Vanlife on the Côte-Nord: tips for a responsible, trackless road trip.
As many of you know, Karo and I have long been in love with the Côte-Nord. We love getting lost there to better find ourselves again. With its breathtaking coastal landscapes, welcoming villages, and untouched nature, the Côte-Nord is one of Quebec’s top road trip destinations this summer. From Tadoussac/Sacré-Coeur to Kegaska, passing through Fermont and Blanc-Sablon, this region offers golden sandy beaches, mighty rivers, and whales swimming along the shoreline—a truly unique experience for vanlife.
To keep the Côte-Nord the warm and authentic place it is, it’s essential to visit ethically, respecting the land, the people, and the natural surroundings. Before you hit the road, here’s a quick reminder of some fundamental principles to follow for a memorable—and respectful—road trip. (Don’t worry, it’s not rocket science.)
Sleep where it’s allowed
The Côte-Nord is full of wild spaces, but not all are accessible—or suitable—for vanlife. It’s crucial not to camp just anywhere. A shoreline might seem like the perfect morning view, but remember the impact of 1,001 vans doing the same. Erosion happens fast, and with it, natural beauty disappears. Whether it’s for the biodiversity or the locals, let’s keep the Côte-Nord as wild and wonderful as it is.
Thankfully, many municipalities are happy to welcome our community—let’s thank them by using designated spaces! Choose approved areas like campgrounds, RV stops, and community welcome zones. Use trusted platforms to find out where overnight stays are permitted—you’ll uncover some amazing spots and simplify your sleep logistics (win-win!).
This not only helps protect fragile ecosystems and maintain good relations with locals, but also prevents surprises—like waking up with your feet in the water thanks to the tide (yes, it happens!).
Leave No Trace
The Côte-Nord is stunning—and deserves to stay that way. Always follow Leave No Trace principles. It can’t be said enough: no garbage, no toilet paper in nature, and definitely no dumping grey or black water anywhere other than designated facilities (there are plenty along the Côte-Nord and they’re well maintained!). Even at proper dump stations, use biodegradable products whenever possible.
No toilet in your van? Consider getting one! Either way, plan your waste stops by consulting a local directory.
Always Be Respectful
The people of the Côte-Nord are known for their warm hospitality—but that goes hand-in-hand with mutual respect. After all, it’s their home we’re enjoying. Stay discreet: park only where permitted, keep noise to a minimum (no thanks to generators), and absolutely no campfires unless clearly allowed (always check with SOPFEU).
Be courteous with locals, buy from small businesses, join cultural events, and taste the regional flavors! It’s a simple way to say thank you and immerse yourself in an authentic and rewarding experience. Because real travel is also about connecting with the people who bring a place to life.
Respect the wildlife, the plants… and the sea
There’s nothing better than sipping your morning coffee while watching whale backs break the surface. What a gift! The Côte-Nord is home to exceptional biodiversity, on land and at sea—that’s just one of the many reasons we love it.
For your safety and the animals’, stay on marked trails, don’t feed wildlife (not even bread crusts), and if you’re heading out on the water, make sure you’re familiar with local boating regulations so you don’t disturb marine life. Drone pilots—consider leaving the tech behind, grab your binoculars, and reconnect with nature the old-fashioned way!
One of our favorites: if you want to see whales up close and learn more about these incredible marine mammals, we highly recommend Du Fleuve aux Escoumins or La Famille Loiselle in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. Wonder guaranteed!
Travel slowly, live fully
Exploring the Côte-Nord isn’t about racking up kilometers—it’s about slowing down. Take time to meet local artisans, listen to the waves, breathe in the salty air, and marvel at the one-of-a-kind light of each sunset. That’s what vanlife is all about: a slower lifestyle, grounded in respect and connection to what really matters.
If you’re lucky enough to travel to the Côte-Nord this summer, we’re counting on you to follow these basic principles. Let’s protect this precious gem we have. For everything you need to plan your trip (locations, overnight spots, services, restaurants, activities, weather), check out the Vanlife Guide to the Côte-Nord.
So, see you in Kegaska?
