Are you dreaming about cosying around a campfire and falling asleep to a symphony of crickets? Although many people book their campsites and cottages far in advance, there are still plenty of nooks of the Canadian wilderness to explore.
Back to nature
Public campgrounds are funded by the government; all are located inside national parks and must adhere to all regulations in the Parks Act, which means noise levels and cleanliness of the campsites and washrooms are controlled, among other things. The website for Parks Canada (www.pc.gc.ca/index_e.asp) provides a convenient list of all 42 national parks.
Tip: Campsites go quickly, especially around long weekends, so try to reserve in advance. The farther afield from a major city, the more camping spaces will be available.
Private campgrounds are businesses owned by individuals. Each province and territory has a separate website listing all of its privately owned campgrounds (visit www.canadianliving.com/june for a list of websites). One of the perks of camping in a private campground is that there are a wide variety of services that are not offered at provincial parks, such as hot tubs and games rooms.
Tip: If you arrive at your campsite and are unhappy about the location, search the rest of the campground to spot better empty sites and then check with the park attendants to verify that they're available before switching.
Vacationing with family and friends
If you're looking for something with wood rather than nylon walls, consider renting a cottage. Some of the best cottages to rent can be found through word of mouth; check with office colleagues or bulletin boards at work or just ask around among friends.
Tip: Last-minute cottage rentals are posted on www.rentcottage.com as of the last week of June; click on Last Minute Specials.
Ask the following questions before renting a cottage:
• How secluded is the cottage? How close are the neighbours? How far is it from stores? Does it have electricity and running water?
• Is there direct access to the waterfront? How busy is the waterfront? Are motorized watercrafts permitted?
• Does the shoreline gradually dip into the water or is it a drop-off? Is the water safe for young children?
• Are pets allowed?
• What is the cancellation policy? Is the deposit refundable?
• Do linens, cooking items, propane, clean drinking water, etc., come with the rental fee?
• If you have accessibility needs, does the property meet your concerns?
• Is everything shown in pictures posted online available for use, such as a fireplace, canoe or sand beach?
• Ask for references.
Learn more about camping vacations at these sites:
• www.campcanada.com
• www.campingselect.ca
• www.cottagesincanada.com
• www.cottageholidays.ca
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