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Top 11 Parks to Visit in Ontario Canada
Now, I’m not playing favourites, but if you ask me where to find the best parks in Canada, I’d say that Ontario takes the cake! From its buzzing streets to the tranquil shores of Lake Superior, Ontario’s green spaces are truly special!
In this guide, I’ll share with you my favourite parks that have given wanderers countless “wow” moments and Instagram-worthy shots.
So, grab your favorite travel mug, fill it with some hot coffee (or tea, if that’s more your style), and let’s virtually wander through these amazing parks. By the end of this, you’ll be itching to put on your walking shoes and start exploring.
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
Imagine yourself driving along Georgian Bay to discover Killarney Provincial Park, a hidden gem far from the usual trails of Algonquin. Here, you’re greeted by the stunning La Cloche Mountain Range, with its unique white quartzite peaks.
Just a scenic drive from the charming town of Killarney and a few hours from Toronto, this park is your perfect escape from the everyday.
And for a truly unforgettable experience, stay at the Killarney Mountain Lodge. It’s where comfort meets wilderness, ensuring your adventure is as cozy as it is thrilling.
| Pro Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife— you might just spot a bear or a deer on your journey! And don’t miss the chance to take a boat ride to George Island— it’s a whole new world of exploration. |
Algonquin Provincial Park
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada
Contact Details: +17056335572
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/
Opening Hours: 24/7
Just a three-hour drive from Toronto, this park is like stepping into a whole new world of wilderness. This park is a favorite for many, and it’s easy to see why with its stunning lakes and forests.
Camping in Algonquin is a summer highlight, especially for families. The campgrounds, nestled around the lakes, are so popular they get booked up fast.
And if you’re into hiking, you’re in for a treat. The trails here aren’t just walks in the woods; they’re gateways to breathtaking views, waterfalls, and ancient trees. Keep your eyes open for wildlife along the way!
| Pro Tip: To fully enjoy Algonquin, consider booking your campsite or backcountry adventure well in advance, especially if you plan to visit in the summer. |
Bon Echo Provincial Park
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada
Contact Details: +17056335572
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/
Opening Hours: 24/7
Bon Echo Provincial Park, a favorite among families and nature enthusiasts, is renowned for its stunning Mazinaw Rock. This towering cliff, overlooking Mazinaw Lake, is a historical treasure trove with its ancient pictographs.
Kayaking or canoeing offers an intimate view of these pictographs, while the tour boat service provides a broader perspective of the park’s natural beauty. The top of Mazinaw Rock is accessible for those seeking breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Remember, Bon Echo is primarily a camping destination, with limited alternative lodging options. Planning ahead is key, especially for peak season visits.
| Pro Tip: To make the most of your visit, try to schedule your trip during the weekdays to avoid the crowds. Also, consider participating in the guided tours offered by the park. These tours not only provide deeper insights into the pictographs and the park’s ecology but also enhance your overall experience with expert knowledge and stories. |
Point Pelee National Park
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr, Leamington, ON N8H 3V4, Canada
Contact Details: +15193225700
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pelee
Opening Hours: Daily 7 AM to 7 PM
At Canada’s southern tip, Point Pelee National Park is a haven for nature lovers, sharing latitudes with Rome and Northern California. Its beaches and marshlands make it a prime spot for migratory birds, drawing birdwatchers from all over.
The park’s status as a UNESCO-recognized wetland means you’ll find rich biodiversity, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Kayaking through the wetlands or walking the boardwalks offers a close-up view of this natural spectacle.
Nearby Leamington provides convenient accommodations, with the Best Western Plus being a popular choice. Point Pelee’s unique location and ecological significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in birdwatching and nature.
| Pro Tip: When planning your visit to Point Pelee National Park, timing is key, especially if you’re keen on birdwatching. Aim for early May to experience the Spring Bird Migration, when the park becomes a hotspot for a diverse array of bird species. |
Quetico Provincial Park
Address: ON-11, Atikokan, ON P0T 1C0, Canada
Contact Details: +18075972735
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/quetico
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Quetico Provincial Park is a paradise for paddlers seeking a wilderness experience. Far less crowded than parks in Southern Ontario, it offers a vast expanse of pristine lakes and forests.
The park’s vast area is mostly accessible by water, with a small portion reachable by highway. It’s part of the expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area, stretching into the U.S.
For an optimal experience, consider a guided expedition with local outfitters in Atikokan. They offer everything from gear to fly-in services to remote lakes, making your adventure in Quetico unforgettable.
| Pro Tip: Before embarking on your Quetico paddling adventure, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the park’s permit system. Due to its status as a protected wilderness area, Quetico requires all visitors to obtain a permit for backcountry camping and canoeing. These permits are in high demand, especially during the peak summer months, so it’s wise to reserve them well in advance through the Ontario Parks reservation system. |
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
Nestled on a land strip that reaches into Georgian Bay, near Parry Sound, you’ll find Killbear Provincial Park. Camping is the main draw here, with seven campgrounds that cater to everyone from casual campers to nature enthusiasts.
