The best great views campgrounds near Renfrew, Ontario

If you love hiking, fishing, rafting, boating, ATVing, or even cave exploration, Renfew and the surrounding area have you covered. The town’s location next to the Bonnechere River influences much of the outdoor activities in the region, and it’s possible to sense the river’s power with a stroll across the Renfrew Suspension Bridge, just one of three in Canada. The community is also a gateway to some of the province’s most popular parks for camping, including Algonquin, Bon Echo, and Frontenac.

99% (519)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you love hiking, fishing, rafting, boating, ATVing, or even cave exploration, Renfew and the surrounding area have you covered. The town’s location next to the Bonnechere River influences much of the outdoor activities in the region, and it’s possible to sense the river’s power with a stroll across the Renfrew Suspension Bridge, just one of three in Canada. The community is also a gateway to some of the province’s most popular parks for camping, including Algonquin, Bon Echo, and Frontenac.

99% (519)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

99%

(148)

57km from Renfrew · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Luskville, QC

Hi there! 🌞 We're thrilled to welcome you to Agape Gardens, our 30-acre homestead nestled in the Gatineau Hills. Our property is more than just land; it's a dream we've nurtured and cultivated with love—a place to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature. We have several unique spots for staying, each with its own vibe: cozy bell tents, our minimalist A-frame cabin, and sites to bring your own tent or RV/camper. Whether you’re here for a solo retreat, a family getaway, or simply a break from the city, you'll be surrounded by the peace and calm of the land. We’re open year-round, and guests are invited to embrace the beauty of winter as well. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experience the quiet magic of winter camping, with snowy forest views, crisp fresh air, and the warmth of our wood-fired sauna just steps away. For rest and relaxation, you can warm up in the sauna, cool off in the cold plunge, or try a venik session—a traditional sauna ritual with aromatic branches that feels incredible on the body (available in the extras section). On the property, you’ll find a pond to explore, trails to wander, wildflower gardens, chickens, and an edible garden. We’re passionate about conscious living and have designed our land using permaculture principles to create a thriving, edible landscape. We look forward to hosting you and sharing the magic of our land. Come, relax, explore, and reconnect with the simplicity of life—no matter the season.

2. 4-Season Cliffside Camp

100%

(15)

69km from Renfrew · 1 site · Lodging · Denholm, QC

❄️ Cliffside Cabin at The Off Grid Ark — Cozy Winter Getaway in Western Quebec If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a quiet, snow-covered forest — this is your spot. Perched on a west-facing cliff at The Off Grid Ark, our rustic shelter is now fully winter-ready. A whisper-quiet diesel heater, mounted safely outside, keeps the cabin toasty warm all night while you sleep surrounded by nature. Outside, a propane deck heater makes it easy to enjoy coffee or dinner under the stars. We’ve also added a Cuisinart tabletop propane BBQ, which cooks faster and cleaner than the old jet grill — perfect for winter gloves and quick meals. We have snowshoes for rent and 10 km of groomed snowshoe trails winding through maple forest, ridges, and lakeshores — the same trails used for Canada’s longest-running snowshoe and trail race series, The Mad Trapper. I’m also hoping to cut a new backcountry ski loop this winter at the top of the escarpment for adventurous guests. The shelter includes a queen bed with fresh linens and a down duvet, plus space for tents around the firepit if you’d like a group setup. Kids and pets stay free, just leave it like you found it. The covered deck has handcrafted rocking chairs for lingering over sunsets, while your private fire area sits just below — perfect for roasting marshmallows or watching the stars. Hammocks are tucked into quiet corners for lazy afternoons or stargazing at night. We’re also building a new bunkhouse nearby for families and groups — another step toward making The Ark a year-round destination for outdoor education and adventure. There’s no electricity or running water, but you’ll have remote-control and desktop LED lights, a Jackery battery bank to keep devices charged, and a Bluetooth speaker for music or podcasts. A cooler, lanterns, jugs of clean well water, and a clean outhouse are provided. Wildlife is plentiful — deer, foxes, loons, and the occasional wolf howl in the distance. I’ll haul your gear by ATV, so bring what you need and settle in. Come unplug, warm up, and experience the stillness of winter at The Off Grid Ark — where comfort meets true off-grid adventure.

