Best Places to Camp & Provincial Parks Near London, Ontario
If you’re looking to get out camping without driving hours away, the London, Ontario area has plenty of great options. From sandy beaches on Lake Huron and Lake Erie to quiet forest campgrounds, there’s something for every type of camper whether you’re in a tent, travel trailer, or motorhome. Here are some of the best provincial parks and camping spots near London worth checking out.
Pinery Provincial Park
Pinery Provincial Park is one of the most popular camping destinations near London Ontario. The park is located about an hour from London in Grand Bend. It’s best known for its long stretch of sandy beach along Lake Huron, where you’ll find some beautiful sunsets.
The park is built around a rare oak savanna ecosystem, which gives it a unique mix of open forest, sand dunes, and shoreline. There are over 1,000 campsites available, including options with electrical hookups, making it ideal for RV campers. Sites range from open and social to more private, wooded areas depending on what you prefer.
Beyond the beach, Pinery offers over 40 km of hiking and biking trails, plus calm paddling along the Old Ausable Channel, which is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. During the summer, the park is very family-oriented and has easy access to the nearby town of Grand Bend.
Port Burwell Provincial Park
Port Burwell Provincial Park is about an hour from London and offers a more relaxed and less crowded camping experience compared to some of the larger parks. It features a wide sandy beach along Lake Erie, known for warmer water and a more gradual shoreline, making it great for swimming.
The campground is well-treed with spacious sites, giving you a bit more privacy and shade. It’s a great option for families, especially with its playground areas and easy beach access. One standout feature is the dedicated dog beach, making it one of the better options if you camp with pets. You can also explore the historic Port Burwell Lighthouse or visit the HMCS Ojibwa submarine for something different.
Long Point Provincial Park
Long Point Provincial Park is located about 1.5 to 2 hours from London and sits on a narrow sand peninsula that extends into Lake Erie. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in Ontario and is recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The park is especially known for its wildlife and birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons. The campground is more open and sandy compared to forested parks, giving it a beach-focused feel. Camping here is more about relaxing and enjoying nature than activities. The shallow, warm waters of Lake Erie make it ideal for swimming, and the quieter environment makes it a great escape from busier parks.
Fanshawe Conservation Area
Fanshawe Conservation Area is one of the most convenient camping options near London, located just minutes from the city. It’s a great option for quick weekend trips or for anyone new to camping. The campground offers a mix of serviced and unserviced sites, making it suitable for both RVs and tent campers. There are also plenty of amenities, including washrooms, trails, and access to Fanshawe Lake. The area is popular for biking, hiking, and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Because of its proximity, it’s a great place to get comfortable with your trailer before heading out on longer trips.
Get Out and Explore
Living in the London area gives you access to some of the best camping in Southwestern Ontario. If you're curious about where you should go on your next camping trip Great Escape RV is happy to give you some recommendations and we can make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your camping trip!