Beach and dog-friendly camping near Brownsburg-Chatham

Just under a 90-minute drive from Montreal, Brownsburg-Chatham serves as a simple jumping-off point for greater outdoor pursuits. The Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Consolation is a peaceful spot worth a stop, with a sweet store with a selection of products made by the sisters who live there (and other local producers). Some basic amenities are also offered in the historic Old Brownsburg Village, while a municipal campsite sits on the banks of the Ottawa River. Several horseback riding operators service the area, and some beautiful hiking spots—the Chutes Brownsburg - Rivière de L'Ouest park features gorgeous trails along the falls.

Camping at the municipal campground and private campgrounds in the area is seasonal, operating from May to October, though national parks and reserves around Brownsburg-Chatham do offer winter camping. The best time to take advantage of the activities here is definitely during the summer (mid-July through August will be warmest), though the fall here can be really pretty too. Coming before mid-June can be chilly and wet—less than brilliant for camping.

• The public library in Old Brownsburg Village offers free public internet access and computers for use.
• Being so close to Montreal means that cellphone reception is usually pretty good in this area, but campers should expect it to be spotty (or disappear) deeper into the parks and reserves around Brownsburg-Chatham.
• As this municipality only offers a convenience store, you should grab groceries in neighbouring town Lachute or elsewhere before setting up camp. 
• You’ll find it difficult to explore this region without your own vehicle.