The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals near Brighton, Ontario

The small city of Brighton is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, it is the perfect base for cyclists eager to tackle the Waterfront Trail, a 1,000-mile trek that hugs the lakeshore. Hikers can also enjoy waterfront views, especially if they check out the Proctor Park Conservation Area or the Heritage Trail. Presqu’ile Provincial Park is just a few minutes away and offers an excellent full-service campground.

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Top-rated campgrounds

The small city of Brighton is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, it is the perfect base for cyclists eager to tackle the Waterfront Trail, a 1,000-mile trek that hugs the lakeshore. Hikers can also enjoy waterfront views, especially if they check out the Proctor Park Conservation Area or the Heritage Trail. Presqu’ile Provincial Park is just a few minutes away and offers an excellent full-service campground.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Riverbend

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(63)

49km from Brighton · 1 site · Lodging · Marmora, ON

Escape to nature. Relax at this peaceful retreat on the beautiful Moira River. Spend the day in the river and the rapids; swimming, fishing, playing or read a book in the screened gazebo overlooking the water. The “things to do” list in the area is plentiful; trails, rivers, parks, and nature galore. Riverbend is surrounded by quaint towns offering; antiquing, cafes and festivals. Unwind at the end of the day with a bonfire under the stars surrounded by fireflies and then climb into your cozy bed in our off-grid cabin.

2. The Cozy Cabin on the River

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(73)

77km from Brighton · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · North Kawartha, ON

**We have been named a runner-up for the Best Glamping Site in Canada for 2023!** We are a perfect home base for all the nearby hikes, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails and outdoor adventures. Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. Snuggle up in the comfy queen bed. Enjoy your book in front of the roaring wood burning stove. And at night stargaze by the outdoor firepit. Our cozy cabin is found right next to a live creek that flows through the picturesque property. The interior is beautifully furnished with a queen sized bed, a seating area, fairy lights, wood burning stove, outdoor fire pit and Muskoka chairs.

3. Wildwood Cottages

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43km from Brighton · 2 sites · Lodging · Peterborough, ON

Wildwood Cottage sits on 6.5 acres overlooking Otonabee River. In the spring summer and fall we have 6 cottages and 2 bunkies. November to April we keep 3 cottages open with hot tubs and wood burning fireplaces. You can watch the birds off your porch, go for a swim at the beach, use a complementary canoe or even rent a boat or seadoo to explore farther! In the summer months we offer a swimming area equipped with kayaks and water inflatables. In the winter, there is a skating rink when the weather permits! Generally Jan & Feb. Dec and Mar the weather sometimes is not cold enough. One of the best things to do any season - sit at your own fire pit and enjoy the clear sky full of stars while listening to the sounds of natures. We are also pet friendly!

4. Forest Bunkie & Yogazebo

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(2)

75km from Brighton · 1 site · Lodging · Tamworth, ON

A 5 minute gentle hike along the trail guides you to our forest opening to the river frontage, with a quaint bunkie cabin that sleeps up to 4 adults, has a screened-in "Yogazebo" and gazebo for "bug free" dining or simple enjoyment. 27 acres of hardwood forest await nature and animal lovers to experience the off-grid camping experience. For those that wish to add extra rejuvenation to their visit can book a private yoga class or 2 with an Experienced yoga teacher in our Yogazebo. We live in a densely forested area. Please be aware that bugs will be a part of that. That said, typically by the end of August and into September, bugs are much fewer.

5. Cabin in the Woods

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57km from Brighton · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Marmora, ON

7 acres of field, forest, pond, waterfall, rapids, swimming hole! There are no bad views! Sit by the pond, sit by the creek, sit in the waterfall, sit out at Blueberry Hill for a pleasant breeze or up on SunStar Ridge for some nightly star gazing or lay back in a hammock or on zero gravity chairs 1 Bunkie on a hill overlooking the pond and 2 private tent sites, one at Boot Hill and one in the Field of Dreams. Each site has a fire pit and a compostable toilet and there is a compostable toilet in an outhouse on the property for the bunkie. Great for canoes, kayaks, bird and wildlife watching with spectacular star gazing. This property was part of an old homestead and as such I am still finding things so please respect the caution tape. Some finds are treasures (European Grapes, Bergamot, French Roses, Asparagus, Rhubarb, Ramps, Fiddle-heads) and others not so much. I am re purposing what I can and collecting the rest for disposal as I nurture this land back to what it was meant to be, paradise. There is an outdoor shower available as well. If you are green minded you are welcome here!

