Located just 40 minutes from the heart of Ottawa, Rideau River Provincial Park is the perfect destination to relax with the family and explore our nation’s capital.
The park is situated along the historic Rideau Waterway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an essential part of the fabric of the Ottawa Region.
Your basecamp: Rideau River Provincial Park
The park has almost 200 campsites for tenters, RVers, and campers of all kinds.
These lushly treed and level sites check every box for a dream campsite and make for a perfect, private camping experience. Some sites in the West Campground even have a view of the Rideau River.
RV and trailer users will find pull-through campsites, as well as electric sites, available.
What to do in the park
Rideau River Provincial Park has plenty of activities on offer to keep the whole family busy throughout the day.
Meander along the short 1.5 km trail, taking in the shoreline of the river, with opportunities to spot wildlife including frogs, turtles, and birds.
Paddlers will be pleased with a full system of paddling routes available that explore the waterway and nearby towns.
The Rideau Canal Historic Site has a detailed guide to paddling the Rideau Canal, including trip‑planning resources and points of interest.
Did you know you can technically paddle from Murphy’s Point Provincial Park to Rideau River Provincial Park? It puts a whole new spin on the road trip!
Don’t worry, anglers — there are plenty of opportunities for you, too. Folks flock to the park for the prime muskie fishing, as well as bass, Walleye, and panfish.
If birds are more your thing, there’s plenty of birding to be done along the river, with waterfowl like Great Blue Herons and Osprey calling the river home.
If you’re looking to learn more about the park, check out a Discovery program, with staff running programming through July and August.
Destination: Ottawa
Head north along the Rideau River and check out Canada’s capital. Ottawa is a hub for culture, nature, and history.
The greater National Capital Region offers something for everyone, from seven national museums to Class 4 whitewater rapids, 1,000+ farms, and so much more.
Expand your horizons
Once you’ve had your fill of camping fun, it’s time to head into Ottawa for a jam‑packed day trip. The city offers a wide variety of experiences, from world‑class museums to beautiful nature.
If you’re looking to learn more about Indigenous culture and agriculture, head to Mādahòkì Farm, where you can see rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses, walk the Legacy Trail, and much more.
For more on the region’s history, check out Watson’s Mill and Dickinson House, a water‑powered flour mill and neighbouring home constructed in 1860 that offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in Canadian history.
Museum lovers will have lots to do, with seven national museums calling Ottawa home. Whether you’re into art, space, food, or nature, there’s a place for you.
Looking for more hiking? Head to Baxter Conservation Area, a scenic spot to hike, swim, observe wildlife, and learn more about nature.
Don’t forget, there’s so much more of the Rideau Canal to see.
Follow the canal on the water, on foot, or by bike along scenic pathways. The region has over 800 km of pathways for walkers and cyclists, with plenty of hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing as well.
Not your average camping meal
Had your fill of burgers and hot dogs? Head into Ottawa and let someone else cook dinner for the family one night. Ottawa is known as the “Shawarma Capital of the World,” so make sure to grab some while you’re in town.
Head to ByWard Market for great shops and international cuisine, or try one of Ottawa’s many foodie destinations.
Legally, you must stop for an iconic BeaverTail. Sorry, we don’t make the rules!
Mark your calendars
Don’t know when to visit? Try planning your trip around one of Ottawa’s many world‑class events and festivals.
Spring campers can check out the Canadian Tulip Festival, start their summer at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, celebrate Canada Day in the nation’s capital, or bring the kids to the Ottawa Children’s Festival.
Whatever your genre of choice, Ottawa probably has a fest for you.
Check out Bluesfest, Jazzfest, Chamberfest, or the non‑fest events Escapade and CityFolk. We have plenty of inspiration for those looking to plan their next music‑festival camping trip.
To discover more about the area, check out Ottawa Tourism.
Visit our online reservation service to book your visit to Rideau River and the Ottawa area today!
