Pointe-aux-Oies Campground

At 45, avenue du Bassin Nord in Montmagny, Camping Pointe-aux-Oies is one of those campgrounds that fully deserve their reputation. Rated five stars by Camping Québec, it has more than 300 sites set right on the shore of the St. Lawrence River — and it is precisely that location that makes all the difference.

The facilities are complete, and well above average: a water park with slides and splash features, a heated pool, mini-golf, a snack bar, play areas and a natural beach a few steps away. Full-service sites are plentiful, and several are designed to fit large rigs.

For those travelling without gear, the campground offers three yurts and — a rare find in Quebec — two Goutte d'Ô units. This is a chrysalis-shaped ready-to-camp cabin where six square metres are enough to sleep two adults, or a family of four with a bed below and a hammock mezzanine above. It is the kind of unusual lodging you will find almost nowhere else.

The big draw, once again, is the river. It is right there, and the sunsets over the water are worth the stay on their own. Right next to the grounds, a trail of about 2 km lined with wooden boardwalks runs along the shore and leads to a 30-foot observation tower built at the tip of the point. From up there, the view opens onto the Isle-aux-Grues archipelago and its twenty-one islands, with Grosse-Île in the distance. Access is free.

The site is also a renowned observation spot for the Greater Snow Goose, which stops over in Montmagny in spring and fall. In September, you already see them passing by the thousands.

Two practical details to know before you book: bring $2 coins for the showers, and if you are travelling in a big recreational vehicle, be aware that some bends on the grounds are tight despite the suitable sites.

A perfect base camp for exploring Montmagny, taking the boat to Grosse-Île or simply watching the river go by.