Wed. Nov 29th, 2023
Where to camp when your favorite park is already full

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 get a spot to camp in one of these parks, we have some suggestions we’re sure you’ll love…

When Bon Echo is full…

Try Lake Charleston Provincial Park.

Charleston Lake is an ideal family camping destination, offering great places for swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking.

Be aware

The 2.6 km Sandstone Island Trail features incredible geology, overhanging cliffs, and a rock shelter that was used about 1,200 years ago by the area’s indigenous people.

Canoes and kayaks can be rented.

When Algonquin is full…

Try Lake St. Peter or Bonnechere Provincial Parks.

beach

St. Peter Lake, located just outside Algonquin Provincial Park, is perfect for exploring by jet ski or on foot. There are many electric and waterfront campsites available, all near water taps and vault toilets.

Relax on its sandy beaches or take on one of its hiking trails for a challenge.

person with dogs

Bonnechere, located 2 hours from Ottawa, is one of the hidden gems of the Ottawa Valley. Perfect for families, Bonnechere has it all: great swimming, paddling, hiking, and even an outdoor library.

Their private campgrounds keep campers coming back year after year, including some stunning waterfront campgrounds that let you launch your canoe or kayak right from your site.

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If you prefer to leave your tent at home and enjoy the park with a roof over your head, the park has you covered with Pine Shores Cottage or rustic cabins.

When Sandbanks and Presqu’ile are full…

Try Darlington Provincial Park or Ferris Provincial Park.

family with kite on Darlington beach

Located just east of Oshawa, Darlington offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, perfect for swimming, on the shores of Lake Ontario. Fishing is a popular activity for the whole family in Darlington’s McLaughlin Bay. You can even borrow fishing rods and tackle at the park store through the TackleShare program.

Visitors love the forest trails, and during the summer months, programs are offered including children’s activities, movie nights, campfires, and guided hikes.

Autumn landscape with river and pedestrian bridge acrossPhoto: Northumberland Tourism

Visitors love the magnificent views of the River Trent Gorge from the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge. Ferris’s Valleyview Campground sits on a wooded drumlin, and some campsites offer views of the Trent River Valley. Bedrock Loop has a few electric campsites and is just a short walk from the playground and day-use picnic areas.

And Ferris is just 45 minutes from Presqu’ile and 1.25 hours from Sandbanks, so many visitors camp here and plan day trips to the beach.

When Killbear is full…

Try Restoule or Sturgeon Bay provincial parks.

looking at the lake

About 3 or 4 hours north of Toronto through the small hamlet of Restoule, this park offers all the serenity you need to get away from it all.

Enjoy the tranquility of the park by relaxing on the beach during the day and gazing at the starry sky at night. Its scenic hiking trails and exciting mountain biking routes mean there is something for everyone!

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Mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards can be rented.

sunset

Sturgeon Bay is located among the 30,000 islands, just off Trans Canada Highway 69. Campers love Sturgeon Bay for its charming campsites, with swimming, boating, canoeing and watercraft within walking distance.

There are four cabins available for those who want to get away in style.

When Pinery is full…

Try Point Farms Provincial Park. Just north of Goderich, Point Farms has the Pinery vibe without the crowds.

tree

Point Farms campgrounds can accommodate any size equipment, from small tents to large RVs. Take a dip in Lake Huron and relax on its natural sand beach. Known for their Halloween celebrations, Point Farms is a great option to extend your camping trip into the fall!

We have many beautiful parks.

If you can’t get a spot at your first choice, you can be sure there is another campground with your name nearby.

Many campsites are still available during the planning season and during the summer months. Check availability, click here or use the park locator tool to discover new parks to visit.