Discover Your Retreat at Parkside Mansion
Influencer Diana Lee lives for adventure, the outdoors, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)! Find out what @only1phoenixx likes on Instagram and Twitter. Experience the magic of fall in a park that…
Cooler weather. Without errors. The aroma of pumpkin pie wafting from your campfire and the warmth of hot chocolate in your hands. It must be fall camping season! Looking for…
Today’s post comes from Jill Legault, information specialist for Quetico Provincial Park. Summer means playtime for pups! Dogs love the opportunity to be outdoors as much as you do. A…
What does White Pine have? No other species of tree in Ontario seems to inspire such reverence and passion. The history of White Pine is deeply intertwined with the history…
Today’s post comes from Sofi Czich, Canoe Resource Technician at Wabakimi Provincial Park. Planning a late summer or early fall paddling trip in Wabakimi will stimulate your senses. Wabakimi Provincial…
Ro Nwosu (WildRoga) is a yoga teacher, trainer and physical educator known for her infectious laugh and innovative thinking to get people moving. August is when I usually organize the…
Today’s post comes from Sarah Wiebe, Senior Naturalist at Kettle Lakes Provincial Park. Before this year, I would never have considered myself a “Bird Nerd.” My journey started at my…
This blog post comes from Emma Webb, Head Gate Keeper at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park. Driftwood is my favorite provincial park. Don’t get me wrong, I love Samuel de…
With summer in full swing, staff have been busy at the parks, both in front of and behind the scenes! Through our grant program, Southwestern Ontario Parks has received funding…
In last month’s featured constellations, we talked about Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Delfino. In our September issue, we talk about Pegasus the flying horse (elk or baseball diamond), Aquarius the water…
In today’s post, biologist Monica Fromberger shares the hot gossip surrounding this season’s plover population. We had TWO Piping Plover nests in Southeastern Ontario this year! One in Darlington Provincial…
As the end of summer approaches, our Learn to Camp: Book an Ambassador program is coming to a close for the season. Whether you’ve learned how to make campfires, gotten…
Today’s article comes from our bird record specialists, Area Ecologist Ed Morris and Area Operations Technician Rebecca Rogge. The birds are interesting. Most are visually striking, with notable ridges that…
Bon Echo Provincial Park has long been a favorite destination for hikers, and this year is no exception! On nice, sunny days, our park can get very busy. Are you…
Just 40 minutes from Canada’s capital, in the Ottawa Valley, Fitzroy Provincial Park may be one of the province’s best-kept secrets. Situated on the Ottawa River and bisected by the…
The nights are getting cooler, the days are getting shorter, and the bears know there is limited time to finish gaining weight before retreating to their winter dens. The food…
Today’s post comes from Jess Knowlton, Assistant Discovery Leader at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park. People travel far and wide to paddle the historic Mattawa River. For the full experience,…
Today’s blog comes from Jessica Stillman, School Outreach Coordinator at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the words: count, measure,…
In today’s post, park naturalist Nicole Guthrie discusses what makes a forest a forest and the unique features of Pinery Provincial Park. This week marks National Forest Week in Canada,…
Today’s blog comes from Senior Marketing Specialist Sarah McMichael. My most memorable camping memory didn’t come from a roaring campfire, a scenic overlook, or a stunning sandy beach. It happened…
You’re now packed and ready for another weekend outdoors. You have your sleeping bags, your full cooler, sunscreen, and swimsuit. Maybe you fill your trailer’s water tank once you arrive,…
Today’s blog comes from Discovery Program Project Coordinator Jessica Stillman. In the fall, if you’re not outside with students learning about mushrooms or how animals prepare for winter, you’re inside…
If you’re new to Ontario parks, you may be a little nervous about the animals that call our parks home. Many of us live in cities or suburbs, with little…
Today’s post comes from Sarah Wray, Discovery Leader at Bon Echo Provincial Park. When a massive derecho storm moved through Ontario on May 21, 2022, Bon Echo Provincial Park was…
