The best camping near Charleston Lake Provincial Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Charleston Lake Provincial Park adventure.

Nicknamed the Queen of Lakes, Charleston Lake reigns supreme for its scenery and water sports.  

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Community favorites near Charleston Lake Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Charleston Lake Provincial Park

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Tiny Village Woodland

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents96 acres · Arden, ON
Tiny Village Woodland Park, is a private campground spread across 96 acres of stunning nature, offering a variety of spots for every kind of camper. Whether you're into cozy cabins, fancy glamping, or just pitching your tent under the stars, we've got you covered. And if you're all about RVs, we've got serviced daily spots and even seasonal spots for those who want to make Woodland Park their home away from home. Our mission? To provide an extraordinary experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. We believe that enjoying the great outdoors shouldn't come with a hefty price tag. So, whether you're roasting marshmallows with the family or taking a solo hike to recharge, we've designed Woodland Park to be your affordable escape into the beauty of Mother Nature. Cherish the simple joys in life, for it's the little moments that transform your time with us into something truly special. We're here to ensure that your stay at Woodland is more than just a getaway – it's a memory in the making, filled with relaxation, adventure, and those unforgettable, cherished moments.
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CA$50
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(61)

Fagan Lake Heights

1 site · RV, Tent200 acres · Maberly, ON
Located only 1 hour +/- to Ottawa or Kingston! This property provides great access to a secluded level campsite surrounded by mature hardwoods and white pine, overlooking Fagan Lake. There is an outhouse and firepit on-site, with firewood included (please don't bring your own firewood). Supplied Adirondack and other lawn chairs will really make your campfires special! Pets on leash are welcome. Tents, camper trailers and RVs up to 20 feet are welcome. This is a level pull-in site. There is a covered post-and-beam picnic shelter on site for rainy days. A supplied BBQ, a large kitchen prep table, and a small round dining table complete the "glamping" feel. There's always a full 18 litre jug of drinking water on site, although we recommend that you also bring your own water. Access to a secluded lake which is about 2.5 km x 0.5 km in size, and connected to Bennett Lake by the Fall River. The lake is rugged and remote - only 8 cottages on the whole lake. Swimming off the dock, or paddle over to the jumping rocks across the lake. Bring your canoe or kayak and explore the lake and wetlands. Or bring your mountain bikes and enjoy the backroads. This property is in the heart of Lanark County, with all amenities within a 20-minute drive. Lots of hiking trails nearby, and a nice sand beach at Silver Lake Provincial park 10 minutes away. We're not far from Murphy's Point and Sharbot Lake PP as well. If you like dark skies and quiet woods and going to bed listening to frogs and barred owls, or waking up with the woodland birds, this is the place. No artificial lights here, and you can see the Milky Way clearly on a dark night.
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CA$60
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Bushwood!

3 sites · Tents55 acres · Godfrey, ON
This area was once the bottom of a glacial lake as can be evidenced by the abundance of smooth round rocks. You will see many of the rocks have been piled up or made into walls to once make way for cattle to pasture. Now the land is slowly returning back to the forest. We work hard to be environmentally friendly and support the abundance of wildlife living in the area. Choose from three uniquely different areas for country camping on 55 acres.: Pine Solitude! : A Slice of Heaven site tucked into a stand of white pines on a peninsula, overlooking a shallow lake with three islands. Walk-in (approx. 800m) Big Sky Solitude! : Our best site for stargazing on an open peninsula, overlooking a shallow lake with three islands. Walk-in (approx. 600m) Meadow Bluff! : A sweet, secluded spot on a raised bluff overlooking a lovely, quiet meadow. The site is tucked into the edge of a white pine forest. Walk-in (approx. 400m).
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CA$35
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(103)

