The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals near Bayfield, Ontario

Directly on the shores of Ontario’s Lake Huron, Bayfield is a small beach community with charm, character, and adventures galore. The main settlement boasts historic buildings from the 1800s on Main Street, but the town itself is only the beginning. Area parks like Inverhuron Provincial Park, MacGregor Point Provincial Park, Long Point Provincial Park, and Pinery Provincial Park offer lakeside attractions to explore on foot, by bike, or on the water. Bayfield and the surrounding region also feature a variety of outdoor stays from open-sky campgrounds to private RV sites.

99% (787)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

Directly on the shores of Ontario’s Lake Huron, Bayfield is a small beach community with charm, character, and adventures galore. The main settlement boasts historic buildings from the 1800s on Main Street, but the town itself is only the beginning. Area parks like Inverhuron Provincial Park, MacGregor Point Provincial Park, Long Point Provincial Park, and Pinery Provincial Park offer lakeside attractions to explore on foot, by bike, or on the water. Bayfield and the surrounding region also feature a variety of outdoor stays from open-sky campgrounds to private RV sites.

99% (787)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

1. Pine the Sky

99%

(391)

72km from Bayfield · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!

2. Beaver Valley Base Camp

96%

(40)

66km from Bayfield · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

This 64 acre property in the beaver valley has a rolling terrain that leads you through several different forests, with tones of spectacular views along the way The creek side trail, immediately takes you to another world. The fast flowing water trickling down through hundreds of mini waterfalls creates the perfect natural spa sound/environment. At night the darkness in the valley allows for a beautiful night skies. Spring and summer bring fire flies and all year round you get unbelievable big sky starry nights

3. Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

99%

(62)

70km from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Flesherton Bunkie & CampingOur 100-acre farm is centrally located and you can walk to the town of Flesherton, where you will find cafes, restaurants, and all of your camping needs! Only 10km from Beaver Valley trails and attractions. Great cycling and endless outdoor activities in the area. The property has two options to choose from:Modern Minimalist Bunkie - a cozy place to hang out where you will love the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows! Private Meadows and Woods - where you can choose from two different sites. This is a no-frills camping experience ideal for tent, car, and van camping and the perfect place to get back to nature.Be sure to bring your own camping toilet and pack it out, as there are no restroom facilities available on-site. Fires are permitted within local regulations. Pets are welcome. 

4. Forest Cabin

100%

(20)

79km from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

Forest trails, farm animals, starlit skies, and coyotes howling in the distance — welcome to your own quiet corner of the wild. Tucked into the forest at Everdale's regenerative farm, this off-grid straw bale cabin is a one-of-a-kind retreat for nature lovers, climate-conscious travellers, and anyone craving stillness and space. Drive right up to your private hideaway beneath the trees. Inside: a queen bed, cozy living area, and warm, earthen walls. Step out to a covered, open-air kitchenette — the perfect place to sip coffee, cook dinner, or watch the forest move around you. The entire cabin is yours, along with access to the surrounding forest and meadows of Everdale Farm. Outside your door: a private fire pit, picnic table, and a clean, private outhouse just 20 seconds away. Explore trails, visit the chickens and sheep, or spend your day resting under the trees. Built in 2002, this is one of Ontario’s first straw bale buildings — handcrafted with care from natural, breathable materials. Its rounded corners and deep window sills feel like something from the desert Southwest — right here in Southern Ontario. Warm in winter, cool in summer, and powered by solar energy for lights and device charging. Everdale is an award-winning organic farm and education centre, committed to climate-positive, regenerative practices. Your stay supports ecological farming, food education, and land stewardship. Campfire wood can be purchased for $10/bag. Wood for indoor heat is included.

