Waterfall camping near Terrebonne

Just 20 minutes north of Montreal, Terrebonne is the gateway to Lanaudière, a region of Quebec known for farmland, lakes, hiking, and skiing. And although Lanaudière is all about nature, life closer to Terrebonne is a mix of outdoor excursions (including golf, camping, and hiking) and cultural activities (such as theatre visits, historic sites, and 18th-century architecture). With Montreal so close, campers around Terrebonne have easy access to all the amenities and services they could want.

Terrebonne

In the city’s old sector, Vieux-Terrebonne, visitors can visit pre-industrial buildings, the Île-des-Moulins historical site, and the Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne, which hosts Francophone artists from around the world. Those craving time outside can find an incredible network of cycling routes, including the intermediate Trans-Terrebonne, a 25-mile (41-km) path that stretches from the Saint Lawrence River to secluded woods. Those keen on a shorter route can check out the 2-mile (3.4-km) Parc de la Pointe-de-l'Île park walk and its water views.

Lachenaie

Just east of Terrebonne where the Saint Lawrence River meets the des Mille l'Îles and Prairies rivers, Lachenaie is an access point to Route Bleue des voyageurs, a 96-mile (155-km) canoe route. The nearby Parc-Nature Pointe-aux-Prairies is perfect for those who prefer to explore on land, as it can accommodate snowshoeing, cross country skiing, fat-tire bikes, hiking, and birdwatching. If you happen to be camping near Lachenaie and notice an oak tree, take it as a sign of good luck—the community is immensely proud of its massive oak trees, which are featured on its coat of arms, official motto, and many parks.

La Plaine

Farther from Montreal than Terrebonne or Lachenaie, La Plaine has a quiet, relaxed vibe. 

The area highlight is the La Seigneurie des Plaines cycle path, a 13-mile (21.5-km) route linking the Laurentians and Lanaudière regions, and extending through the towns of Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, Blainville, and Terrebonne itself. Campers in search of a bit of luxury can find beachfront tent sites in the area.

Camping is most popular in and around Terrebonne from June to September. Sites book up quickly around Canada Day and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (celebrated throughout Quebec on June 24.) Those eager to experience winter activities can expect snow from mid-November to mid-April, though snowsport conditions are usually best between late December and early March.

• In Lachenai, SAIL is an outdoor outfitter that sells everything from tents and hiking boots to flashlights. 
• Central Montreal and Terrebonne are connected by public transit. The Terrebonne station is in Zone 5—the trip takes about an hour.
• Louisiana in the US also has a community called Terrebonne. When doing your research, make sure you’re focused on Quebec!