Ah, the great outdoors! Where wifi is weak, but the connection is strong. Where the alarm clock is a chorus of chirping birds, and hitting snooze means rolling over in your sleeping bag. My journey through Ontario’s wilderness was one of campfires, canoes, and constellations. And let’s not forget the s’mores, the burnt, gooey, and occasionally dropped-in-the-dirt s’mores!
Here’s the best part: securing a campsite at any of these stunning locations is just a click away. Simply head over to https://reservations.ontarioparks.com and let your outdoor adventure begin.
So, strap on your hiking boots, slather on that bug spray, and join me on this hilarious and enlightening romp through the 9 best campsites in Ontario.
9 Best Campsites in Ontario
Algonquin Provincial Park
Algonquin, the grand old man of all campsites in Ontario, Canada, paints a picture of picturesque maple hills, rugged ridges, and a mind-boggling assortment of lakes and rivers sprawling across an area of 7,653 square kilometers. It’s like someone took a colossal watercolor palette and went to town!
Just a leisurely 3-hour drive from Ottawa, the best way to explore this gem is the old-fashioned way—by paddle or on foot. While there’s plenty of bustle along Highway 60, you can find solitude at Brent, Coon Lake, or Achray. Achray has a special place in my heart; I mean, who can resist a gigantic sandy beach and a peek into the past with the 1916 Tom Thompson cabin? Also, if you’ve ever dreamed of navigating through reflective waters, the canoe route leading to the awe-inspiring Barron Canyon is a dream come true.
And if you thought Algonquin hibernates in the winter, think again! Swap your hiking boots for skis, ice skates, or snowshoes, and cozy up in yurts under the snowy winter sky.
Just don’t forget to paddle along Canoe Lake, as I did—it’s a quintessential Algonquin experience you don’t want to miss.
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Imagine waking up between the towering cliffs of Lake Huron and the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay. Welcome to Bruce Peninsula National Park, a magical blend of diverse landscapes. With so many camping options available, from backcountry camping for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts to yurts for those who enjoy their creature comforts, there’s a sweet spot for everyone.
And the Bruce Trail, an old friend of the park and one of the top campsites in Ontario, never fails to surprise with breathtaking vistas just waiting around the bend. For a surreal experience, venture to the Grotto—a natural sea cave with a pool—just remember, it’s as cold as your ex’s heart!
Killarney Provincial Park
Killarney, oh beautiful Killarney, where the La Cloche Mountains meet the sapphire lakes—it’s like walking into a postcard. The Group of Seven, Canada’s famous artists, fell in love with Killarney’s stunning landscapes—and so did I. There’s something for everyone, from drive-in sites at George Lake Campground for families and casual campers to backcountry sites for those who crave a closer encounter with nature.
A hike on the famous “The Crack” trail might leave you huffing and puffing, but the reward is a panoramic view that will leave you speechless. And if you’re a morning person like me, the sunrise paddle on the peaceful George Lake is a must. Keep your eyes peeled for otters—they love a good morning swim!
But remember, while these adorable creatures are a joy to watch, it’s important to respect their space. Please refrain from feeding any wildlife you encounter in the park. These natural inhabitants should learn to find food themselves, and developing a habit of coming close to people could disrupt their natural behavior. So, let’s admire from a distance, and ensure our parks stay wild and beautiful for generations to come.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Ah, Sandbanks, the Caribbean of the North! Here, I swapped the forest for fine white sand beaches. Golden dunes rise dramatically to meet the sky and turquoise waters lap against the shore. This park boasts some of the largest freshwater bay mouth sandbar dunes in the world. Sandbanks is basically Mother Nature’s sandbox and let me tell you, she knows how to make epic sandcastles!
Pitch your tent or park your RV at one of the cozy campgrounds and wake up to the sweet symphony of waves. Take a dip in Lake Ontario, which can be surprisingly balmy in the summer. Or go for a thrilling windsurfing ride, because who needs roller coasters when you’ve got a surfboard and a gusty breeze?
As twilight descends, ignite a campfire and share stories under a canopy of twinkling stars. Sandbanks, my friend, is where sand castle dreams come true.
One of my fondest memories is when I channelled my inner architect and built an elaborate sandcastle—only to have it invaded by seagulls. Pro-tip: Don’t leave your sandwich unattended at this campsite in Ontario, Canada!
Pukaskwa National Park
Journey to Pukaskwa National Park, a true Northern gem tucked along the shores of mighty Lake Superior. It’s wild, rugged, and unbelievably gorgeous. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to grow a bushy beard and become a hermit, in the best way possible!
