The best mountainous campgrounds near Pembroke, Ontario

Right at the border with Quebec, the small city of Pembroke sits perched on the junction of the Ottawa River and the Muskrat River in southeastern Ontario. This means camping near Pembroke brings opportunities to see both provinces. Lakeside campsites with fishing are a hot commodity as the Ottawa Valley area features 900 nearby lakes and four river systems—perfect for booking a whitewater rafting tour and spotting local wildlife. There are also tons of lakeside camping options with hot tubs or RV camping sites with full hookups for a more relaxed experience. If desired, stay on-grid at campsites with wifi that make real-time social sharing possible.

100% (22) • 10 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Pembroke

Right at the border with Quebec, the small city of Pembroke sits perched on the junction of the Ottawa River and the Muskrat River in southeastern Ontario. This means camping near Pembroke brings opportunities to see both provinces. Lakeside campsites with fishing are a hot commodity as the Ottawa Valley area features 900 nearby lakes and four river systems—perfect for booking a whitewater rafting tour and spotting local wildlife. There are also tons of lakeside camping options with hot tubs or RV camping sites with full hookups for a more relaxed experience. If desired, stay on-grid at campsites with wifi that make real-time social sharing possible.

100% (22) • 10 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Pembroke

1. Wildwood Nature Escape

100%

(6)

35km from Pembroke · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

License and registration # 628252 The property is 6 acres in a beautiful off-grid nature setting on the Coulonge River, close to the towns of Fort-Coulonge and Mansfield. Varied accommodations available such as Domes, Bunkies and unserviced campsites with convenient tent platforms! Located on a popular canoe and kayak route and close many attractions such as Chutes Coulonge Adventure Park, Aventure Helianthe (axe throwing), Cyclopark PPJ Trails (Walking and cycling), with River Tubing available from the site! If you have a larger group and/ or would like to book multiple sites, please just send us a message. Our comfort station building with flush toilets and hot showers is now open!

2. LeTerrain

64km from Pembroke · 1 site · Lodging

Stargate Cabin at LeTerrain Canada’s Newest Official Dark Sky Preserve The Stargate Cabin is set deep within LeTerrain, a 400-acre private wilderness in western Québec—and proudly Canada’s newest officially designated Dark Sky Preserve. This is a place to experience true ecosystems and true wilderness. Old forests, exposed stone ridges, living wetlands, and uninterrupted habitat surround you in every direction. With over 15 kilometers of private trails, guests are invited—and encouraged—to get outside, explore, wander, and reconnect with the land on foot. When night falls, the land becomes a stage for the sky. With no surrounding light pollution, the stars return in extraordinary detail: the Milky Way overhead, planets bright enough to cast shadows, and a depth of darkness now rare in the modern world. The Stargate Cabin itself is rustic, off-grid, and intentionally simple, yet always warm and cozy—even in winter. This is not a serviced luxury stay—it is a true wilderness cabin. Water is provided in 20-liter jugs, electricity is limited, and the rhythms of the land and sky set the pace. In return, you gain something far more valuable: silence, clarity, and presence. LeTerrain is shared with care, guided by the belief that what we love, we protect. This is a place for those who value wild spaces, dark skies, and meaningful quiet. If you are a true wilderness lover—someone who finds comfort in simplicity, joy in long walks, and wonder in looking up—the Stargate Cabin may feel like coming home.

3. Sturgeon Mountain Lodge

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(4)

22km from Pembroke · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Come camp with the alpacas ! These smart and curious creatures would love to meet you. They are hand fed and love treats. No spit... these are the friendliest group of alpacas you could ever hope to meet. Enjoy watching them graze from your campsite or book a walking tour and go explore the forest together. Our unique location offers a very private and secluded experience. No road noise, no people noise, just the sounds of the forest and the odd crow of a rooster to break the silence.

4. VHP Ranch - Rural Retreats

46km from Pembroke · 1 site · Tent, RV

Valley Hitching Post Ranch is located on a 108 acre homestead in the beautiful Ottawa Valley, a short walk from the beach and in the midst of the Laurentian Mountains. This property of truly breath-taking beauty is bordered largely by Algonquin Park to the South while overlooking the Ottawa River to the North. Serenely remote yet minutes from TransCanada Highway 417, five minutes to the town of Deep River, and just 2 hours from the city of Ottawa to the East and the city of North Bay to the West. We run a community-oriented stable where we board 8 to 10 horses belonging to people who live in the community. We also operate as a farmstead, growing a variety of produce on our land. The rear of the property contains a lush forest and meandering trails that lead to a small private lake. Enjoy stargazing with minimal light pollution & open views of the night sky. Our property is the perfect opportunity for those wanting to escape the hustle bustle and connect with nature. Pitch your tent in the spot of your choice; we have a designated campground with fire pit available or if you are feeling adventurous, go off-grid in our forest among the trails and wildlife. Willing to accommodate several RVs, tents or both. We are suited for all kinds of campers - if tenting isn't your thing, we have rustic cottages for rent on the property. During your stay, enjoy proximity to numerous beaches, hiking trails, biking paths, ATV trails, and snowmobile routes.

