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.

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

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!

Continue reading Falling for campsite crafting

Why do I see empty campsites at busy parks?

We get this question a lot: “Why do I see empty campsites but there are so few campsites available when I’m making a reservation?”

In recent years, our parks have seen a big increase in reservations. We’re so glad that so many people want to spend time in our wonderful parks, but the increased interest can also make it more competitive to book a campsite, especially at busy parks and on popular dates.

Continue reading Why do I see empty campsites at busy parks?

How to successfully camp in the rain

Is the forecast looking a little rainy for your upcoming camping trip?

Don’t let it bring you down! Some of the best memories happen on the rainiest days.

All you need are a few tips and tricks to ensure you’re prepared for inclement weather. Keep these tips in mind even if the forecast calls for sunny skies!

Continue reading How to successfully camp in the rain

What to do when garbage bins are full

Access to green space and parks continues to be essential.

With so many visitors enjoying campsites, parks, and beaches this summer, it has resulted in an influx of food and garbage left behind.

This excess waste creates a dangerous situation when it is not disposed of properly. We’d like to ask our visitors to follow responsible garbage can etiquette on their next visit.

Continue reading What to do when garbage bins are full

5 reasons to visit Halfway Lake Provincial Park

Halfway Lake Provincial Park features over 4,000 ha of rugged, forested Canadian Shield, dotted with sparkling blue lakes.

Less than an hour north of Sudbury on Highway 144, the park boasts an oasis of swimming, paddling, and hiking with a full service campground.

Here are five reasons we think Halfway Lake will delight family campers and explorers alike:

Continue reading 5 reasons to visit Halfway Lake Provincial Park

4 southeast parks for your midweek getaway

Parks in southeastern Ontario are favourites for many, offering a variety of landscapes, bodies of water, and fun activities.

But they can be very busy, especially on weekends with campers and day-trippers alike.

Had a hard time snagging a weekend site at your favourite park? Consider a midweek camping trip!

Avoid the weekend crowds and book a relaxing trip to one of these gems:

Continue reading 4 southeast parks for your midweek getaway

5 reasons to visit Grundy Lake Provincial Park

Grundy Lake Provincial Park is one of those places you have to experience in person.

It sounds nice on paper — scenic lakes, sandy beaches, tall pine forests, and lots of great campsites.

But when you start to explore, those features come to life. This is a park that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Continue reading 5 reasons to visit Grundy Lake Provincial Park

5 reasons to visit Earl Rowe Provincial Park

With hundreds of parks in Ontario, it’s easy to overlook one that’s right next door.

But you don’t need to drive far for great camping options!

Here are five reasons you should consider Earl Rowe Provincial Park when you’re planning your next (or your first!) camping adventure.

Continue reading 5 reasons to visit Earl Rowe Provincial Park

7 things to remember when arriving at the park gatehouse for day use

In today’s post comes from Discovery Leader Matt Cunliffe at MacGregor Point Provincial Park

When the big day comes, if you’re like me, all you want to do is get to your site: tent set, chairs out, feet up.

I’ve worked for Ontario Parks since 2006, afnd last year had the opportunity to run a gate house.

This gave me an increased respect for the amazing work our gate staff perform and valuable perspective on just how busy the park can be during check-in time for a long weekend…or any weekend for that matter.

And after a season of answering questions and helping campers, here are a few considerations for this year:

Continue reading 7 things to remember when arriving at the park gatehouse for day use