Today’s post comes from retired Quetico Provincial Park biologist Brian Jackson. Anishinaabemowin is the traditional language name of the Anishinaabeg or Ojibway people who have lived for centuries on the…
Today’s post is from Christian Carl, Park Superintendent at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. I first noticed the prominent buttress on the northeast face of the Sleeping Giant’s chest while hiking…
“What is Ontario Parks doing to support reconciliation?” We’ve heard that question more and more often, whether it’s asked in a park or through a message on social media, whether…
A new invasive species threat is approaching Ontario and we’re asking you (yes, you!) to help keep it at bay. The spotted lanternfly threatens many of our native tree species,…
Today’s post comes from Laura Penner, group leader for the Discovery program at Rondeau Provincial Park. Thousands of birdwatchers flock to Rondeau each spring to take part in one of…
Today’s story comes from park staff best friends: Zuzanna and Alysa, summer staff working at Killbear Provincial Park who spent their season visiting over 30 provincial parks. Are you interested…
What do turtles and reusable water bottles have in common? More than you imagine. Turtles need our help and we’ve teamed up with our friends at Chilly Moose (and their…
Today’s post comes from Laura Myers, former Neys Provincial Park Senior Interpreter. Driftwood: It’s a great bench to watch the sunset, a balance beam to play on, or that perfect…
For many, fall is the ideal season for outdoor fun. But as temperatures begin to drop, we want to make sure our hikers and campers are safe while exploring our…
In today’s post, Algonquin Provincial Park Deputy Superintendent David LeGros helps us celebrate a major milestone for community scientists across the province. For more than five years, Ontario Parks has…
Picture this: the sound of a crackling fire filling the crisp fall air, the soft sound of leaves falling in the forest, dipping your paddle into a calm lake during…
Today’s post comes from Habitat Management Technician Justin Johnson of Pinery Provincial Park. Justin has a master’s degree. in biology with a specialization in bird acoustics. Bird watchers are an…
Today’s post comes from naturalist Laura Penner of Rondeau Provincial Park. Every Halloween we are bombarded with spooky images: haunted houses, cemeteries, dark nights, deserted roads and, of course, bats!…
You have planned your trip and thought of everything. Your boots are at the door and your backpack is filled with water, snacks, route maps, extra clothes, and your trusty…
It’s a little cold, there’s not much food left, and the black bears are seriously thinking about taking a long nap. Black bears in Ontario parks begin heading to their…
What do you like most about camping? The smell of the campfire, the singing of birds in the forest or that food tastes better cooked outdoors? There is something in…
Today’s post comes from naturalist Pilar Manorome of Rondeau Provincial Park. Are you afraid of spiders? Our eight-legged friends are the kind of “creepy crawlies” that many people like to…
Did you buy something in our online Christmas store last year? In today’s post, Monica Fromberger, Darlington Provincial Park ecologist, talks about some of the vital protection work her purchase…
Frogs and toads have an ancient history, with fossils dating back to the time of the dinosaurs. Algonquin Provincial Park naturalist David LeGros has been fascinated by these amphibians since…
In this month’s edition, we trace an ancient Greek myth through six constellations. The story will begin high in the sky, near Polaris, the North Star, and plummet southward. Many…
Welcome to Ontario Parks’ “Eyes in the Skies” series. This will cover a wide range of astronomy topics with a focus on what can be seen from the pristine skies…
Have you ever walked along a sunny forest trail and found yourself in a shady grove of trees? One of those special places where the noise of the world is…
With fall approaching, it’s time to prepare your RV for winter storage. Do you plan to use it a few times during the winter season? It is still important to…
Today’s post comes from our natural heritage education specialist (and history buff), Dave Sproule. Thousands of boats, ships and canoes have been claimed by Lake Superior over the centuries. The…
Today’s post comes from David LeGros, one of our Algonquin Provincial Park naturalists. As the crisp days of fall grow colder and the occasional dusting of snow whitens the landscape,…
Today’s post provided by Dave Sproule, Natural Heritage Education Specialist. Forty-seven years ago, the enormous freighter Edmund Fitzgerald shipwrecked in Lake Superior. This is the story. Life on Lake Superior…
