
oTENTik
Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Like combining a tent and a cabin, an oTENTik is a unique way for visitors to enjoy camping with the convenience of a bed and a campsite ready to go. This is the perfect way for families, friends, and people of all ages to discover the joys of camping without the added investment of equipment. Parks Canada oTENTik sites provide an ideal base camp for people looking to explore the historic Rideau Canal, nearby nature trails, and easily accessible locations for canoes and kayaks.
oTENTik locations:
Reservations:
What to expect
Please note: There is no electricity, plumbing, running water or heat source inside the oTENTik.
General oTENTik information
- Operating season (nights):
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- See seasonal Hours of Operation page
- Fees:
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- See Fees page
- Staff hours:
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- Lock Staff will be available between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm
- After hours registration:
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- If you plan on arriving outside of operational hours, please call the lockstations directly to obtain registration instructions, plus information on washroom access and purchasing wood for a campfire
- Check-in time:
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- 3:00 pm
- Early check-ins may be available. Visitors are encouraged to call the lock station for early check-in times
- Lockstation hours of operations are limited. Plan your arrivals in advance
- Check-out time:
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- Before 11:00 am
- Quiet hours:
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- 10:00 pm - 7:00 am
- Maximum length of stay:
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- No maximum
- Maximum persons per accommodation:
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- Up to 6 people
- Maximum vehicles per accommodation:
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- 2 vehicles maximum
- Extra camping units allowed beside the accommodation:
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- No additional camping units permitted
- Generator policy:
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- No Generators provided. Use of generators is limited to 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
- Minimum age policy:
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- A minimum of one adult (19 years of age or older) per oTENTik is required
- Internet/Wi-Fi access:
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- Wi-Fi is not available at this section of the Rideau Canal
- Mobile/Cell reception:
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- Yes
What's included
Inside
- Bunk-bed style beds on a raised floor with enough room to comfortably sleep 5-6 people*
- Indoor table and bench/chairs
- Broom and dustpan
- Fire extinguisher; smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Ample storage space under beds for gear and belongings
*Please note: blankets and pillows are not provided.
Outside
- Food storage unit
- Food preparation station
- Propane BBQ and propane
- Fire pit
- Picnic table
- 2 deck chairs
- Parking for 1-2 vehicles
- Personal canoe and safety gear for up to 3 passengers
Facilities
- Basic on-site washroom facilities are located within walking distance at the nearby lockstation
- Potable water is available at the lockstation
- Additional amenities (such as showers and dishwashing sinks) vary by location
Please see individual site descriptions below for more detailed information
What to bring
- Bedding and pillow(s)
- Flashlight, lantern or headlamp
- Personal gear: clothing, accessories, toiletries and slippers or indoor shoes
- Personal safety items: whistle, first aid kit, sunscreen and bug repellant
- Cooking equipment
- Food and drinks, reusable water bottles, etc.
- Entertainment (i.e. binoculars, books, cards, sporting equipment, etc.)
- Other (matches or lighter, rope, etc.)
Visitor guidelines
Rules that apply to the other camping sites along the Rideau Canal also apply to Parks Canada oTENTik sites. Before you visit, please review all Visitor Guidelines.
Pets
Only guide dogs or support animals are allowed inside the oTENTik structures. Pets in the park must be leashed at all times.
Cooking
For safety reasons, cooking is NOT allowed inside the oTENTik. Please use the outdoor propane bbqs or firepits provided.Cleaning
The oTENTik must be cleaned prior to departure. Please use the broom and dustpan provided.Garbage and recycling
If you accumulate any garbage or recycling during your stay, please use the bins located at the lockstation.
Storing food
Please store food, drinks, and scented products securely in the metal storage bins supplied on your oTENTik site so that wildlife does not seek access to your oTENTik. Please do not leave any garbage or recycling in the storage boxes upon departure.
Swimming
Swimming, diving and bathing are strictly prohibited at all navigation channels along the Rideau Canal.
Alcohol and cannabis
Possession and consumption of alcohol is enforced in accordance with the Ontario Liquor License Act. The act prohibits consuming or having an open container of liquor on docks, shelters and public areas. Liquor can be consumed at your rented oTENTik site ONLY.
Cannabis consumption is prohibited around cooking shelters and public areas, and is restricted to your campsite. Smoking is prohibited in the oTENTiks.
Firewood
Firewood can not be brought into the park. Firewood must be purchased within the site and is available at the lockstation for the cost of $6.80.
Protect your forests from the Emerald Ash Borer
The Emerald Ash Borer is a highly destructive invasive insect which attacks and kills all species of ash. It has the capability to spread rapidly throughout trees and forests. A single piece of infected firewood can be detrimental to thousands of trees and forests.
oTENTik locations on the Rideau Canal
Upper Nicholsons is a calm, peaceful lockstation located on a cutaway that was specifically designed to bypass a beautiful set of rapids on the adjacent Rideau River. There are two oTENTik sites near to each other in a private clearing amongst the trees, giving you a sunny and private place to picnic and play. Drive or cycle in easily from the road, or arrive by water through the Upper or Lower lockstations. Showers and dishwashing stations on-site provide the comforts you need to enjoy a longer stay.
Getting here
Location: 101-167 Andrewsville Rd, Merrickville, ON
Getting here by land
- Upper Nicholsons lockstation is accessed by Burritts Rapids Road or Heritage Drive, north of Merrickville
- From Merickville: follow Highway 15 north Burritts Rapids Road; turn left on Andrewsville Road
- From Ottawa area: follow Highway 416 S; turn right on Highway 43; right onto Davis Road; left onto Burritts Rapids road, and right onto Andrewsville Road
Getting here by boat
- From Merrickville: follow the Rideau River north to Upper Nicholsons lockstation
- You can moor your vessel at Upper Nicholsons lockstation
- Learn more about overnight mooring
Amenities
- Washrooms, potable water and sinks for washing dishes available at lockstation
- Propane BBQ and propane
- Private fire pit and lawn chairs
- 17ft canoe and safety gear for up to 3 people at paddle dock
Things to do
- Birdwatch at the Osprey nest close by, mounted atop a specially made platform
- Learn more about the historical period during which the canal was built by wandering up to McGuigan Cemetery
- Stroll to the Rideau River and observe the rapids
Related links
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