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 with family and friends and sleep under the stars?
Check out the brain and body benefits of camping:
Benefits for your brain
Improve the Zzzz: Sleeping away from artificial light and waking up to natural sunlight can reset your circadian rhythm, helping you feel refreshed after a better night’s sleep.
Bonding with friends and family: A camping trip with family and/or friends provides excellent bonding time. Sitting around a campfire and talking without distractions is a great way to connect.
More green time, less screen time: Camping is a great opportunity for a digital detox. Turn off the screens and give your eyes and mind a rest. Many parks have cell coverage, so resist the temptation to post live camping updates on social media by leaving your cell phone turned off in your car.
Less stress: Camping in nature takes us away from common daily stresses such as traffic, work and noise pollution. Instead, we are exposed to relaxing sights and stress-reducing sounds, such as waves, rushing rivers, and birdsong.
Benefits for your body
Fresh air: Camping and spending more time in nature surrounded by trees means breathing more oxygen and less pollution. Your body works with less effort when there is plenty of oxygen. The extra oxygen also causes your body to release serotonin, considered a contributing factor to feelings of well-being and happiness.
Get a boost of vitamin D: Spending time outdoors means you can enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Research has shown that vitamin D can help protect against multiple diseases, is important for the normal growth and development of bones and teeth, and may even help prevent some forms of cancer.
Stay active: As you set up camp, find water to drink and wash, walk to the bathrooms, and light your campfire, you’ll discover that camping can be quite physical and makes you and your family more active. This extra activity keeps your heart and lungs healthy!
Find a campsite near you
For more information on camping facilities at different parks, check out the “Camping” tab on individual park pages or learn more about camping in Ontario parks here.
New to camping?
Ontario Parks offers our Park Ambassador program in 21 parks across the province! Book time with a park ambassador for a free 30-minute individual, group, or online workshop.
Healthy Parks, Healthy People
Research shows that spending time in nature is good for our physical and mental health, and camping is just one way to include more nature in our lives. This is why Ontario Parks has embraced the global community Healthy Parks, Healthy People movement that encourages everyone to spend more time in nature.
In celebration of Healthy Parks, Healthy People movement, Ontario Parks is offering FREE day use at all Ontario parks on July 21, 2023; the perfect time to visit some parks and visit nearby campgrounds.