLEASE USE GOOGLE MAPS FOR CORRECT DIRECTIONS I look forward to hosting you!
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Valhalla Pines Campground

13. Valhalla Pines Campground

98%
(135)
Vallican, BC · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a quiet forested residential area in Sinixt territory. Recommended activities include floating down the river, canoeing the lake, hiking or climbing in Valhalla Park, soaking in Halfway Hot Springs or indulging in Nelson. We are surrounded by beautiful mountains and rivers. This valley has many outdoor activities and events and a very interesting history and culture including Sinixt, Doukhobor, Cannabis and Conscientious Objector. Nelson, Castlegar and Slocan Lake are all a half hour drive away. There are many other special places nearby such as the Goddess Pools and the Emerald Pools. Supplies and services are available nearby including firewood, toiletries, dog day care, massage, bike and canoe rentals, life jackets, rubber dingys and paddles etc. Let us know if you would like a referral to any of these services. There are many guides available for activities in the area including (water sports, climbing, skiing, hiking, artist tours, events, geology, mining, mushrooms, cannabis, garden tours and native history). You don't need one to get here, but its good to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle for some of the logging roads that are worth visiting. Roof and/or bike racks can also come in handy. The Vallican Whole Community Centre also has events nearby.
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Washtock Family Campground

14. Washtock Family Campground

95%
(207)
BC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the pristine Nahatlatch Valley between the Nahatlatch River and Fraser River. Washtock Family Campground offers rustic camping from tents to RVs. We are an ATV friendly campground with ride in ride out accessibility. The campground offers pull through RV Sites with non-potable water and septic connections. We are off grid so we have no power/electricity connections but allow generators. We have space for big groups or just a quick get away for two, we can accommodate you. We have flush toilets and outhouses as well as a hot shower for guest use. We have a small store on site with your regular camping goodies, Ice, seasonal vegetable, as well as farm fresh eggs and all natural free range beef from our farm. We are located 13km north of Northbend which is across the river from Boston Bar BC. Once you reach Boston Bar you will Turn left at the Esso and cross 2 sets of railroad tracks bringing you into Northbend, from Northbend there is about 6km of paved road after that there is 6km of gravel road until you reach our campground. Past our campground is the beautiful Nahatlatch provincial Park which contains Francis lake, Hanna Lake and Nahatlatch Lake. The lakes offer an abundance of activities such as fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and paddle boarding. The first lake is about a 15-20 min drive again on gravel road. 2 wheel drive accessible until 21km on the forest service Road after 21km you will need a 4x4, if you plan to travel to Grizzly falls or the 3rd Lake. There are many hiking, biking, horseback riding and ATVing trails in the area. Washtockfamilyfarm.ca Please feel free to email if you have any questions. We would love to accommodate you for your future adventures.
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Beaver River Beach

15. Beaver River Beach

100%
(1)
Beaver River, NS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to your own slice of paradise with our charming beachfront A-frame cabin perched on stilts, offering panoramic views of breathtaking sunsets over the western horizon. Nestled in just 144 square feet, this cozy retreat is designed for two, perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo escape with the ability to add tents and accommodate smaller groups. Inside, you'll find a comfortable fold down bed, inviting you to relax and unwind amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. We provide a full mattress with a protective cover, ensuring a clean and hygienic stay. Step outside to discover your private bonfire area, ideal for cozy evenings under the stars (subject to local fire regulations). The cabin features a quaint out door dining area picnic table, outdoor bar area , pergola, and sun deck nestled in the roses , creating a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere. Embrace the off-grid experience with a small power box providing essential lighting and power, allowing you to disconnect while still enjoying modern comforts. BYOB !! - Remember you have to bring a sleeping bag , pillow and drinking water for a true glamping adventure in harmony with nature ! We only supply a fitted sheet and toilet essentials. Experience the simplicity and beauty of coastal living at our tiny minimalist A-frame cabin, where every sunset becomes a cherished memory and every moment is a chance to reconnect with nature and yourself.
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Middlearth

16. Middlearth

97%
(101)
Hastings Highlands, ON · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Middlearth is in the highland hills in the middle of Lake St Peter Lake and Mink Lake. We offer a variety of campsites on 150 acres with easy access to Algonquin trails, lakes, rivers, and attractions.
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Pacific Ranch

17. Pacific Ranch

98%
(124)
Victoria, BC · 1 site · Tent, RV
On a hillside property in the heart of Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Ranch offers amazing views, stream-side forest walks, and private tranquillity. Driving in along the winding and steep driveway, you will arrive on our unique property and find rocky, moss-covered bluffs, and fern-carpeted forests. Across these settings are two private campsites for one to choose from. There are no toilet facilities at our site so you will have to bring your own toilet. There is a lot to do in the area for outdoor adventurers, including walks along the Galloping Goose Trail, many local beaches, as well as biking and hiking trails right off of the ranch. You can visit picturesque local villages close by, as well as head to one of the local lakes for a day of swimming. Bring your own tents and van/truck campers. We can accommodate vehicles under 22 feet (water hookup available). You will be parking on loose gravel and the site requires levelling. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban.
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Big Rock Eco Retreat & Campgrounds

18. Big Rock Eco Retreat & Campgrounds

100%
(27)
Gilmour, ON · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Big Rock Eco Retreat is a serene and picturesque campground located on the shores of Weslemkoon Lake, in Addington Highlands Township. Situated amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding crown land, this eco-friendly retreat offers visitors an unforgettable outdoor experience. The area is home to a variety of native wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, loons, and eagles, which can often be spotted in their natural habitats. The campsite offers individual fire pits and gas BBQs at each site, allowing visitors to enjoy the great outdoors while cooking up a delicious meal. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the woods, while fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the lake, which is teeming with fish in the summertime. In the winter, visitors can enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, with well-maintained trails for all levels of experience. Each camping site can accommodate a hot tub for an additional fee, based on availability, making it a perfect way to unwind and relax. For those who want to explore the lake further, there is a marina with a general store open in the summer time. Visitors can purchase additional services such as smore kits, fishing rods, small boat rentals, private boat tours of the lake, and snowshoes in the winter. In addition, the retreat also offers a skating pond in the winter when the ice is thick enough. Overall, Big Rock Eco Retreat provides an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.
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Mitziville By The Lake

19. Mitziville By The Lake

95%
(30)
Burk's Falls, ON · 47 sites
Discover the beauty of nature and the peace of lakeside living at Mitziville By The Lake. Here, you’ll experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Set up camp beside a beautiful sandy beach on the shores of Himbury Lake, ideal for swimming, fishing, sunbathing, and soaking in unforgettable sunsets.
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Fulford's Cottages And Camping

20. Fulford's Cottages And Camping

100%
(6)
Providence Bay, ON · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is located in Providence Bay across from the longest sand beach on Manitoulin Island. We are situated along the Mindemoya River and boast riverside views from our accommodation sites while also being a 2 minute walk (or less!) to the Providence Bay boardwalk and beach. We offer a great place to launch your kayak or paddle board, fish, listen to weekend musical entertainment, watch a glorious sunset or take a stroll on the beachfront boardwalk. Families enjoy the shallow sand beach, a large beachside playground and the local Interpretive Centre. Our central location makes a great base for exploring other attractions on Manitoulin Island.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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