5 Reasons to Visit Algonquin Provincial Park

When you think of the outdoors in Canada, where does your mind go? To the picturesque views of the west coast’s Rocky Mountains? To the shores of the Maritimes? Or, how about to the golden hues of the fall leaves in Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park?

While the mountains have my heart, Ontario is where I call home. And to me, there’s not much more stunning (and quintessentially Canadian) than Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s also only 3(ish) hours from Toronto, making it the perfect long weekend escape from the big city. 

Established in 1893, Algonquin was created as a wildlife sanctuary to ultimately protect the headwaters of the five major rivers which flow from the Park. 

You may also like >> You’ll Find Me in the Trees of Algonquin 

As one of the oldest and largest provincial parks in Ontario, Algonquin is diverse, protecting a variety of natural, cultural and recreation features and values. It also offers something for nearly everyone. Whether it be a family camping trip, a back country portage or even just a day hike, there are many reasons why YOU must visit Algonquin Provincial Park. 

Here are just 5 (of many).

Canoeing

Whether you’re an experienced voyageur or have never touched a paddle in your life, Algonquin is the perfect place for canoeing. With 2,000 kilometres of routes and portages, so you can choose something short or plan something epic.

Wildlife Viewing

Having lived in Alaska, we took seeing moose on the daily for granted. In Ontario, that’s not so much the case. Algonquin is not only the perfect place to view a moose or two, but is also home to red fox, grey wolves, river otters, beaver, black bear, white-tailed deer and more. 

Oh, and the sunsets aren't too shabby either. 

Fishing

With 1,500 lakes and 1,200 kilometres of streams, it’s no surprise that Algonquin boasts some of the best brook and lake trout fishing around. Trout aren’t the only fish thought - there are a recorded 54 different species of fish in the park! 

If you’re looking to go fishing in Algonquin, spring provides some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. Don’t forget your license!

Hiking

There are 19 interpretive hiking trails, each allowing you to explore a different aspect of Algonquin’s natural environment. Interpretive trails are open year-round, clearly marked and easy to navigate. Be sure to pick up a trail guide booklet, found at all trail heads and park bookstores, before you start. 

And if you're not into hiking, there are also several beaches, such as the one at Canisbay Lake Campground, to explore. Which when you have a toddler, totally counts as a hike. 

And last, but definitely not least…

Camping

Camping is one of Algonquin’s most popular activities. Camping opportunities are grouped into two main categories based upon the mode of transportation to get you to the camping location - drive to camping and backcountry camping. Drive to camping includes developed campgrounds (aka those with sites), yurts, ranger camping, RV camping and lodges, whereas backcountry camping includes portaging, backpacking and paddle in campsites. 

In Algonquin, you can camp (just about) anywhere. First, pick your ideal type, then pick your location. If you are keeping it safe with car camping, you have 9 different locations to chose from. Our personal favourite is Canisbay Lake, located at km 24 of the park. It offers an access point for portaging, paddle in campsites and a developed campground (with sites that can accommodate both tents and trailers). 

Word to the wise, start planning early. You can reserve your spot up to five months in advance on the Ontario Parks website. The good ones go fast!

You may also like >> Disconnecting in Algonquin

Did you know, Ontario’s provincial parks are turning 125 in 2018?! And it all started back in 1893 with the creation of Canada’s first provincial park, Algonquin. Today, Ontario Parks protects 340 provincial parks, which encompasses just under 8% of Ontario, an area larger than Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island combined.

Make 2018 the year to visit the stunningly beautiful landscapes of our province, carry on traditions and make new memories. I highly recommend starting with Algonquin. 

Have you explored Ontario’s Parks? Which one is your favourite? I’d love to hear!

You'll Find Me in the Trees of Algonquin

I braved the mall on Canada Day. Someone bumped into me and I left within 20 minutes. On the subway home the other day, I could feel the breath of the person behind me invading my bubble. Living in a big city can have its perks, but at the same time, it can also be emotionally, mentally and physically draining.

But, I'll tell you one thing that was not draining. In fact, it was the exact opposite of draining. Invigorating - the perfect word to describe our recent canoe-in camping trip to Algonquin Provincial Park. 

Established in 1893, Algonquin Park is the oldest, largest and easily the most popular provincial park in Ontario. With over 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometres of streams and rivers, the park is considered part of the "border" between Northern and Southern Ontario. It is the largest remaining stretch of continuous forest in Ontario, and the unique mixture of forest types, and wide variety of environments within, supports an uncommon diversity of plant and animal species. And if you have the opportunity to visit, I highly recommend it.

