Waterside camping near Sarnia with fishing
Lake Huron beaches and deciduous forest trails await campers staying in Sarnia.
Popular camping styles for Sarnia
Waterside camping near Sarnia with fishing guide
Overview
Sitting on the border between the United States and Canada is Sarnia, Ontario. Campers can play on sandy beaches at the southernmost point on Lake Huron. Then, explore Pinery Provincial Park or A.W. Campbell Conservation Area and find primitive tent, RV, and glamping campsites close to covered marinas. Hike the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail—stretching over 2,100 kilometres—and see St. Clair River, Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and Niagara Falls. Then stop at Grand Bend Beach for an internationally recognized Blue Flag experience. Back in town, campers can attend International Symphony Orchestra performances at Imperial Theatre from fall until spring, or take in the Celebration of Lights each Christmas season in Centennial Park.
Where to go
Pinery Provincial Park
Up the coast lies Pinery Provincial Park—an oak savanna and coastal dune ecosystem with extreme biodiversity among its beaches and nature trails There is year-round fishing and boating available on the lake. Campers can stay at one of many campsites in the park for both tents and RVs with electrical hookups, firepits, and picnic tables. Some waterfront campsites are also available. Then, rent kayaks and canoes to explore freshwater coastal dunes, or observe endangered animals, birds, and butterflies in their natural environments. Cabin rentals and glamping yurts with bunk beds and air conditioning can also be reserved on site for an enhanced experience.
A.W. Campbell Conservation Area
Family oriented and pet friendly, A.W. Campbell Conservation Area is just 40 minutes east of Sarnia. This reservoir conservation area is part of the St. Clair River watershed system and offers watersport activities like swimming and boating all summer long. Hike nature trails through deciduous forests, or rent a paddleboat to explore the floodplain before retiring to campsites with full hookups, modern restrooms, and laundry facilities. Campers can also enjoy biking trails along Morrough Creek to see more natural trees and wildflowers.
Grand Bend Beach
Grand Bend Beach is a Blue Flag designation for sustainability, education, and safety. The beach itself also has a free lending program for amphibious wheelchairs. Nearby, private campgrounds offer cabin, RV, and glamping campsites close to the water and include modern amenities like air conditioning. Or rent one of two dune cottages available on the beach. After setting up camp, sunbathe on sandy shores, or attend a performance at Rotary Community Stage. Campers with children can also visit the splash pad and playgrounds on-site.
When to go
Sarnia has a humid continental climate with summer heat occurring later in the year. Temperatures during this season are typically between 15°C to 24°C. Sometimes, lake effect can bring snow in winter. But with a yearly average snowfall of only 112 centimeters, year-round camping is still optimal in the area. Expect winter temperatures to stay around 2°C on average.