We are making the shift from citizen science to community science. Here at Ontario Parks, we love that our visitors can get involved in science. From iNaturalist to Bumblebee Watch,…
This article was written by Connor Oke, Marketing Intern at Ontario Parks, using information provided by Ed Morris, Northeast Zone Ecologist at Ontario Parks. When Killarney Provincial Park was established…
In today’s post, Jess Matthews, Chief Naturalist of Rondeau Provincial Park, takes us back in time… There may have been a time when you used your paddle to get through…
Teachers: Get ready to meet your new best friend. Flip is an educator’s dream. It is the perfect space for students to engage in meaningful discussions that will inspire your…
It’s probably no surprise that hiking is good for your health, but it may surprise you that the benefits extend from head to toe! See the benefits of hiking for…
Are you starting your Christmas shopping? Our 2022 Christmas collection will have you feeling merry and bright in no time! Ontario Park Classics We think you will love: Our classic…
Did you buy anything from our online Christmas store last year? In today’s post, Ontario Parks staff talk about some of the vital protection work your purchase helped fund. Ontario…
We called on Ontario Parks Architect Matthew Harvey to give us the lowdown on latrines…the good, the bad, and the stinky! Over the course of my 25-year architectural career at…
Today’s post comes from Mackenzie Garrett, Water Technician at Bon Echo Provincial Park. Picture this: You’re camping in a provincial park when you’re thirsty. As you fill your water jug…
In our “Behind the Scenes” series, Discovery Program staff from across the province share a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite shows and projects. Today’s post comes from Anna Scuhr, a…
As winter sets in, black bears lay down to hibernate. Rick Stronks, Algonquin Provincial Park’s chief naturalist, shares some interesting facts about these seasonal sleepers: 1. Black bears are masters…
Provincial parks are home to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Ontario. They protect unique species of plants and wildlife, some of which are not found anywhere…
Brrr! Temperatures are dropping and the icy grip of winter is almost upon us. We bet you feel almost ready to enjoy a nice long winter hibernation. Not so fast!…
Picture this: You’re gliding through a sparkling snow-covered forest. You hear birdsong and see signs of forest life around you. There’s no better way to enjoy winter in Ontario’s parks…
Do you love variety? Pinery Provincial Park could be your ideal winter vacation spot. Here are six reasons we think you’ll fall in love with this Southwestern gem’s snowy season:…
If you’re reading this, you’re probably a not-very-hairy mammal with a core body temperature of around 37ºC. Your body works very hard to maintain this temperature. If it drops even…
It’s about spending quality time with family. A very special gift awaits you and your family this December and January! Step back in time to the year 1900 to visit…
Trail guide and cell phone and water in bottles.Flashlight in case your hike is a waste of time,Energy snacks secured with laces.These are some of our essential things… (Can’t you…
What is winter without snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and skating? All of these essential experiences have one thing in common: you need the right gear to participate! Here’s where you’ll be…
Today’s post comes from Quetico Superintendent Trevor Gibb. Quetico Provincial Park is primarily known for its world class backcountry canoeing opportunities. However, once the lakes freeze and snow blankets the…
Today’s post comes from Cortney LeGros, Healthy Parks Healthy People Coordinator at Ontario Parks. The Christmas season is full of tradition. No matter how you celebrate, there is a scientific…
You’ve seen Wasaga Beach Provincial Park in the summer, but the winter season shows a totally different side of the park. Here are four reasons why you need to plan…
With its stunning snow-covered landscapes and miles of ski trails for all skill levels, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park stands out in northwestern Ontario as a snowy paradise. Here are four…
Are you ready to start a new tradition for the new year? We have the secret to start 2023 on the right foot. Go for a walk! A first day…
If you’re a summer camp enthusiast, you might want to test your skills in a different season. Winter in our parks is a beautiful time. It is calm and still.…