This year we expanded our annual camping trip crew to include my brother and his girlfriend. Safe to say, they fit right in. It was the perfect introduction to "back country camping" and camping with the Wards (because of course it rained). Hopefully next year, we'll be able to break out of our comfort zones and venture a little further into the Algonquin back country. But, until then, I'll enjoy this nature high that I continue to hold onto from our perfect weekend getaway to Canisbay Lake, Algonquin Park.  We canoed, we fished, we ate, we laughed, we enjoyed beautiful sunsets and we slept. And then we got up and did it all over again the next day. We were completely disconnected from technology, from our busy every day lives and from the crowded malls and subways. I'll let the photos do the talking...

There's nothing like falling asleep, and waking up to, the sound of loons and the wind in the trees. Or in our case, a huge bull moose crashing past your tent at 6:30am. Thank you Mr. Moose.

How do you disconnect from every day life? Have you ever been back country camping?

Best Family-Friendly Camping Destinations in Ontario

Now that spring is upon us, it’s time to start planning our spring and summer outdoor adventures. For our family, that means lots of camping. Today, we’re sharing the best family-friendly camping destinations in Ontario! Whether you are an experienced camper or new to camping, whether you hike in, drive in or even canoe in, there is a family-friendly Ontario camping destination for you.

Living in Ontario, we love exploring the camping spots in our own backyard. There is so much more to this great province than tall buildings and concrete.

Today, I’ve teamed up with a group of bloggers from the Toronto Bloggers Collective (TBC) to share the best family-friendly camping destinations in Ontario - a list of both provincial and national parks that you NEED to visit if camping with your family, regardless of your camping experience level.

Ontario Parks

Did you know that Ontario is home to over 330 provincial parks, covering 8% of Ontario’s landmass? Ontario Parks is the largest provider of outdoor recreation experiences in the province. Each year, over 10 million visitors from around the world travel to Ontario’s provincial parks to camp, swim, picnic, hike, bike, paddle, birdwatch and much more.

Here are some of the TBC’s favourite Ontario Parks for family camping:

Algonquin Provincial Park

There’s not much more stunning (and quintessentially Canadian) than Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s also only 3(ish) hours from Toronto, making it the perfect long weekend escape from the big city. 

Established in 1893, Algonquin was created as a wildlife sanctuary to ultimately protect the headwaters of the five major rivers which flow from the Park. As one of the oldest and largest provincial parks in Ontario, Algonquin is diverse, protecting a variety of natural, cultural and recreation features and values. It also offers something for nearly everyone. Whether it be a family camping trip, a back country portage or even just a day hike, there are many reasons why YOU must visit Algonquin Provincial Park. 

Awenda Provincial Park

We’ve camped with our two small children at nearly every provincial park in the southern half of Ontario. Awenda is among our favorites! With four enjoyable beaches, large campsites and 33 kms of easy-to-moderate hiking trails, Awenda makes for a really lovely family camping experience. It’s just two hours north of Toronto and perfect for a long weekend, although we prefer to stay five days to a week.

The campsites, surrounded on all sides by the tall straight trunks of hardwood trees, are prettier and more private than most. Rent a canoe for a morning paddle, take a hike on the Bluff Trail to have lunch overlooking Georgian Bay, then bicycle or drive to the beaches (they’re a bit far from the campsites to walk) to spend the afternoon swimming, sunning and exploring.

Kids aren’t ready for bed? Enjoy sunset while dock fishing off the Kettle Lake boardwalk or head over to the Amphitheatre to take in a presentation by a Friends of Awenda Park naturalist. And once all is quiet, the best part of the day: sitting quietly by the campfire, beverage in hand, gazing up at a sky full of stars.

Contributed by Zoe King - Wandering Family

Bon Echo Provincial Park

Bon Echo is the ideal place for new campers. To me, it’s best of both worlds. If you are looking for something resembling city camping all the amenities at the camp site will make sure camping adventure easy. From easy hikes, to interactive boat tour that gives the history of the park to the every popular annual art and craft show in the summer. 

If you are looking for a bit more of an adventure, you can take the ferry to the start of the clifftop trail. Even more adventurous? Climbing the rock wall will fill the cup of even the biggest adventure seeker. 