3. Cartwright Springs Brewery

96%

(160)

30km from Renfrew · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Renfrew, ON

Our micro brewery is located here because of our springs. The campsites are within walking distance to the brewery. The sites are in the forest with either a view of the pond, of Cartwrights Creek or of the Ottawa valley from a hillside. We have short hiking trails, some outdoor games such as horseshoes or beach volleyball, and we have beer. Contact Andre by texting 613-295-3377 FIRE: You must contact Andre before lighting a fire so a permit can be acquired. No fires before 6. GARBAGE: Please collect garbage and bring it with you. We unfortunately cannot accept garbage at the brewery. The municipality limits us to one bag and we have animals that would love to rip through your garbage bag before I can get to it. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE GARBAGE HERE! FOOD... don't leave food out for animals to get overnight... If you don't have a car you can put your food in the silo by the brewery... animals can't get in there!

4. Ball Lake Tent Camping

98%

(223)

58km from Renfrew · 8 sites · Tents · Cloyne, ON

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 seven 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.

5. Lakefront Glamping Retreat

99%

(85)

44km from Renfrew · 1 site · Lodging · Otter Lake, QC

The entire site is yours to use. Picnic table, fire pit and firewood are available. Lake is amazing for all water activities (boat launch is available on adjacent lake). Kayaks, swimming mat and life jackets available. A propane BBQ is also available for use. Nearby activities include ATV trails, Provincial park, zip lining.

6. Spirit Wild Estate

100%

(39)

22km from Renfrew · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Renfrew, ON

Welcome to Spirit Wild A place, in nature, where you can let your spirit be free, to feel the healing power of nature. A private lake with no public access, and quite/peaceful. Lake is limited to 10hp outboards, and seldom seen - so no large boats or noise. Access to boat ramp. Located just outside Calabogie Village. Paved road to property. Many local attractions and things to do.. River Rafting, Hiking Trails, Cave Exploration, Galleries, Dining, etc. - Ck it out. Over 2 acres of mixed bush, fruit trees, organic garden, large open grassy play area, Virgin Lake (Dempsey) beautiful, clear clean water - sandy bottom - great waterfront for the smaller children. Charging Station @ House. Games, Horseshoes Bocce Ball. Boat Rentals, $ Message me for wants/needs. Best to arrange with me - cash on site, or e-transfer, please. Kayaks, canoe,12' Aluminum boat - Trolling motor available. Camping from bicycle - to Overland campers. Site 1 - Waterfront Turn right at end of driveway, left across lawn, to Herbert St. best suited for small units, tent trailers, smaller RV's, etc. No access for large trailers. No turn around for large trailers. Site 2 - Waterview Turn right at end of driveway, straight ahead, large site, easy access. larger trailers. Site for Tents - anywhere.

Stories from the community

C

Christopher

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at 4-Season Cliffside Camp

The Cliffside Cabin was exactly as advertised — quiet, simple, and clean with an absolutely amazing view. It’s the perfect spot to unplug and enjoy a few days surrounded by nature. Mike was a great host and made everything easy. Highly recommend if you’re looking for peace and fresh air!

L

Lilianne

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

We had a great weekend van camping here ! Jennie directed us to the perfect parking spot on their very well manicured land. The fire pit and the amenities were very appreciated !

G

Gary

November 2025

Weekend Trip to 4-Season Cliffside Camp

The cabin is beautifully built and well-equipped. Mike's communication is excellent, he went out of his way to accommodate us, and he is a pleasure to chat to. The hiking trails are well-marked and the walk to the lake is beautiful, even in the late fall with barely any leaves left on the trees. We spent a peaceful and restorative two nights, and look forward to doing so again.

S

Stacey

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

The host was welcoming! We’d love to go back sometime!

S

Shan

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Jennie, Banya & co were super welcoming and helpful! We loved the numerous amenities (outdoors cooking area, sauna, bathroom, shower, fire pit, picnic table and other outdoors sitting arrangements) available, the camping site itself and or overall stay there! Even though it was pretty cold, it still felt super cozy! Would definitely recommend!!

C

Chris

October 2025

2 nights at 4-Season Cliffside Camp

Wonderful stay! I was looking for some solitude and a place to hike. The cabin was perfect. Mike was a great host: friendly, responsive & helpful.

B

Braelyne

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

This is an amazing experience. Everyone at the brewery is lovely our site was nice and quiet. We will definitely be back. The beer delicious and well priced, the views are nice. The host is fantastic! He is great, welcoming and nice to chat with.

A

Aaron

October 2025

7 ft campervan

2 nights at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Beautiful land. Friendly dog. Good amenities. Jennie was very responsive.

S

Sunil

October 2025

Weekend Trip to 4-Season Cliffside Camp

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Mike's cabin. It has beautiful backdrop of rolling hills as far as you can see. Well equipped deck for cooking your own meal and enjoy it surrounded by nature. Cabin is warm and comfy, bed is great and rocking chairs on the patio are great for relaxing.