6. 29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

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78km from Brighton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bancroft, ON

Stay on 29 acres of peaceful forest, scenic wetlands, and permanent art installations. Wander quiet trails, relax by the beaver pond, enjoy stargazing in a truly dark sky location, and make use of the seasonal outdoor amenities like our kitchen and shower. Whether you’re here for a creative escape, a rustic adventure, or a comfortable group gathering, our property offers 3-season camping in a unique setting. We have a large outdoor kitchen, three outhouses, a composting toilet, potable water, picnic tables, and Starlink internet. Generators are welcome. No hookups. Location Highlights: 13 min to Gut Conservation Area / Waterfall 20 min to Apsley 25 min to Chandos Lake 30 min to Petroglyphs Shared Amenities for All Guests: - Outdoor seasonal shower - Outdoor kitchen with BBQ, electricity, and coolers - Sauna (hot tub not currently available) - Trails and permanent art installations throughout property Important Details: All guests must be registered. No unregistered visitors are permitted on the property. The hosts live on-site but will respect your privacy after check-in. We’re always available should you need assistance but won’t interrupt your stay. Campfires: Allowed with host approval, unless a fire ban is in effect. Swimming/Paddling: Beaver pond on-site. *Swim/paddle at your own risk.* The Setting: This property is enhanced by permanent art installations, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere. The spacious layout and amenities make it ideal for gathering with loved ones to enjoy special moments. * Due to the nature of the artwork, pets are not permitted. While we strive to keep critters and insects outside, this is a rural property, and occasional interactions with nature are part of the charm. Animals seen on our property include: mink, beavers, owls, wolf, foxes, deer, fawn, ravens, toads/frogs, snakes, otters, bob cat, crane, moose. Extras Available: Wood pellets for barn heat, towels, bedding, propane for BBQ, Tesla charging (per day). We hate cleaning fees too! So to help us avoid cleaning fees we offer low rates and ask guests to help us keep the space tidy.

7. Helund Acres

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(4)

70km from Brighton · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · North Kawartha, ON

A serene retreat awaits in North Kawartha. With over 300 private acres, there is an abundance of bush and waterways to explore. Whether you are looking for a waterfront campsite or a cabin with a large deck overlooking a small lake, you will surely enjoy the opportunity to experience our little slice of paradise. The cabin is a 12 minute walk in on groomed trails. Atvs can be accommodated for getting to and from the sites and further trail exploring if you’re looking for adventure. Hammock campers are able to hike the trails and choose their own backcountry site. Tent sites have been cleared in exceptional spots that are easily accessible by foot, ATV or jeep. Valet for your supplies is available, and you can enjoy the enchanting walk in the bush to your spot. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions. We can accommodate!

8. Forest Mills Cabins

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(3)

64km from Brighton · 2 sites · Lodging · Roblin, ON

Our property has 2 camping cabins located on 40 acres across the road from a beautiful waterfall. Each rental has its own private outhouse, picnic table, campfire pit and solar power. An outside shower room, flush toilet and common lounge with complimentary coffee and wifi is also available on site. There are marked walking trails on the property and at nearby conservation areas. Plenty to do on the grounds and within a 30 min drive, including sightseeing Prince Edward County, or checking out historic Kingston and Belleville. Wifi is available on the grounds at the lounge and gazebo, a short walk from the cabins. We have campfire wood available on site for $10/tote. Each tote contains paper, lighter, kindling and enough firewood to last hours into the night. Simply request at check in and we will deliver it to your cabin. The scenic waterfall across the road is part of the Salmon River watershed where you can take a refreshing dip seasonally. In the center of the property is a lovely sensory garden where you can sit and enjoy birds, butterflies and beautiful blossoms.

