Adventurion

If you’re looking for a true rustic camping experience in Quebec, Lac du Sourd in Papineau-Labelle Wildlife Reserve offers just that. It’s remote, peaceful, and full of those little surprises that make camping trips unforgettable.

Packing Dilemmas and a Bumpy Start

I’m standing by the car, trying to fit one last bag into the trunk. With all our camping gear packed to the brim, bringing the baidarka (our foldable kayak) seems impossible. But the campground is right near a big lake, so maybe—just maybe—there’s a canoe rental there? Fingers crossed.

We’re off to a rustic camping near Lac du Sourd, tucked in the heart of the Papineau-Labelle Nature Preserve in Quebec. It’s a rustic site, just the way we like it. Unfortunately, a recent storm damaged the main road from the closest Visitor Centre, so we’ll have to take a longer detour through a different entrance. Not ideal, but the adventure is officially underway.

🚗 Getting There: Starting Our Camping at Lac du Sourd Quebec

After a two and a half hour drive, we arrive at the Visitor Centre—hoping for some good news. But instead, we learn that:

• There are no canoes on the lake.
• Fishing isn’t allowed on Lac du Sourd.
• They don’t sell firewood either.

Not the start we dreamed of. But we’re determined to make the most of it. Luckily, there’s another lake about 30 minutes away where fishing is allowed. We decide to give it a shot.

A quick stop at a gas station helps us fuel up and grab one bag of firewood (they only had one left!). Thankfully, another roadside stop later had enough wood for our second night. Things are looking up.

🏕️ Setting Up at the Rustic Campground near Lac du Sourd

We reach the campground entrance after a peaceful drive on a winding forest road. Our campsite is tucked in the woods—no lake views, but also no crowd. Meanwhile, the sites right on the shore? Practically in the parking lot. So much for privacy.

One site looked absolutely perfect on the map, but it was already booked when we made our reservation. Next time!

We get straight to work, pitching two tents: one for sleeping, one for our outdoor kitchen. There’s a little pond nearby, which is charming… but also prime real estate for mosquitos. I get the campfire going right away, hoping the smoke will keep them at bay.

The day has been long and full, but we still gather around the fire for a few marshmallows. As the stars light up the sky and the wood crackles, a peaceful wave of happiness and tiredness sweeps over us. Time for bed.

🎣 A Not-So-Fishy Day

It’s fishing day. But first: coffee. This is non-negotiable—even in the woods.

With mugs in hand and energy restored, we drive off toward Lac Vert—the lake where fishing is allowed. The cell service is gone, so we rely on a paper map with faded markings. Of course, we miss the turn the first time.

Once we double back, we finally find the barely-visible sign. A narrow, bumpy road leads us to the small but deep and beautiful Lac Vert. Two rowboats are available. We hop into one and set out to find our catch of the day.

At the beginning, we try our luck near some fallen trees—a usual fish hotspot—but after dozens of casts and a few lure swaps, nothing bites. We paddle to the other side. The water is crystal clear, and we can see tiny fish darting around beneath the surface. The fish are here. We just need to outsmart them.

Suddenly, a bold eagle soars overhead. Majestic and calm, it swoops toward the water. Clearly, this guy knows what he’s doing. Maybe we should be taking notes.

At the end of the day, all we’ve caught is one tiny trout. Still, we feel grateful for the peaceful time on the lake and start heading back to camp as the sky dims.

🌧️ A Wet Goodbye

That evening, rain rolls in, cutting our campfire short. We huddle inside our kitchen tent, and for the first time, I’m thankful we lugged this heavy, awkward thing along.

Even with the rainy finale and poor fishing luck, the trip feels like a success. There’s something powerful about disconnecting, breathing forest air, and just being together. These moments are why we love camping: they reset and reenergize us.

🧭 Planning Your Rustic Camping Trip in Quebec?

If you’re planning your own rustic camping trip in Quebec, Papineau-Labelle Reserve is a great destination. But here are a few tips based on our experience:

• Call ahead to check on road conditions and lake rules.
• Bring your own firewood if possible.
• Don’t rely on internet—download maps or bring printed ones.
• If fishing, double-check which lakes allow it and come prepared with the right gear.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned camper, trips like this are worth it. They help you reset, reconnect, and rediscover how good it feels to just be outside.

Have you camped in Papineau-Labelle or somewhere similar? Drop us a comment below and share your favorite rustic spots—we’re always looking for our next adventure!

See you on the trail!