Rideau River Provincial Park

About Rideau River Provincial Park

Rideau River Provincial Park is the closest Ontario provincial park to downtown Ottawa — roughly 50 km south, or about a 40-minute drive. Situated on the banks of the historic Rideau River, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal system, the 98-hectare park has been welcoming campers since 1959.

It's a solid pick for a first camping trip, a weekend with kids, or anyone who wants to get into the outdoors without driving two hours.

Camping

The park has 186 campsites split across two campgrounds:

East Campground

• 101 sites, 76 with electrical hookups
• Comfort station with showers and laundry
• Closer to the day-use area and beach

West Campground

• 85 sites, 1 with electrical hookup
• Pet-friendly — dogs welcome on leash
• More wooded and private feel

There are also 6 group campsites that can accommodate up to 125 people each.

Things to Do

Swimming

A sandy beach along the Rideau River with a designated swimming area. The park has multiple beach access points across the campground, group camp, and day-use areas.

Paddling & Boating

Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent at the Park Office. A boat launch provides direct access to the Rideau River.

Hiking

The Shoreline Trail connects the campground to the day-use area along the river — a flat, easy walk through the forest. Ontario Parks lists it at 1.5 km, though some hikers report the full end-to-end route is closer to 3 km.

Fishing

Cast a line from shore or from a boat on the Rideau River.

Visitor Information

• Season: May 8 – October 13 (2026)
• Fees: Non-electrical sites from ~$39/night, electrical sites from ~$44/night. Day use $21/vehicle
• Reservations: Book online at Ontario Parks — reservations strongly recommended for summer weekends
• Facilities: Comfort stations with showers, vault toilets, drinking water, park store (firewood, ice, ice cream, souvenirs)

Getting There

• From Ottawa: Head south on Highway 416, exit at Kemptville. About 50 km / 40 minutes from downtown
• Address: 2680 Donnelly Drive, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0