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10 Campgrounds in Ontario for the Best Outdoor Adventure
Have you ever felt like you’re itching to swap the sound of traffic for the soothing symphony of nature, or trade city lights for a canopy of stars? Then it’s time to pack up the tent and hit the road!
Ontario’s sprawling wilderness offers some of the coziest and most scenic campgrounds you could dream of. From the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield to the tranquil shores of the Great Lakes, we’ve scouted out campgrounds that are absolute must-visits for your bucket list.
So, let’s get ready to pitch a tent, roast some marshmallows, and maybe even howl at the moon — Ontario’s great outdoors is calling!
Killarney Provincial Park
Address: 960 ON-637, Killarney, ON P0M 2A0, Canada
Contact Details: +17052872900
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/killarney
Opening Hours: 24/7
Fees: $
Killarney Provincial Park, a canvas that inspired the iconic Group of Seven, boasts over 50 lakes set against the stunning backdrop of the La Cloche Mountains and the Georgian Bay coastline.
It’s a go-to spot for some of the best backcountry canoeing, sea kayaking, and hiking trails, including the famed La Cloche-Silhouette Trail. When winter rolls around, you can swap you paddles for skis and snowshoes, making the most of the snowy wonderland that unfolds.
If you’re looking for a cozy retreat, consider one of the yurts available year-round, where comfort meets the wild.
| Pro Tip: We always encourage you to embrace the full Killarney experience with a multi-day canoe adventure. The park has a variety of routes that cater to all skill levels, so you can craft the journey that’s just right for you. Pack smart, respect the wilderness, and remember to leave no trace. |
Killbear Provincial Park
Address: 35 Killbear Park Rd, Nobel, ON P0G 1G0, Canada
Contact Details: +17053425492
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/killbear
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM to 10 PM
Fees: Free of charge
Killbear Provincial Park is nestled on a peninsula and hugged by the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay on three sides. But the best part here is that the entry fee is completely free!
It’s a family favorite and a bustling hub with a whopping 880 campsites spread across seven campgrounds. Each of the seven campgrounds has a slice of shoreline, making it a breeze for you to jump into swimming, paddle out in a kayak, or just lounge by the water’s edge.
And let’s talk about those beaches—seven sandy retreats, each with its own character, all within a stone’s throw from your tent.
| Pro Tip: Get the most out of Killbear by exploring its numerous hiking trails. The Lighthouse Point Trail is a must for us, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. |
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Address: 1219 Burloak Dr, Oakville, ON L6M 4J7, Canada
Contact Details: +19058276911
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/brontecreek
Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday, closed; Monday to Friday 8 AM to 7 PM
Fees: $
Bronte Creek Provincial Park is the perfect starting point for anyone new to the camping game. Tucked away in Ontario, it offers an experience that makes it easy to pack up and go, so it’s a breeze for first-timers.
If you love a good stroll, the park boasts five nature trails that weave through the grounds and along the picturesque 12 Mile Creek.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning your visit in the spring, make sure to pack your camera. The park’s wildflower bloom is something you’ll want to capture and remember. Plus, for a truly immersive experience, we recommend joining one of the guided night hikes. |
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Address: 3004 County Rd 12, Picton, ON K0K 2T0, Canada
Contact Details: +16133933319
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sandbanks
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM to 10 PM
Fees: $
Sandbanks Provincial Park is a camper’s paradise, boasting over 500 spots to set up camp. With four distinct camping areas, you can choose your own adventure, whether that’s a family-friendly zone buzzing with activity or a secluded spot for some peace and quiet.
Since it’s perched on the edge of Lake Ontario, the trio of sandy beaches is the park’s crown jewel, offering a playground for all sorts of water sports. Another unique feature you’ll find here is a dune system that cascades down to the lake, creating a stunning natural landscape.
For those of you who prefer hiking, there are six trails crisscrossing the park. Each highlights a different aspect of Sandbanks’ diverse environment—from the rolling dunes to the vibrant wildflowers and lush wetlands.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of birdwatching, bring your binoculars. In the spring and fall, you can spot a variety of warblers, including the black-throated blue warbler and the yellow-rumped warbler. |
Pinery Provincial Park
Address: 9526 Lakeshore Rd, Grand Bend, ON N0M 1T0, Canada
Contact Details: +15192432220
Website: http://www.pinerypark.on.ca/
Opening Hours: 24/7
Fees: $
Pinery Provincial Park is your go-to for an epic outdoor adventure with its sprawling natural landscape and a plethora of campsites spread across three distinct campgrounds.
It’s the perfect spot for families seeking a friendly community vibe where the kids can make new friends and everyone can soak up the serene atmosphere.
