Explore Local Nature

Parks, Camping, and Trails

Renfrew and Lanark Counties are home to over 10 provincial parks, and also offers quick access to the north-east corner of Algonquin Provincial Park. Many provincial parks offer hiking trails, mountain-biking trails, beaches, overnight camping, back-country camping, picnic/day use areas, and more for a fee.

Camping is a great way to explore the outdoors as long as you have the right equipment. Even in the hot summer months, the nights can be cool. As mentioned above, some provincial parks offer overnight camping, but there are also many privately-owned campsites and cottage rentals available in the area. Renfrew and Lanark Counties are great for climbing rock formations, viewing beautiful waterfalls, and exploring underground caves.

Camping and Hiking Tips

Always let someone know where you are going and how long you plan to be away. Familiarize yourself with the area or go camping with someone who is already familiar.
Make a list of supplies and be prepared. You should always carry a first aid kid, matches, non-perishable food items, and a reusable water bottle. Not all areas will have cell-phone reception, so a physical map may also be a good option.
If camping overnight, always store food in a vehicle, or animal proof storage bag in a nearby tree. Renfrew and Lanark counties are home to black bears who are always in search of a tasty treat.

A great resource to find trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, geocaching, and more near your community is AllTrails. You download their app or explore their website.

Beaches, Swimming, Water Sports

Renfrew and Lanark county are both nestled on the shores of the Ottawa River which offers great access to beaches and waterways. Kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, jet-skiing, rafting, and wind surfing are all popular activities in this area. Many of the municipalities offer rentals, and there are various private adventure companies that offer excursions for the day.

Safety: When seeking out a place to go swimming or participate in one of the above activities, it is very important to keep safety in mind. Never enter the water in areas that have no signage, or have signage warning against wading or swimming. Never enter the water unless you are a strong swimmer. Children should be kept under supervision at all times.

Winter Activities

From late November to late Spring, Renfrew and Lanark counties experience a very cold and snow-filled winter and the people who have been here awhile really know how to embrace it! Your first urge may be to hibernate inside for a few months when you see how far the temperature is dropping. However, there are so many fun winter activities you can take advantage of.

Our counties are home to many ski/snowboard hills, dog-sledding, snow shoe and cross-country ski trails, skating rinks (indoor and outdoor), and snowmobile paths. There is even a trail turned into ice so that you can skate amongst the trees. Adopting a winter past-time is a great way to stay social and active during those long months.

During the month of February in Ottawa (1-2 hours away) you can visit the Winterlude festival. The festival is spread across the city and features ice skating on the Rideau canal, outdoor ice and snow sculpture displays, outdoor restaurants, and more.

Resource

Ottawa Valley Travel has compiled a great list of local outdoor attractions you can explore here.

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