Are you planning a visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park? Skating through the woods is definitely a winter bucket list activity! But the secret is out! Arrowhead has quickly become one…
If you haven’t explored snow-covered MacGregor Point Provincial Park, you don’t know what you’re missing! The ice skating rink is the main winter attraction, but MacGregor Point also offers skiing,…
Just outside of Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park offers a variety of fun winter activities for day visitors of all types. Here are four reasons why you need to…
Did you know that snowflakes come in all shapes and sizes? Identifying snowflakes is a fun and easy way to get kids outdoors during the winter and spark an interest…
Just because the snowflakes are flying doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring to explore our parks again! These southeastern parks offer many wonderful winter activities close to home.…
No stranger to camping, but want a new adventure? Or maybe you’ve invested some money in winter camping gear? Congratulations! Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park offers the perfect opportunity for those…
Most of us live by our calendars to keep our schedules in order. But did you know that the calendar has astronomical origins? While constellations were created largely to help…
Today’s post comes from year-round multi-species angler and writer Ashley Rae of SheLovesToFish.com. I’ve only had the opportunity to explore Lake Simcoe a few times previously. This included a couple…
Today’s post comes from Gabriel Argenti, a Discovery student at Rondeau Provincial Park. As winter approaches, most wildlife undergoes seasonal changes or new habits. Some animals prepare for the cold…
Staying active in winter is not always easy. For some of us, it’s tempting to stay home, curl up, and spend the long winter months watching Netflix under a warm…
Did you know that over 50% of reservations made through the end of March are for our five most popular parks (Bon Echo, Algonquin, Sandbanks, Killbear, Pinery)? If you can’t…
Over the past few years, camping at Ontario Parks has grown steadily from 4.3 million camping nights booked in 2014 to more than 6.6 million camping nights booked in 2021.…
Today’s post comes from Peter Gallagher, coordinator of the annual Sleeping Giant Loppet event. Do you want to ski to forget the winter blues? The annual Sleeping Giant Loppet is…
Today’s post comes from Isabella Schives, Senior Park Employee at Rushing River Provincial Park. Now that the seasons have changed and snow covers the ground, the natural beauty of this…
Ready for a day of cross-country skiing? Properly preparing your skis can make a big difference in having a fun or frustrating outing. Peter Crooks, slope manager at Kamview Nordic…
Today’s post was written by Connor Oke, Marketing Intern at Ontario Parks, using information provided by Mark Read, a senior ranger on Discovery in Murphy’s Point Provincial Park. If Canada…
Today’s post comes from Natural Heritage Education Leader David Bree at Presqu’ile Provincial Park. With the arrival of winter, we often think of nature entering a dream, but while it…
Nature looks completely different under a bright blanket of snow. Why not strap on some snowshoes and experience Ontario’s parks in a whole new way this winter? Check out some…
Did you know that you can reserve your camping or covered accommodation up to five months in advance of your arrival date? You can book online (and even get a…
Is there only one type of seasonal permit? Do seasonal permits guarantee entry? Is there a way to test a seasonal permit before purchasing it? Read on for six key…
Welcome to Ontario Parks’ “Eyes in the Skies” series. This “space” will cover a wide range of astronomy topics with a focus on what can be seen from the pristine…
Today’s post comes from Mikhaila Lafleur-Weidhaas, Park Ranger at Pancake Bay Provincial Park. Two beach paths diverged on a dune, one clear and busy and the other a shortcut. Do…
Mississagi Provincial Park is located in the Penokean Hills, within Robinson Huron Treaty territory and traditional Anishinaabek territory, about 25 km north of Elliot Lake. We are pleased to announce…
Are you considering applying to a park that offers staff house accommodations? Living in a staff house in a provincial park can be an incredible, unique and memorable experience. Read…
Getting outdoors in Ontario this winter may be quick, but it comes with a host of mood and health benefits. The winter season brings cold weather, shorter days, and too…
