Where can you camp for free in Ontario?

In Ontario , Canada, you can camp for free on Crown land, which makes up about 87% of the province. Crown land offers dispersed, backcountry camping with no facilities, so you'll need to be prepared and practice Leave No Trace principles. Some popular areas for free camping in Ontario include: Algonquin Provincial Park 's non-operating parks and conservation reserves (note: permits and fees are required for backcountry camping) Temagami region Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park Massasauga Provincial Park's backcountry sites (note: permits and fees are required for backcountry camping) Keep in mind that you'll need a Crown land Camping Permit if you're a non-resident of Canada. You can find more information about Crown land camping and regulations on the Ontario government's website.

Where do people go camping in Ontario?

In Ontario , Canada, people go camping in various provincial parks, conservation areas, and private campgrounds. Some popular camping destinations include: Algonquin Provincial Park Killarney Provincial Park Bruce Peninsula National Park Sandbanks Provincial Park Bon Echo Provincial Park Killbear Provincial Park Long Point Provincial Park Pinery Provincial Park Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Lake Superior Provincial Park These parks offer a variety of camping experiences, including tent camping, RV camping, backcountry camping, and even yurts and cabins. For more information on camping in Ontario , visit Ontario Parks.

Camping in Ontario: Best Ontario Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is camping free in Ontario?

While there are some free camping options in Ontario , most campgrounds and parks charge fees. Free camping is generally available in the form of "Crown land" and "conservation reserves," which are vast areas of undeveloped land managed by the government. These areas do not have facilities, so you'll need to come prepared for a more primitive camping experience. To find out more about camping in Ontario , visit Hipcamp.

Q: What is the best month for camping in Ontario?

The best month for camping in Ontario , Canada, is typically July. During this time, the weather is warm and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. June and August are also good months for camping in Ontario , as the weather is still pleasant and there's plenty of daylight for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers and mosquitoes during these months. Keep in mind that the weather can vary across the province, so it's essential to check the specific region you plan to visit for more accurate information.

Q: Which park is best for camping in Ontario?

In Ontario , Canada, there are numerous provincial parks that offer excellent camping experiences. One of the most popular and best parks for camping in Ontario is Algonquin Provincial Park . It is the oldest and largest provincial park in Ontario , covering over 7,600 square kilometers. Algonquin offers a variety of camping options, including backcountry camping, drive-in campgrounds, and roofed accommodations. The park is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and fishing. Other notable parks for camping in Ontario include: Killarney Provincial Park Bruce Peninsula National Park Sandbanks Provincial Park Bon Echo Provincial Park Each park offers unique landscapes, activities, and camping options, so the best choice will depend on your preferences and the type of camping experience you are looking for.

Canada
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Ontario

96% (6089 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ontario

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O’KENNY Craft Spirits & River Tubin

9 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Pembroke, Renfrew

We located our Craft Distillery on a beautiful 4 acre property on the Muskrat River. You can rent our River Tubes for a relaxing float down the river through some little rapids at Pansy Patch Park to reach the Waterfront Park where you can get a shuttle back to the Distillery property. We will have waterfront camp sites and RV sites available starting in May or July 2022.

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(11)

Glenelg Wellness Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Owen Sound, Grey

42 acres of grass and trees in the quiet countryside, the Glenelg Wellness Retreat is the site of her uncle's hobby farm. A furniture maker by trade, this man furnished the interior of the farmhouse in the style of King Ludwig XIV. The place is now centered around offering wellness services for people, and training for dogs and their human companions. Please visit our website to learn more and to get in contact with us regarding what else we offer.

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Aubrey Acres

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · East Ferris, Nipissing

25 acres of beautiful peaceful piece of paradise Come stay with us in our air bnb Camp in bush Enjoy our farm Animals Walk our trails Experience a massage by the pond at Dusk Golf course n lake close by Enjoy our fire pit Relax by our Billabong You could be anywhere in the world when you spend on Aubrey Acres

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Spring Arbour Magic Forest &Trails!

