Family vacations at Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle 

With summer comes the desire to get away and enjoy nature with the whole family. Located on the border between the Laurentians and the Outaouais regions, Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle is the perfect destination for those looking to combine relaxation, the great outdoors and adventure. It’s the perfect place to spend time in nature with your family, without the hassle. 

Sleep under the stars

Camping

Is there a better way to take full advantage of nature than to spend a night camping in the heart of the forest? At Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle, the Echo Lake campground is a great option for families looking for a simple, authentic experience. Located 26 km from the village of Val-des-Bois, this site offers 45 spacious, private campsites, perfect for a peaceful stay. Each site features a classic picnic table where you can enjoy your meals in good company. Imagine the precious time you will spend around the fire in the evening, eating melting smores with the kids. Once the kids are asleep, you can enjoy the relaxing crackle of the fire as you drift away for a good restful sleep, away from the daily chores and responsibilities. 

A section of the campsite is even dog-friendly, so you can enjoy your stay with the whole family. Some pitches overlook the pretty, heart-shaped Lac Taku. Along the road leading to the lake, you will find a small natural sandy shoreline and a boat launch where dogs are also welcomed. 

This area is ideal for stargazing after dark. The sky is clear, without artificial lighting to detract from the experience. 

Canoe-camping

Looking for an even more exclusive experience? Get paddling! Several campsites on Echo Lake are accessible only by boat. Located right on the lake, these sites offer breathtaking views of the water and surrounding mountains. It’s simply stunning! Lovers of tranquillity and breathtaking scenery will be well catered for. Canoe and kayak rentals are available on site, making the experience easy and accessible. 

A real gem is hidden at the end of the lake. On this unique site, you’ll find a small sandy shoreline where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset and discover a charming old stone chimney. It’s a site to reserve without hesitation, for an unforgettable stay! 

Sleep like a log in nature

Étoile Ready-to-camp

New this year at Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle: nine Étoile ready-to-camp sites are now available at Echo Lake! These small cubic cabins, covered in waterproof canvas, offer a comfortable alternative to traditional camping. Inside, there’s a common room with bunk beds, table and basic kitchenette. Wonderful for families who want to enjoy nature without the hassle! These fully-equipped accommodations combine comfort with the great outdoors. For people who are reluctant to camp because they’re worried about being uncomfortable, this is a great option for taming camping. With four double beds, each unit can accommodate up to six people. 

Leave your stress behind when packing, everything you need is on site. The accommodation is fully equipped: kitchenware, cookware, a two-element outdoor stove, a small fridge and a space heater for cooler nights. Wake up to the sound of the wind in the trees, smell the coffee heating up outside, eat al fresco overlooking the lake and relax with your feet in the sand. Four of these sites even have a small sandy shoreline nearby where you can play with the kids, take a leisurely swim or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s the ideal getaway to experience camping … without the logistical hassle. 

Cabins

For those who want to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing convenience, the chalets at Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle are well worth a visit. Designed for stays with family or friends, they are spacious and well-equipped. The cabins offer many amenities, including a functional kitchen and a wood-burning stove ideal for chilly evenings. 

Each one is located near a body of water and includes a picnic table, fire pit and even a barbecue. Birdsong, the sound of water or happy children could be the soundtrack to your vacation. The cabins are also equipped with a solar-powered refrigerator, a propane stove with oven, a Bodum coffee maker and a bathroom with shower and toilet. 

A myriad of activities

Throughout the day, there’s no shortage of possibilities. You are sure to find an activity to please every member of the family! 

Fishing

Renowned for its fishing, Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle is a fisherman’s dream. Several species swim in its waters, including speckled trout and lake trout. You can fish Echo Lake by boat, for an experience in the heart of nature. For a more tranquil atmosphere, Lac Taku allows you to cast your line directly from the dock. It’s a great opportunity to create memories for all ages! 

The sandy shore

Enjoy an afternoon in the sun on the beach at Echo Lake. Just minutes away by walk from the campground, this large, unsupervised sandy shore is great for cooling off, building sandcastles or simply unwind and relax with your feet in the water. The scenery is breathtaking, with mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. 

Water sports equipment rental

Just off the sandy shore is the rental center, where you can rent canoes, kayaks or paddleboards. All you need to do is paddle away to the adventure! 

Playground

A playground is also available near the beach. It included a large structure designed for younger children. While the kids play, adults can relax nearby. 

Hiking

For the more adventurous, over 60 km of hiking trails criss-crosses the Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle. The trails, of varying levels, offer superb views of the lakes, hills and typical landscapes of the region. Along the way, you can smell the sweet scent of the forest, identify different species of plants and small animals or fully connect with nature. 

An option accessible from the campground is located at the entrance to beautiful Echo Lake. It’s an easy 1.4 km interpretive hike trail. Suitable for families, it allows you to learn more about the species that inhabits the forest. The trail leads to a marsh, where you can sometimes spot some cute frogs. Although the trail is short, there are a few natural obstacles to watch out for. 

On the way home, making a stop at Babine-Pies and ice cream is a must. This charming creamery offers a fine selection of ice creams and homemade pies that are sure to please! 

The combination of exceptional scenery, diversified activities and accommodations makes Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle an ideal destination for a carefree stay in the heart of nature. 

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Take advantage of your visit in the region to attend the Val-des-Bois en musique event, taking place from August 21 to 23.