Camper favorites near Brighton

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Forest Bunkie & Yogazebo

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(2)

75km from Brighton · 1 site · Lodging · Tamworth, ON

A 5 minute gentle hike along the trail guides you to our forest opening to the river frontage, with a quaint bunkie cabin that sleeps up to 4 adults, has a screened-in "Yogazebo" and gazebo for "bug free" dining or simple enjoyment. 27 acres of hardwood forest await nature and animal lovers to experience the off-grid camping experience. For those that wish to add extra rejuvenation to their visit can book a private yoga class or 2 with an Experienced yoga teacher in our Yogazebo. We live in a densely forested area. Please be aware that bugs will be a part of that. That said, typically by the end of August and into September, bugs are much fewer.

Cabin in the Woods

100%

(94)

57km from Brighton · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Marmora, ON

7 acres of field, forest, pond, waterfall, rapids, swimming hole! There are no bad views! Sit by the pond, sit by the creek, sit in the waterfall, sit out at Blueberry Hill for a pleasant breeze or up on SunStar Ridge for some nightly star gazing or lay back in a hammock or on zero gravity chairs 1 Bunkie on a hill overlooking the pond and 2 private tent sites, one at Boot Hill and one in the Field of Dreams. Each site has a fire pit and a compostable toilet and there is a compostable toilet in an outhouse on the property for the bunkie. Great for canoes, kayaks, bird and wildlife watching with spectacular star gazing. This property was part of an old homestead and as such I am still finding things so please respect the caution tape. Some finds are treasures (European Grapes, Bergamot, French Roses, Asparagus, Rhubarb, Ramps, Fiddle-heads) and others not so much. I am re purposing what I can and collecting the rest for disposal as I nurture this land back to what it was meant to be, paradise. There is an outdoor shower available as well. If you are green minded you are welcome here!

29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

100%

(2)

78km from Brighton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bancroft, ON

Stay on 29 acres of peaceful forest, scenic wetlands, and permanent art installations. Wander quiet trails, relax by the beaver pond, enjoy stargazing in a truly dark sky location, and make use of the seasonal outdoor amenities like our kitchen and shower. Whether you’re here for a creative escape, a rustic adventure, or a comfortable group gathering, our property offers 3-season camping in a unique setting. We have a large outdoor kitchen, three outhouses, a composting toilet, potable water, picnic tables, and Starlink internet. Generators are welcome. No hookups. Location Highlights: 13 min to Gut Conservation Area / Waterfall 20 min to Apsley 25 min to Chandos Lake 30 min to Petroglyphs Shared Amenities for All Guests: - Outdoor seasonal shower - Outdoor kitchen with BBQ, electricity, and coolers - Sauna (hot tub not currently available) - Trails and permanent art installations throughout property Important Details: All guests must be registered. No unregistered visitors are permitted on the property. The hosts live on-site but will respect your privacy after check-in. We’re always available should you need assistance but won’t interrupt your stay. Campfires: Allowed with host approval, unless a fire ban is in effect. Swimming/Paddling: Beaver pond on-site. *Swim/paddle at your own risk.* The Setting: This property is enhanced by permanent art installations, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere. The spacious layout and amenities make it ideal for gathering with loved ones to enjoy special moments. * Due to the nature of the artwork, pets are not permitted. While we strive to keep critters and insects outside, this is a rural property, and occasional interactions with nature are part of the charm. Animals seen on our property include: mink, beavers, owls, wolf, foxes, deer, fawn, ravens, toads/frogs, snakes, otters, bob cat, crane, moose. Extras Available: Wood pellets for barn heat, towels, bedding, propane for BBQ, Tesla charging (per day). We hate cleaning fees too! So to help us avoid cleaning fees we offer low rates and ask guests to help us keep the space tidy.

