Living in a big city such as Quebec has its perks but it’s nice to get away to unwind from the daily city hassles. But going on a big vacation is not easy, especially when it comes to paying the bill. The good thing is, Quebec has some places where you can get in touch with nature. This means that you don’t need a passport, you’ll only drive a few kilometers and the places are super affordable. The following are some amazing summer getaways in Quebec:

Oka National Park

There’s no reason to get nervous at the mention of Oka National Park, as most people tend to be. It is one of the top heron breeding grounds around and the Oka Calvary Trail is also found here. This place is ideal for bird watchers and backpackers and it’s only a one hour drive away from the city.

Forillon National Park

This park is right at the peak of the Gaspé Peninsula. Its 10 hours away from Montreal but the journey is worth it because the park has it all. The sand dunes, salt marshes, sea coast, and cliffs are breathtaking. You’ll also see seals, whales, bears, and moose among other wildlife.

La Mauricie National Park

An absolute beauty on Laurentian Mountains, close to Shawinigan and two and a half hour drive from Montreal. This park has over 150 pond and lakes where you can spot Canadian wood turtles and beavers. If you are a fan of water sports, this place will blow you away.

Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park

This park is 5 hours away from Montreal and is devoted to keeping the marine life safe. With plenty of marine life including a colony of belugas, campgrounds and hiking trails, there’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Jacques Cartier National Park

Located 3-hour drive away from Quebec, this place is for wildlife lovers. You will spot foxes, bears, deer, salmon, wolves and over 100 bird species. Just don’t forget to bring your camera.

Grands-Jardins National Park

As the name suggests, this place has an impressive fishing and lush vegetation. Only 5 hours away from Quebec by road, it’s a nice place for hiking, canoeing, wildlife watching, and kayaking. During winter, this place is ideal for ice fishing, skiing and snowshoeing.

Mingan Archipelago National Park

This is the place for those who are looking for some inspiration. The naturally made limestones are all over the beach and make incredible scenery especially at sunset. It is the furthest park in this list but it’s worth it.

Plaisance National Park

With plenty of vegetation, forests and many bird species including the iconic Canadian goose, this place is a bird watcher’s paradise. It’s also a place for people who like water sports such as canoeing, row boating etc.

Rouge-Matawin Wildlife Reserve

A hunter’s and fisherman’s paradise north of Mont-Tremblant. The main activities in this park include berry picking, hunting, and boating activities.

Laurentides Wildlife Reserve

If you’re searching for a park that is fun all year round, then this is the place for you. Only 3 and a half hours away from Quebec, you can drive here for black bear watching, fishing, cross-country skiing and canoeing.