We love it so much it’s been the site for our yearly camping trip for our children’s birthday 10 years in a row. 

Now when I say city camping, I mean it. From laundry facilities, to comfort stations for hot showers this park has everything you need and it's only a 3.5 hour drive from Toronto.

Contributed by Claire Zlobin - Drop of Golden Sun

Chutes Provincial Park

Last fall, we had the chance to take the Ontario Parks RV for a spin to five of Ontario’s Provincial Parks for the 125th anniversary. Each one of the parks we visited had a unique footprint and series of hiking trails. But after several hours driving, our second last stop was the one that blew us away with its quiet charm. 

Chutes Provincial Park is in a tiny little spot way up north near Massey on the Aux Sables River on the way to Manitoulin Island. If you arrive in the fall you can spy salmon swimming upstream to mate near the main waterfall. The Twin Bridges Trail is 6 km long and follows the Aux Sables River. The trail leads to lookouts of the falls and the Seven Sisters Cataracts. Interpretive panels at the Falls Lookout tells the history of the area and at the base of the waterfall is a beach that is tranquil. 

Contributed by Paula Schuck - Thrifty Mommas Tips 

Killarney Provincial Park

If you’re looking for a true wilderness to escape some of the crows in Algonquin, head to Killarney Provincial Park. For the hiking family, try the challenging Crack Trail. With more time and an active bunch, climb to the top of infamous Silver Peak (part of the epic La Cloche Silhouette backpacking trail): both trails afford views that prove that Ontario isn’t so flat after all. Canoeing, kayaking, and swimming at the beach are just some of the summer water activities; snowshoeing and ski trails are maintained through the winter. With yurts, cabins, front country and backcountry camping, there is something for everyone. To me, the best feature of Killarney is its sapphire blue lakes. Due to the bright white crystal rock and pink granite, Killarney’s Lakes are some of the cleanest and brightest you can find in Ontario. It is certainly worth the drive, and I can’t wait to be back this summer for more!

Contributed by Lauren Chu - The Ridgeline Report

Killbear Provincial Park

Killbear Provincial Park is located on beautiful Georgian Bay, an easy drive from Toronto. The park has a wide range of summer activities for the whole family. Bring your bikes so that you can ride the 6 kilometre Recreational Trail and check out the lighthouse at the end of trail. Each of Killbear's seven campgrounds has a beach within walking distance, perfect for a day of swimming with the family.

For those looking for a more exhilarating water activity and one unique to Killbear, try jumping off the cliffs into the water below.  Even the little ones can experience the thrills and jump safely from the lower rock ledges.  

Contributed by Andy Vanr - Avrex Travel

MacGregor Provincial Park

MacGregor Point Provincial Park is open year round, but not all campsites are open. The full service campsites and yurts in the Algonquin campground are open through the winter.  One of the best winter camping activities there while you are camping is snowshoeing!

The sites in the Nipissing campground are closed during the winter season making that area perfect for snowshoeing because it’s not being used at all. The only competition for snowshoers on fresh powder are cross country skiers. The area does see a fair amount of snow so you are pretty much guaranteed a great time during the day and then can hunker down in a toasty yurt at night.  

MacGregor Point Provincial Park is located on the eastern shores of Lake Huron in Western Ontario.

Contributed by Kathryn Dickson - Kathryn Anywhere

Pinery Provincial Park

Growing up, my family and I spent many summers exploring all that the Pinery has to offer. 

Located on the shores of Lake Huron, just outside of Grand Bend, Pinery Provincial Park is a hidden gem in the Ontario Parks' system. The 21 square kilometres of rare forests and rolling dunes offer excellent year-round outdoor recreations, including 10 walking trails, a 14 km bike trail and 38 kms of groomed ski trails. The Old Ausable River Channel, which runs the length of the park, is perfect for wildlife viewing, fishing or a relaxing paddle in a kayak or canoe. During the winter months, the park offers cross country skiing, snow shoeing and yurt camping. 

Windy Lake Provincial Park

Sandy beaches, great swimming, and views for days. No, I'm not talking about Cancun, I'm talking about Windy Lake Provincial Park. 

It's a great spot to be in the spring or the summer, but I'm actually a big fan of what you can do up there in the winter. Firstly, there are actually gorgeous well maintained cross country ski trails up there, which I found out firsthand at Windy Lake. Beyond that, they've got a lovely cabin or two, and four all seasons yurts. I even did some ice-fishing while I was up there with my best pal, and we couldn't have been happier. 