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents49 acres · Haldimand Norfolk

Pitch your tent in our picturesque Carolinian forest in the heart of Norfolk county! Well-kept trails to explore throughout. We are proud to have made the runner-up list for best Hipcamp in Ontario 2023 Choose from 6 tent sites and 2 lodging sites spread across 10 acres of wooded area on our 49 Acre farm. Offsite -we are near long point beach Turkey Point, and only one minute drive to big creek boat launch navigable by kayak to the inner bay The terrain is mostly flat but interesting. Campsites are private with good separation from each other. Sites contain a picnic table and fire pit. Campfires are permitted according to our approved burn plan before midnight. 5G/LTE cellphone service is good for Bell, Rogers and Telus networks. Firewood can be gathered for free on the forest floor or pay for on-site precut wood. Outhouse close to campsites....but not too close 💩 Port Rowan is only 12 minutes away by car, most amenities can be purchased only 1 minute away at the local Busy Bee gas station. Birders Paradise! The ‘Long Point Birding Area’ in Norfolk County is one of Canada’s premier birding locales. With over 400 species of birds observed, Long Point looms large as one of the most exciting places on the continent to observe our rich birdlife. We have some great attractions nearby like burning kiln winery and Charlotteville brewing company. For all tourism options check out https://www.norfolkcounty.ca/visiting/ We look forward to hosting you! Save 20% off winter bookings! The promo code is CXIOHEY7 valid for stays November 15 2023 to march 31 2024

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Cedar Creek Forest Camping

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents97 acres · Tay, Simcoe

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

Available this weekend

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Footprints Resort

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Bancroft, Hastings

Footprints Resort is a private adults-only holiday destination located in the heart of Hastings Highlands, at the southern tip of Algonquin Park in Ontario. Their boutique resort is adults only, providing a pristine, natural, child-free setting for your next getaway! Enjoy swimming and non-motorized water sports on their private lake, relax as you sunbath and lounge on the beach, hike and bike the nearby trails, enjoy a natural setting and reconnect with nature. They offer a variety of accommodation options with rooms, villas, cabins and camping available, spacious private grounds to roam and many secluded seating areas to relax. Enjoy all that the resort has to offer. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, relaxation or a romantic getaway, their boutique resort is your destination! Book one of their nicely appointed rooms or cozy cabins, or bring along your camping gear for a fun, relaxing, week-long or weekend adventure. Join others in the lounge to socialize, sit by the fireplace, or cook a meal in their self-catering kitchen. Barbecues are available throughout the resort so grilling up a delicious meal is not a problem. Hang out in their open air Cabana where you can mix a cold beverage and socialize with other guests, or take your drink to one of their many secluded, sitting areas to relax. The Dome is a large, 1,500-square-foot covered, open air recreational structure designed to keep the party going, even in inclement weather. Equipped with a stage, sound equipment and a dance floor that is ready for any party, they can accommodate many options. The Dome usually houses a Games Room, but has also been used for dancing, wedding receptions, a weight room and rehearsal space among other options. If variety is the spice of your life and you wish for a little excitement, there are plenty of local attractions such as antiquing, canoeing, rockhounding, and ghost towns. Spend a day exploring Algonquin park or go white water rafting or trail riding by horseback or ATV. However you decide to spend your day, there is always lots to do at and around Footprints!

Home Away From Home

16 sites · Lodging42 acres · Warwick, Lambton

Bear Lake Experience is a 42 Acre wooded property , with so much nature to explore . This is a real back to nature experience , close to home . Our 15 sites have 30 Amp power and are nestled along the 2 acre spring fed lake. The property has been in our family for nearly 100 years, we are the 3rd generation that has enjoyed this unique hidden gem. We look forward to sharing our experiences with everyone that comes

Killara Station

10 sites · RVs, Tents215 acres · Minden Hills, Haliburton

Killara Station is 215-acre rural oasis located halfway between Minden and Haliburton, Ontario. A Canadian who grew up in Haliburton, but who lived for over 20 years in Australia, owner Susan Peel calls Killara Station home. The name - Killara Station - is grounded in the language of Australia's Indigenous and colonials. Killara means permanent Station means farm. Killara is home to several thriving small businesses. PAWS provides doggie daycare, boarding, and training, and off leash packwalks happen Wednesday-Sunday 2-3pm (the public is welcome; no booking required). FRESH is a unique pick-your-own organic food experience and date sales reflect the daily harvest. Freshly laid eggs are available and organically fed free-range chickens and turkeys are offered fresh or frozen, depending on the season. Horseback Riding can also be enjoyed thru Shannon 705 768 5747

Mys Retreat - Gateway to Algonquin

59 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents175 acres · Burk's Falls, Parry Sound

MYS Retreat - Find peace and reconnect with nature in Kearney, Ontario, Canada. Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find peace in the wild nature? MYS Retreat is the perfect destination for you. Located in Kearney, Ontario, Canada, MYS Retreat is a completely natural campsite amidst pine forests, lakes, and stunning mountain landscapes. We provide retreat services, camping grounds, and outdoor activities to help you reconnect with nature and bring your soul back into balance. Our campsites are fully equipped for a comfortable stay, with beautifully designed tents and full amenities for a perfect vacation. You can also participate in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or fishing. In addition, MYS Retreat also offers retreat services to help you find balance in your life. Come and experience MYS Retreat to find peace and connect with nature. We guarantee that you will have a wonderful vacation and return with a relaxed and refreshed spirit and reconnect with nature in Kearney, Ontario, Canada.