Are you planning a cross-province adventure? Review the Driving Routes in Ontario Parks. If an unforgettable road trip is on your bucket list, we have the route for you. Our…
Today’s blog post was written by Jessica Stillman, school outreach coordinator and maple syrup aficionado at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Maple season is upon us! The trees have been cut…
In today’s blog, Helen McConnell, marketing and communications specialist for Algonquin Provincial Park, explains what “SNOW” is and how SNOW data is used to protect our parks and the species…
Last summer, while other people my age were working in customer service or doing internships, I chose a job in beautiful Sandbanks Provincial Park as a maintenance student. Hello, my…
Planning a trip to Forks of the Credit Provincial Park? We want to let you know that the park may look a little different than last time due to an…
Welcome to Ontario Parks’ “Eyes in the Skies” series. This space (see what we did there?) will cover a wide range of astronomy topics with a focus on what can…
Today’s blog comes to us from Sarah Lamond, Algonquin Provincial Park naturalist. Picture it: a warm July day in Algonquin. You’re basking in the day’s rays and exploring an interpretive…
Did you know you can get your daily vehicle permit up to five days in advance at many provincial parks? Check the list to see if your favorite park is…
Frontenac is a four-season backcountry park with great opportunities for backcountry camping, hiking, paddling, and winter activities. Located within the Frontenac Arch, Frontenac has a unique landscape not typically found…
Nagagamisis Provincial Park is a very special place for birds; ask camper Edith St. Martin. During her stay this summer, Edith combined her deep love of learning and teaching with…
Today’s post comes from MacGregor Point Provincial Park, courtesy of Discovery Program Leader Matt Cunliffe. Longer days provide additional hours of outdoor play and provide the perfect opportunity to explore…
Did you know that Kakabeka Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Ontario? Camp, hike, bike and swim to your heart’s content next to a natural wonder. The 40m falls…
We know that many of our visitors are interested in exploring our parks and perhaps taking a piece home. We’ve noticed an increase in the popularity of foraging, but remember:…
Did you know our parks, moths and Discovery staff were featured on an episode of TVOKids Leo’s Pollinators Explorer Club? The series was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for…
Do you feel like taking ice? We certainly are. But spring weather can be fickle. Arriving at the lake too early, not respecting weather conditions, or paddling beyond your skill…
Today’s post comes from marketing specialist and bird watching enthusiast, Tanya Berkers. When Ontario Parks signed on as a sponsor of the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas, I eagerly volunteered…
Have you ever felt calmer, more relaxed or more focused after spending time in nature? This is because spending time outdoors has been studied to have proven benefits for mental…
Planning a visit and wondering if you’ll see a black bear? Tune in to our monthly Black Bear feature, where our ecologists update you on common bear behavior throughout the…
We can definitely recommend getting “lost” in our provincial parks taking in the sights and sounds of nature and living in the moment. However, we do not recommend obtaining in…
Mountain biking is a great way to exercise and spend time surrounded by nature. It can also have a big impact on the environment. We know Ontario park trails are…
Algonquin Provincial Park is internationally recognized and holds a special place in the hearts of many Ontarians. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s also one of the most popular parks…
Today’s post comes from Will Morin, Professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Sudbury and Bruce Waters, former educator at McLaughlin Planetarium and founder of the Killarney Provincial Park…
This post was written by David LeGros, a park naturalist with Ontario Parks. One of the great attractions of camping is the opportunity to get back to nature and experience…
In today’s post, Ontario Parks Northeast Ecologist Anna Sheppard asks for your help (eyes and ears, really). Planning to visit any of these Northwest parks this summer? If so and…
Matt Cunliffe started with Ontario Parks in 2006 and has spent over a decade working as a park interpreter and park planning assistant, and is now a discovery leader at…
