Camping in Ontario: Best Campgrounds and Hidden Gems

Camping in Ontario can be whatever experience you want it to be. If you enjoy backcountry camping in remote areas with limited facilities and a primitive feel, plenty of conservation areas and Crown land are available for your exploration.

On the other hand, if you prefer a designated campsite or even a cabin or yurt for a more comfortable experience, you’ll find several provincial and national parks that showcase the best natural beauty Ontario offers.

Here’s our guide to camping in Ontario at both popular campgrounds and hidden gems throughout the province.

Can I Camp Anywhere in Ontario?

While you can camp for free on most Crown land in Ontario, you can’t camp anywhere you feel like. If you prefer backcountry camping without designated campsites, look into camping in non-operating parks and conservation reserves, where you won’t need to pay a fee or register for a permit. You can also camp for free on Crown land managed under the Public Lands Act.

If you don’t want to go far but still enjoy the camping experience, consider free backyard camping. You can even set up a yurt or create an outdoor movie setup to upgrade it to backyard glamping.

For longer camping trips, consider packing a means of power generation, not just storage, with the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W)

Which Campground Is Best in Ontario?

Algonquin Provincial Park

Camp at Algonquin Provincial Park in Central Ontario to experience 7,600+ square kilometres of vast wilderness in one of the country’s most popular outdoor destinations. You’ll find maple forests, Canadian Shield terrain, and over 2,000 lakes, giving you plenty to see and take in.

If you fancy a canoe ride, take advantage of the interconnected waterways. Do you prefer to spend your time on land? Hike through the forests and look for wildlife, like wolves, moose, and black bears.

Camp the way you like with options for front- and back-country camping, plus ranger cabins and yurts available as well.

Features: Over 2,000 kilometres of waterways with extensive canoe routes. Hiking trails such as Booth’s Rock Trail offer panoramic views.
Facilities: Drive-in and backcountry campsites, plus yurts and cabins. Visitor centers and equipment rentals are available.
Things to Know: Established in 1893, Algonquin is the province’s oldest park. Permits are required for camping and backcountry canoeing. Make a reservation early, especially in the fall, due to the area’s famous fall foliage.

Killarney Provincial Park

On the northern shore of Georgian Bay is Killarney Provincial Park, known and beloved for its La Cloche Mountains, which are made of stunning white quartzite. In beautiful contrast, you’ll enjoy deep blue lakes, boreal forests, and crystal-clear canoe routes that wind through the park.

On land, check out the Crack Trail and earn breathtaking landscape views. After a day of activities, you can settle in at your car or backcountry campsite or opt for a cozy cabin to make camping in even the coldest seasons more comfortable.

Features: 1.8-billion-year-old quartzite La Cloche Mountains. Known as one of Ontario’s most beautiful canoeing destinations. Trails with panoramic views.
Facilities: Car-accessible camping, backcountry camping, cabins. Park office with maps, visitor information, and nature programs for visitors.
Things to Know: Killarney is a highly photographed and painted landscape due to its natural beauty. There are no gas stations in the park. Book in advance as campsites and cabins fill up quickly. Prepare for intense black fly and mosquito presence in spring and early summer.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park, near the Niagara Escarpment in Tobermory, is home to turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and unique rock formations. Dive in and check out The Grotto, a sea cave with crystal-clear pools that feel out of this world. You can also spot rare orchids and wildlife like the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, an endangered species.

The peninsula is part of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, spotlighting its ecological significance. For those who enjoy hiking, you can cross The Bruce Trail off your bucket list. It’s Canada’s oldest and longest footpath that runs through the park with views of Georgian Bay.

Features: Rock formations like The Grotto and Overhanging Point. Clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Home to rare wildlife and plants.
Facilities: Cyprus Lake Campground offers walk-in, drive-in, and backcountry sites. Boardwalks and stairs were installed to protect the ecosystem and enhance the park’s accessibility.
Things to Know: Grotto parking requires a reservation. Swimming in Georgian Bay is cold, even in summer. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rugged.

Bon Echo Provincial Park

Bon Echo Provincial Park is both a historical and geographic wonder. Here, you’ll find striking natural features, such as Mazinaw Rock, a large formation that extends 100 meters above Mazinaw Lake. But you’ll also see remnants of cultural significance, like the 260 Indigenous pictographs, making up the most extensive visible collection in the country.

Whether you’re there for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking or the anthropological wonder, there’s something here for everyone. Hikes range from easy to challenging, matching every skill and accessibility level. For those up for a challenging climb, take the ferry service across the lake to Clifftop Trail for sweeping views of the lake from the top.

Even if you’re solo camping, you’ll find some company here as the name Bon Echo means “good echo,” so you’re never truly alone.

Features: Significant Indigenous cultural site, the Mazinaw Rock pictographs.
Facilities: Three main campgrounds offer roofed accommodations, plus car camping and backcountry camping. The park store sells snacks, souvenirs, and firewood.
Things to Know: “Bon Echo” means “good echo” because the rock has impressive acoustic qualities. Clifftop Trail requires water access—there are no lifeguards on duty at the swimming areas.