Cabinco - Northern Bruce Peninsula

28 sites · Lodging6 acres · Wiarton, Bruce

Welcome to Cabinco at beautiful Stokes Bay on the Northern Bruce Peninsula. We are located right on the water with a Marina. Now that you have booked your home away from home you are ready to explore some of the local areas! Stokes Bay is conveniently tucked away between Lions Head and Tobermory's amenities and sites. Access to the Bruce Trail is available in several locations nearby as well as in Stokes Bay.

Dog-friendly getaways

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Cabinco - Northern Bruce Peninsula

28 sites · Lodging6 acres · Wiarton, Bruce

Welcome to Cabinco at beautiful Stokes Bay on the Northern Bruce Peninsula. We are located right on the water with a Marina. Now that you have booked your home away from home you are ready to explore some of the local areas! Stokes Bay is conveniently tucked away between Lions Head and Tobermory's amenities and sites. Access to the Bruce Trail is available in several locations nearby as well as in Stokes Bay.

Home Away From Home

16 sites · Lodging42 acres · Warwick, Lambton

Bear Lake Experience is a 42 Acre wooded property , with so much nature to explore . This is a real back to nature experience , close to home . Our 15 sites have 30 Amp power and are nestled along the 2 acre spring fed lake. The property has been in our family for nearly 100 years, we are the 3rd generation that has enjoyed this unique hidden gem. We look forward to sharing our experiences with everyone that comes

Nature's Harmony

12 sites · Lodging, Tents500 acres · Mattawa, Nipissing

Nature’s Harmony is an all-season destination nestled in a remote wilderness setting overlooking the Laurentian Mountains. There are 500 acres of lush forest, woven through a creek, bay, lake, 'Little Mountain', and countless trails. We have a multitude of accommodation types to serve a variety of groups and needs, including a cabin, chalet, yurts, domes, glamping and camping. The abundant forest and off-grid accommodations allow our guests to disconnect and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Guests also have the option to explore and relish in outdoor activities such as hiking, trail running, biking, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, SUPing, water and snow tubing, snowshoeing, and back-country skiing. We invite our guests to embrace sustainable living by using our eco showers and compost toilets. We are also grateful to be a location host of many retreats, events and gatherings, as well as host our very own trail race, Run Off The Grid.

Mys Retreat - Gateway to Algonquin

59 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents175 acres · Burk's Falls, Parry Sound

MYS Retreat - Find peace and reconnect with nature in Kearney, Ontario, Canada. Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find peace in the wild nature? MYS Retreat is the perfect destination for you. Located in Kearney, Ontario, Canada, MYS Retreat is a completely natural campsite amidst pine forests, lakes, and stunning mountain landscapes. We provide retreat services, camping grounds, and outdoor activities to help you reconnect with nature and bring your soul back into balance. Our campsites are fully equipped for a comfortable stay, with beautifully designed tents and full amenities for a perfect vacation. You can also participate in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or fishing. In addition, MYS Retreat also offers retreat services to help you find balance in your life. Come and experience MYS Retreat to find peace and connect with nature. We guarantee that you will have a wonderful vacation and return with a relaxed and refreshed spirit and reconnect with nature in Kearney, Ontario, Canada.

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Harmony Resorts - Stoney Lake

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Peterborough, Peterborough

You will find our campground amongst the rugged precambrian rocks and windswept pines on the shores of Stoney Lake, the crown jewel of the Kawarthas. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of our pinery sites, or experience the tranquility of our lakeside sites. Enjoy the pristine water as you relax on our private sandy beach or launch a boat to explore the lake’s hundreds of beautiful islands. Stoney Lake is known for its excellent fishing and is home to large populations of bass, walleye, and muskie. Petroglyph Provincial Park, located right across the street is a sacred Indigenous site with the largest known concentration of aboriginal rock carvings in Canada. Explore the excellent hiking trails the park has to offer or visit McGinnis Lake, one of few meromictic lakes in North America. At the end of each day the lullaby of the northern loon will call through the cool night air as you drift off to sleep. We can’t wait to share our place with you!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in Ontario guide

Camping in Ontario is all about lakes and forests, with easy access to nature in the province’s national and provincial parks, wine-making regions, and lakeside cottage communities. Though home to Canada’s national capital, (Ottawa), its largest city (Toronto), and its most popular tourist attraction (Niagara Falls), Ontario’s location bordering four of the five Great Lakes means sandy beaches, thousands of islands, remote canoe routes, and miles of wooded trails to explore. The province’s peak outdoor season runs from May to October before the area settles into dramatic autumn foliage and snowy winters.

