Equipped camping

Coronavirus (COVID-19) impacts
  • Camping for boaters (paddlers and vessels under power) at most lockstations on the Rideau Canal

  • Camping space is allocated by the Lockmaster on a first-come, first-served basis and capacity at the station are at the discretion of the Lockmaster. Please note that when determining capacity, the Lockmaster must consider the requirement for appropriate social distancing.

  • Drive-up camping and camping for cyclists and hikers at lockstations will not be available until further notice

  • Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 mitigations, the Rideau Canal will be unable to offer oTENTiks or reservable camping for the remainder of the 2020 Navigation Season.

  • Group camping at Rideau Canal lockstations is still suspended and will is subject to approval though visitor services on a case by case basis. Contact 613-283-5170 x278

Visit the Rideau Canal COVID-19 page for updates on park facilities and services.


Starting June 1, 2020

Starting June 1st 2020, the Rideau Canal National Historic Site will offer limited visitor access and basic services along the entire system.

Visitors will be able to access the following services and facilities:

  • lockage, boat launches, access points and mooring areas;
  • day-use areas, including green spaces, picnic areas, and parking lots;
  • day-use trails, including some cycling access on designated trails and pathways;
  • lockstation grounds; and
  • public toilets where enhanced cleaning protocols will be implemented
  • camping (For boaters, paddlers and vessels under power only)
Visiting the Rideau Canal National Historic Site will be different than it has been in the past. Visitors are asked to plan ahead by checking the Rideau Canal National Historic website before they travel.

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.