The Basics: Where to Camp

Where to begin camping

Ontario

Bruce Peninsula National Park

At the heart of a world biosphere reserve, where the Niagara Escarpment meets the Great Lake waters, Bruce Peninsula National Park protects one of the largest pockets of wilderness remaining in Southern Ontario. Treasures of “the Bruce” include spectacular shoreline cliffs lining Georgian Bay, crystal clear turquoise water, sinkholes, ancient coral reefs and sea caves.

A 4-hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area.

Must do

Lace up your hiking boots and follow the trails out to the Georgian Bay shoreline where you’ll be inspired by the scenery - cliffs, caves and overhangs plunging into clear, blue water. Bring your binoculars and camera to see some of the park’s diversity of wild orchids, ferns and birds.

Wildlife you might see 

1. Red Squirrel 
2. Eastern Chipmunk 
3. American Redstart 
4. Ruffed Grouse 
5. Common Merganser

Insider’s tip

The park is busy during summer and fills up most days, so make sure you reserve early. Autumn is the best time of year to come to camp and hike!

For more information on camping and the other experiences available, visit the Bruce Peninsula National Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.

 

Fathom Five National Marine Park

You will find some of the best freshwater diving opportunities in the world in Fathom Five Marine Park. The deep and sparkling waters at the mouth of Georgian Bay are home to a rich cultural legacy that includes 22 shipwrecks and two historic light stations. At Flowerpot Island, marvel at the stunning rock formations that are among Canada’s most recognized and popular natural attractions.

A 5-hour drive from Greater Toronto Area.

Must do

Your camping adventure begins with the boat ride to Flowerpot Island. Set up camp at one of six tent sites located along the shoreline, and fall asleep to the tranquil sounds of lapping waves. Wake up early in the morning to watch the sun rise over the famous flowerpot rock stacks!

Wildlife you might see 

1. Red Squirrel 
2. American Redstart 
3. Black-throated Green Warbler 
4. Common Merganser 
5. Northern Watersnake

Insider’s tip

Book your campsite and boat passage well in advance to make sure you get a spot. Bring everything you need with you since you’ll be on an island in a wilderness setting!

For more information on camping and the other experiences available, visit the Fathom Five National Marine Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.

 

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Lying on the edge of the Canadian Shield, Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers outstanding hiking, camping and boating opportunities. This ‘edge-effect’ is evident in the breathtaking park landscape of barren, glacier-scraped rock and windswept pines.

A 2-hour drive from the Greater Toronto area.

Must do

Swim, hike, bike, canoe or kayak in the landscape that inspired the famous Group of Seven artists. We invite you to take a shuttle across the water to explore this natural playground. Fall asleep under the star-lit sky, listening to the calming sounds of the Georgian Bay waves lapping at the shoreline.

Wildlife you might see 

1. Raccoon 
2. Common Loon 
3. Mink 
4. Northern Map Turtle 
5. Osprey

Insider’s tips

If you camp on one of the wooden tent platforms rather than on the soil, you will reduce the amount of dirt you track into your tent on rainy days. Georgian Bay Islands National Park has great waterfront campsites with tent platforms waiting for you!

Take advantage of our all-inclusive camping package, which includes all equipment and activities, from pick up in Honey Harbour and pre-assembled luxury campsites to guided hikes, canoeing and campfires.

For more information on camping and the other experiences available, visit the Georgian Bay Islands National Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.

 

Point Pelee National Park

Canada’s southernmost point can be found at the tip of Point Pelee National Park, extending far into Lake Erie. A lush Carolinian forest oasis, the park resounds with migrating bird songs in the spring, hums with cicadas in the summer, flutters with Monarch butterflies in the fall, and is a peaceful place of reflection in the winter.

4.5 hour drive from Greater Toronto Area.

Must do

There is no camping at Point Pelee National Park but it is an outstanding place for a day trip including a picnic.

For more information on the experiences available, visit the Point Pelee National Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.

 

Pukaskwa National Park

The hidden gem of Lake Superior’s north shore, Pukaskwa National Park will enchant you. Rugged coastlines, serene sunsets and dramatic vistas await.

A 3-hour drive from Thunder Bay.

Must do

Home to Ontario’s premier wilderness hiking experience, the Coastal Hiking Trail

Insider’s tip

Pukaskwa also offers car campers unparalleled solitude and privacy at Hattie Cove Campground. In the Anishinaabe Camp, visitors can immerse themselves in local aboriginal culture through ceremonies and workshops.

For more information on camping and the other experiences available, visit the Pukaskwa National Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.

 

St. Lawrence Islands National Park

Located in the UNESCO Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve, St. Lawrence Islands National Park is a small protected area that works to promote sustainable recreation while protecting the land and wildlife that make the Thousand Islands region a popular tourist destination.

A 4-hour drive from Toronto and a 2-hour drive from Ottawa.

Must do

Rent a motorboat, canoe, or kayak and explore the rocky cliffs, sandy beaches and diverse forests of the islands. Getting there is half of the adventure when you kayak to your island campsite. En route you’ll see the rugged landscape and impressive summer estates that make the Thousand Islands famous. Guided excursions with local outfitters give you the best of both worlds – an island escape with a bit of luxury.

Wildlife you might see 

1. Osprey 
2. Map Turtle 
3. Mink 
4. Great Blue Heron 
5. White-tailed Deer

Insider’s tips

Don’t forget your bathing suit. From smooth rock shorelines to sandy bays, park islands offer some spectacular swimming.

Cook up a traditional Thousand Islands “shore lunch,” a favourite with local fishermen. On the menu: fried fish, boiled potatoes, coffee, and French toast for dessert.

For more information on camping and the other experiences available, visit the St. Lawrence Islands National Park website or call our National Information Service toll-free at 1-888-773-8888.