The best camping near Owen Sound

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Owen Sound is a city at the crossroads of waterfront fun, hiking galore, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can head up the gorgeous Bruce Peninsula to scuba dive at one of Canada’s five National Marine Conservation Areas. The Bruce Trail offers days and days of hikes along the Niagara Escarpment. The city sits on the Georgian Bay waterfront, but is also just a short drive from the shores of Lake Huron. Whichever way you look, there’s something to explore near Owen Sound.

98% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pine the Sky

5. Pine the Sky

99%
(391)
50km from Owen Sound · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Southgate, ON
This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night
White Pines Cabin Retreat

6. White Pines Cabin Retreat

99%
(34)
33km from Owen Sound · 1 site · Lodging · Owen Sound, ON
Relax and unwind in this beautiful cabin by the river. Sit on the front deck and relax and enjoy the sounds of the running water. The cabin has limited electricity for lights, ceiling fan, cell phone charging and WiFi etc. There is room to comfortably sleep 4. There is a single over double bunk bed and a roomy camp cot. Blankets are provided but please bring your own bedding (sleeping bags encouraged during colder months). The room also includes a mini fridge, diesel heater . There is a lovely wooden swing to relax on that also includes a propane BBQ for your use with cooking utensils. There is also a fire pit with a grill and a beautiful wooden outhouse just steps away from the cabin. Tents sites are available for groups larger than 4 but must be part of the cabin rental. To help find us enter Google code 77J3+WGV into your browser. Cabin is only 5 minutes from Bells Lake where you can fish, swim, canoe, kayak and paddle Board. Only 10 minutes from Ferns Gold Club and a short drive to Hogg Falls, Eugenia Falls and Ingliss Falls which all offer amazing hiking Trails.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$90
 / night
Everhill Farm

7. Everhill Farm

99%
(385)
74km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Kitchener, ON
Everhill Farm is a century-old farm owned by the fifth generation of Harrison’s. This picturesque river property only a mile from Harriston is fantastic for the naturalist who loves the outdoors and hiking! Lovely maintained walking and biking trails on our property that we share with the local communities Greenway Trail system. Very close to many local businesses with the highlight of walking for ice cream or burgers'n fries at the Red Caboose! After one stay you will be planning on another to experience all the unique camping sites! :) Campers can choose from six sites directly on the river, there are currently two rustic-looking outhouses on-site with another planned. Campfires are permitted within local regulations and pets are welcome! Please be respectful of the property and other campers, alcohol is permitted, although glass bottles are discouraged Music is appreciated! Please packout all garbage and leave the campsite the same or better as found. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$55
 / night
Yurt at Paisley Mill

9. Yurt at Paisley Mill

99%
(88)
45km from Owen Sound · 1 site · Lodging · Paisley, ON
Learn more about this land:This comfortable and spacious yurt is located on the 30-acre property of the historic Paisley Mill along the Teeswater river. With three large windows, a dome skylight, and wool felt insulation, the yurt provides a wonderful "glamping" experience. There is a double bed and a single bed in the yurt along with a cooler, table, chairs, and storage space. In the future there will be solar power, but right now the lighting available is by a battery powered lantern (provided). Next to the yurt is a picnic table, fire pit, and a sawdust toilet. There are basic utensils, plates, bowls, pots and pans available in the yurt. Bring your own: camp stove, water, bedding, pillows Important to Note: The only heating source is a wood stove. You need to be comfortable using a wood stove safely to stay at this yurt. While the yurt site only a short distance from the main mill residence, it is secluded and offers a beautiful private camping space. The town of Paisley is only a 10 minute walk from the yurt. There is a grocery store, bank, LCBO, and a few really delicious restaurants in Paisley. The yurt is a 20 minute drive from Lake Huron and the beautiful beach towns of Southhampton and Port Elgin. You will love visiting nearby MacGregor Point and Inverhuron Provincial Park with their beautiful walking trails and beaches.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$107
 / night
The site is big enough for multiple tents. We were a group of 4 with 1 dog

10. Garden of Eating

94%
(118)
16km from Owen Sound · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Meaford, ON
Our ecological farm is your chance to enjoy nature. Planted with 100+ edible perennial species in the orchard garden, beeyard, hayfield, and forest with shiitake mushroom logs. The Hive site is closer to the house for easier vehicle access and proximity to the compost toilet and house wifi. Tree Island is across the creek and best crossed with higher clearance vehicles or a 3 minute walk in. Let us know in advance if you would like firewood, outdoor solar shower access, water, or outlets to charge your devices. There is a hiking trail that extends along the entire property and a mini pond near the Lookout site. Seasonal fresh produce and berries for sale. Located steps to Tom Thomson Trail, 2km to Irish Mountain Lookout, and within minutes of Meaford, multiple Bruce Trail trailheads, and Georgian Bay beaches.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

13. Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

99%
(62)
41km from Owen Sound · 3 sites · Lodging · Flesherton, ON
Welcome to Flesherton Bunkie & CampingOur 100-acre farm is centrally located and you can walk to the town of Flesherton, where you will find cafes, restaurants, and all of your camping needs! Only 10km from Beaver Valley trails and attractions. Great cycling and endless outdoor activities in the area. The property has two options to choose from:Modern Minimalist Bunkie - a cozy place to hang out where you will love the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows! Private Meadows and Woods - where you can choose from two different sites. This is a no-frills camping experience ideal for tent, car, and van camping and the perfect place to get back to nature.Be sure to bring your own camping toilet and pack it out, as there are no restroom facilities available on-site. Fires are permitted within local regulations. Pets are welcome. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$56
 / night
Pond

16. SUJO Funny Farm Camping

97%
(69)
64km from Owen Sound · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Minto, ON
Beautiful hiking through maple and pine forests . Large grass areas with big shade trees perfect for any kind of camping! 4 acre pond and rescue animals on site including 2 donkeys, 1 alpaca and 2 swans . If you love watching birds, bring your binoculars. There’s so many different kinds that visit on a daily basis if you enjoy gathering, wild berries, mushrooms, and herbs. There are plenty of locations on the farm where you can do so at your own discretion bring all the fun games that you need. Lots of space for as there is plenty of locations to set up and enjoy any summer activities like soccer volleyball, etc. enjoy the serenity and peace of the countryside and feel free to book us for your larger events, family reunion‘s birthdays, etc.. Located less than one hr to fantastic beaches. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets. Bring your telescopes because the stars are amazing here without all the city light pollution. Lots of open grass space to play games and sports! Giant sized campsites that can accommodate large groups! Book family reunions, birthday parties summer parties. Bring your Paddle boards and canoes as they can be used on the pond. catch and release fishing if you want to try your luck. Or toss some bread into the pond and watch the fish come up to feed! Take a quiet walk through the property and watch for our many deer roaming about. There is no lack of wildlife and if your a bird watcher, you will want your binoculars! Enjoy glamping in our trailer. Bring your own bedding trailer has the rest! $100 per night sleeps up to 6 people. New this year ! Enjoy camping in our two bedroom cabin, cabin sleeps 6 people. Each bedroom has a double bed alone 2 single folding beds. Kitchen is equipped with coffee maker, convection oven, hot plate, grill/toaster oven and basic cooking equipment. Pack you bedding and your cooler and your set to enjoy your glamping experience!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$45
 / night
The house and view of upstairs Elvish Suite porch; house decorated for the winter season

18. Tolkien Fantasy At Grey Havens

97%
(35)
31km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Lodging · Markdale, ON
Tolkien readers know that Grey Havens is actually the last chapter of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. We embrace Tolkien's imagination. Readers and writers especially like our lakefront property. We especially encourage writers and readers looking for retreat. We facilitate relaxation and inspiration. Starting with our Little Free Library, each accommodation has a unique small Library inside . We have quiet, segregated spaces inside or outside for writing or reading. You can even purchase works by the host/author onsite. But we are not just about books. We also encourage water recreation activities: swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing. We have a free boat launch for your watercraft. We are on a small biologically special kettle lake, the source of the Styx River. Our lake water is flushed with cool underground water. For a description of the geology and biology of lake, consider the "Townsend Lake Cruise" on our unique eVessel, Swizzle Styx (book in the "Extras"). There is plenty of County Forest and Bruce Trailhead hiking opportunities also nearby. On our property are the following amenities: +Car parking (1/site; free) +Motorcycle friendly parking pads for touring riders (Free) +Wireless access (Free) +Spacious outdoor Privy used by all on site campers (All Free) +Dock and canoe/kayak launch (bring your own canoes/kayaks) +Patio/deck (20'x25') with fire circle, chairs and tables (burn only locally sourced wood by booking a "Firewood Bundle" OR a "Butane Cook Stove" in the "Extras") +A "Gear Wagon" (book in the "Extras") to transport your luggage, tents, gear and/or coolers from the car to the site you have booked. (And again on your way out also). Hip Campers have often asked for fire starting help. We recommend First Time/Novice Hip Campers consider the "Fire Workshop" extra. You get a "Firewood Bundle" a kit of firestarters and patient instruction on starting your first campfire. Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your site to get up to $10 cleaning fee returned. Grey Havens was the final chapter in Tolkien's trilogy. We continue creating a paradise here. Hip Campers may wonder about the whale bench seen in many of our photographs. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night
Time at the Shores