5. Cedar Creek Forest Camping

99%

(268)

35km from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Cedar Creek Forest Camping! Voted second best campsite in Canada in 2021 and ranked number 2 in Ontario in 2022. I have 97 acres of very private camping. The forest is a bird watcher’s and nature lover’s paradise. I have developed miles of flat groomed trails and a 3-acre pond (plus several bush ponds). The sites are spread around the pond and are close but not right beside it. There is an abundant amount of wildlife to explore: birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects and mammals call this home. There is a small swimming hole on the island but otherwise the pond is full of aquatic life. The sites and trails are maintained all year long and the forest is quiet and beautiful. I have planted over 3000 trees with the help of the Severn Sound Environmental Association. The forest is registered as a managed woodlot with the province and habitat preservation/restoration is the priority goal. Please DO NOT bring firewood for your visit. I have large bags of cured firewood that was sustainable harvested from the forest available. Invasive insects and disease can be transferred from imported wood. Guests are welcome to quietly explore the forest trails but are asked to stay on the trail. Many birds and animals nest in the forest. My campsite is family-friendly (and pet-friendly), and 420 friendly too. Guests can easily drive up to and park at all campsites. My camp site is tolerant and respectful of all humans, animals and things. The Yurtle structures were built from Hemlock trees that were cut from this forest and processed into boards, then engineered into unique camping huts. Large windows capture the glory of the surrounding forest and sun sets, while wood stoves warm campers on those cold days/nights. Guests are asked to remove excessive garbage and recycling when possible. Thanks for viewing and visiting, cheers and peace, Dave

6. Camp Willowbrook

100%

(136)

73km from Bayfield · 6 sites · Lodging

We purchased this farm in 1998 from the previous farmer who had owned it since 1929. The train line ran right by the gate where the Kota hut now sits and would drop cattle right there to be finished and sold later at the Toronto Stockyards. Our barn was built in 1890 with the old farmhouse located across the creek. Two creeks meet the Grand River on our farm. The bunkie is situated north of the barn and faces Willow creek. During the summer the creek gets quite shallow but there are a couple of pools that work nicely for a float with our river tubes. The river also has a small swimming hole. The bunkie is nestled between 2 hills which creates a natural little valley. Campers can take a walk around the property or use the nearby long walking trail. New this spring, campers will be able to enjoy the firewood sauna, located close to the bunkie and nestled in a private spot near the creek.

7. Three Ponds Homestead

98%

(66)

30km from Bayfield · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

Nestled on the outskirts of Orillia, our serene 25-acre property and horse farm is minutes from Bass Lake and 15 minutes from local marinas. Our hidden gem homestead is the perfect place to disconnect. Trails to walk/hike, fields and forests to play in and the option for overnight pasture or stall horse board for our equine friends. You'll love the tranquility here. Follow us on IG at "Three.Ponds" for more pics, videos and info, including our Three Ponds Retreat dates!

8. Rugby House Retreat

100%

(10)

24km from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging

Privately owned, we reside next to the property. There will be more rentals available as well as the ability to pitch your own tent on the small island in our pond as well as wooded sites. Just outside of Orillia. Close to area beaches, trails, Hardwood Hills, Ski Hills, Casino Rama and Burl’s Creek, all amenities but the luxury of a rural setting. Currently we have The Poor House and The Glade to offer. We also are happy to accommodate special requests like pitching a tent or a small travel trailer at one of the sites if you wish. A shower house is in the works but not available yet…. Please take a look😊

9. Riverside Cottage Alton

100%

(2)

