Atlantic · Québec
Forillon National Park
Where the Appalachians plunge into the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Province
Québec
Established
1970
Size
244 km²
Coordinates
48.85°, -64.38°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Forillon National Park
On the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, Forillon balances seaside cliffs, fin whale watching, lighthouse lore and the Appalachian Trail's northern terminus at Cap-Gaspé.
Why visit
- Cap-Gaspé — the literal end of the Appalachians
- Fin whales offshore (June–September)
- Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse
- Pebble beaches and seal colonies
Things to do
Plan your days.
Les Graves Trail to Cap-Gaspé
hiking
Petit-Gaspé Campground
camping
Whale watching cruise from Grande-Grave
boating
Anse-Blanchette historic site
interpretive
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Petit-Gaspé — quiet, treed
- Des-Rosiers — beachfront
- Backcountry: La Croisée
Best time to visit
- Spring
- Late May–June: birds arrive, cool ocean.
- Summer
- July–August: peak whale season, warmest air.
- Fall
- September–October: colour, blue water, fewer crowds.
- Winter
- December–March: cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Peak
- July through August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Cliffs at Cap-Bon-Ami for gannets; Cap-Gaspé for cetaceans.
Common species
Black bear · Harbour seal · Beaver
Signature species
Fin whale · Minke whale · Northern gannet
Wildlife safety
Cliff edges erode — stay behind fences and signage.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Gaspé
- Percé
- Cap-Aux-Os
Nearby attractions
- Percé Rock
- Bonaventure Island bird colony
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
5 day
Gaspé loop
Forillon + Percé + Île Bonaventure.
road trip
Gaspé Peninsula drive
Two-week circuit around the Gaspé from Québec City.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Forillon National Park.
Can I camp in Forillon National Park?+
Yes. Forillon National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Forillon National Park?+
Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends; a portion of sites may remain first-come, first-served.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Forillon National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 8/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Forillon National Park?+
July through early September. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include fin and minke whales, harbour seals and northern gannets. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
Yes — designated loops accommodate RVs and trailers. Check site dimensions and service availability (electrical/water/sewer) when booking, as not every site offers full hookups.
How many days should I spend here?+
Three to four days.
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