The park’s crowning glory is its stunning stretch of sandy beach along Lake Huron, a magnet for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit Pinery, aim for a weekday during the summer months to enjoy a quieter beach experience. And don’t miss out on the sunset over Lake Huron—it’s a breathtaking view that’s not to be missed, so make sure your camera is charged and ready for that golden hour magic. |
Agawa Bay in Lake Superior Provincial Park
Address: ON-17, Wawa, ON P0S 1K0, Canada
Contact Details: +17058822026
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/lakesuperior
Opening Hours: 24/7
Fees: $
At Lake Superior Provincial Park, Agawa Bay’s campground offers a beachside retreat that feels like a slice of paradise.
With just 147 sites tucked between the pines and fringing the shore, it’s a cozy spot that fills up fast, so snagging a reservation early is a smart move.
Here, you can wake up to the sound of waves, spot local wildlife on a leisurely beach stroll, and marvel at the ancient Agawa Rock pictographs—a window into the area’s rich history.
| Pro Tip: To truly connect with the spirit of Agawa Bay, try to catch the sunrise over the lake. It’s a moment of pure tranquility. And remember, the best time to view the pictographs is on a calm, clear day when the lake’s waters are still, so check the weather forecast before you plan your outing. |
Bon Echo Provincial Park
Address: 16151 Hwy 41, Cloyne, ON K0H 1K0, Canada
Contact Details: +16133362228
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/bonecho
Opening Hours: 24/7
Fees: $
Bon Echo Provincial Park is a camper’s dream, with its iconic Mazinaw Rock rising a majestic 100 meters above the azure depths of Mazinaw Lake.
You’ve got two prime camping spots to choose from: Mazinaw campground, nestled amidst towering pines and rugged granite, offers a plethora of sites and is a haven for those who love the grandeur of the great outdoors.
Then there’s Hardwood Hill, a more intimate setting along the path from Mazinaw Lagoon, perfect for those seeking a quieter commune with nature and a chance to spot wildlife.
| Pro Tip: For the early risers among us, paddle out on Mazinaw Lake at dawn. The reflection of Mazinaw Rock on the still water is a sight you’ll carry with you long after your camping trip ends. And if you’re keen on wildlife, our tip is to tread softly and keep your eyes peeled at dusk or dawn—this is when our furry neighbors are most active. |
Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Address: 12729 Hwy 17N, Batchawana Bay, ON P0S 1A0, Canada
Contact Details: +17058822209
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/pancakebay
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Fees: $
Pancake Bay boasts one of the most stunning stretches of sandy beach on Lake Superior’s shores.
Picture this: a broad expanse of beach curving around the lake’s clear, tranquil waters that warm up nicely for a dip. The soft, sandy dunes here are a rare find along the lake’s rugged coastline. With over a hundred campsites to choose from, you’re never far from a serene beach view.
The sites are thoughtfully spaced out among whispering pines, offering both privacy and a sense of seclusion.
| Pro Tip: If you’re up for some beachside serenity, try to snag a site on weekdays when the crowds thin out. You’ll feel like you’ve got your own private slice of Pancake Bay. And don’t forget to catch a sunset – they’re absolutely legendary here, painting the sky in hues you’ll want to bottle up and take home. |
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Address: R R 1, Pass Lake, ON P0T 2M0, Canada
Contact Details: +18079772526
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sleepinggiant/maps
Opening Hours: 24/7
Fees: $
Tucked away on the far reaches of Lake Superior, you’ll find a camping gem: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Nestled just east of Thunder Bay, it’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the trek for the solitude and scenery. The park offers a front-row seat to the vastness of Lake Superior, with the iconic Sleeping Giant landform serving as a dramatic backdrop.
It’s not just about pitching a tent; you can also book secluded spots for a romantic retreat right by the lake.
| Pro Tip: They offer an unparalleled experience of the park’s wild beauty. Just remember to reserve your spot early, especially if you’re eyeing a lakeside locale— they’re a favorite for those in the know. |
French River Provincial Park
Address: 20526 Settlers Rd, Alban, ON P0M 1A0, Canada
Contact Details: +17058571630
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/frenchriver
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Fees: $
For our last pick, French River Provincial Park is a camping ground that you shouldn’t turn a blind eye on.
If you’re itching for a real-deal wilderness escape that’s still a stone’s throw from Ontario, then this is the place to be.
This spot is a slice of paradise if you love to mesh adventure with tranquility. Winding its way from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, the French River stretches over 68 miles of pristine Canadian backcountry.
It’s a haven for anglers and rafters alike, with campsites that let you wake up right in the heart of nature’s masterpiece.
| Pro Tip: For the anglers in our midst, you’ll want to time your visit with the fishing seasons— the French River is renowned for its bass, pike, and muskie. And hey, don’t forget to grab a waterproof map; it’s a lifesaver when you’re navigating the river’s many channels and rapids. |