Pukaskwa National Park

Along Lake Superior’s shores, you can camp at Pukaskwa National Park, one of the most remote and rugged camping experiences you’ll find in the province. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in thick forested land, pristine beaches, and a dramatic coastline featuring the Coastal Hiking Trail.

However, the park’s primary draw is the White River Suspension Bridge, which takes you across a deep canyon. This bucket-list adventure is ideal for experienced backpackers and campers. There’s also a visitor center with interpretive programs and Indigenous cultural exhibits to add to its appeal. Want a more up-close and personal experience?

At the Anishinaabe Camp, you can attend traditional ceremonies with the land’s Anishinaabe First Nation.

Features: White River Suspension Bridge and opportunities to learn about the Anishinaabe culture.
Facilities: Hattie Cove Campground features front-country camping with basic amenities. You can also backcountry camp along the 60-km Coastal Hiking Trail.
Things to Know: No cell service. Remote park—bring plenty of supplies.

What Should I Pack for an Ontario Camping Trip?

Shelter and Sleeping

Tent – choose a weather-resistant tent large so you can withstand camping in the rain, snow, wind, or heat
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad or air mattress – create insulation and distance between you and the ground for a more comfortable sleeping experience
Pillow – don’t underestimate the power of a comfortable pillow when camping

Clothes

Base layers – keep these light and moisture-wicking so you stay dry
Insulating layers – down jackets or fleece button-ups will add warmth that you can remove if needed
Outerwear – look for waterproof outerwear
Footwear – bring hiking boots, sturdy sneakers, and water shoes
Other items – gloves, hats, socks, undergarments

Cooking and Food

Stove – bring an electric or fuel-powered stove if you don’t want to cook every meal over the campfire
Fuel – bring backup fuel canisters to power your stove, or bring batteries for an electric stove
Cooking items – pans, pots, tongs, aluminum foil, utensils, coffee equipment
Storage – bear-proof food storage containers and coolers or portable refrigerators to keep food items fresh
Cleaning – biodegradable dish soap

Power Options

Power Bank – compact options like the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank are great for topping up phones and personal devices
Portable Power Station – for greater energy needs, bring a portable power station from the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series, like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus

Cooling/Fans

Portable AC/Heater – Don’t underestimate Ontario nights! Even in the summer, nights can get quite chilly, so stay warm inside your tent with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner, which doubles as a heater.
Fan – If you prefer more circulation in your tent, an old-school battery-operated fan does the trick

Lighting

Lantern, headlamp, string lights – Keep your campsite illuminated
Extra batteries – bring spares for all lighting devices

Safety

Maps/Compass/GPS – Bring reliable navigation tools, as cell service isn’t always reliable
First Aid Kit
Multi-tool or pocket knife
Fire-starting kit: matches, lighters, and fire starters

Personal Items

Towel – quick-drying microfiber
Toiletries – soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items
Sunscreen
Bug spray

Other

Trash bags and paper towels
Repair kit – sewing kit, duct tape, air mattress patches, etc.
Camping chair – comfortable seating for around the fire

3 Ontario Camping Tips

Plan ahead. Ontario camping, especially in the summertime, can book up fast. Plan in advance and reserve your campsite to ensure you can stay where you want. You should also plan for all kinds of weather and pack all supplies you’ll need while avoiding the hassle of extra bulk and unnecessary items.
Leave no trace. Follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out anything you bring in. Avoid littering and dispose of your waste correctly, minimize the impact of any campfire you start, and always respect wildlife.
Choose the best time to go. June, July, and August are typically the best months for camping in Ontario. However, they’re also the busiest. Camping during the weekdays can help avoid crowds while enjoying the best seasonal weather. Fall is also a beautiful time to camp in Ontario, with the changing foliage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does It Cost to Camp in Ontario?

Your camping costs will depend on the car camping fee level you’re choosing, based on the popularity of your campsite and the availability of park facilities. Base fees range from $17.13 to $52.50 before taxes. Costs are cheaper for seniors, those with disabilities, and Ontario residents.

What Is the Best Month To Visit Ontario?

September and October are widely hailed as the best months to visit Ontario due to its pleasant climate, colourful fall foliage, and smaller crowds. The summer months offer warmer weather but much more people. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, summer may be best.

How Many Nights Do You Need in Ontario?

To determine how many nights you need in Ontario, consider what you want to do and which areas you want to visit. Plan for at least 2-3 days in Toronto and 2-3 more per additional location you want to visit.

Final Thoughts

Ontario is known for its capital city, Toronto, but there’s so much beauty and nature to explore in the rest of this Canadian province. From ancient Indigenous pictographs at Bon Echo Provincial Park to the sapphire blue lakes of Killarney Provincial Park, don’t miss out on these camping oases.

To make your camping trip even more comfortable and enjoyable, don’t forget to pack a power solution from the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series.