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Spanish River

Spanish River Provincial Park

Backcountry Camping

1. The Experience

Spanish River Provincial Park features rugged landscapes, towering pines, and a variety of whitewater options. The park can be accessed by road or VIA train. Paddling routes on both the east and west branch make it a popular option for backcountry camping.

Some routes are only accessible by train. The train will drop off and pick up paddlers at various points along the river.

All campsites and portages are marked, and all campsites have a box privy.

2. Reservation and Interior Camping Permits

Camping reservations are not available at this park. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Interior camping permits are required for backcountry camping at Spanish River Provincial Park. Permits can be purchased online up to two weeks in advance of your arrival date.

Interior camping permits may also be obtained from Chutes, Windy Lake, and Halfway Lake Provincial Parks, or from a local permit issuer. For a complete list of local permit issuers please contact the park office.

3. Trip Planning

A map is available for purchase online or at Chutes Provincial Park.

The park can be accessed from Duke Lake, The Elbow, Bisocasting, and various stops along the Via Rail. The Duke Lake access point offers a boat launch and privy.

There is a ban on cans and glass bottles in Spanish River.

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.