67km from Bayfield · 2 sites · Lodging

Welcome to our cozy riverside cottage in Alton, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. This entirely wood-paneled home boasts 15-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room, offering stunning views of the river that flows through the backyard. Inside, enjoy the luxury of a heated bathroom floor, ensuring warmth and comfort year-round. Step outside to the large backyard featuring a fire pit and seating overlooking the tranquil Credit River. A pathway leads down to the river's edge with a shallow wading area, perfect for relaxing by the water. While the back deck is under repair until August 2024, you can still access the cabin through the side deck, with the front deck ready by the end of July 2024. Centrally located in Alton, you're just steps away from downtown restaurants like Gather Cafe, Ray's, and the historic Alton Mill. Pamper yourself at Milcroft Spa or explore the galleries and event spaces at Alton Mill, both just moments away. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Osprey Links Golf Course and the extensive network of trails including Upper Credit trails, Alton Grange, and Caledon Cataract trailways—all within a short drive or bike ride. Experience the tranquility of country living with easy access to local amenities and outdoor adventures at our riverside retreat in Alton. **Arriving late? Busy day ahead? We've got you covered!** Whether you're rushing from a wedding rehearsal or just wrapping up a busy day at the cottage, you deserve a delicious, stress-free meal. ✨ Let **Jonathan Korecki**, our talented chef-turned-caterer, take care of it for you! With an impressive background including: - **Canada's Top Chef** 2nd Place 🥈 - **Canada’s Top Chef Allstars** - **Executive Chef at the Official Residence of the Canadian Ambassador to Japan** - **10+ years as Executive Chef in the Ottawa Region** Jonathan is ready to bring gourmet flavors directly to you! From intimate gatherings to large events, you can expect an unforgettable meal tailored to your needs. 📧 For more info, email jonnycancook@gmail.com** and let’s make your next meal exceptional!

Camper favorites near Bayfield

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Forest Cabin

100%

(20)

79km from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

Forest trails, farm animals, starlit skies, and coyotes howling in the distance — welcome to your own quiet corner of the wild. Tucked into the forest at Everdale's regenerative farm, this off-grid straw bale cabin is a one-of-a-kind retreat for nature lovers, climate-conscious travellers, and anyone craving stillness and space. Drive right up to your private hideaway beneath the trees. Inside: a queen bed, cozy living area, and warm, earthen walls. Step out to a covered, open-air kitchenette — the perfect place to sip coffee, cook dinner, or watch the forest move around you. The entire cabin is yours, along with access to the surrounding forest and meadows of Everdale Farm. Outside your door: a private fire pit, picnic table, and a clean, private outhouse just 20 seconds away. Explore trails, visit the chickens and sheep, or spend your day resting under the trees. Built in 2002, this is one of Ontario’s first straw bale buildings — handcrafted with care from natural, breathable materials. Its rounded corners and deep window sills feel like something from the desert Southwest — right here in Southern Ontario. Warm in winter, cool in summer, and powered by solar energy for lights and device charging. Everdale is an award-winning organic farm and education centre, committed to climate-positive, regenerative practices. Your stay supports ecological farming, food education, and land stewardship. Campfire wood can be purchased for $10/bag. Wood for indoor heat is included.

Cedar Creek Forest Camping

99%

(268)

35km from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Cedar Creek Forest Camping! Voted second best campsite in Canada in 2021 and ranked number 2 in Ontario in 2022. I have 97 acres of very private camping. The forest is a bird watcher’s and nature lover’s paradise. I have developed miles of flat groomed trails and a 3-acre pond (plus several bush ponds). The sites are spread around the pond and are close but not right beside it. There is an abundant amount of wildlife to explore: birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects and mammals call this home. There is a small swimming hole on the island but otherwise the pond is full of aquatic life. The sites and trails are maintained all year long and the forest is quiet and beautiful. I have planted over 3000 trees with the help of the Severn Sound Environmental Association. The forest is registered as a managed woodlot with the province and habitat preservation/restoration is the priority goal. Please DO NOT bring firewood for your visit. I have large bags of cured firewood that was sustainable harvested from the forest available. Invasive insects and disease can be transferred from imported wood. Guests are welcome to quietly explore the forest trails but are asked to stay on the trail. Many birds and animals nest in the forest. My campsite is family-friendly (and pet-friendly), and 420 friendly too. Guests can easily drive up to and park at all campsites. My camp site is tolerant and respectful of all humans, animals and things. The Yurtle structures were built from Hemlock trees that were cut from this forest and processed into boards, then engineered into unique camping huts. Large windows capture the glory of the surrounding forest and sun sets, while wood stoves warm campers on those cold days/nights. Guests are asked to remove excessive garbage and recycling when possible. Thanks for viewing and visiting, cheers and peace, Dave

Camp Willowbrook

100%

(136)