That being said, this is a place that you'll be happy as a clam no matter what the season. The truth is, it's picturesque all year around and, in my humble opinion, Windy Lake Provincial Park is one of the best kept secrets in the whole province. 

Give it a try, you won't be disappointed!

Contributed by Christopher Mitchell - Traveling Mitch 

National Parks

Camping in Ontario goes beyond provincial parks. Across Canada, there are also 450 000 km² of protected areas with countless unique experiences to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for adventure, fun for the whole family, or a break from the everyday, Parks Canada has something to offer.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park is located on the Niagara Escarpment that runs from Rochester to Tobermory. It is approximately 156 square km and is protected by UNESCO’s Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve. It is perfect for family as it has many outdoor activities. This includes watching birds, camping and hiking. The views of the sunrise and sunset are amazing. The visitor centre has a boardwalk, theatre, reception, information and an exhibition hall. You can swim in the water during the summer. I strongly recommend going there and the drive is amazing.

Contributed by Jerry Godinho - Four Columns of a Balanced Life 

Rouge National Urban Park

If you are a beginner camper, or unable to escape the city, the Glen Rouge Campground within Rouge National Urban Park (RNUP) is a great car camping and the only campground in the City Toronto. Set next to the Rouge River, it’s the perfect place to submerse yourself in nature while staying in the city! It is a fairly open space to camp, BUT the camping around is within walking distance to many of the trails in the park. 

One of the great things about Rouge National Urban Park is theirLearn-to-Camp Program. If you are interesting in going on your first camping trip, but don’t know where to begin, this program program equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to feel confident planning and carrying out your first camping adventure.

No car? No problem. RNUP is easily accessible via Toronto transit and Park Bus.

Where are your favourite places to go camping with your family? I'd love to hear!

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Disconnecting in Algonquin

'Camping with the Wards' in AK always meant rain. The presence of thunder and lightning storms in Ontario kind of brings 'camping with the Wards' to a whole new ball game.

Last weekend we spent 4 whole days in the "interior" of Algonquin Provincial Park, completley disconnected. Cell phones were off and our minds were open. And yes, it poured the first night.

I wouldn't say I'm a seasoned "canoer", but the paddle-in campsite at Canisbay Lake where we chose to stay is a keeper. It had all the luxuries of "interior" camping - seclusion, quiet and all around peacefulness, with all the perks of a full blown campsite - less than a km from the car in case we forgot something, a fire pit and even a hole in the ground with a toilet seat. The only negative was the mosquitoes - we got eaten alive! At one point in the weekend both of my eyes were swelled shut! Ya, it was gross. Thank goodness for Benadryl.

Established in 1893, Algonquin Park is the oldest, largest and easily the most popular provincial park in Ontario. With over 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometres of streams and rivers, the park is considered part of the "border" between Northern and Southern Ontario. It is the largest remaining stretch of continuous forest in Ontario, and the unique mixture of forest types, and wide variety of environments within, supports an uncommon diversity of plant and animal species. 

The Warden brushing up on his rules for running an efficient camp.

When we left AK, we made a promise to each other that we would go camping at least once a year. At around 2.5 hours north of Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is the perfect destination to escape and reconnect with nature. There's almost nothing better than falling asleep to the calming sound of spring peepers and loon calls.

Camping Reflections

Camping season is officially upon us! 
Did you know that June is National Camping Month? I truly believe that spending time outdoors is good for the soul, and encourage others to get outside as much as possible and explore the beauty of Mother Nature. One way to do that is by going camping! 

Now that Morley is a bit older and enjoys being outside as much as we do, we look forward to dusting off the tent and sleeping bags and visiting our local provincial park for a family camping adventure. But until then, I will celebrate this amazing month by sharing and reflecting on To & Fro's favourite camping memories. 
From memories and recipes, to safety tips and activities, I hope these posts will inspire you to get outside and connect with Mother Nature this summer.  

Camping Memories

Favourite Camping Memories  //  I have many amazing camping memories, but these are 3 of my favourite. 
Backcountry Hike to Eagle Lake, Alaska (Summer 2011)  // Our first taste of camping in Alaska.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska (Summer 2011)  //  What a way to ring in my 25th.

Disconnecting in Algonquin (Summer 2014)  //  The start of a yearly tradition.
You'll Find Me in the Trees of Algonquin (Summer 2015)  //  Pushing them outside of they comfort zone.

