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Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary Campground
Overview
The Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary Campground offers a peaceful retreat nestled within a vast 1,500-hectare protected area. Managed by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, this destination provides a rare opportunity to camp in a vibrant ecosystem where wildlife thrives. Unlike typical roadside stops, this park focuses on immersion in nature, making it a staple for those exploring Eastern Ontario. Whether you are arriving for the spring migration or a summer getaway, the park delivers a serene atmosphere shaped by the rhythms of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding forests.
Location & Surroundings
Located just east of Ingleside, Ontario, the campground is perfectly situated along the shores of the St. Lawrence River. The surroundings are characterized by diverse habitats, including mature woodlands, expansive wetlands, and open water. The park is easily accessible from Highway 401, yet it feels worlds away from the hustle of the city. Visitors are treated to stunning waterfront views and the calming sounds of over 200 bird species that frequent the area, providing a lush, green backdrop for any RV excursion through the historic Seaway Valley.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground caters to various camping styles across its distinct sections, including Nairne Island and Morrison Island. RVers will find electrical hookup sites that accommodate different rig sizes, alongside essential facilities like comfort stations with laundry and showers. Key features include:
- Access to an Interpretive Centre featuring educational displays about local flora and fauna.
- Over 9 kilometers of self-guided nature trails that wind through scenic woods and marshes.
- A dedicated boat launch and easy access to the water for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing.
- A sanitary dump station and potable water filling stations for self-contained RV units.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the sanctuary borders, guests can explore a wealth of historical and recreational sites. A short drive leads to Upper Canada Village, one of Canada’s largest living history museums, where you can experience life in the 1860s. For those who enjoy active travel, the nearby Waterfront Trail offers miles of paved paths perfect for cycling along the river. History buffs will appreciate the proximity to the Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Park, while golfers can enjoy a round at the Upper Canada Golf Course, which is just minutes away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers who value quiet evenings and morning birdsong over resort-style entertainment. It is best suited for couples or families seeking a "rustic-plus" experience where the primary activities involve hiking, wildlife photography, and paddling. If your travel style leans toward tranquil environments and educational opportunities in the great outdoors, this sanctuary provides the perfect setting for your next RV adventure in Ontario.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
suzanne sauve
Depends on what you're looking for.okder kids can't swim, water is knee level. Watching the cargo ships go by is wonderful. We ran out of propane for the bbq and drove to the office to let them know we needed some for dinner. They recover showed up. When asked why I didn't call them back, I realized they hadn't given me the map and phone number. This was not my first time going there, but it will be my last. The service is not what it used to be. It's a beautiful place, quiet and large lots but not quite up to par.
Christi
We decided to book one of their cabins (named Bobolink) facing the St Lawrence river. Some cleaning up had to be done (dustpan, broom, mop, cloths also provided) due to missing screens in the door and one window letting in many bugs into the cabin; otherwise the floors and rest of the cabin were clean. The cabin had a full fridge, microwave, toaster, barbecue and two plastic Adirondack chairs. There’s a picnic table outside by the fire pit and a smaller dining table with two benches in the cabin. For sleeping, the bedroom included a double bed and two bunk beds while the couch in the main room could also be converted into a bed (we brought pillows and sheets). There’s also heating (did not need to use), and an AC (only needed it for a few hours the first day). The potable water source is right beside the cabin (shared with the Meadowlark cabin) and showers/toilets were close by. The best part is the entire campground is quiet, no loud parties or music. The cabin is semi-soundproof so it’s even quieter when windows and doors are closed. We really enjoyed the trails, just chillaxing watching birds, ships passing by, listening to the waves from the St Lawrence and at night, watching fireflies. Skies were overcast during our stay but I’m sure on a clear night there will be dazzling stars to gaze upon. On our last morning, we packed our things, and cleaned up the place a little before leaving. The staff are friendly but service was a little lacking during our stay; we were told checkout time for the cabin is 10am but when we left the cabin for the registration office (to return the key), we found they were closed (at 10 am!?) and a notice on the door stated they’re opening only at 12pm that Sunday. It’s camping season and campers could not call or receive help before 12 noon. So we left the key in the cabin, door unlocked (our first time doing this and we felt irresponsible somewhat). 😬 After 12pm, we called them up to say we didn’t know the checkout procedure and the guy answering, nonchalantly replied, “oh yea, just leave the key in the cabin and the door unlocked.” This simple instruction could’ve been conveyed to us verbally or on the email sent to us, no? How about moving checkout time 12pm, please? 🙏🏻
Diane Berthiaume
Meadowlark cabin that is right on waterfront, next to a beach, has a large fridge, a microwave, a nice grill with an extra burner on the side. There is a queen bed and bunk beds. It is heated and has AC. Water tap is right outside. Bring anything else you may need. Went for a walk yesterday. Got a really good look at 2 trumpeter swans, a great egret and blue heron. Looking for ospreys today. .
Brad Mills
Been here twice so far, will come again. Great for travelers who are coming into the area late because they don’t have a gate! I had a spot booked at Rideau Acres but due to an incident on the road, I wasn’t going to make it there in time. You can go on their website, find a free spot that has what you need (I needed 30 amp service & water), pull in any hour of the night, then pay in the morning. Both times I came here it was after hours and they saved me from having to park my RV in a Wal Mart parking lot. Amazing spot with beautiful views and the sounds of frogs and birds. If you have time you can also do the walk or bike the trial.
Colleen “Worthfightingfor” C
Always a beautiful place to take a hike. It gets quite busy sometimes, but still worth it!