Today’s post comes from Jill Legault, information specialist for Quetico Provincial Park. Have you been paddling for years in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and are looking to…
Dust off the camper, RVers! It’s time to get ready for another season of road trips to provincial parks. With the help of our friends at Wayfarer, we’ve put together…
Today’s post comes from assistant ecologist and piping plover specialist, Ian Fife. If you’ve visited some of our popular Great Lakes beaches, you may have noticed restricted areas for a…
Invasive species are among the greatest threats to the survival of Ontario’s native plant and animal life. They are also costly to manage, harmful to international trade and a risk…
Generators. These compact power packs have become more common at campgrounds, providing electricity to RVs during the summer months and keeping campers warm during winter stays. While using a generator…
Ontario is home to more than 250,000 lakes, thousands of kilometers of streams and rivers, and more than 150 species of fish. There are endless fishing opportunities in Ontario parks,…
Today’s blog comes from Kaitlyn Plastino, Discovery Interpreter at Lake Superior Provincial Park. As park staff who live and work along the Lake Superior shoreline, we naturally get a lot…
Five months ago, you woke up early, sat down in front of your computer to reserve a campsite at your favorite park. The big day has finally arrived and you…
Last year, we collaborated with our friends at Collective Arts Brewing to put together a tasty eco-reforestation project for Balsam Lake Provincial Park. Thanks to your unwavering support, we are…
Today’s post comes from Discovery Leader Matt Cunliffe at MacGregor Point Provincial Park. When the big day arrives, if you’re like me, all you want to do is get to…
While swimming, boating and other water activities are central elements of many adventures in Ontario parks, there are also risks associated with these activities. We want our visitors to be…
When we think of bees, we often imagine honey bees. We imagine a swarm buzzing around a hive. But honey bees are just one of 400 different types of bees…
The warm weather is here and many Ontarians are getting out on the water. To ensure you have a fun and safe experience, be sure to check out these seven…
Today’s post was written by Emma Fuller, Discovery guide at Bon Echo Provincial Park. When planning a summer camping trip, a lot is left to chance. You can’t always guarantee…
Do ticks and Lyme disease make you wary of going outdoors? Make sure you know how to protect yourself, your pets, and your loved ones when you embark on an…
The popularity of paddleboarding has skyrocketed in recent years. And Ontario Parks rental teams agree with the trend. No matter what your age, paddle boarding is a wonderful way to…
In today’s post, Discovery Leader Olivia Bennett discusses the impact of turtles on Grundy Lake Provincial Park, and vice versa! When I started working at Grundy Lake, I was talking…
We’ve got some “egg dating” news! In 2022, we set out on a mission to protect Ontario’s at-risk turtles. It was a huge success! In fact, in one park, our…
Today’s post comes from Marketing and Communications summer student, Mitch Jackson. His campfire talents include cooking stuffed peppers, grilling chicken, and always forgetting to bring a lighter. For many campers,…
Is it time to grab our sleeping bags and tents? Research shows that camping in nature is good for our physical and mental well-being. What better reason to get outdoors…
Today’s post comes from Evan McCaul, Assistant Superintendent of Wabakimi Provincial Park. Welcome to all new and returning visitors to Wabakimi! Located a three-hour drive north of Thunder Bay, Wabakimi…
Whether you’re planning a scenic day trip or a backcountry adventure, northeastern Ontario is a paddler’s playground. Last year, Northeastern Ontario Tourism asked its readers to vote for their top…
“The living advantage.” It sounds more like a Bond movie than the name of a trail, until you follow it through the forest. The Living Edge Trail in Six Mile…
Just when we thought nothing could beat the “good for you” news about chocolate… …research shows that rowing is good not only for our physical health, but also for our…
With hundreds of parks in Ontario, it’s easy to overlook one that’s right next door. But you don’t have to drive far to enjoy great camping options! Here are five…
Located on Lake Simcoe, Sibbald Point Provincial Park is a great place for day use. The park has a sandy beach and shallow waters perfect for children. But during the…
