10 of the Best National Parks in Canada for Experienced Camping Families

There’s something magical about that moment when your family is ready for a bigger adventure — when hiking a short trail or camping by the beach sparks a hunger for something more. Canada’s National Parks offer some of the most breathtaking, awe-inspiring landscapes in the world — and many of them are the perfect next step for families craving deeper wilderness, bolder experiences, and unforgettable memories.

These ten parks aren’t necessarily beginner-friendly — but with a little preparation, they open the door to epic adventures that will bring your family closer than ever before. Whether it’s paddling through misty islands, hiking along coastal cliffs, or watching whales breach under wide-open skies, your next great family story starts here. If you’re looking for more beginner-friendly options, check our beginner-friendly guide: 10 Epic (But Family-Friendly) Canadian National Parks.

Gros Morne National Park

Towering cliffs, freshwater fjords, and sweeping coastal views make Gros Morne one of Canada’s true natural wonders. From short boardwalk trails to boat tours through Western Brook Pond, this is where family adventures feel larger than life.

• Location: Newfoundland and Labrador (west coast)
• What You’ll See: Dramatic fjords, cliffs, waterfalls, Tablelands
• Why Families Love It: Boat tours into Western Brook Pond; accessible dramatic hiking (like Green Gardens Trail)
• Insider Tips: Book boat tours early and pack layers — Gros Morne’s weather changes fast, even in summer.

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Nothing feels more adventurous than setting out by boat to camp on an island — and Georgian Bay Islands offers exactly that. Explore windswept pines, crystal-clear waters, and cozy forested campsites just waiting for a family adventure.

• Location: Ontario (Midland area)
• What You’ll See: Rocky shorelines, turquoise waters, pine forests
• Why Families Love It: Short paddles to islands; beginner-friendly wilderness feel
• Insider Tips: Use the DayTripper shuttle if you’re not ready to paddle — it’s an easy way to reach Cedar Springs Campground with little kids.

Yoho National Park

Hidden between its more famous neighbors, Yoho is a jaw-dropping playground of waterfalls, emerald lakes, and towering mountains — all without the Banff crowds. Families looking for an alpine taste of wilderness will find it here.

• Location: British Columbia (near Field)
• What You’ll See: Waterfalls, alpine lakes, natural bridges
• Why Families Love It: Easy walks to Takkakaw Falls; scenic family hikes to Emerald Lake
• Insider Tips: Try to snag a campsite at Kicking Horse Campground for quick access to family-friendly day hikes.

Kootenay National Park

From dramatic canyons to soothing hot springs, Kootenay blends rugged wilderness with moments of family relaxation. It’s a quieter, more personal mountain adventure — and perfect for families ready for a deeper dive into nature.

• Location: British Columbia (between Banff and Radium Hot Springs)
• What You’ll See: Red canyons, glaciers, alpine valleys
• Why Families Love It: Short scenic hikes; relaxing in natural hot springs
• Insider Tips: Hike Marble Canyon early in the day for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Fundy National Park

Imagine standing on the ocean floor where just hours ago waves towered above your head. Fundy offers one of Canada’s most unique natural experiences, with coastal hiking, epic tides, and a true sense of adventure at every turn.

• Location: New Brunswick (Bay of Fundy coast)
• What You’ll See: Bay of Fundy tides, waterfalls, rugged coastline
• Why Families Love It: Beachcombing at low tide; kid-friendly waterfall hikes like Dickson Falls
• Insider Tips: Check tide charts carefully — and if your family is feeling adventurous, consider a nearby tidal bore rafting tour!

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Perched above the Atlantic, Cape Breton Highlands offers heart-stopping cliff views, coastal hikes, and some of the best whale watching in Canada. The Skyline Trail alone is worth the trip.

• Location: Nova Scotia (Cabot Trail)
• What You’ll See: Coastal cliffs, whales, sweeping ocean views
• Why Families Love It: Whale-watching tours; the accessible Skyline Trail hike
• Insider Tips: Plan to drive sections of the Cabot Trail — the lookouts alone are worth several stops.

Pukaskwa National Park

If your family craves real wilderness, Pukaskwa delivers. With its Lake Superior coastline, swinging suspension bridges, and remote campsites, it’s a truly wild experience that’s still surprisingly accessible for adventurous families.

• Location: Ontario (north shore of Lake Superior)
• What You’ll See: Wild beaches, boreal forests, rugged cliffs
• Why Families Love It: Scenic suspension bridge hikes; Lake Superior coastal camping
• Insider Tips: Hattie Cove Campground is perfect for base camping; consider tackling a short section of the Coastal Hiking Trail for bigger adventure.

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

Ready for a salty breeze and a little island-hopping? The Gulf Islands offer gentle coastal adventures, ideal for families ready to paddle between secluded beaches and watch seals sunbathe on the rocks.

• Location: British Columbia (Southern Gulf Islands)
• What You’ll See: Coastal forests, sandy beaches, marine wildlife
• Why Families Love It: Beginner-friendly kayaking; calm bays for swimming and exploring
• Insider Tips: Sidney Island is a fantastic spot for family camping with access to beautiful beaches and easy trails.

Thousand Islands National Park

Mix a little history, a little paddling, and a lot of island magic, and you have the perfect launching point for an unforgettable family adventure. Thousand Islands blends warm river waters, cozy campsites, and endless exploration opportunities.

• Location: Ontario (St. Lawrence River, near Gananoque)
• What You’ll See: Island clusters, river channels, castle ruins
• Why Families Love It: Calm paddling routes; adventurous island-hopping by kayak or boat shuttle
• Insider Tips: Reserve a Parks Canada oTENTik on an island for an easier overnight — perfect for families new to boat-in camping.

Riding Mountain National Park

Nestled between forest and prairie, Riding Mountain is the perfect basecamp for soft adventure: bike trails, wildlife safaris, and wilderness experiences that feel epic — but still welcoming.

• Location: Manitoba (north of Brandon)
• What You’ll See: Lakes, forests, grasslands, wildlife (bison!)
• Why Families Love It: Family biking trails; wildlife viewing in the bison enclosure
• Insider Tips: Camp at Wasagaming and rent bikes for an easy, adventurous way to explore the park together.

Final Thoughts

The best family adventures don’t always come from doing what’s easy — they come from pushing a little further, trying something new, and stepping outside your comfort zone together. Canada’s National Parks offer endless ways to do exactly that — from paddling to island campsites to hiking along dramatic coastal cliffs.

You don’t have to be experts to tackle these next-level adventures. You just need a little spirit, a little planning, and a whole lot of heart.

Ready for your family’s biggest adventure yet?
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