Helund Acres

100%

(4)

70km from Brighton · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · North Kawartha, ON

A serene retreat awaits in North Kawartha. With over 300 private acres, there is an abundance of bush and waterways to explore. Whether you are looking for a waterfront campsite or a cabin with a large deck overlooking a small lake, you will surely enjoy the opportunity to experience our little slice of paradise. The cabin is a 12 minute walk in on groomed trails. Atvs can be accommodated for getting to and from the sites and further trail exploring if you’re looking for adventure. Hammock campers are able to hike the trails and choose their own backcountry site. Tent sites have been cleared in exceptional spots that are easily accessible by foot, ATV or jeep. Valet for your supplies is available, and you can enjoy the enchanting walk in the bush to your spot. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions. We can accommodate!

Forest Mills Cabins

100%

(3)

64km from Brighton · 2 sites · Lodging · Roblin, ON

Our property has 2 camping cabins located on 40 acres across the road from a beautiful waterfall. Each rental has its own private outhouse, picnic table, campfire pit and solar power. An outside shower room, flush toilet and common lounge with complimentary coffee and wifi is also available on site. There are marked walking trails on the property and at nearby conservation areas. Plenty to do on the grounds and within a 30 min drive, including sightseeing Prince Edward County, or checking out historic Kingston and Belleville. Wifi is available on the grounds at the lounge and gazebo, a short walk from the cabins. We have campfire wood available on site for $10/tote. Each tote contains paper, lighter, kindling and enough firewood to last hours into the night. Simply request at check in and we will deliver it to your cabin. The scenic waterfall across the road is part of the Salmon River watershed where you can take a refreshing dip seasonally. In the center of the property is a lovely sensory garden where you can sit and enjoy birds, butterflies and beautiful blossoms.

Stories from the community

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Andrew

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

Natalie and Seth's barn was overall a great experience! We enjoyed all the extras that were provided to us: entertainment system, well stocked kitchen, etc. The art pieces were also a nice addition too. We all slept great and warm. Our only complaint would be that the toilet smell was a little difficult to tame for us. The sawdust helped a bit but still had a faint smell in the downstairs living space so we had to vent out the barn every few hours to get some fresh air. Hope to come back soon! Thanks Natalie and Seth!

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che

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverbend

I recommend this place to anyone wanting seclusion and beauty. The price was also right for what we got and loved the cabin and fire place as well. P.S you got a very nice solar unit! Thank you!

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Alice

October 2025

3 nights at 29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

The barn was lovely! It is well equipped, comfy and well situated! The host is very nice and responsive! Exactly what I imagined, I would go back:)

Shauna

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Riverbend

Absolutely love this hidden gem!!! It's our second time going and it's such a relaxing and amazing spot. 10/10 would recommend!

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Marnie

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cabin in the Woods

A beautiful, serene place to unplug and unwind. The fall colours were lovely and Natalie is truly the most thoughtful host. The bird watching is excellent and a cozy meal by the fire…perfection. Thanks again, Natalie!

Natalie

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cabin in the Woods

Natalie's bunkie is a truly magical place! The cabin itself is so cozy and thoughtfully provisioned with everything you could need all season round, from practical supplies like cutlery and cookware and a wood-burning stove to keep you warm on cool autumn nights to board games and paperback books and even a portable DVD player for makeshift movie screenings, if you can peel your eyes away from the view of the starry night sky. The bunkie sits on a scenic body of water and a waterfall that make for great canoeing and swimming or admiring over morning coffee, and the rest of Natalie's property is bursting with whimsical art installments as well as gardens, fire pits, fairy lights, and fields of flowers. My partner and I have visited twice - in the summer and the in the fall - and have found each season and each stay so uniquely gorgeous and relaxing. If you are looking for a place to retreat from the noise of the world, the bunkie is perfect. Natalie is so warm and welcoming and has put so much care and attention into providing people with a home away from home.