Part of being a good pet owner and park visitor is cleaning up after your dog. “Dent and pick up” is a phrase every pet owner has heard for decades,…
If you’ve ever pedaled uphill, you probably wouldn’t be surprised to learn that cycling is great for working your lower body, but did you know that the health benefits go…
Welcome to Ontario Parks’ “Eyes in the Skies” series. This space (
If you’re looking for a quiet campground with private sites and a relaxing atmosphere, put Selkirk Provincial Park on your bucket list. Just 15 minutes east of Port Dover, Selkirk…
We all know that Ontario’s provincial parks aim to protect our landscapes and natural species. But did you know that each individual park is protected for its own (often very…
So you’re spending the day in one of our parks and looking to reduce your ecological footprint? Here’s how to spend a day of outdoor fun with a low-waste twist.…
Black bears live throughout Ontario in forested areas where they can find plenty of food, shelter and dens. Our provincial parks are your home and over 90% of our parks…
The Ontario Parks Discovery team is working hard to find creative ways to connect visitors to the special stories and values protected in our parks. If you visit any of…
In today’s post, Awenda Park Chief Naturalist Tim Tully defends what some may think is indefensible: the seagull. If ever there was an animal that gets a raw deal, it’s…
Before you pack for your day trip or camping adventure, make sure you know what type of equipment is allowed in our parks during the fire ban. What is a…
Grundy Lake Provincial Park is one of those places you must experience in person. It sounds good on paper: picturesque lakes, sandy beaches, tall pine forests, and lots of great…
Planning a visit and wondering if you’ll see a black bear? Tune in to our monthly Black Bear feature, where our ecologists update you on common bear behavior throughout the…
Getting outdoors is important for people of all ages and lifestyles. Getting outdoors is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature around us. Best of all,…
Ontario Parks is fortunate to be able to protect and showcase a wealth of natural sights across the province. While some places are relatively easy to access, others will challenge…
Port Burwell Provincial Park is a favorite spot for families, dog lovers and beach lovers. With 2.5 km of sandy beach, a dog-friendly beach and exercise area, and numerous recreational…
Parks in southeastern Ontario are a favorite of many and offer a variety of landscapes, bodies of water and fun activities. But they can be very busy, especially on weekends,…
`In today’s post, Sarah Wiebe, senior naturalist at Kettle Lakes Provincial Park, shows us that loons and campers aren’t all that different. Like many families, the Common Loons choose Kettle…
We know that camping or visiting a park for a day for the first time can be intimidating. What supplies do I bring? What are the rules? How can I…
Summer is here and now is the perfect time for a last-minute family road trip! During the busy summer months, the solution to finding a quiet camping trip is to…
Halfway Lake Provincial Park features more than 4,000 hectares of rugged, forested Canadian Shield, dotted with bright blue lakes. Less than an hour north of Sudbury on Highway 144, the…
Today’s blog was written by Jessica Stillman, School Outreach Coordinator at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Parks are magical places. I don’t need to convince you of this. But sometimes we…
Ontario Parks protect not only the land, but also a network of more than one million hectares of lakes and rivers across the province. And we want you to be…
Today’s post comes from James Burns, conservation officer and former Quetico Park interior ranger from 2000 to 2013. If the water is too cold to expect a deep lake dive…
For the 25th year, Killarney Provincial Park is hosting its Annual Butterfly Count. And if you’re heading to Killarney on July 8, 2023, we’d like your help! The Killarney Butterfly…
Gardens are not something you typically think of when it comes to Ontario parks, considering we preserve many of Ontario’s natural landscapes. But there is one type of garden we…
Calling all park lovers, we have exciting news! We are exploring the creation of Ontario’s first urban provincial park near Uxbridge… …and we want to know what you think! Share…
Today’s post comes from Jess Matthews, Chief Naturalist of Rondeau Provincial Park. A change was needed at the Rondeau Visitor Center and we wanted it to be big. We worked…
We are absolutely delighted to announce that we are taking steps to create the first new full-service operating park in 40 years… …Bigwind Lake Provincial Park! People need parks If…
