For nearly 50 years, Wilderness Tours has been welcoming whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts from around the world. If you’re a whitewater kayaker looking to experience the premier resort location on the iconic Ottawa River, look no further than Wilderness Tours—the ultimate adventure destination.
Founded in 1975 as a regional summer adventure retreat, Wilderness Tours has since transformed into a world-renowned resort and adventure vacation destination. Over the decades, we’ve built a reputation for offering the best whitewater kayaking and rafting experiences on the Ottawa River. Our spectacular resort is strategically designed to take full advantage of the stunning views and serene setting on the banks of the mighty Ottawa River.
Wilderness Tours isn’t just for kayakers—it’s an adventure hub for the whole family! After an exhilarating day of whitewater kayaking, you can unwind or keep the fun going with a wide variety of activities. Our on-site inflatable waterpark offers hours of fun for all ages, while stand-up paddleboarding lets you explore the river at a more relaxed pace. For adrenaline seekers, 17 km of downhill mountain biking trails are available right on our property, and nature lovers can enjoy hiking on our extensive trail network.
Looking to relax after your outdoor adventure? Wilderness Tours offers a peaceful retreat to recharge. Unwind in our timber sauna, soak in the tranquility, and take a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the Ottawa River. With our perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, Wilderness Tours is truly a place where you can choose your own adventure—whether you’re seeking thrills or a peaceful retreat.
Join us at Wilderness Tours—the ultimate adventure destination on the Ottawa River. Whether you’re here for whitewater kayaking or a family adventure, we have something for everyone.
For decades, the rafting and whitewater kayaking companies on the Ontario side of the Ottawa River have worked together, putting aside competition to speak and act as a unified voice for the betterment of the river, its paddling community, and the industry as a whole. Through this collaborative effort, they have made significant contributions to river safety, conservation, and accessibility, ensuring that the Ottawa River remains a top destination for paddlers worldwide.
By partnering together, these companies have helped advance several important initiatives that benefit everyone who enjoys the river:
In a continuation of their spirit of cooperation, these companies have signed a historic 10-year agreement to provide free recreational paddler access at the Put-In, Lorne/Black Chute Rapids, and the Take-Out areas. This agreement ensures that paddlers can enjoy these world-class sections of the river, maintaining the Ottawa River as one of the premier paddling destinations globally.
While free access is now available to private paddlers, it’s important to note that any commercial use of these areas must be prearranged with Wilderness Tours Resort. Additionally, please be aware that inflatable crafts are not allowed on these sections of the river. For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please obey all marked speed limits and respect the guidelines set by the participating companies.
Through these combined efforts, the Ottawa River will continue to be a haven for paddlers, offering safe, accessible, and sustainable experiences for years to come.
If you’re a whitewater paddler looking for the perfect campsite, look no further! With a nightly rate of just $20 per adult and $10 per child, this riverside campsite is arguably the best paddler campsite in Canada—offering unbeatable value, stunning views, and a prime location for paddling adventures.
Situated at the takeout point for the whitewater stretch of the Ottawa River, our campsite is perfectly located on river-right, at the confluence of the Main and Middle Channels. For whitewater enthusiasts, it doesn’t get much better than this.
All campsites are within walking distance via a scenic path that leads downstream to the Park Village. This means you’ll have easy access to all of the village’s amenities, including food, supplies, and more, without having to travel far from your campsite. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day on the water or stock up on essentials, everything you need is just a short walk away.
This secluded campsite offers the perfect balance of isolation and convenience, making it ideal for a peaceful paddling weekend away. Whether you’re enjoying a solo retreat or a group getaway, the natural setting provides an unforgettable experience with the sounds of the river as your backdrop.
We are committed to keeping the Ottawa River pristine for future generations. All campsites are LNT (Leave No Trace), meaning everything you bring must be packed out when you leave. Help us keep this incredible natural resource clean and protected for all who visit.
Book your stay today and enjoy the best paddler campsite in Canada, with the convenience of easy access to world-class whitewater, stunning river views, and all the amenities you need for a perfect paddling getaway.
Since 1980, the Ottawa Kayak School at Wilderness Tours has been at the forefront of whitewater kayaking instruction. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a single day of private lessons or an aspiring young paddler eager to take on our renowned three-week youth development program, Keeners, we offer a variety of instructional options to suit paddlers of all skill levels.
As a leader in the world of whitewater kayaking education, the Ottawa Kayak School provides expert instruction in one of the most iconic kayaking destinations in the world—the Ottawa River. Our comprehensive programs are designed to cater to all experience levels, from those picking up a paddle for the first time to advanced kayakers looking to refine their skills.
Private Instruction: For personalized guidance and tailored lessons, we offer single-day private instruction designed to meet your specific goals and help you develop at your own pace.
Keeners Youth Program: Our world-famous three-week Keeners Program is a comprehensive development course for young kayakers. This program combines expert instruction with hands-on experience, teaching essential skills in whitewater kayaking and fostering a love for adventure and nature.
With decades of experience and a world-class reputation, the Ottawa Kayak School offers a comprehensive and supportive learning environment for kayakers of all ages. By training at Wilderness Tours, you’ll gain access to some of the most thrilling and scenic whitewater in the world, combined with expert guidance from some of the best instructors in the industry.
Whether you’re here for a one-day lesson or an immersive youth kayaking experience, the Ottawa Kayak School ensures you leave with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to continue your kayaking journey.
Looking to improve your kayaking skills, or get your children involved in whitewater adventure? The Ottawa Kayak School at Wilderness Tours is the ideal place to learn, grow, and thrive. Discover the world of whitewater kayaking with the leading instructors and programs in the industry. Book your lesson or youth program today and start your adventure on the Ottawa River!
Get ready for an exhilarating season in 2025! Wilderness Tours and the Ottawa Kayak School are thrilled to announce the expansion of our whitewater kayaking events for the upcoming season. With four thrilling events, including freestyle, boater-cross, and downriver races, we are committed to supporting and growing the vibrant Ottawa River paddling community.
The Ottawa River is renowned for its world-class whitewater and stunning natural beauty, making it the perfect setting for a wide variety of kayaking events. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or new to the sport, these events offer something for everyone. By hosting these competitions, Wilderness Tours and the Ottawa Kayak School aim to bring together paddlers from across the region, promote healthy competition, and foster a deeper connection to the river and the paddling community.
Our expanded lineup of whitewater kayaking events for 2025 will include:
These events are designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels, from seasoned professionals to newcomers eager to dive into the world of whitewater kayaking.
We invite you to stay tuned as we announce the official dates for these exciting events. Be sure to check out our Events Calendar for the latest updates and event details. Whether you’re looking to compete or cheer on your friends and fellow paddlers, there’s no better place to experience the thrill of whitewater kayaking than at Wilderness Tours on the Ottawa River.
Don’t miss out on the action—Keep and eye on our Events Calendar!
When you purchase a Gift Card for the Ottawa Kayak School at Wilderness Tours you are contributing to your next paddling trip. Apply these funds to any future trip or package.
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