Forest shelters: come and enjoy a unique experience in Lanaudière

March 01, 2024

Are you looking for total immersion in nature? In the Lanaudière region, several rustic cabins await you for an exceptional experience, far from distractions and without services. Whether you're planning a multi-day hike or a stay in the heart of the forest, these cabins are the perfect place to unwind and enjoy absolute peace and quiet.

Here are a few places to discover for a 100% nature adventure!

PARC NATURE ÉMÉLINOIS | SAINTE-ÉMÉLIE-DE-L'ÉNERGIE

The Refuge du Cerf is the perfect stopover for outdoor enthusiasts! Located on the Sentier National and accessible via the Slye trails, it can accommodate up to 6 people. Here we go back to basics: a table and chairs, comfortable mattresses on the mezzanine, solar-powered lighting and a nearby dry toilet. Accessible only by foot, it's 600 meters from the parking lot... just enough time to get lost in nature

READY-TO-CAMP ON THE MATAWIN RIVER | SAINT-MICHEL-DES-SAINTS

Our three ready-to-camp cabins on the banks of the Matawin River offer an authentic wilderness experience in the spirit of a refuge. With no electricity, but equipped with a toilet, wood stove, solar lighting, outdoor kitchenette and twin beds, they're perfect for glamping enthusiasts who want to get away from it all. Here you can swim, paddle and fish. Take advantage of the nearby bike path and gorgeous beach for a rejuvenating nature getaway!

REFUGES DE LA ZEC COLLIN | SAINT-MICHEL-DES-SAINTS

In the Lac Lusignan area, rustic cabins can accommodate up to 4 people for a wilderness experience. A rowboat is included with each reservation, ideal for exploring the lake. Bring your own gear: dishes, bedding, camp stove and cooler, as there's no refrigerator, stove or running water. A simple, authentic escape from everyday life!

GOLLÉ GOULU | SAINT-CÔME

Offering slightly more amenities than the aforementioned cabins, Gollé Goulu's ready-to-camp cabins offer an equally immersive experience in the heart of nature. Accessible all year round, they offer optimal comfort in summer and reduced services in winter. An ideal getaway for experiencing nature at your own pace!

MATAWINIE REGIONAL PARKS

With more than twenty cabins scattered throughout its parks, the SDPRM is the region's benchmark for nature getaways. Some cabins are easily accessible from the parking lot, while others require a hike of several miles. Depending on the location, some offer access to a water source, while others require you to bring all the water you need for cooking and washing up, as well as bedding and personal belongings. An immersive experience for all levels of adventure! Huts are located in the Parc régional de la forêt Ouareau, Parc régional de la Chute-à-Bull, Parc régional des Sept-Chutes and on the National Trail. For a complete list of huts, click here.

HUTS ON THE HIKING TRAILS IN THE COMMUNE OF SAINT-DONAT

The most popular hiking trails in Saint-Donat offer the opportunity to extend your adventure with a night in a cabin. Reservations are required for this wilderness experience. All you need to know to plan your stay at a Saint-Donat refuge is right here!

LE MÉSANGEAI REFUGE

On the famous Montagne Noire trail, the Mésangeai refuge awaits you after a 4.5 km hike from the Chemin Régimbald parking lot. After a 2-hour walk, you'll be in the middle of nature! In fact, it's one of the huts with the best views in the region! With no running water or electricity, it's a real adventure for a group of up to 10 people. Take advantage of your overnight stay at the hut to complete the 13 km loop, reach the mirador at the summit and discover the viewpoint at the site of the Liberator Harry plane crash. A rejuvenating and fascinating excursion!

LE GRAND-DUC REFUGE

Nestled near Lac Coutu, this refuge can accommodate up to 7 people and is located on the Cap de la Fée trail, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Lac Archambault. Accessible after a 1.5-hour hike of 2.4 km from the parking lot, it's the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature!

REFUGE DE LA CHOUETTE

The Refuge de la Chouette, which can accommodate up to 8 people, is reached after a 2.5 km hike from the parking lot. On the way, stop at the Mont-Sourire viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lac Ouareau. A stunning natural setting!

You can also visit the crique de la crique St-Loup and le Branchu, both in Saint-Donat.

Looking for another type of accommodation in Lanaudière? Check out our directory of campgrounds, rustic campsites and experience accommodations.