In today’s post, Discovery Leader Carlin Thompson from Sandbanks Provincial Park shares her best tips for nature journaling with kids. We did it, parents! We spent another winter. The struggle…
So goes the easy-to-remember rhyme that’s supposed to help you identify the infamous Poison Ivy plant. Touching poison ivy can cause extraordinarily unpleasant itchy blisters. Therefore, identifying this species is…
Today’s post comes from Jazmin Gall, Acting Assistant Discovery Leader at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park. Moose are, without a doubt, a magnificent sight to see. Having the opportunity to…
You are in the park. You’ve set up your site and can now spend the night relaxing. You had a long trip and you are relaxing by talking with your…
Our gate staff are frontline heroes of park operations. (If you’ve ever checked into a bustling park on a busy Friday afternoon, you already know exactly What are we talking…
Have you ever wanted to explore the outdoors, create a masterpiece or go to space? You’re lucky! Our FREE Discovery Kit rental program is designed to help you do all…
We are excited to bring the Voyageur Adventure Tour back to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park this summer! Experience the life of a traveler at the height of the fur…
Today’s post comes from Jessie Robinson, a Discovery staff member at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park. As we become a more environmentally conscious generation, we pay more attention to how…
The day begins with the best intentions. You’ve brought your inflatable flamingo (or unicorn, yellow duck, or inner tube…) to your favorite beach in hopes of getting some much-needed rest…
Access to green spaces and parks remains essential. With so many visitors enjoying campgrounds, parks and beaches this summer, there has been an influx of food and trash. This excess…
North Beach Provincial Park is a beautiful day park that offers long sandy beaches along Lake Ontario and its enclosed bay – 2000 meters of sandy beach to be specific!…
Mobile phones have changed our lives in many ways. It seems there is an app available to meet all our needs, from baking to banking and everything in between. At…
In today’s post, the Ontario Barks committee chair dog shows us his favorite parks to take a WALK. Nothing makes my tail wag faster than watching my humans pack for…
Fishing is an iconic Canadian pastime. There’s nothing like spending the day by the water with your friends and family, casting a line, and enjoying the outdoors. But did you…
Today’s post comes from multi-species angler and writer Ashley Rae of SheLovesToFish.com. Fishing is a wonderful activity that can be enjoyed all year round at any age. It’s a sport…
Have you ever relaxed at a new picnic table? Did you throw your trash in an empty trash container? Strolling along a newly repaired boardwalk? Thank a maintenance worker. Our…
The berries are finally ripening and it’s time for black bears in Ontario to start putting on weight. In July, breeding season ends and black bears get down to the…
Wondering where to go during your summer vacation? Look no further, because Rondeau Provincial Park could be the perfect getaway for you and your family! Located on Lake Erie, Rondeau…
Tucked away in a corner of Killbear Provincial Park is a special place: the Twin Points Trail. With windswept pine trees, craggy rocks and an abundance of wildlife, this is…
Fairbank Provincial Park is 25 minutes north of Highway 17 and 35 km west of Sudbury. This quiet, family-friendly park offers a peaceful setting for camping, swimming and paddling, and…
You’ve heard about this fantastic new adventure from a friend, a trail guide, or Instagram. It seems a little difficult and you’re pretty new to the whole backcountry thing. Still,…
Today’s post comes from Kelila Seymour, discovery leader at Neys Provincial Park. While some parks may boast a connection to the Canadian Pacific Railroad (CPR), few parks are “tied” to…
A camping trip requires a lot of planning and preparation, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Thunderstorms are common throughout parts of Ontario from late April to early October.…
Long lines, crying kids, and “normal” photos can get in the way of your camping style. Find space, serenity and more by avoiding the weekend crowds: 1. Your own personal…
Today’s post comes from our discovery specialist, Dave Sproule. We are lucky to live in a province where nature has blessed us with many lakes, a variety of landscapes and…