73km from Bayfield · 6 sites · Lodging

We purchased this farm in 1998 from the previous farmer who had owned it since 1929. The train line ran right by the gate where the Kota hut now sits and would drop cattle right there to be finished and sold later at the Toronto Stockyards. Our barn was built in 1890 with the old farmhouse located across the creek. Two creeks meet the Grand River on our farm. The bunkie is situated north of the barn and faces Willow creek. During the summer the creek gets quite shallow but there are a couple of pools that work nicely for a float with our river tubes. The river also has a small swimming hole. The bunkie is nestled between 2 hills which creates a natural little valley. Campers can take a walk around the property or use the nearby long walking trail. New this spring, campers will be able to enjoy the firewood sauna, located close to the bunkie and nestled in a private spot near the creek.

Three Ponds Homestead

98%

(66)

30km from Bayfield · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

Nestled on the outskirts of Orillia, our serene 25-acre property and horse farm is minutes from Bass Lake and 15 minutes from local marinas. Our hidden gem homestead is the perfect place to disconnect. Trails to walk/hike, fields and forests to play in and the option for overnight pasture or stall horse board for our equine friends. You'll love the tranquility here. Follow us on IG at "Three.Ponds" for more pics, videos and info, including our Three Ponds Retreat dates!

Rugby House Retreat

100%

(10)

24km from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging

Privately owned, we reside next to the property. There will be more rentals available as well as the ability to pitch your own tent on the small island in our pond as well as wooded sites. Just outside of Orillia. Close to area beaches, trails, Hardwood Hills, Ski Hills, Casino Rama and Burl’s Creek, all amenities but the luxury of a rural setting. Currently we have The Poor House and The Glade to offer. We also are happy to accommodate special requests like pitching a tent or a small travel trailer at one of the sites if you wish. A shower house is in the works but not available yet…. Please take a look😊

Riverside Cottage Alton

100%

(2)

67km from Bayfield · 2 sites · Lodging

Welcome to our cozy riverside cottage in Alton, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. This entirely wood-paneled home boasts 15-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room, offering stunning views of the river that flows through the backyard. Inside, enjoy the luxury of a heated bathroom floor, ensuring warmth and comfort year-round. Step outside to the large backyard featuring a fire pit and seating overlooking the tranquil Credit River. A pathway leads down to the river's edge with a shallow wading area, perfect for relaxing by the water. While the back deck is under repair until August 2024, you can still access the cabin through the side deck, with the front deck ready by the end of July 2024. Centrally located in Alton, you're just steps away from downtown restaurants like Gather Cafe, Ray's, and the historic Alton Mill. Pamper yourself at Milcroft Spa or explore the galleries and event spaces at Alton Mill, both just moments away. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Osprey Links Golf Course and the extensive network of trails including Upper Credit trails, Alton Grange, and Caledon Cataract trailways—all within a short drive or bike ride. Experience the tranquility of country living with easy access to local amenities and outdoor adventures at our riverside retreat in Alton. **Arriving late? Busy day ahead? We've got you covered!** Whether you're rushing from a wedding rehearsal or just wrapping up a busy day at the cottage, you deserve a delicious, stress-free meal. ✨ Let **Jonathan Korecki**, our talented chef-turned-caterer, take care of it for you! With an impressive background including: - **Canada's Top Chef** 2nd Place 🥈 - **Canada’s Top Chef Allstars** - **Executive Chef at the Official Residence of the Canadian Ambassador to Japan** - **10+ years as Executive Chef in the Ottawa Region** Jonathan is ready to bring gourmet flavors directly to you! From intimate gatherings to large events, you can expect an unforgettable meal tailored to your needs. 📧 For more info, email jonnycancook@gmail.com** and let’s make your next meal exceptional!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Erin

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Forest Cabin

The forest cabin was everything I’d hope for and more. I wanted a place to get away and reconnect with nature and that’s exactly what I got out of my stay. I went for hikes through the property, got to play with the sheep and the dogs! And like others have said in their reviews, by far the best outhouse I’ve ever soon! I would 100% recommend staying here! I’ll be back to check it out in the spring or summer!

