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French River

French River Provincial Park

Backcountry Camping

1. The Experience:

From the rugged hills and thick forests of the Canadian Shield to the channels, bays, and lakes that interconnect along this waterway, French River Provincial Park is a maze of quiet hideaways and fast-moving water. The French River flows for 105 km from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, offering breathtaking scenery.

Backcountry camping in French River is perfect for adventurers looking for a long multi-day trip along the river. All fast-moving water has been marked and there are well-maintained portages to bypass these areas.

Fishing on the French River is a great way to spend a day, either from the shore of your campsite, or on the paddle to your next site.

French River paddlers and boaters have their pick of 283 backcountry campsites scattered along the shore of the river. They can also enjoy sailing and paddling in Georgian Bay. All campsites and portages in French River are accessible by boat and are clearly marked.

All campsites have a firepit, and most are equipped with box privies, where the landscape permits.

2. Reservations 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 French River Provincial Park. Permits can be purchased online up to two weeks in advance of your arrival date.

Permits may also be purchased at the French River Visitor Centre located on Settler's Rd. at the French River.

3. Trip Planning

Maps of French River are available for purchase online, at the French River Visitor Centre, at several local outfitters, or at the Friends of Killarney store. All campsites are accessible by water only, there are no hike in campsites.

For information about French River and local outfitters, click here.

Private property and Indigenous people’s lands neighbour French River. Please respect the rights of these land owners and obtain permission if you must step on private land.

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.