The park is a haven for families. Kids can splash around in the shallow waters while adults unwind on the beach. For the more active family members, there’s a six-kilometer trail network perfect for a leisurely hike or a bike ride.
And if you’re into photography, the rugged landscape, with its rocky points and iconic windswept pines, offers endless opportunities for that perfect sunset shot.
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring your bikes and hiking gear to explore the park’s trails, and pack a camera to capture the stunning Georgian Bay sunsets. |
Lake Superior Provincial Park
Address: Algoma, Unorganized, North Part, ON, Canada
Contact Details: +17058562284
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/lakesuperior
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM to 4 PM
Tucked away on the north shore of Lake Superior, this place is a quiet escape from city life. It’s like uncovering a hidden treasure that’s just waiting to be explored.
This park is a favorite for those summer getaways. Imagine setting up camp right by the beach, kayaking on the lake as the sun sets, or hiking through trails that make you feel like you’re the only person in the world.
Oh, and you’ve got to check out the Native pictographs— they’re like whispers from the past, telling stories on the rock walls.
| Pro Tip: For a unique experience, consider taking a guided tour to view the Native pictographs – it’s not only educational but also a respectful way to appreciate this important cultural site. |
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: 8 AM to 10 PM
Ever dream of a beach escape that’s not too far from the city? Sandbanks Provincial Park, just a couple of hours east of Toronto, is exactly that. Picture this: vast sand dunes cascading into the sparkling blue waters of Lake Ontario, creating a picturesque setting for a summer day out.
Sandbanks isn’t just about its impressive dunes. The park boasts family-friendly beaches with shallow waters, perfect for a day of fun with the kids.
And if you’re up for more than just beach lounging, the park offers six diverse hiking trails. These trails are not only great for a bit of exercise but also a chance to encounter local wildlife and indulge in some birdwatching.
| Pro Tip: To really enjoy Sandbanks without the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday. It’s a popular spot, and weekends can get pretty busy. Planning to camp? Make sure to book your site early, especially in the summer. |
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
Pinery Provincial Park is a classic summer destination. It’s easy to see why it’s been a favorite for generations. Picture yourself on a 10-kilometer beach where the warm, shallow waters of Lake Huron invite you to relax and enjoy a sunny July day with your loved ones.
Beyond the beach, the park offers a vast campground nestled in the pines, with options for both electrical and non-electrical sites. It’s perfect for those who love the blend of beach fun and forest tranquility.
Also, if you’re looking for activities beyond beach lounging and campfire evenings, Pinery has you covered. There’s a 14-kilometer bike trail and 10 walking trails that offer a great way to explore the park’s natural beauty.
| Pro Tip: When planning your trip to Pinery, consider booking a campsite near the beach for the best experience. If you’re looking for a quieter visit, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. |
Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Address: 2249 Northey’s Bay Road, Woodview, ON K0L 3E0, Canada
Contact Details: +17058772552
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/petroglyphs
Opening Hours: 24/7
Just northeast of Peterborough, there’s a place that’s a treasure trove of history – Petroglyphs Provincial Park. It’s home to Canada’s largest collection of native rock carvings, with around 900 of them dating back 500 to 1000 years.
To preserve these incredible carvings, they’re housed under a protective glass enclosure. This not only shields them from the elements but also makes it easy for visitors to view them up close.
As you wander through the enclosure, you’re literally walking alongside centuries of history. And there’s more; the visitor center is packed with fascinating details about these carvings, offering a deeper understanding of their significance.
| Pro Tip: When you visit Petroglyphs Provincial Park, bring along a sketchbook or a journal. There’s something truly inspiring about being in the presence of these ancient carvings. |
Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Address: 26071 Park Rd, Jacksons Point, ON L0E 1L0, Canada
Contact Details: +19057228061
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sibbaldpoint
Opening Hours: 24/7
Wrapping up our list of must-visit parks in Ontario, let’s talk about Sibbald Point Provincial Park. Just a stone’s throw away from Toronto, less than an hour’s drive, it’s a prime spot for those looking to escape the city without the hassle of a long journey.
The park boasts a beautiful, wide beach on the shores of Lake Simcoe. Come summer, the water here warms up beautifully, making it a blissful spot for swimming or just lounging in the shallows.
Away from the water, Sibbald Point is graced with expansive green lawns, perfect for family games, picnics, or just lazing around with a book. Facilities like clean washrooms, picnic tables, and barbecues are conveniently located, making your day out as comfortable as it is enjoyable.
| Pro Tip: To get the best out of your trip to Sibbald Point, especially during peak times like weekends or holidays, aim to get there early. This way, you can snag the best spot for your beach day or picnic. And while the beach might be the main attraction, don’t miss out on the tranquil walking trails around the park— they’re a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. |