Georgian Bay

Two of Ontario’s national parks, Bruce Peninsula and Georgian Bay Islands, as well as the Fathom Five National Marine Conservation Area, are located along the Georgian Bay section of Lake Huron, northwest of Toronto. Other area highlights include Killarney and Killbear provincial parks, known for hiking and camping, and Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island, where several indigenous communities welcome visitors interested in learning about their cultures.

Northwestern Ontario

This immense region follows the shores of Lake Superior and stretches north through the deep woods to Hudson Bay. From the gateway cities of Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, campers can explore remote Pukaskwa National Park, as well as Sleeping Giant and Lake Superior provincial parks along the shores of the largest Great Lake.

Eastern Ontario

East of Toronto and hugging Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County is popular among campers and glampers who love good food or want to laze on the beaches and sand dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park. Continuing east along the St. Lawrence River (which divides Canada from the United States), you can paddle from island to island or set up camp in Thousand Islands National Park. Major cities in eastern Ontario are Ottawa, Canada’s national capital, and Kingston, where the Rideau Canal meets the St. Lawrence.

Southwestern Ontario

Ontario’s southwest corner borders both Lake Erie and Lake Huron, between Toronto and Detroit. You can visit Canada’s southernmost point in Point Pelee National Park and tour the small wineries that cluster around the towns of Kingsville and Leamington. The popular beaches and campsites of Pinery Provincial Park are along Lake Huron’s southern shore.

Central Ontario

Encompassing the city of Toronto, Rouge National Urban Park, the Niagara region, and the Muskoka Lakes—known as Ontario’s “cottage country”—Central Ontario also includes Algonquin Provincial Park, one of Ontario’s most popular canoe camping areas, and Bon Echo Provincial Park, where more than 250 indigenous pictographs are preserved on rocky cliffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

While there are some free camping options in Ontario, most campgrounds and parks charge fees. Free camping is generally available in the form of "Crown land" and "conservation reserves," which are vast areas of undeveloped land managed by the government. These areas do not have facilities, so you'll need to come prepared for a more primitive camping experience. To find out more about camping in Ontario, visit Hipcamp.

In Ontario, Canada, you can camp for free on Crown land, which makes up about 87% of the province. Crown land offers dispersed, backcountry camping with no facilities, so you'll need to be prepared and practice Leave No Trace principles. Some popular areas for free camping in Ontario include:

Algonquin Provincial Park's non-operating parks and conservation reserves (note: permits and fees are required for backcountry camping)
Temagami region
Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park
Massasauga Provincial Park's backcountry sites (note: permits and fees are required for backcountry camping)

Keep in mind that you'll need a Crown land Camping Permit if you're a non-resident of Canada. You can find more information about Crown land camping and regulations on the Ontario government's website.

In Ontario, Canada, people go camping in various provincial parks, conservation areas, and private campgrounds. Some popular camping destinations include:

These parks offer a variety of camping experiences, including tent camping, RV camping, backcountry camping, and even yurts and cabins. For more information on camping in Ontario, visit Ontario Parks.

The best month for camping in Ontario, Canada, is typically July. During this time, the weather is warm and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. June and August are also good months for camping in Ontario, as the weather is still pleasant and there's plenty of daylight for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers and mosquitoes during these months. Keep in mind that the weather can vary across the province, so it's essential to check the specific region you plan to visit for more accurate information.

In Ontario, Canada, there are numerous provincial parks that offer excellent camping experiences. One of the most popular and best parks for camping in Ontario is Algonquin Provincial Park. It is the oldest and largest provincial park in Ontario, covering over 7,600 square kilometers. Algonquin offers a variety of camping options, including backcountry camping, drive-in campgrounds, and roofed accommodations. The park is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and fishing.

Other notable parks for camping in Ontario include:

Each park offers unique landscapes, activities, and camping options, so the best choice will depend on your preferences and the type of camping experience you are looking for.