Canoe-Camping in Québec City Area

Équipe édito
Editorial Team
Published on July 21, 2023
Canoe-camping dans le Parc national de la jacques-Cartier
Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier, Steve Deschênes

Canoe-camping is the perfect activity to connect with nature. It provides access to campsites that are often inaccessible otherwise. Here are the main parks where you can go canoe-camping in the Québec region.

Jacques-Cartier National Park

For a peaceful yet active backcountry getaway, there’s nothing better than a canoe camping trip. At Jacques-Cartier National Park, you’ll find a number of different routes for two‑ and three‑day trips. If you’re looking for a real wilderness experience, you’ll be happy to know that some of the campsites are inaccessible by car. Surrounded by nature, you’ll be wrapped in a world of peaceful days and starry nights. Note that you may need to portage some sections depending on the water level when you go.

Vallée Bras-du-Nord

There are several options for canoe camping in Bras-du-Nord Valley. You can combine canoeing and hiking or do the 17 km (11‑mile) canoe route over two days. Midway along the route, there’s a backcountry campsite that can only be reached by the river. Plus, the water level is generally high enough that you won’t have to portage. Now that’s relaxing!

Portneuf Regional Park

If you’re up for a challenge, Portneuf Regional Park has a loop that will take you across seven different lakes. With a total of 4.22 km (2.5 miles) of portaging, it’s a physically demanding route that rewards adventuresome paddlers with an unforgettable experience in pristine surroundings that can only be reached by canoe. Good planning is of the essence, since you’ll be overnighting at campsites without electricity or running water, but it’s well worth it for the authentic wilderness experience.


Équipe édito
Editorial Team

As proud residents of our beloved city, we’re delighted to be sharing our tips about the things and places we love most in the Québec City area. Always on the lookout for what's new, we have decades of experience for Québec City's official tourist guide. What a joy for us to help you discover everything this vibrant and welcoming city has to offer!

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