Equipped camping

Camping in 2020

  • Starting September 4th, 2020, camping at some sites on the Rideau Canal has been made available at the Lockmaster’s discretion.

  • This includes camping for cyclists and hikers, as well as camping for boaters (paddlers and vessels under power)

  • Camping for organized groups (eg. Scouts, paddle groups) can be reserved on a case by case basis, by calling 613-283-5170 x278.

  • Unfortunately, due to measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Rideau Canal will be unable to offer “car camping”, or experiences reserved through Parks Canada’s online reservation system, such as oTENTiks, for the remainder of the 2020 Navigation Season

    • Equipped campsites are only available at Kilmarnock, Beveridges and Chaffeys lockstations.

    No gear? No problem. We've got you covered!

    Experience all the joy of camping without worrying about packing a tent, a stove, a sleeping pad, or even pots and pans. Your gear will be waiting for you at the lockstation. All you have to do is set it up and tear it down when you are finished with it.

    At Equipped Campsites, Parks Canada provides everything you need to set up camp and cook your own meals. Just bring your own food, a sleeping bag, and whatever items you need for comfort.

    This is the perfect way to experience a great Canadian pastime with your friends and family at a unique historical location not far from the city.

    Reservations

    $71.54/night

    Phone number: 1-877-RESERVE (737-3783)

    General information
    Operating season (nights):
    • May 15 to October 12, 2020
    Staff hours:
    • Lock Staff are on site as per Rideau Canal Hours of Operation seasonal schedule, and will be prepared for anticipated arrivals between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm
    After hours registration:
    • If you plan on arriving outside of staffed hours, please call the lockstations directly to obtain check-in instructions ahead of time
    Check-in time:
    • After 1:00 pm
    Check-out time:
    • Before 11:00 am
    Quiet hours:
    • 10:00 pm to 7:00 am
    Maximum length of stay:
    • 21 days
    Maximum persons per site:
    • Up to 6 people
    Maximum vehicles per site:
    • 2 Vehicles
    Maximum camping units per site:
    • 2 Tents
    Cooking / Food preparation:
    • No cooking is allowed in the Equipped Camping tents
    Generator policy:
    • Generators are not provided. Use of a generator is limited to 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Electrical service:
    • None
    Internet/Wi-Fi access:
    • Wi-Fi is not available at this section of the Rideau Canal
    Mobile/Cell reception:
    • Yes
    Additional visitor guidelines:

    Fees
    • Equipped campsites cost $71.54/night
    • No daily entry fee required
    • Visitors arriving by boat will be required to pay a mooring fee

    More information about fees

    Packing list

    We provide

    • One 6-person tent
    • Sleeping pads
    • Pots and pans
    • Plates and cups
    • Stove and fuel
    • Camp lamp

    You should bring

    • Sleeping bag(s)
    • Blankets and pillow(s)
    • Clothing
    • Food and drinks
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Matches or a lighter
    • Camping chairs
    • Camp shoes or sandals

    Additional tent camping options

    If there are no vacancies at our Equipped Campsites for the dates you have chosen, consider bringing your own gear and camping at the same location for a reduced fee. Camping at lockstations is on a first-come first-served basis and at the discretion of the lockmaster.

    More information about camping at lockstations.

    Other accommodations nearby

    Upper Beveridges lockstation also features four oTENTik sites available for reservation. A step-up from tent camping, the oTENTik is a unique and comfortable way to enjoy a rustic camping experience.

    More information about staying in an oTENTik.

    From Chaffey's Lock, Davis lockstation is just a short drive away and boasts a fabulously restored historic lockmaster's house available for short-term vacation rental.

    More information about booking a historic accommodation.