19. Time at the Shores

94%
(57)
40km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Lodging · Port Elgin, ON
Very close to all the great stuff available at this part of Bruce peninsula. We share our backyard with our guests, we are very close to everything that Bruce county has to offer, port Elgin, Southampton, golf courses, different accesses to saugeen river where u can go fishing canoeing, tubing etc., supermarkets, native reserve, sauble beach and dozens of other ones…all at max 15 minutes distance… in the property you will find everything u need for a peaceful stay, hard to describe everything you will find but u can read our reviews, some of them have beautiful descriptions of what is here for you, you must love animals, since we have our pets all around, u are also super welcome to bring yours. One of the high points of here is the interaction u will have with the pets, they are all super friendly and will play with u every time they see u, they believe u r here for them, between, dogs, cats, birds, rabbits etc they will be part of your stay, this is theyr home, u r theyr guests, that’s how they think, so u must be a pet lover. For the canine: please bring your bedding, there’s a few pillows and bed covers but bring your personal bedding, queen size…Looking forward to meet you. Pedro Rodrigues
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night

Owen Sound is a city at the crossroads of waterfront fun, hiking galore, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can head up the gorgeous Bruce Peninsula to scuba dive at one of Canada’s five National Marine Conservation Areas. The Bruce Trail offers days and days of hikes along the Niagara Escarpment. The city sits on the Georgian Bay waterfront, but is also just a short drive from the shores of Lake Huron. Whichever way you look, there’s something to explore near Owen Sound.

98% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pine the Sky

5. Pine the Sky

99%
(391)
50km from Owen Sound · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Southgate, ON
This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night
White Pines Cabin Retreat

6. White Pines Cabin Retreat

99%
(34)
33km from Owen Sound · 1 site · Lodging · Owen Sound, ON
Relax and unwind in this beautiful cabin by the river. Sit on the front deck and relax and enjoy the sounds of the running water. The cabin has limited electricity for lights, ceiling fan, cell phone charging and WiFi etc. There is room to comfortably sleep 4. There is a single over double bunk bed and a roomy camp cot. Blankets are provided but please bring your own bedding (sleeping bags encouraged during colder months). The room also includes a mini fridge, diesel heater . There is a lovely wooden swing to relax on that also includes a propane BBQ for your use with cooking utensils. There is also a fire pit with a grill and a beautiful wooden outhouse just steps away from the cabin. Tents sites are available for groups larger than 4 but must be part of the cabin rental. To help find us enter Google code 77J3+WGV into your browser. Cabin is only 5 minutes from Bells Lake where you can fish, swim, canoe, kayak and paddle Board. Only 10 minutes from Ferns Gold Club and a short drive to Hogg Falls, Eugenia Falls and Ingliss Falls which all offer amazing hiking Trails.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$90
 / night
Everhill Farm

7. Everhill Farm

99%
(385)
74km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Kitchener, ON
Everhill Farm is a century-old farm owned by the fifth generation of Harrison’s. This picturesque river property only a mile from Harriston is fantastic for the naturalist who loves the outdoors and hiking! Lovely maintained walking and biking trails on our property that we share with the local communities Greenway Trail system. Very close to many local businesses with the highlight of walking for ice cream or burgers'n fries at the Red Caboose! After one stay you will be planning on another to experience all the unique camping sites! :) Campers can choose from six sites directly on the river, there are currently two rustic-looking outhouses on-site with another planned. Campfires are permitted within local regulations and pets are welcome! Please be respectful of the property and other campers, alcohol is permitted, although glass bottles are discouraged Music is appreciated! Please packout all garbage and leave the campsite the same or better as found. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$55
 / night
Yurt at Paisley Mill