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Nicole

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Riverbend

We had a wonderful time at this cabin! Our dog loved exploring the trails and spending time down near the water. We saw so much wildlife and the fall colours were beautiful. As always the cabin was ready for us when we arrived and Katrina & Graham were great hosts. We will be back!

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Morgan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Cozy Cabin on the River

THE BED IS SO COMFY. SUPER CUTE CABIN. 10/10 would recommend

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Empress

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Riverbend

This location was everything and more that was described. The lot was bigger than expected and the setup was amazing. While it was just the 2 of us there were many little spots within our site to sit and take in the nature around us. From the bumble bees to the massive amount of birds to the amazing beaver. The spot was very well stocked. We definitely over packed. My only complaint was we weren't there long enough. We will definitely be going back.

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Alayna

September 2025

2 nights at Riverbend

I love Riverbend. Such a magical place. The cabin is sweet and simple and has everything you need, but it's really the land. This morning I swam in the cold river water as two herons flew overhead and the fall leaves glowed around me. Magic. Thank you Katrina and Graham for sharing this beautiful spot with those of us who desperately need a break from the city--we'll be back!

Laura

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Riverbend

Will book again. The cabin is beautifully done, inviting and peaceful. Care can be seen in every aspect. From the many chairs placed around the property giving you a stunning view to the screened in gazebo and over look at the waters edge. The water was low when I was there, but it provided the opportunity to walk among the rock bottom of the river! The wildlife was also abundant, and we caught a few glimpses of the Grey Otter! The hosts were helpful, kind and make every effort for their guests.

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Glen

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Cabin in the Woods

Hi all! We had a wonderful stay at the Blue Heron Bunkie. Super cute and cozy cabin; the host even put a little fire in the wood stove, so we’d have a warm first night. We scored with the view and I scored with a kindred spirit who owns this beautiful land. Did I mention the outdoor shower? Divine.

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Marietta

September 2025

With pets

6 nights at Riverbend

There are not enough words to describe Katrina and Graham's Grayotter cabin at Riverbend...tranquil, serene, calm, peaceful, quiet and restful are just a few! The cabin is quaint and cozy and has everything you need to be comfortable. Riverbend is beautiful and has several locations to sit, ground, breathe and admire the great gifts of nature and Mother Earth. We saw the blue herons, blue jays, frogs, catepillars, bees pollinating, humming bird, dragonflies and a beaver swimming in the pond. The river was low so we missed the rapids but will definitely be back to experience that another time. There was a fireband but we brought our propane fire bowl, watched the evening sky and laid on cots outside to see the stars. It was all just so breathtaking, grounding and relaxing and we couldn't have picked a better or more amazing place to celebrate our 42nd wedding anniversary which may now become a yearly thing. We had the luxury of 6 nights but we will definitely book longer on our next visit!! You guys have found a piece of paradise and you're kind enough to share it with others and I know we are very appreciative and grateful! Thank you Katrina and Graham for sharing your paradise and being amazing hosts!!

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Nancy

September 2025

With pets

5 nights at Cabin in the Woods

This was my first Hipcamp experience, and Natalie has set the bar extremely high. She is a fantastic host - wonderful to deal with and very responsive. The Heron Bunkie was immaculate, and had everything you could need including a great little fridge, lights, a small wood stove (and wood), comfy bed and little touches like coffee (plus a coffee maker with filters) and ice cubes ready to go. The setting was lovely, despite the drier than normal conditions - peaceful. Multiple blue heron sightings, too, and a mystery critter in the pond. (She supplies binoculars!) Having coffee sitting on the generous deck was a treat, as was dinners prepared on the bbq. Amazingly, there were very few mosquitoes, so sitting outside to read or have a beverage was truly enjoyable. Being away from any city, the stargazing was stellar, too. My pup was made to feel really welcome, and she started to look for Natalie daily. All in all, a lovely, relaxing experience. Thank you so much, Natalie. You're the best. Not a surprise that Ginny didn't want to get out of the car when we got home!