L

Lizeth

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Strawberrie Pine in the Sky is such a beautiful and peaceful place! The atmosphere is calm and relaxing, surrounded by nature and stunning views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and enjoy some quiet time away from the noise of everyday life. Highly recommended for anyone looking for serenity and natural beauty! 🌲✨

... and the forest right outside your door!

Roberta

October 2025

2 nights at Forest Cabin

Everdale is a special place! The straw cabin is simple, comfortable and so quiet! I felt safe as a person going there solo and walked their well loved and cared for land extensively. It was an education as well in that they have a regenerative farm. Being a long time gardener myself, it was interesting to read the sign posts on my walk explaining different aspects of regenerative farming and the lands ecology. I'll definitely come back and in the colder months, be sure you're comfortable keeping the woodstove going, you may need to split wood, etc. Also, being solar powered, if it's a cloudy day, the lights may go off early. I was glad I brought a battery operated lamp. Great place, great feeling there.!

T

Tim

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Loved our time at Joan's place. First time using hipcamp so had no idea what to expect, and it was awesome. I plan on returning many times, it is PERFECT, for cyclists who want to use it as a base camp or are through riding. Had a great time, 10/10 will return!

This Bunkie is perfectly situated for easy driving right up to the door if you needed.

S

Shivani

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Willowbrook

Amazing stay, my birthday weekend was awesome. Great hospitality. Thanks Angie and Bob :)

S

Shahtaj

September 2025

1 night at Pine the Sky

We loved camping in the bunkie at Pine the Sky. Joan was an amazing host, super friendly, very accommodating. She has two beautiful dogs that are very playful. The campsite is very cozy and the views are beautiful! Will definitely visit again.

D

Dylan

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Nice setup with plenty of your own space and <5 min walk to the river! Bunks were comfy, host very friendly and communicative.

C

Chelsiya

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Willowbrook

Angie, Bob, Connell, and Chase are wonderful hosts, and the cabin by the creek is one of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed. The musical flow of the creek, the vintage barn, the fields, the apple trees, the tiny kitchen, the midnight moon, and the path by the creek are all enchanting elements of this countryside getaway. We would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a stay with true country farmstead charm.

K

Kathy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Willowbrook

A dreamy little nook, and so close to the city ! The property is just beautiful and the cabin and little kitchenette had everything we needed and more. There was a really positive energy from the land and the fields. And Angie and Bob went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. I highly recommend the Kota dinner, it was such a highlight. Thanks Angie and Bob for sharing so much of yourselves and your world with us, what a beautiful memory we take with ourselves, we just wish we had stayed longer !

L

Luke

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Forest Cabin

We enjoyed our stay so much we'll definitely be returning. Good amount of wood supplied and easy to grab another bag. The outdoor kitchen was so well stocked and clean. The outhouse as well. I could go on and on, but I don't want you booking one of our future stays there.

K

Kathy

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Joan was very thoughtful! Each child was left a gift of bubbles which brought them joy! Her banana bread was so delicious, and much appreciated. She also loaned us a can opener and a charge chord which was super helpful! Her trails were well marked and very easy to navigate. She has a lot of water toys to enjoy!

J

Jessica

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Rugby House Retreat

We loved our little retreat! The cabin was cozy and had everything you needed. Really appreciated the fridge. Upon arrival, they were so kind and showed us around. The bed was actually so comfortable (we did not want to get up). Our dog loved it! Cute little paths to explore.

r

rhia

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Joan was accomodating and welcoming. She was easy to talk to. Anything we needed she was quick to assist. The cabin was small but wide enough to fit 3 people (and a dog), it wasnt too cold in the cabin and electric source is provided for. If someone is looking for camping but would like to skip the setting up of a tent part, then this place is good for you

J

Johanna

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Pine the Sky

What a beautiful, peaceful place. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The bunkie was cozy, the host fantastic and pups were lovable. River, trails, paddle boards...everything you need for a great getaway Can't recommend enough!

