Category: Camping

Taking my mom camping for the first time in 20 years

In today’s post, Assistant Program Coordinator Megan Birrell takes us through her latest camping caper.

This fall, I took my mom to Arrowhead Provincial Park for our first fall camping experience. Not only was this our first time camping after Labour Day, but it was also my mom’s first time tent camping in over 20 years, so this was a big change.

I grew up camping around the province in massive trailers that, while comfortable, are not the easiest to tow around. So in the past few years I’ve switched back to tent camping, and this time my mom was joining me.

Our main worries ahead of our trip were:

  • what if it’s too cold?
  • what is there to do?
  • do we have the right gear?

With a little planning we soothed those worries, although some other issues popped up in the process.

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Perfect parks for your late fall camping trip

Looking to extend your camping season?

Many of our parks are open for overnight stays in October and November. Whether you snuggle up in your tent or get cozy in your RV, make sure you pack extra socks!

Bundle up and book a trip to one of these late fall camping spots:

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5 reasons to try late fall camping

It’s not time to say goodbye to your favourite park just yet!

While some of our parks close after Thanksgiving Weekend, many remain open through late fall and even through the winter.

If you’ve never tried a late fall camping trip, this might be the perfect opportunity to make the most of the season before packing up for the winter.

Here are five reasons to try late fall camping:

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4 tips to prep your camping gear for the off-season

All good things must come to an end, including the heat of summer.

You’ve learned to set up and take down your equipment this year, but do you know how to properly store it over the winter (without producing any mildew, funky smells, or damage)?

In case you need a quick refresher (pun intended), we’ve created a checklist to help make sure your gear is ready and waiting for your first spring adventure.

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Falling for campsite crafting

Today, Content Development Specialist Andrea Coulter takes us through some family friendly fall crafts. 

Last fall, my kids and I joined my parents on a three-generation camping trip to Canisbay Lake Campground at Algonquin Provincial Park.

We spent our days going for bike rides, hiking, and visiting around the campfire, but my kids’ creative bug was definitely itching. I was glad I had prepared some activities for around the campsite!

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Considerate Camper: keep our trees healthy

Welcome to our “Considerate Camper” series. These are posts with tips and reminders on how to keep our provincial parks clean and healthy. Already know how it’s done? Please share these posts along for less-experienced campers 🙂

We’re taking a leaf out of the Lorax’s book and speaking for the trees today!

When maintaining our campgrounds, we often notice marks in our trees. Many are from axes and nails, and plenty of trees have names, shapes and initials carved across their bark.

Did you know these holes and gouges risk the tree’s health and may result in its destruction?

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Extend your paddling season at Rideau River Provincial Park

Influencer Diana Lee lives for adventure, the great outdoors, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)! Find out what she’s (S)UP to @only1phoenixx on Instagram and Twitter.

Enjoy land and water activities beyond the summer season at Rideau River Provincial Park, a cozy spot to experience fall.

Located on the traditional territory of the Omàmìwininìwag (Algonquin), Anishinabewaki, Wendake-Nionwentsïo, Haudenosaunee, Rideau River Provincial Park’s campground stretches right along the water.

And not just any body of water! Visible from almost anywhere in the park, the Rideau River is part of the Rideau Waterway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Canadian Heritage River System.

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5 reasons to visit Rideau River Provincial Park this fall

Located just 40 minutes outside of Ottawa, Rideau River Provincial Park offers a relaxing camping experience with activities for the whole family.

Rideau River is open for camping and day use until October 10!

Here are a few reasons why you’ll love to experience this park in the fall season:

Continue reading 5 reasons to visit Rideau River Provincial Park this fall

5 reasons to make a midweek visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park this fall

Arrowhead Provincial Park offers visitors a change to experience beautiful fall colours within the heart of Muskoka.

Weekends at Arrowhead are lively with lots of visitors and activity, but if you’re looking for that true serene “nature” experience, try visiting during the week!

Here are five park features you won’t want to miss:

Continue reading 5 reasons to make a midweek visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park this fall