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Claire

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Forest Bunkie & Yogazebo

The best part of this site was how hospitable Jo & Chris were, they checked in a few times to make sure that we had everything we needed throughout our stay. The site itself was beautiful and the bunkie had everything we needed for the perfect off grid camping experience, especially the five star poop house. We also quite enjoyed getting to run around with their very cute and friendly dogs!

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Sherron

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cabin in the Woods

My husband and I and our dog thoroughly enjoyed our weekend. The bunky was very cozy. The view was amazing. And lounging by the falls was great. Natalie is a pleasure to talk to and I would definitely recommend and would definitely book again. I felt very comfortable the whole entire weekend, It felt like I was staying with family and friends. Thank you Natalie, it was a pleasure meeting you 😊

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Lanna

August 2025

3 nights at Riverbend

We LOVEDDDDD this place . So peaceful , so secluded!! Our dogs had a BLAST. I won’t even lie, we booked it for our dogs to be able to be off leash and run free, and it’s the absolute perfect spot for it. It was beyond clean, comfortable and cute !!!! The dock is perfect for swimming and the river is clean! A whole kitchen set up, which is amazing ,and some hydro too! We will deff be back next summer!! Also town is very close considering how deep into the woods you are, Madoc is an adorable little town! We can’t wait to come back

Ryann

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverbend

Great spot to get away and enjoy the great outdoors. The river is running low, so we did have quite a few visitors that would make their way up the river to go fishing and hang out right next to the dock. That took some of the privacy aspect away, but was still great otherwise. We still swam and our dogs definitely enjoyed it. Just what we needed to decompress. The bugs were also not bad at all, which was a bonus. No shortage of things do. Loved how they put together so many spots to sit and enjoy the view. There are enclosed areas as well as outdoorsy spots. Katrina and Graham have clearly put a ton of effort into making a cozy space for so many people to enjoy! Will definitely go back again!!

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Natalie

August 2025

3 nights at Riverbend

So so private, great for dogs. Trails on the property and no neighbours. Just what we needed.

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Evey

August 2025

2 nights at Cabin in the Woods

Beautiful spot, extremely welcoming host who makes you feel like family, beautiful HOT out door shower, fun and eclectic decor all over and use of anything on the property such as kayaks, fishing rods, fire pits etc We absolutely loved our stay and will come back in the future. One small thing to note that I didn't notice in other reviews is mention of proximity. The Bunkie, where we stayed, is next to Natalie's (host) house. It is still private and Natalie is completely respectful of your space but if you're hoping to find a completely secluded and isolated spot, this may not be the ideal spot for you. It was not a problem for us, but for the sake of full transparency we felt it was worth noting. Lots of trails, clear water and a small waterfall that you can sit right in. Charming little town near by. Thank you Natalie for sharing your spot with the world 🩷

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek cabins near Brighton guide

Where to go

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Presqu’ile Provincial Park has fantastic beaches (including the popular Salt Point Beach), pristine wetlands, and lush forests. As such, it’s an excellent spot for hiking, swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. The Marsh Trail, in particular, is a prime location for birdwatching. Photographers will want to check out the historic lighthouses scattered around the park’s shores.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks is one of the province’s largest and most popular parks, famous for its expansive namesake sandy beaches. It’s an excellent spot for windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Camping options include multiple campgrounds with RV spaces, two large group camping spots, and cottages. The nearby communities are well known for their art galleries and antiques shops, and the surrounding area is home to many wineries.

Cricklewood Farm

Plenty of outdoor, family-friendly fun awaits at this local landmark. Cricklewood Farm is a fifth-generation operation located just outside of Brighton. The site is a combination of a working farm and a play zone, offering a corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and market stand, plus pick-your-own raspberries, pumpkins, and squash.

When to go

Sandbanks and Presqu’ile provincial parks, two of the main attractions in the region around Brighton, are open year-round, but full services are only offered from late April to late October. Canada Day weekend is popular at both locations, and summer campsites at Sandbanks often sell out when reservations are opened five months in advance. In Brighton itself, the annual Applefest takes place in September and features live music, a parade, rides, and delicious food.