Whether you’re an ambitious backpacker looking to conquer the 60 km Coastal Hiking Trail (bring your A-game, this trail’s a beast), or you’re just in for a leisurely paddle amidst the isolated backcountry, Pukaskwa has you covered.
And the campsites? Oh, they are a thing of beauty! They hug the coastline, offering stunning views of Lake Superior. And, if you’re lucky, you might catch the Northern Lights performing their whimsical dance. It’s safe to say, Pukaskwa is as one of the best campsites in Ontario!
I’ll never forget the thrill of spotting a bald eagle while hiking the Coastal Hiking Trail. Just remember, when in bear country, keep your snacks sealed tight!
Killbear Provincial Park
Killbear is what happens when endless stretches of beautiful beaches meet abundant wildlife, like a real-life version of a Canadian-themed Baywatch! This provincial park located on Georgian Bay is a kaleidoscope of stunning landscapes, and it’s ready to sweep you off your feet.
Try out the Lighthouse Point Trail for a breathtaking view of the bay. Pack a picnic and spend the day lounging on the sandy beaches. Or, for the water babies, kayak or paddleboard your way around the park.
The campsites here are nestled amidst pine trees, with the gentle lullaby of lapping waves as your nighttime soundtrack. From cliff-top camping to windsurfing, Killbear has it all. My favorite experience was watching the spectacular Georgian Bay sunset while enjoying an impromptu beach barbecue. If it’s starry skies you’re after, you’re in the right spot.
But don’t be surprised if a curious deer wanders by your site. They love a good campground stroll just as much as we do!
Quetico Provincial Park
If canoeing is your cup of tea, then Quetico is your oversized, well-stocked tea buffet! This park, found in Northwestern Ontario, is a paddler’s paradise. With over 2,000 serene lakes scattered throughout the park, there’s enough adventure here to keep even the most restless souls entertained.
What’s that you hear? That’s right, it’s the sweet sound of…nothing. Except maybe a distant loon, or the rustling of leaves. Quetico is where you go to unplug from the world, to paddle your worries away amidst clear waters and endless skies.
I still remember the peaceful rhythm of my paddle cutting through the mirrored water. Canoeing novice? No worries, I capsized only, oh… four times!
For campers, Quetico presents beautiful backcountry campsites, where the only light show you’ll see comes from the starry night sky. Be sure to pack your fishing gear—the walleye and smallmouth bass are practically begging for a challenge!
Bon Echo Provincial Park
Alright, all you rock-climbing, history-loving, art-appreciating adventurers, this one’s for you. Bon Echo Provincial Park, nestled in Southeastern Ontario, is home to the dazzling Mazinaw Rock. This towering 1.5 km-long cliff features over 260 indigenous pictographs. It’s like an ancient art gallery but without the fancy dress code.
Camping at Bon Echo is a treat, with options ranging from cushy cabins to beautiful waterfront sites. Pro tip: grab a canoe and paddle your way across Mazinaw Lake, where you can take in the beauty of the towering rock from a whole new perspective. And hey, why not catch the sunset while you’re at it? Trust me, it’s worth it.
I recommend taking a guided tour to truly appreciate this historical wonder—I felt like Indiana Jones deciphering ancient codes!
More about my camping experience at Bon Echo Provincial park is here.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
No, there’s no gigantic dozing humanoid here (despite the name), but the breathtaking views at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park will certainly leave you feeling wide awake! Located on the Sibley Peninsula near Thunder Bay, the park gets its name from the Sleeping Giant mesa, which, from certain angles, resembles a giant lying on its back. Don’t poke him; he’s been snoozing for thousands of years.
The park boasts over 100 km of hiking trails, each leading you deeper into the wild, untamed beauty of Ontario’s wilderness. Climb the Top of the Giant Trail for panoramic views that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.
This is one of the best campsites in Ontario for a nature lover, with options for both drive-in and backcountry sites. And as the sun dips below the horizon, brace yourself for a night sky sprinkled with a million stars. Just remember to keep quiet—we wouldn’t want to wake the Giant now, would we?
Wrapping Up
Camping is all about unplugging from life’s humdrum routine and plugging into nature’s beauty—and the occasional hilarity that comes with being a city slicker in the wilderness. From Algonquin’s haunting loons to the chipmunks of Bruce Peninsula, the best campsites in Ontario offer unforgettable adventures.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the wilderness, and remember, a bad day camping is still better than a good day working!
