Find latest started threads
Camping Along the Trans-Canadian Highway
As a sister thread to the two US threads (Interstate Camping Guide and Camping the Great US Highways), this thread will include three parts of the TCH. The Trans-Canadian Highway has a northern section, a southern section, and a section that includes the Atlantic Provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland/Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island)
Those who are accustomed to following a US interstate highway across the country find that the highway has one number across the states. For instance, I-80 goes from California to New Jersey, and it is called I-80 in every state.
This is not necessarily the case for Canada. A Trans-Canada Highway may tool along through three of four provinces (which are similar to 'states", just structured differently) being called TCH-# and then quickly change in the next province to another number. In this thread, we'll do our best to let you know the number and/or name of the highway as much as we can. ADDITION: It should also be realized that the TCH is primarily 2-lane, going into 4-lane only in certain areas. There may also be stop signs and stop lights at junctions and towns. The TCH is not a high-speed way of travel.
Something else to think about....climate and weather. Canada is further north. In doing the research for this thread, it came to attention that it is rare for a campground to be open much before May 15th or to be open past October 1st. In some cases, the listing states "Winter Camping" but there are caveats -- no water, no electricity, camping cabins may not be available. Some campgrounds even state "campground closes when the road is impassable due to snow." So if you're camping before or after those dates, be prepared.
For US residents, crossing the border into Canada means you need a passport ... even just going over to see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side requires one! Keep that in mind. Also leave extra time for the border crossing wait. If the lines are long, you will be waiting. Note that not all border crossing points are open 24 hours.
Another reminder for US residents: measurements are in the metric system. You don't drive miles, you drive kilometers. You don't put in gallons of gas/fuel, you put in litres. There are apps for phones that will do the math for you, or you can bring a calculator. Or just do the math yourself, either in your head or on paper!
If you are traveling in an RV, something to note if your rig requires a 50 amp plug: carry a converter! Many will have a few posts with 30 amps, but some will only have 15 or 20 amp service. Recommendation: if it only has 15 or 20 amp service, do not try to run your AC.
TRANS-CANADIAN HIGHWAYS
Atlantic Provinces
Northern Route (BC to ON)
Northern Route (ON to QC)
Southern Route
Anyway, enjoy your camping experience!
Donna
Reply With Quote