Reasons to Go Camping

8 Reasons to Get Outside  //  Nature is good for the soul. Period. 
10 Reasons to Go Camping  //  You shouldn't even need 1, but here are 10 reasons to plan a trip.
5 Camping Activities  //  You've planned the trip, not what do you do?

Camping Safety

Favourite Camping Gadgets  //  Because camping wouldn't be camping without the gadgets. 
Camping With Your Dog //  Make sure your four-legged friend is safe and has fun! 
Camping in Bear Country  //  Because you can never been too careful. 

Camping Food

Tips for Planning a Camping Menu  //  The food is a top priority on our camping trips. 
Favourite Camping Recipes  //  A few of our go-to food and drink recipes. We don't mess around.
Camping Recipe: Campfire Chili Cheese Fries  //  Winner winner, chicken dinner.
Camping Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak   //  A camping trip fave.

Whether you are a seasoned back-country explorer, prefer the comfort of an RV or are a glamping pro, National Camping Month is the perfect excuse to gather your friends and family and enjoy the great outdoors!

Do you have any camping plans this summer? I'd love to hear about them!

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My 2015 Travel Wishes

2014 was kind to us in the way of travel. Steve had his normal hockey travel schedule, which in 2014 had him bouncing on and off buses from Ontario to Texas and back. And when he was on the road, I had my own road trips down to my parents' house on Lake Huron. Despite being only 3 hours west of Toronto, it was a welcomed "vacation" from the busy city life. Missing our Alaskan adventures, we  disconnected and went canoe-in camping in Algonquin Provincial Park. And last, but definitely not least, thanks to all of that crazy hockey travel the past few years, we were gifted with enough air miles to fly us back to Alaska, with a quick pit stop in Seattle on the way home. 

Our Vacay, According to my iPhone  |  Tips for Sea Sickness  |  Fave AK Photos  

Down by the Kachemake Bay  |  Fresh From the Sea  |  Funny River Pups

Seattle, the [Un]Rainy City  |  Seattle CityPass Review
Now that hockey doesn't dictate our schedule 8 months of the year (which I'll admit, I'm still a bit sad about), I would love for 2015 to be filled with many small weekend trips and staycations. 
Here is where I hope travel will take us in 2015...

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Collingwood, Ontario - As a hockey player, my husband was focused on one sport and one sport only every winter and was never able to go skiing or snowboarding. This winter, if we ever get enough snow in Ontario, we're hoping to change that. The mountains in Collingwood may not be what we were used to in Alaska, but at just over an hour from Toronto, we'll take it.

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario - We had such an amazing time on our canoe-in camping trip to Algonquin last summer that we plan to make it an annual event. Just hoping we can convince our urban friends to trade in their iPhones for the sounds of loons and a crackling fire for a few days.

Family Cottage, Ontario - It's sad to think that in the past 5 years, I can count the number of times I've been up to our family cottage on one hand.  I'd like to make a trip or two up this summer, maybe even throw in a little scuba diving at Fathom Five National Marine Park if I'm lucky.
If time and funds allow, I'd like to take a few trips outside the Ontario border...

Panorama, British Columbia - If time and funds allow, I would love to go back and visit my sister in BC before her gypsy soul takes her on her next adventure. Maybe throw in a little skiing on a real mountain as well. But, if I don't make it back out there, I will just make sure to kidnap her when she's home in May so that she can't leave again.

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Montreal, Quebec - I'm kind of embarrassed to say I have never ventured east of Ontario. I would love to road trip to the East Coast of Canada one day, but until then, I think a weekend trip to Montreal will have to do. At just over 5 hours drive from Toronto, it makes the perfect long weekend trip. Plus, we're planning on working on our French, so its very fitting.

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Nashville, Tennessee - This trip may not happen for a few years, but I can dream.
And one guaranteed trip that I am beyond excited for...

Mystery Family Trip - My dad is retiring this summer, and to celebrate he's taking my mom, us kids and our significant others on a mystery vacay. They have done such a good job of keeping it a secret that I don't even have a sniff of where we might be heading. Which is also driving me nuts.
Sadly, the only thing that is not on this list is Alaska. But we'll save that, and our pennies, for 2016.

What's on your travel wishlist for 2015?
Linking up with Runawaykiwi, Around the World in 80 Pairs of Shoes and Adventures of a London Kiwi.