Welcome to Ontario Parks
With over 250,000 lakes, countless rivers, heritage waterways, and vast wilderness areas, visitors to Ontario Parks experience some of the most inspiring scenic landscapes in Canada. For over 125 years, families and friends have forged unforgettable memories through hiking, paddling, wildlife watching, and camping under the stars.
World class visitor centres and enthusiastic education staff guide visitors through Ontario’s rich cultural past, and foster connections with Ontario’s abundant natural wonders. Whether you seek a moment of serenity on a deserted beach, or a heart pounding, epic wilderness adventure, Ontario Parks has an experience for you.
#Find yourself here.
When to Visit
Most provincial parks in Ontario open in late May and close in October. Peak season for Ontario Parks is July and August. Shoulder seasons in the spring and fall are the best time of year to visit for a quieter experience. The spring represents a unique opportunity to witness significant bird migrations and spectacular wildflower blooms. In the fall, the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows of the fall colours transforms Ontario’s vast forests into a kaleidoscope of unparalleled nature viewing.
Winter is a special time in Ontario. Thirty-one Ontario Parks are open to help visitors experience the delight of winter. Enjoy snowshoeing adventures and some of the best cross-country skiing in Canada. Glide through a frosty forest on one of our two magical skating trails or stay warm and cozy in a heated roofed accommodation. Rental equipment is available at several parks to complete your trip.
Camping and Accommodations
Car and RV campsites: A wide selection of campsites are available, each one equipped with a picnic table, fire pit, and a parking space. Hot showers and flush toilets are usually nearby. Campsites with electrical service are available.
Roofed Accommodation: Stay in a yurt or cabin. Ontario Parks offers almost 200 roofed accommodation units, from fully equipped cottages for glamping, to rustic cabins for those seeking a wilderness experience with a roof over their head.
OntarioParks.com/roofedaccommodation
Backcountry: Experience the ultimate in serene nature with a stay at a primitive campsite only accessible by foot or boat. Backcountry travel requires specialized skills and equipment.
Reservations: Reservations are available for up to 5 months in advance of your arrival date.
Etiquette
At Ontario Parks, visitors are coming to see specially protected areas. Please be aware of etiquette and policies.
- A park permit is required and must be displayed on the dash of a vehicle at all times.
- Always check in at the main gate when arriving at a park.
- Please do not approach or disturb wildlife you see in the park. This includes feeding birds and other wildlife, as well as picking flowers or other plants.
- Please dispose of all garbage and recycling in the receptacles provided. If there are no garbage containers at the trail or facility, garbage should be kept in a vehicle.
- Never leave garbage or food unattended on campsites, as it can attract wildlife.
- Visitors should always respect the privacy of other campers. Please stay off of occupied campsites and avoid creating excessive noise.
- Always stay on marked roads and trails.
Trip Planning Resources
Destination Ontario provides consumer trip planning assistance. Please contact them by phone at 1-800-ONTARIO
Search for parks on a map based on your needs: www.ontarioparks.com/park-locator
Our team can help travel professionals develop exciting programs featuring Ontario Parks, and support you in selling our destination to your clients. We can provide copy, logos and high-resolution photo and video. Please contact Jeff Brown at jeff.brown@ontario.ca for more information.
To enrich your client’s travel experience throughout eastern Ontario, please visit https://ohtraveltrade.ca to access travel trade ready touring routes, passports, suggested itineraries, tariffs and mini-program rates. Come wander Ontario’s highlands and discover the heart of Canada.
Ontario Parks Driving Routes
Lake Superior Route: Looking for a Northern Ontario adventure? This spectacular route connects Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, while navigating through the beauty of rugged shorelines, cascading rivers and waterfalls, smooth rock and sand beaches, cultural history, and unique geological features of Lake Superior.
Algonquin - Ontario Highlands Route: Explore unique geological features along the Canadian Shield while enjoying the scenic beauty, cultural history, and rich canoe culture.
North of Algonquin Route: Explore Ontario’s history and hidden gems along this route while exploring the parks surrounding Ontario’s most famous natural destination.
Northwestern Ontario Route: Welcome to sunset country! This circle tour driving route will take you to some of your favourite provincial parks or let you discover new ones. Relish days spent hiking, fishing, and paddling through iconic Canadian landscapes.
Boreal Route: This route travels through a unique ecosystem unlike anything you’ll find in southern Ontario. This region is one that many Canadians will never see, yet offers so much in terms of history, culture, and natural wonder.
