Camping near Prince Edward County

Food, wine, and sandy beaches draw visitors to Prince Edward County, a historically agricultural region sandwiched between the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario, east of Toronto. These days, the fields mostly grow grapes, and the three dozen wineries make good chardonnay, pinot gris, and pinot noir. Restaurants, inns, and craft breweries fill The County’s three main towns: Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington. On the south shore, Sandbanks Provincial Park, one of Ontario’s top destinations for campers, is known for its sand dunes near West Lake and its long beaches along Lake Ontario. Campers and RVers can also opt for lakeside sites at nearby commercial campgrounds.

While the busiest season in Prince Edward County is June through early September, both spring and fall can bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The campgrounds at Sandbanks Provincial Park are open from late April into October, and book up months in advance for weekend getaways in summer. Come mid-week if your schedule allows. During the cold winter months, from January to March, many businesses around The County close entirely or significantly reduce their hours.

• Book your trip to Prince Edward County in advance, particularly if you plan to camp at Sandbanks Provincial Park or if you’re visiting on a summer weekend. Campers can reserve sites at Sandbanks up to five months before your trip, and campsites are often booked as soon as they become available.
• Picton, the largest town in The County, is your best choice for groceries and other supplies, but you’ll find small local markets, farm stands, cheese makers, and orchards throughout the region.
• Looking for a less-crowded day-use beach? If the Sandbanks beaches are too busy, try the smaller North Beach Provincial Park. You can also find beaches for swimming and fishing around the large East Lake.