Jean-Marc Provencher

09/09/2024

Stayed at the shady ridge campground which had many very private lots and mature trees. Great little hikes around the park with many rock formations and explanations on the geology of the ground and the forest composition. Many marshes so do expect mud but it's workable. Clean amenities and great showers! No dishwashing stations which was a disappointment. Will try and go for the colors in the fall as it must be stunning there.

Brent

06/04/2024

The perfect adventures playground. There is something for everyone here. This place is absolutely beautiful. Highly recommend site number 275 in Bayside. It's stunning. The park it's self is so clean and the staff were extremely helpful and friendly. They have canoe and Paddle boards rentals for a decent price. Two canoes for the day was about $56. The lake it's self is huge and so fun to explore. The park is filled with wildlife. Tones of fish species, turtles, deer, loons and a fee pesky raccoons. We loved our 3 night camping trip at Charleston. Also make sure to stop by twists outlet, owners are fantastic and they have everything you'll need:)

R Ross

07/29/2024

I can't believe that I've never stumbled across this gem of a place, considering I've lived in the Ottawa area for the majority of my life. I've been to most of the parks and beaches around the valley, and this one stands out. For a small fee, you can park your car at the nearby lot and be on the beach within two minutes. Changerooms are available, as well as bathroom facilities (which are unfortunately only one step above your average 'outhouse'.) That being said, the beach is of modest size (with another smaller beach further down), and sandy! The shore is pretty much rock-free, no clams to step on, and a large swimming area. No lifeguards on duty, and swimming is not monitored. The water quality is 5/5. Crystal clear water that allowed you to see well past 10 feet, and lots of aquatic life was visible while out in the bay. For a very modest fee ($22=$28), you can rent everything from single kayaks and paddle boards to 3 person canoes. The lake is amazing for these activities. We went on a gorgeous summer day, and it wasn't overcrowded, unlike a lot of other similar spots I've been to. As a swimming spot, I'd give it top marks. We paddled out to nearby islands and swam off of them as well. The park also features camping and tons of trails (which looked amazing), which I'll probably come back and tackle in the early autumn. For a destination that is 1.5 hours away from Ottawa, this spot makes for a great day trip for some beach/hiking fun.

stephanie stephanie

05/31/2024

Amazing Park! Lots of trails ranging from easy to difficult! The Quiditty trail is barrier free with accessible bridges. Great views! One of the best camping in the area on a beautiful lake!

Rob Meggett

07/16/2024

A fabulous park. It has landscape that you would normally have to drive twice as far to experience. The bay does not allow motor boats so it does make for excellent canoing, kayaking, and swimming activities. The park is large and camping is accommodated by three separate campgrounds. Bayside is very nice. Most sites there are private and have easy access to the main beach. The beach isn't huge and fills up quickly on weekends so you have to setup a bit early. You are destined to see wildlife throughout the park. Lots of deer, a variety of turtles, and the odd snake. If you are very lucky, you may see a barred owl while hiking one of the many trails. The bugs are tolerable on the campsites and there are often large displays of fireflies in early July. The deer flies on the different trails can be brutal in early summer so be prepared if you are going for a hike. Overall, one of my favourite places to go and I never leave dissatisfied.