sun shining through trees

5 reasons to visit Rideau River Provincial Park this fall

Located just 40 minutes outside of Ottawa, Rideau River Provincial Park offers a relaxing camping experience with activities for the whole family.

Rideau River is open for camping and day use until October 10!

Here are a few reasons why you’ll love to experience this park in the fall season:

1. Private and level campsites

Ideal for both RVers and tent campers, Rideau River offers nearly 200 level campsites within mature forest and lush ferns, providing a beautifully private and quiet experience in the fall.

collage of campsite and ferns

RVers can find pull-through and electrical campsites, all within a short walk to the waterfront.

Select campsites in the West Campground have a nice view of the Rideau River.

2. Beautiful fall colours

Don’t let the fields surrounding the park deceive you when it comes to Rideau River’s fall colours!

sun shining through trees

Pack your flannel and picnic blankets to enjoy a hazy fall sunrise in the day use area underneath dozens of Silver Maple trees that will soon start to transition to beautiful shades of orange.

Throughout their campgrounds between tall pines, you’ll find a mix of maple trees, poplars (Trembling Aspen) and oak, providing different fall colours as the season goes on.

3. Fantastic for families

Rideau River is a smaller park with flat roads, making it a wonderful park for families to explore on bikes or on foot.

playground

The park’s 1.5 km linear Shoreline Trail is a great family activity, as it takes you along the water’s edge throughout the park. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife such as frogs, turtles, Great Blue Herons, and more!

The day use areas with beaches and a playground are centrally located and offer plenty of space for family fun.

4. Watercraft rentals and excellent fishing opportunities 

Did you know that the Rideau River is part of the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage site?

Located between two locks, this area of the river provides excellent paddling and boating, with calm waters and many possibilities for nearby day trips from the water.

people canoeing on river

Canoes, kayaks, and SUPs are available for rent at the park’s gatehouse on Saturdays and Sundays until closing weekend.

Please call the park directly for rental details.

For the anglers, it doesn’t get much better than fishing the Rideau in the fall!

sunset over lake

Known for muskie, bass, and pike fishing, you’re going to want to pack appropriate tackle rated for these powerful fish.

Cast off the park’s docks or launch your boat from their boat launch.

Don’t forget to check Ontario’s Fishing Regulations before your trip.

5. Explore Ottawa and the area’s fun fall activities

park sign

While there’s plenty to see and do at the park, Rideau River also makes an excellent base for exploring the greater Ottawa area!

From touring the nation’s capital city to discovering picturesque small towns outside the park, there’s no shortage of quick day trips you can take!

During the fall season, families will enjoy fun activities like apple picking and corn mazes at nearby farms.

Planning a day trip?

You can book your day use permit online in advance to guarantee your access.

Reservations become available at 7:00 a.m., five days before your arrival date.

Ready to book your relaxing fall trip?