Are you wondering where to sleep, eat and find dump stations during a camper van trip in Gaspésie? Here are some practical information and tips to help you plan your vacation in this region.
Where to stop and sleep
Most municipalities in Gaspésie have regulations prohibiting overnight parking in public places. Please comply with these restrictions to avoid fines and sleep safely. In addition to staying in national parks or certified campgrounds, you can also find local food producers that will welcome your vehicle by using the Terego app. The following sites also offer spaces specifically designed for self-sufficient camper vans:
Please also note that in Québec you cannot park in rest areas for longer than four hours or spend the night in them. You can, however, stop in villages-relais, which are municipalities that offer parking lots that are accessible at all times, whether you want to stop to stretch your legs, visit local tourist attractions or take a short nap. Some of them also offer overnight parking. Visit the villages-relais website for more information.
Keep in mind that, although Gaspésie is home to vast stretches of land that seem unoccupied and may therefore look suitable for parking your camper van, these areas belong to private individuals, businesses, municipalities or other entities. They may also be protected areas.
Driving on beaches, in particular, can cause significant damage to fragile habitats and the species that inhabit them. Please make sure you’re complying with local regulations when you drive through an area or park your vehicle.
Where to eat
Rest areas in Gaspésie usually offer picnic tables as well as washroom facilities, drinking water and children’s play areas. Some even provide access to the sea. They are therefore great places to stop for a bite to eat along your way! To enjoy meals featuring local flavours, be sure to stock up at local food artisans, fish markets or restaurants.
Note that most rest areas are seasonal (saisonnière), which means they’re only open from mid-May to mid-October. Locate rest areas and find out what services they offer by visiting the Québec 511 website.
Other services
Dump stations, public showers, laundry facilities and many other services are available to travellers throughout the region. Please note that fees may apply.
Some campgrounds offer the option of using their dump station or shower facilities even if you don’t spend the night (for a small fee). Inquire about this possibility before you go somewhere.
Villages-relais are municipalities recognized by Québec’s Ministry of Transportation for offering certain year-round services such as restaurants, gas stations and public restrooms. For more information about the services offered by each village-relais, please visit their website.
If you’re interested in renting a camper van, please keep in mind that there are none available for rent in the region of Gaspésie. Inquire about rental options near you or on your way to the region.
Complementary brochure
To help you plan your camper van tour of Gaspésie, you can download our brochure, which outlines local regulations and lists the services available in our region. Don’t leave without it!
Enjoy a hassle-free camper van trip in Gaspésie!