5. Satori Art Homestead

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(3)

58km from Pembroke · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Totally private and backing onto forest for days.. Our pond has 🦫 beavers, otters, deer, Canada goose, frogs and beautiful yellow and white lotus and birds of all variety. A painting/photography inspiration for certain and right by the lake. If you would love to paint, draw, photograph nature in the wild this is the place to visit. Art workshops can be offered on site please contact us for more info. Complètement privé et proche de la forêt. Notre étang a des castors, des loutres, des cerfs, des bernaches du Canada, des grenouilles, de beaux lotus jaunes et blancs, et des oiseaux de toutes sortes. Une inspiration peinture/photographie certaine et juste au bord du lac. Si vous aimez peindre, dessiner, photographier la nature à l'état sauvage, c'est l'endroit à visiter. Des ateliers d'art peuvent être proposés sur place, veuillez nous contacter pour plus d'informations.

6. Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

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(17)

51km from Pembroke · 1 site · Lodging

The 1 acre site is nestled and hidden away at the end of a private road, in the forest, next to ancient Canadian Shield rockfaces, on a pristine clean lake in the Madawaska Highlands. The shoreline is left natural with a floating dock. Swimming, fishing and kayaking is excellent. We are surrounded by hundreds of acres of crown land with an extensive path network reaching up to Foymount, the highest elevation in Southern Ontario. Killaloe is the closest town and Brudenell, a logging ghosttown, off the beaten path, is being rediscovered for its quaint beauty. Near Eganville, Foymount, Barrys Bay, Algonquin Park, Bancroft

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Roschene

August 2025

3 nights at Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

This was our 2nd time coming to Iris's property. We've agreed this will be an annual trip for us. Iris is so welcoming and kind. We love getting to chit chat with her during our stay. Her new dog Thunder was an absolute joy to be around. We were lucky to see Sterling again this year as well. You really don't need for much when you stay here. Trailer is very well equipped with the things you'll need to cook meals. Lorwell lake is stunning! Very clear clean water, great for swimming and kayaking. We absolutely love staying here!

D

Dan

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

Literally a hidden gem! Can't ask for a better staycation.

Oscar

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Sturgeon Mountain Lodge

Ray was very friendly, took oll the time for us There was plenty of room A fire pit and tons of fire wood for free

P

Paul

August 2025

2 nights at Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

Great experience! The camper was comfortable and well appointed. Two kayaks and a canoe meant fun on the water. Firewood was amply provided. But the best part was how welcoming Iris and her crew (including Thunder, her doggo) made us feel so welcome.

Nicolette

August 2025

2 nights at Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

Iris’s hidden gem at Lorwell Lake is nothing short of spectacular! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and kindness. Iris is a wonderful host—thoughtful, friendly, and always happy to share a story. We loved our little chats with her. Her RV was spotless—clean and cozy. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged to make our stay comfortable and relaxing. The peacefulness of the area was exactly what we needed. The quiet surroundings, tucked away by the lake, made it feel like our own private slice of paradise. We absolutely loved kayaking on the calm lake and swimming in the clear water. And we can’t forget about Thunder—her gentle giant of a dog. He stole our hearts! Such a sweet companion who made the experience even more memorable. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat with an amazing host, this is the place.

Emma

July 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

We had just about the most relaxing stay ever. Lake swimming, kayaking,.campfiring, lazing and digital detoxing. Everything you need is there, Iris is nearby if you need her but you also have total privacy on self contained site and little private jetty.

Come with me. Enjoy this panoramic view of heaven on earth

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Debbi

July 2025

2 nights at Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

I can’t wait to visit again. Hidden Gem is a beautiful. Comes with most of the comforts of home but so much more. The flowers, the trees, the dock, the water, the floating dock, the views and those sunsets unbelievably amazing. All this and enjoying the peace and quiet from the city, Hidden Gem provides all this , oh, just about forgot ending the day with a beautiful campfire and this site.is completely private. Most importantly there is Iris. What can I say. She is an angel. So welcoming and accommodating but more than that she is just a real, kind, thoughtful, helpful woman. She has a way of making you feel like family. I will definitely be going back!!!

