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PITCH YOUR TENT
ON ÎLE AUX LIÈVRES...

Have you ever dreamed of camping in the middle of the St. Lawrence? Of being woken by the blow of minke whales or by cooing parades of male Common Eiders? Your dream can come true on Île aux Lièvres, a unique destination some call the pearl of the St. Lawrence.

...close your eyes and imagine yourself camping in this idyllic island lulled by the song of aquatic birds in the very middle of the mighty St. Lawrence. There is a heaven!

Gaétan Fontaine Géo Plein Air, April 2000

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned camper, you can choose from four campgrounds.

THE CAMPGROUNDS

LA PLAGE CAMPGROUND

Seven campsites (five seaside, two secluded in the forest) 300 m from the landing dock. Nearby toilets, showers, and drinking water. Free ration of firewood per campsite upon arrival. Additional firewood for a modest fee.

LES CÈDRES CAMPGROUND

Magnificently located on the northern cliffs of the island overlooking the mountains of Charlevoix, a one-and-a-quarter-hour hike from the landing dock. Six campsites. Latrine, raw water (variable supply).

L'ANSE À LA BOULE CAMPGROUND

Three campsites in the south central part of the island with a superb view of Ilôt de La Boule (access prohibited), the islands of Pot à l'Eau de Vie and the south shore of the river. A one-and-a-quarter-hour hike from the landing dock. Latrine, raw water.

LES BÉLUGAS CAMPGROUND

The most remarkable and challenging site, 12 km from the landing dock (3 hour hike) at Bout-d'en-Haut (western point of the island). Three secluded campsite, latrine, raw water, and shelter.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

GENERAL TERMS

  • Maximum four campers and two tents per site
  • Camping for one to six nights at more than one site per stay if desired
  • A single rate (no off season)
  • Drinking water and sanitary facilities available only near the dock
  • A code of ethics is remitted to all visitors with instructions on respect for the vegetation, proper behavior, curfew, and various safety measures. Compliance is compulsory.
  • Beach bonfires prohibited

SPECIAL TERMS

  • The boat crossing schedule varies according to the tides. Exact departure and return times will be provided when you make reservations.
  • A maximum of 2 items of luggage per person is allowed on the boat.
  • Gathering fruit is prohibited, except for immediate consumption.
  • Disturbing the wildlife and fishing are prohibited.
  • Biking is not allowed on Île aux Lièvres*.
  • Pets are not allowed.
  • All guests must observe a curfew and code of ethics.
  • Sea kayaking from or around Île aux Lièvres is not allowed.

* We can store your bike in Rivière-du-Loup during your stay on Île aux Lièvres.

CAMPSITE RENTAL INCLUDES

  • Map of the island and hiking trails
  • Picnic table at each site
  • Firebox
  • Showers and drinking water near La Plage campground only but available to all campers

RENTAL DOES NOT INCLUDE

  • Round-trip boat crossing from Rivière du Loup

WHAT CAN I DO ON ÎLE AUX LIÈVRES?

Hike the 45 km network of trails... Observe marine wildlife; seals at the eastern tip of the island; minke whales, belugas, and porpoises in the north channel; and eider creches drifting along the banks... Look for the twinkling lighthouses on the Charlevoix massifs, stroll, dream...

Escape to Bout-d'en-Haut or Bout-d'en-Bas... Escape to the edge of the earth...

WHAT YOU'LL FIND ON ÎLE AUX LIÈVRES

  • A permanent exhibit on biodiversity and sustainable development.

MIND THE BIRDS

You will be allowed to roam freely over Île aux Lièvres only once the birds have finished nesting in early July. Certain clearly marked areas will not be accessible until then (the exact date will be indicated). In addition, access to certain areas of the island is prohibited at all times, and these will be clearly marked on the map you will be given.

 
2009 RATES
SEASON RATE
Round-trip boat crossing $42 /adult, $22 /child*
Campsite rental June 13 to September 21 incl. $30 /day /4 persons
 
Taxes extra
* Child = 12 or under
 
 

ÎLE AUX LIÈVRES

Click on the map to view an enlargement.

PHOTOS...