N

Natasha

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

This cabin was the perfect peaceful escape! It was cozy and clean, and the property felt so private with all the beautiful pine trees. A truly wonderful place to relax and recharge!! Joan is an amazing host!!

N

Natalie

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rugby House Retreat

Renee was so kind and welcoming during our stay. The cabin was spotless and had everything we needed for a comfortable visit. The property itself is beautiful and had a cozy, atmosphere that made it extra special. It truly exceeded our expectations, and we’re already looking forward to booking again!

Y

Youssef

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Beaver Valley Base Camp

Great cabin. Kelly is super nice and welcoming. Beautiful views and lots of amazing spots in the area. Highly recommend. We went on a bike packing trip. Great cycling routes all around too

L

Luana

August 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Willowbrook

My friends and I were looking for a relaxing place to reconnect with nature and spend a girly weekend together. We had high expectations for this place and somehow there were exceeded! The property is beautiful, the bunkie is very cozy, you have all the utensils for a simple meal with the bbq, the sauna+hot tub were divine, and Angie and Bob are amazing hosts! We had fresh eggs in the morning and got to stargaze during the night :) Highly recommended! We want to be back! Thanks for everything.

V

Victor

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Camp Willowbrook

My second time at Camp Willowbrook. This is the best spot if you want some peaceful and relaxing personal time. It was so beautiful! Angie is very responsive, has been very kind and provided great hospitality all the time. I had a great stay! You'll have everything you need there.

H

Hari

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pine the Sky

Amazing, the host was so sweet. Very accommodating had a lot of different things like cooking tools, canoes, other camping items that you would need and possibly forgot. I would highly recommend it. We will definitely be going again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek cabins near Bayfield guide

Where to go

Inverhuron Provincial Park

Sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and spectacular Lake Huron sunsets are the main draws to Inverhuron Provincial Park. Choose from three park trails—ranging from easy to moderate difficulty and length—to explore its wetlands and new-growth hardwood forests. Get a view from the water with kayak, canoe, or small boat launches, perfect for some offshore fishing for salmon, trout, and bass. Here, Hipcampers are a short drive from scenic coastal campgrounds and cabin rentals.

MacGregor Point Provincial Park

Spanning more than 1,200 hectares of pristine land, MacGregor Point Provincial Park is one of the Bayfield region’s most important nature reserves. This diverse ecosystem supports all manner of life in its many biomes, including swamps, cattail marshes, bogs, and seven kilometres of lakeside beach. It’s even home to 10 species of rare, carnivorous plants, including the pitcher plant. Among the wildlife, the park offers activities year-round, including hiking and paddling in summer, and snowshoeing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing in winter. A number of yurt rentals are also available nearby.

Long Point Provincial Park

Long Point Provincial Park is one of the top destinations in North America for birdwatchers thanks to large migrations of more than 80 species of birds and waterfowl. Featuring stretches of peaceful marsh to canoe through, sandy beaches to swim off of, and a short network of paths for cyclists to explore the inland forests and bogs, Long Point camping is a must. Pitch a tent at a waterside or forested campsite.

Pinery Provincial Park

Just outside Bayfield, Pinery Provincial Park supports 700 plant species, 300 kinds of birds, and 60 butterfly species—consider it Canada’s wonderland of flora and fauna. The park also contains a rare oak savanna ecosystem, one of the only in Ontario. Here, campers can explore 10 kilometres of lakeside beach, 10 hiking trails, 14 kilometres of cycling paths, plus find opportunities for cross-country skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park is close to secluded river flat campgrounds and quiet RV sites.

When to go

Bayfield is a year-round attraction, though it’s busiest in summer. Because it’s a lake town, tourists are drawn to the sandy beaches and Main Street from May through September, though large parks nearby can serve as breaks from the crowds. Keep up to date on the quickly changing lake conditions, as winds and currents can pick up unexpectedly. Summer visitors can expect warm days (average July highs of 25.1°C) and clear skies, while winter visitors should prepare for chillier temperatures (average January lows of -8.5°C) and ice or snow on the ground.