E

Elle Zinck

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Wildwood Nature Escape

This place was amazing! My husband and I went here to have a little romantic getaway for our anniversary :) the property is still being built up but you can see there’s a lot of love put into it and they will have a sauna and cold bath soon too! The edge of the water is a little bit challenging to hang out in because it’s steep but they put two floaters anchored in there so it’s perfect for a little dip / relaxation if needed. We stayed in the sunset dome which had sunset right onto it so we got sunlight right to the end peaking through the trees it was beautiful. Had a big deck, bbq, personal fire pit. Really great! Genevieve was also really responsive and helpful! Definitely recommend :)

K

Kimberly

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Wildwood Nature Escape

Wildwood retreat was an absolute treat! Easy to get to from Ottawa and a nice 2 hour drive. Her retreat is immaculate. The domes are so well done, clean and organized. Our private barbecue was the cleanest I’ve ever used in an accommodation like this! All the little touches were well thought out. Each had a private privy as well. All the accommodations were nicely spread out where I felt private and not in anyone’s way.

J

James

July 2025

With kids

4 nights at Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

Thank you so much Iris for sharing your hidden gem with us. We absolutely loved our stay. We spent most of our days down at the dock Fishing, Kayaking, and enjoying the beautiful sunsets. The R.V. was everything we needed to relax and unwind at the end of each day. Iris, you were a wonderful host, checking in on us from time to time to make sure we didn't need anything, sharing your knowledge of the area, and even just to enjoy some friendly conversation. We enjoyed our time with the dogs, and wish we could have taken little Dodger home with us. We do hope you have some good fortune and are able to find that missing pup.

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Wendy

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sturgeon Mountain Lodge

We went tent camping at Ray and Melissa’s and it was fantastic!! We got to pet chickens, alpacas, and we learned so much on our alpaca walk. In the evening, we settled in with our campfire and watched hundreds of fireflies dancing on a field of wildflowers. Such a perfect camping spot, I can’t recommend enough!

Sophie

June 2025

8 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Satori Art Homestead

We had a great weekend!!! The hosts are amazing 😊! We recommend it.

S

Scott

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Gem on Lorwell Lake

I don't know what the true gem is...the site or the host. First the site, an amazing well-kept trailer with everything you need to unwind and disconnect. From kitchen, to dining, to bedding...it's all there. A spacious deck attached to the trailer within steps to a fully-stocked fire pit. A short venture down the path lead you to your own dock with a great view. Through the day, the loons will sing to you and the pileated woodpecker will add percussion. No traffic, no sirens...and no service...you are fully disconnected here. But if you need anything... Second is the host, Iris. What an amazing person. Greeted us immediately upon arrival, showed us where everything was, and even gave us some of her shiitake mushrooms and green onions, all from her garden. While speaking with Iris, hummingbirds were zooming around as they felt at peace too. We highly recommend this place and we will be coming back. Thank you Iris!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best mountainous camping near Pembroke guide

Where to go

Algonquin Provincial Park

Bears, moose, loons—spot native wildlife when traversing the extensive trail system through Algonquin Provincial Park. Covering 7,000 square kilometres of dense forest with over 1,000 lakes, Algonquin Park is packed with epic views and plenty of tent camping or canoe portage routes. Check out the picturesque waterfall at High Falls Park, and stop by the picnic tables for a midday snack before jumping in for a swim.

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Although Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is smaller and lesser-known than the iconic Algonquin Provincial Park, it features the same lush deciduous forests and refreshing lakes. There’s no visitor center here, and the area is not as well-serviced (offering tent camping only and no RV parks or car campsites), but that’s a plus for those looking to avoid crowds.

Bonnechere Provincial Park

Settle into the sandy beach of Round Lake to enjoy the best of what Bonnechere Provincial Park has to offer. Set in Renfrew County, Ontario, this recreational gem offers over 100 campsites along with a shower station and playground. Both kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for exploring the expansive waters (just remember a lifejacket).

Petawawa

History lovers and military buffs will especially appreciate a pit stop in Petawawa. This small township hosts a Canadian Army base for combat troops, and strolls through Heritage Village provide a first-hand experience of life as an early settler. Other recreational activities include a sprawling 18-hole golf course, waterfront beaches, and a full-service marina.

When to go

Head to Pembroke in the fall for stunning colors and a cycling tour—the best way to maximize your views of the changing leaves. Winter descends from early November through March, so bring lots of layers and waterproof clothing. Heavy-duty winter boots are vital for outdoor activities throughout December, January, and February. The off-season in springtime (April and May) is less busy, then summer season ramps up in June, July, and August.