Research campgrounds across Canada
Find the perfect place to pitch your tent
By Tara Nolan
Before you pull that tent out of the closet and stock up on insect repellent, use your computer to help plan your next family getaway.
Every year, Wendy Young of Waterdown, Ont., compiles a list with her husband in Word or Excel of all the supplies they will need to stock in their tent trailer for the summer. Anything that they missed last year will be on this year’s list of items to bring. But first they need to book their campsite.
Finding the perfect campsite
The Youngs usually start booking their weekends well in advance to guarantee a reservation at their favourite campsite at Port Burwell Provincial Park on Lake Erie in Ontario. They book online at CAMIS Inc. which leads them to the Ontario Parks Online Registration System.
“You can [book] at any time of the day,” explains Young. “You’re not sitting on the phone waiting as you sometimes do with 1-800 numbers, and you don’t feel as rushed.”
Whether venturing a few hours from home or across the country, you can find Canadian web sites and portals that should help you find that flat lot with the perfect balance of sun and shade. Booking early is a good idea to ensure you get the campsite you want — especially on long weekends.
If you decide to go at the last minute, you still may find a site. You just might have to search a few campgrounds for availability. Sometimes there are cancellations.
Go RVing Canada
Here you will find information for those who like to travel in the comfort of an RV. Read about clubs, manufacturers and places to park your RV across Canada.
CampSource
This site features a database of more than 4,100 parks and campgrounds across Canada. It also lists campground reviews and useful RV information.
Campgrounds Campings Canada
Use this portal to locate campgrounds across Canada that will suit all of your family’s vacation needs.
Booking your campsite
While some campgrounds still rely on their 1-800 numbers to book reservations, others are installing online systems. The first thing Sheena van Dyk did when she and her husband, Bart, purchased the Clearwater Valley Resort in Clearwater, B.C. was set up an online reservation web site.
“We previously operated a motel and found the Internet a very valuable tool for people to use to make their decisions,” she explains. “It really is an easy way to book a campsite — especially if you are trying to plan your trip before campsites are open.”
Even if a specific online booking system is not in place, many camping web sites still offer an e-mail address through which you can reserve a campsite or ask questions.
See what you are reserving online
A campground’s web site will allow you to get a glimpse of what you’ll experience when you arrive. “Potential campers can get a feel for what we have to offer,” explains Carman Morrison of Whispering Winds Family Campground in Shubenacadie, N.S.
A campground’s web site will often post photos of the grounds and provide maps to show where all campsites and amenities are located. Many sites provide information about surrounding towns, tourist sites and attractions.
Discover how other families fared
If you’re skeptical about the private lakefront lots and pristine views advertised on a web site without pictures, you may want to rely on the word of mouth of fellow camping enthusiasts. For example, CampgroundReviews.ca allows you to read reviews for campgrounds across Canada from other experienced campers.
Camping gear
While the Youngs have yet to order camping equipment online, they did use the web for research before they purchased their tent trailer a couple of years ago. Online stores are a great way to stock up on gear and have it delivered to your doorstep.
Canadian Tire
Use the handy search field to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Mountain Equipment Co-op
Shop at this mecca for outdoor camping gear for the whole family.
Integral Designs
For the brave, all-weather, extreme conditions type, the Canadian company Integral Designs manufactures tents, sleeping bags and clothing meant for rugged conditions.
Forest City Surplus Canada
Find everything from discount camping gear to binoculars and bug wear.
Message boards on camping web sites are also a great way to find a part for that old Coleman stove, to locate a long-lost manual or to shop for used camping gear.
