10 Unique Places to Pitch a Tent in Ontario this Summer
From the shores of the Great Lakes to the rugged Canadian Shield in the north, not to mention all the incredible islands, forests and escarpments in between, nature remains yours to discover by pitching a tent in one of these unique places to camp in Ontario.
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Get your yurt on in Bruce Peninsula National Park. Modern versions of the traditional dwelling used by the nomads of Central Asia, these semi-permanent yurts dot the beautiful shores of Cyprus Lake. The yurts are roomy and comfortable for families of five, and have a skylight dome roof to observe the stars in this Dark Sky Preserve.
Read more: pc.gc.ca
Ferris Provincial Park
Discover a hidden gem in Campbellford, about a two-hour drive from Toronto. Pitch your tent at one of the numerous campsites and explore the park’s forest and rivers. Don’t miss crossing the 300-foot-long suspension bridge that spans the Trent River.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park
Offering a remote and rugged backcountry camping experience, this wilderness park sits in the heart of the Temagami region. Obtain a permit and set up camp surrounded by rivers, lakes and forest.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
Manitoulin Island
Experience a night in a tipi tent at Gordon’s park on Manitoulin Island. These modern tipis are situated in a forested area of the park and include a raised wooden floor, sleeping pads, private campfire pit, picnic table and cook stand.
Read more: gordonspark.com
McKay Island Lighthouse
Be a keeper of the flame in this 1907 lighthouse. Fall sleep to the sound of the waves lapping on the northern shore of Lake Huron near Sault Ste. Marie. This historic ‘glamping’ facility is perfect for history buffs, birders and anyone keen on lake and boating life.
Read more: brucebaycottages.com
Pinery Provincial Park
While camping at the Pinery may bring back memories of teenage parties, the Burley campground is a quieter spot nestled in an older pine forest. A lovely beach is a short walk away and the sunsets are unforgettable.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
Sandbanks Provincial Park
This large park is a popular choice for families, as it’s got dune formations and some of the most beautiful beaches in Ontario. The Woodlands Campground has both shady and sunny campsites. Kids will love swimming in the calm, shallow waters.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Venture north towards the Sibley Peninsula east of Thunder Bay to reach the unspoiled beauty of Sleeping Giant. Enjoy endless views of Lake Superior and be on the lookout for all manner of wildlife and bird activity along the 100 kilometres of hiking trails in the park.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
Thousand Islands National Park
Get away from it all and chart your course to the marine-access-only campgrounds at Thousand Islands National Park. These scenic islands in the St. Lawrence are carved out of rugged granite and covered with knotty pines. The park also has oTENTiks for rent, which are part tent, part cabin.
Read more: pc.gc.ca
Wheatley Provincial Park
Head to Ontario’s deep south and stake your tent at one of four campgrounds in the park, located in Chatham-Kent. This is a quiet, family-friendly park where the kids can splash in the waves along the shores of Lake Erie. Pack binoculars as this park is close to the bird watching mecca of Point Pelee National Park.
Read more: ontarioparks.com
PS. Looking for more places to camp in Ontario?
Check out this article of 50 FREE Places to Camp in Ontario!
More Camping across Canada:
15 Places to Camp for Free in Newfoundland & Labrador
30 Places to Camp for Free in Manitoba
15 Camping Hacks That Will Make You a Campsite Pro