T

Thomas

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

Great campsite with lots of space (B). Little bit of a walk to the shower but not too bad of a trade off for the privacy of the site. The owner and his family are super nice and he makes some really nice beer in the brewery.

Eli

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Beautiful property, gracious hosts, and nice options for additional amenities. Definitely recommended!

A

Adam

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

My family and I stayed in one of the bell tents at Agape Gardens. It was super clean and very well decorated. It was so inviting and cosy. Jennie smudged the tent prior to us arriving which is such an honour to have done. Jennie and her beautiful family welcomed us with a tour of the property, which we found to be extremely well looked after. From the brimming gardens, healthy live stock, well established hiking trail, to the multiple options of sites to camp at, we were very impressed. We felt at home immediately and wished we could’ve stayed longer. We also met her neighbours who were also very friendly people and jumped to help us fix some toys we had with us. We will most definitely visit this special place again. An easy 5 star review. Many thanks Jennie and Jeremy.

Pedro

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

A wonderful camping experience with a fantastic host. Highly recommended!

H

Hamed

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lakefront Glamping Retreat

The view, the crystal clear water and the setup was perfect. The raised dock with the sunrise view was an added bonus. True glamping, everything you needed was provided and thought of already. Our new regular spot that we hope to come back to many times.

Laura

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Ball Lake Tent Camping

As always, an incredible experience. The site is pristine and the lake is gorgeous. My favorite aspect is the way the light hits the forest in the opposite shoreline in the morning and in the evening, it is so beautiful.

S

Sarah

October 2025

22 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

Great spot with beautiful scenery in a quaint little area of Ottawa. Hosts Andre and his parents were welcoming lovely to chat with at the brewery. Highly recommend as a weekend getaway spot.

A

Alissa

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to 4-Season Cliffside Camp

We had an absolutely lovely, relaxing time at Mike's cabin this weekend. The cabin is the perfect blend of rustic and cozy, with many thoughtful little amenities that made us feel at home right away and eliminated the stress of packing compared to traditional tent camping. We were lucky enough to book with fall colours in full force and were treated to stunning sunset views both nights. With enough hiking trails and wilderness to explore to your heart's content, there was plenty of opportunity to mix in some adventure. We are eagerly looking forward to coming back soon and experiencing what winter at the cabin has to offer!

Bill

October 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Great quiet location near Gatineau Park. Really appreciated having a shower and bathroom option.

d

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Lovely spot- very relaxing, amazing view, friendly hosts. we loved the bell tent, although we were there on the first night of October, so it got a bit chilly in the evening- luckily there were extra blankets. We were only there for one night, so didn’t get a chance to try out all of the extras but definitely would book more time on a return visit.

J

Joshua

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Agape Gardens - Nature Retreat

Agape Garden’s is a beautiful homestead with great views and wonderful hosts! Jennie and Jermey were both accepting of me as an outsider and allowed me to participate in the homestead working in the garden. The conversations I had and the friendship I built is the kind of community we often are missing in modern society.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Renfrew guide

Where to go

Algonquin Provincial Park

One of the oldest protected public parks in the world, Algonquin Provincial Park is home to more than 2,400 lakes, 750 miles of rivers and streams, 14 interpretive trails, and eight campgrounds. Whether car camping at one of the popular family-friendly RV sites or canoe camping in the backcountry, this is an exceptional destination for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.

Bonnechere Caves

This unique geological feature is one of the best sights in the area. The caves were formed by the power of the Bonnechere River over thousands of years and now feature funky rock formations and mesmerizing underground waterfalls. Visits are by guided tour only from spring to autumn. Those visiting in early October might spot bats getting into position for early hibernation.

Bon Echo Provincial Park

Bon Echo Provincial Park offers one of the most unique attractions of any Ontario provincial park, home to Mazinaw Lake and its surrounding rugged cliffs, which feature ancient Indigenous pictographs. Campers can take boat tours to see them up close and then hike to the top of the cliffs for an incredible view of the lake. The park also has excellent swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and biking.

When to go

Most provincial parks and outdoor attractions near Renfrew operate on a seasonal basis, from mid-May to mid-October. Campers should note that evenings can be pretty cold in May and June, and again in September and October. The mosquitoes and blackflies of Algonquin Provincial Park are legendary in their ferocity in late spring and early summer. Renfrew’s annual Renfrew Fair in September brings live music, carnival rides, and livestock showcases to town, while early October is the best time to admire the autumn colors around Algonquin (which gets very busy with weekend daytrippers).