Backcountry Camping
1. The Experience:
Esker Lakes Provincial Park provides a quiet, family-friendly backcountry experience. The park contains 29 glacial formed lakes, many of which are connected by short portages over the eskers throughout the landscape.
The lakes in the backcountry offer great wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities for Lake Trout, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch.
The two backcountry campsites in the park are on Lulu Lake. They serve as a basecamp for exploring other small lakes in the area through day trips. The main canoe routes are well marked with portage and campsite signs.
Each campsite has picnic table, cleared area for tent, fire pit, and box privy.
2. Reservations and Interior Camping Permits
Campsite specific reservations are available online or by phone up to five months in advance of your arrival date. Winter reservations are available by contacting the park directly at 705-272-7139. Reservations are recommended to secure your campsite.
Interior camping permits are required for backcountry camping at Esker Lakes Provincial Park. Permits are obtained in-person at the park office during business hours.
3. Trip Planning
Maps are available at the park gatehouse.
The main backcountry access point and parking lot is located at the trail head of the Trapper’s Trail where visitors can access either Panagapka Lake or Lallan Lake.
More information about exploring Esker Lakes backcountry can be found here.
Please be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors. Practice leave-no-trace camping, camp only on designated campsites, and be aware of your surrounding neighbours, ecology, and wildlife. We appreciate your efforts to maintain this pristine environment.
Car Camping
More than half of Esker Lakes’ campsites are electrical, and usually available for reservation.
Group Camping
There are three group camping areas in the park. These secluded areas are great for family reunions or spending time with a group of friends. Reservations can be made online or by phone.