9. Yurt at Paisley Mill

99%
(88)
45km from Owen Sound · 1 site · Lodging · Paisley, ON
Learn more about this land:This comfortable and spacious yurt is located on the 30-acre property of the historic Paisley Mill along the Teeswater river. With three large windows, a dome skylight, and wool felt insulation, the yurt provides a wonderful "glamping" experience. There is a double bed and a single bed in the yurt along with a cooler, table, chairs, and storage space. In the future there will be solar power, but right now the lighting available is by a battery powered lantern (provided). Next to the yurt is a picnic table, fire pit, and a sawdust toilet. There are basic utensils, plates, bowls, pots and pans available in the yurt. Bring your own: camp stove, water, bedding, pillows Important to Note: The only heating source is a wood stove. You need to be comfortable using a wood stove safely to stay at this yurt. While the yurt site only a short distance from the main mill residence, it is secluded and offers a beautiful private camping space. The town of Paisley is only a 10 minute walk from the yurt. There is a grocery store, bank, LCBO, and a few really delicious restaurants in Paisley. The yurt is a 20 minute drive from Lake Huron and the beautiful beach towns of Southhampton and Port Elgin. You will love visiting nearby MacGregor Point and Inverhuron Provincial Park with their beautiful walking trails and beaches.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$107
 / night
The site is big enough for multiple tents. We were a group of 4 with 1 dog

10. Garden of Eating

94%
(118)
16km from Owen Sound · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Meaford, ON
Our ecological farm is your chance to enjoy nature. Planted with 100+ edible perennial species in the orchard garden, beeyard, hayfield, and forest with shiitake mushroom logs. The Hive site is closer to the house for easier vehicle access and proximity to the compost toilet and house wifi. Tree Island is across the creek and best crossed with higher clearance vehicles or a 3 minute walk in. Let us know in advance if you would like firewood, outdoor solar shower access, water, or outlets to charge your devices. There is a hiking trail that extends along the entire property and a mini pond near the Lookout site. Seasonal fresh produce and berries for sale. Located steps to Tom Thomson Trail, 2km to Irish Mountain Lookout, and within minutes of Meaford, multiple Bruce Trail trailheads, and Georgian Bay beaches.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

13. Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

99%
(62)
41km from Owen Sound · 3 sites · Lodging · Flesherton, ON
Welcome to Flesherton Bunkie & CampingOur 100-acre farm is centrally located and you can walk to the town of Flesherton, where you will find cafes, restaurants, and all of your camping needs! Only 10km from Beaver Valley trails and attractions. Great cycling and endless outdoor activities in the area. The property has two options to choose from:Modern Minimalist Bunkie - a cozy place to hang out where you will love the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows! Private Meadows and Woods - where you can choose from two different sites. This is a no-frills camping experience ideal for tent, car, and van camping and the perfect place to get back to nature.Be sure to bring your own camping toilet and pack it out, as there are no restroom facilities available on-site. Fires are permitted within local regulations. Pets are welcome. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$56
 / night
Pond

16. SUJO Funny Farm Camping

97%
(69)
64km from Owen Sound · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Minto, ON
Beautiful hiking through maple and pine forests . Large grass areas with big shade trees perfect for any kind of camping! 4 acre pond and rescue animals on site including 2 donkeys, 1 alpaca and 2 swans . If you love watching birds, bring your binoculars. There’s so many different kinds that visit on a daily basis if you enjoy gathering, wild berries, mushrooms, and herbs. There are plenty of locations on the farm where you can do so at your own discretion bring all the fun games that you need. Lots of space for as there is plenty of locations to set up and enjoy any summer activities like soccer volleyball, etc. enjoy the serenity and peace of the countryside and feel free to book us for your larger events, family reunion‘s birthdays, etc.. Located less than one hr to fantastic beaches. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets. Bring your telescopes because the stars are amazing here without all the city light pollution. Lots of open grass space to play games and sports! Giant sized campsites that can accommodate large groups! Book family reunions, birthday parties summer parties. Bring your Paddle boards and canoes as they can be used on the pond. catch and release fishing if you want to try your luck. Or toss some bread into the pond and watch the fish come up to feed! Take a quiet walk through the property and watch for our many deer roaming about. There is no lack of wildlife and if your a bird watcher, you will want your binoculars! Enjoy glamping in our trailer. Bring your own bedding trailer has the rest! $100 per night sleeps up to 6 people. New this year ! Enjoy camping in our two bedroom cabin, cabin sleeps 6 people. Each bedroom has a double bed alone 2 single folding beds. Kitchen is equipped with coffee maker, convection oven, hot plate, grill/toaster oven and basic cooking equipment. Pack you bedding and your cooler and your set to enjoy your glamping experience!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$45
 / night
The house and view of upstairs Elvish Suite porch; house decorated for the winter season