Black Maple Farm

4 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Harrowsmith, ON
For the last 25 years we have lived here on our 6 acres of property where our Maple Sugar Bush allows us to produce our very own maple syrup every spring. [Side note: The sugar shack itself has been on the property for over 40 years.] We also raise a small but varied collection of farm animals, grow vegetables, and operate a 3 generation (Mother, Daughter, and Granddaughter) Artisan Craft Business, that sells handmade "Canadiana Themed" Home Decor goods and Maple Products at our local Farmer's Market. ( Visit us on Instagram or Facebook @Blackmaplefarm) Our Farm is located on the very edge of the Canadian Shield, so most of the landscape is a rocky, rugged, and naturally wooded. Throughout the property are numerous short, looping, walking trails that meander throughout the Sugar bush, pasture area, 3 season pond, and our farm animal "homes". These trails are perfect for short nature walks, where you'll experience natural wildflowers and plants, see and hear song birds, small animal wildlife and of course, farm life too. We are also located on the edge of the Eastern Ontario "Dark Sky" Area, which means we have a very nice view from the edge of our pasture of the North Sky stars on a clear night, with very minimal light pollution. Our varied collection of farm animals includes; lots of chickens, (including roosters who DO crow in the early morning hours), miniature goats, horses, a couple of barn cats, and a dog. During your stay with us you are welcome to come learn about and interact with our animals and daily farm life, if you so desire, and farm fresh eggs and maple syrup are also available to purchase too.
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CA$45
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The Ridge Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Kingston, ON
The Ridge Retreat is 6 acres of beauty topped off with amazing waterfront and an awesome new dock. A gravel road has been prepared from the road access right down to the lake. We recommend that you park on the upper portion of this driveway/road and walk or use an ATV to travel on the trail to the lake. As mentioned, there is about a 40 ft incline just as you approach the clearing down by the lake . Please wear running/walking shoes and descend slowly down either of the 2 trails provided. The trail "Easy Street" is definitely an easier descent and climb. Learn more about this land: Situated just off the main road, The Ridge Retreat offers you the privacy and beauty of 6 unspoiled acres. Follow the gravel walkway/road down (5 min walk) to your amazing private dock situated on Howes Lake, Verona Ontario. Deep, clean water for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, etc.  There are 2 firepits should you decide to have a campfire - one at the road site (RV and trailer) and one at the waters edge.  This property provides privacy and solitude for nature lovers. The designated RV parking spot is up near the main road along with a very nice outhouse but if you decide to tent camp, there are a few choices that would bring you closer to the water's edge.  An additional outhouse is located at the top of the incline to the lake.  The gravel/asphalt trail down by the lake is the steeper of the 2 trails. Choose the "Easy Street" trail off to your right after you pass the stop sign indicating that no vehicles should drive beyond. This trail is a bit longer but a much more gradual incline. Grocery shopping, nature trails, etc are just a few minutes away. The scenic town of Westport is a 30 min drive away with amazing shops and a local winery.
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CA$75
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(1)

Sumac Fire

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Harrowsmith, ON
Learn more about this land:At the end of the road lives a little bungalow with a small forest, sensational sunsets and a beautiful meadow. You can nestle your tent amongst the sumacs for shade.At the back of the property are a large fire pit, an outhouse and a tree line for privacy. Your hosts are an adventurous clan and are always willing to chat about all the best places to, climb, hike, and canoe. We live a 5 min drive from the village of Sydenham and a 15 min bike ride which includes the closest swimming spot, the point on Sydenham lake. Enjoy the KP and Cataraqui trails to bike and hike or Frontenac Park for more hiking and nature.  However, we will always direct you to Gould Lake, this is a favourite and only a 15 min drive away. Gould Lake always provides a little magic, a deep, spring-fed lake that has cliff jumping, amazing canoeing, hiking trails, and some of the most beautiful swimming spotsLet us know if we can help you out as you plan your trip. 20 minutes to historic Kingston and all the amenities it has to offer.
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CA$35
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(9)

RV/Camper Parking 10min To Kingston

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Elginburg, ON
🌟 Description: Welcome to our serene property, where you can park your car, camper or RV for short getaways. Choose from various parking spots—whether you prefer grassy, gravel, or solid bedrock. 🐓 Chickens and Canine Companions: Our friendly flock of free-ranging chickens adds a touch of countryside charm. During the day, they explore the property alongside our loyal German Shepherd. 📍 Convenient Location: Located just 10 minutes north of Kingston, our spot offers easy access to the city (only a 15-minute drive to downtown Kingston). Enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful surroundings and proximity to amenities. Book your spot now! 🌞🚐 We have a walking trail around the property that will take you through a cedar forest, and some field openings. And if your dog needs to stretch its legs, we have a fenced in area that used to be a horse pasture you can use to let them loose in a safe and controlled environment.
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CA$25
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Booked 2 times

The Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Oxford Mills, ON
Imagine a serene, secluded campground nestled within lush groves of cedar trees. Each campsite is thoughtfully tucked into natural alcoves formed by the dense cedar groves, offering maximum privacy and a peaceful sense of shelter. The soft rustle of the trees in the breeze is the only sound you’ll hear, with no noise from nearby roads or other campers to disturb the tranquility. The nights here are magical—far from city lights, the sky becomes a vast canvas of brilliant stars, perfect for stargazing. The darkness is pure and complete, allowing the constellations to shine with breathtaking clarity. Access to the property is easy, with well-maintained and identified paths leading to each campsite, yet the layout preserves the natural beauty and secluded feel. Every site is equipped with a sturdy firepit, ideal for cozy campfires under the starry sky. For your comfort, the campground offers eco-friendly outdoor washroom facilities, including clean, private composting toilets and solar-powered rainwater showers. The showers provide a refreshing rinse with naturally warmed water, blending sustainability with convenience. Just a short, scenic 10-minute drive from the campground, you’ll find Curry Park in Kemptville, a convenient gateway to outdoor adventure. The park offers ample parking and boat launch, perfect for fishing boats, canoes, and kayaks. From here, you can easily access one of Canada’s 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Rideau Canal system—via the peaceful waters of Kemptville Creek, which flows into the Rideau River. For those who love fishing, this area is a gem. Sport fishers can enjoy some of the best bass, walleye, and pike fishing in Eastern Ontario. The waters are even known for producing massive muskies, making it a dream destination for anglers seeking a trophy catch. If you prefer quieter paddling, the calm creek and serene stretches of the Rideau offer perfect conditions for canoeing and kayaking, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Just a 12-minute drive from the property, you’ll find Limerick Forest, offering over 600 acres of diverse trails for hiking, mountain biking or motor sports. This is a place designed for those who seek quiet reflection, connection with nature, and the simple pleasure of a peaceful, private retreat.
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CA$40
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Glamorous Camping in the Woods

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Verona, ON
Sitting on 20 acres with purifying plants & comforting earth tones, Hilltop Glamorous Camping is home to guests from all over the world! A perfect space to unplug from technology and plug into nature to reboot the mind, body, and soul with family and friends. We have all the amenities you need! Private toilet and hot shower, clean drinking water, an outdoor kitchen with all cooking supplies, picnic table, and a barbecue. This space is especially great for first-time glampers, folks who only want to pack their clothes and food and nothing else, or even introducing a family member or friend to camping for the first time. Campfires are permitted and pets are welcome! There's so much to do in the South Frontenac Region! Enjoy the great outdoors, hiking, bird watching or visit the many lakes that are a stone's throw away for fishing, swimming, or boating. Go ATVing on the many trails in and around South Frontenac.
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CA$190
 / night

The best camping near Charleston Lake Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

Situated just east of Kingston in the Frontenac Arch UNESCO World Biosphere, Charleston Lake Provincial Park encompasses some 2,400 hectares of wilderness on the shores of Charleston Lake. The lake has 100-plus islands to call its own, plus over a dozen fish species and several at-risk species of turtles that thrive in its fresh water. Geologically, Charleston Lake is divided between the hard granite of the Canadian Shield and the softer sandstone to the east, both of which provide a special landscape of rock formations, caves, and deep ledges. Whether you paddle its rugged shores, hike its trails, or just relax on the sandy beach, the Queen of Lakes enchants.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best glamping experience: The Tall Pines cabin is located on its very own island. Though a boat is required to reach it (canoes can be rented at the park), it is well-worth the short paddle to have this slice of paradise to yourself. There are also four yurts for those looking for more comfort.
  • Best for adventurers: For those willing to rough it, there are 10 backcountry campsites, which, depending on your choice, can be reached in 10 minutes or two hours.
  • Best for families: The Bayside and Shady Ridge campgrounds are located near the lake in a mature, wooded setting.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations are accepted online and by phone up to five months in advance of your arrival date. Bookings open at 7am and for popular parks like this one, your finger should be ready to click at that time (don’t try earlier or it won’t work).
  2. Prepare in advance and have all ideal sites and alternatives chosen. Make sure your browser and JavaScript software (which controls the clock) are up to date.
  3. Don’t give up if you don’t get the early slots—check often for cancellations, as even prime campsites sometimes open up at the last minute. Booking weekday or shoulder season stays also helps, as even the nicest roofed accommodation and yurts sometimes rest empty on sunny Wednesdays in September.

When to go

The park is open from May to October. July and August are the busiest months because of its popularity with families, while fall is ideal with fewer crowds, fewer bugs, and beautiful fall colours.

Know before you go

  • Although there aren’t any bears at Charleston Lake, plenty of raccoons roam the area. Secure your coolers with bungee cords and tie them down so they can’t be dragged away.
  • Take precautions with ticks, as lyme disease is present in this area (along with most of southern Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes). Use repellent, wear protective clothing, and do checks after hikes.

Top cities near Charleston Lake Provincial Park

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