18. Tolkien Fantasy At Grey Havens

97%
(35)
31km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Lodging · Markdale, ON
Tolkien readers know that Grey Havens is actually the last chapter of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. We embrace Tolkien's imagination. Readers and writers especially like our lakefront property. We especially encourage writers and readers looking for retreat. We facilitate relaxation and inspiration. Starting with our Little Free Library, each accommodation has a unique small Library inside . We have quiet, segregated spaces inside or outside for writing or reading. You can even purchase works by the host/author onsite. But we are not just about books. We also encourage water recreation activities: swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing. We have a free boat launch for your watercraft. We are on a small biologically special kettle lake, the source of the Styx River. Our lake water is flushed with cool underground water. For a description of the geology and biology of lake, consider the "Townsend Lake Cruise" on our unique eVessel, Swizzle Styx (book in the "Extras"). There is plenty of County Forest and Bruce Trailhead hiking opportunities also nearby. On our property are the following amenities: +Car parking (1/site; free) +Motorcycle friendly parking pads for touring riders (Free) +Wireless access (Free) +Spacious outdoor Privy used by all on site campers (All Free) +Dock and canoe/kayak launch (bring your own canoes/kayaks) +Patio/deck (20'x25') with fire circle, chairs and tables (burn only locally sourced wood by booking a "Firewood Bundle" OR a "Butane Cook Stove" in the "Extras") +A "Gear Wagon" (book in the "Extras") to transport your luggage, tents, gear and/or coolers from the car to the site you have booked. (And again on your way out also). Hip Campers have often asked for fire starting help. We recommend First Time/Novice Hip Campers consider the "Fire Workshop" extra. You get a "Firewood Bundle" a kit of firestarters and patient instruction on starting your first campfire. Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your site to get up to $10 cleaning fee returned. Grey Havens was the final chapter in Tolkien's trilogy. We continue creating a paradise here. Hip Campers may wonder about the whale bench seen in many of our photographs. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night
Time at the Shores

19. Time at the Shores

94%
(57)
40km from Owen Sound · 7 sites · Lodging · Port Elgin, ON
Very close to all the great stuff available at this part of Bruce peninsula. We share our backyard with our guests, we are very close to everything that Bruce county has to offer, port Elgin, Southampton, golf courses, different accesses to saugeen river where u can go fishing canoeing, tubing etc., supermarkets, native reserve, sauble beach and dozens of other ones…all at max 15 minutes distance… in the property you will find everything u need for a peaceful stay, hard to describe everything you will find but u can read our reviews, some of them have beautiful descriptions of what is here for you, you must love animals, since we have our pets all around, u are also super welcome to bring yours. One of the high points of here is the interaction u will have with the pets, they are all super friendly and will play with u every time they see u, they believe u r here for them, between, dogs, cats, birds, rabbits etc they will be part of your stay, this is theyr home, u r theyr guests, that’s how they think, so u must be a pet lover. For the canine: please bring your bedding, there’s a few pillows and bed covers but bring your personal bedding, queen size…Looking forward to meet you. Pedro Rodrigues
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$100
 / night

Camper favorites near Owen Sound

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Owen Sound guide

Where to go

Owen Sound to Wiarton

Along the 35-kilometre stretch between Owen Sound and the town of Wiarton, family-oriented campgrounds are plentiful. Mountain Lake Camp, Bass Lake Park, and Bluewater Park all offer natural lakes for swimming.

Sauble Beach

The cottage community of Sauble Beach sits on the western side of the peninsula, on Lake Huron. Several campgrounds and camping resorts surround the town and many offer swimming pools, playgrounds, and other family-friendly amenities. Sauble Beach is a popular spot in summer, so don’t expect solitude! Visiting off-season (after Labour Day) will provide a more relaxing experience.

To Access the Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail follows the Niagara Escarpment from Niagara Falls to Tobermory, at the top of the Bruce Peninsula, but camping is not allowed on the trail itself. Harrison Park Campground provides access to the Bruce Trail via a side trail, while Bass Lake Park offers camping further north, just a short drive to a trail access point.

When to go

Hikers will enjoy the Bruce Trail access all year, but the most comfortable times to hike the trail are spring and fall. Summer can be hot and buggy (and busy), but if swimming and hanging out on the beach are your priorities, June to August is the best time for you. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers make the most of winter in the area, but most campgrounds will be closed from October to mid-May.

Know before you go

  • Right in Owen Sound, Kelso Beach Park offers a sandy beach and a popular splash pad for kids. It’s a great stop after a long drive.
  • Fans of the Group of Seven painter Tom Thomson should visit the Tom Thomson Art Gallery in Owen Sound, open Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 4pm.
  • The 900-kilometre Bruce Trail passes through hundreds of private properties. Be sure to respect landowners when you use the trail—carry out your litter and stay on the marked routes with white or blue blazes.