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.

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Popular camping styles for Ontario

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Top camping destinations

Sherkston

717 campgrounds

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

672 campgrounds

Point Pelee National Park

450 campgrounds

Deer Lake

0 campgrounds

Algonquin Provincial Park

588 campgrounds

Rouge National Park

892 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Ontario

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Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, Durham

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

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Dragonfly Ridge Rescue Farm

4 sites · Lodging98 acres · Peterborough

Dragonfly Ridge is a 98 acre farm. Our pretty cabins are perfect for folks to enjoy some glamping in the country, on the farm surrounded by friendly animals. You can arrange to have a tour of the farm and hang out with donkeys, mini horses, llamas, alpacas, pigs, bunnies, sheep, goats, peacocks, ducks and chickens. We have a lovely pond, and acres of forest you can explore. Our farm is on a quiet country road where you can take a walk and enjoy the peace and quiet and connect with nature and one another without the distractions of wifi, street noises or city lights. We are within minutes of the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park with all there is to see and do there, such as hiking, paddling, exploring, swimming. We have a fire pit where you can enjoy a spectacular night sky unimpeded by any other lights. The cabin has electricity, lights, electric fireplace for heat. In the cabin we have a double bed, a table and 2 chairs, a two-burner stove with oven, a washing up station. Fall asleep listening to owls call and wolves howling in the distance. Wake to the sounds of the animals on the farm, you may even be able to arrange to gather your own eggs for breakfast! We are confident you won't want to leave the farm, but in case you choose to explore beyond our 98 acres there is lots to still see and do within only a short drive. We are located close to Buckhorn, where you can explore more lakes, pick your own berries or visit pumpkin patches, pick up groceries or enjoy the restaurants in Buckhorn. Also, in nearby Bobcaygeon you can find world-class shopping and dining, parks, beaches, festivals, a heritage village, and even more lakes. One hour north of us is Haliburton, with the Haliburton Forest and Wolf visitation Centre, Sir Sam's ski resort, shops and restaurants, and Sir Sandford Fleming's college of Fine Arts. Lakefield is only 35 minutes away offering shopping, a world famous literary festival, fine dining, and antique shows most weekends. Trent University is only 40 minutes south, in Peterborough where you can watch Peterborough Petes play hockey, attend free music festivals in the summer months, experience the best restaurants around, shop, see a movie, watch the boats in the Lift Locks, a World Heritage, visit the canoe museum, skate on the canal, and much more.

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Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Burk's Falls, Parry Sound

Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat is the perfect place to relax in nature, reflect on life and restore your soul. It is located on 10.5 acres in the Almaguin Highlands, an all season getaway three hours north of Toronto. The sites at Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat are the perfect combination of camping and rustic luxury. There is a small cabin, a geodome and a bell tent with future plans for a safari tent as well. There is communal space in the charming barn that has a kitchenette, farmhouse table and sofas for all of my guests to retreat to when the weather outside is cold or rainy. The vision going forward is for Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat to become a community where people can come together for workshops and a sense of community. If you have any ideas for a workshop please forward your ideas to me.

Edges Sideroad Springs

6 sites · Lodging, Tents65 acres · West Grey, Grey

We have owned the property for 19 years. The camping area was once a gravel pit which was rehabilitated in 2020. There is agricultural land that is farmed in the summer as well we host bees at that back of the property . A unique feature on the property is a natural spring that bubbles up and feeds the two streams on the property.

River Rock Farm Campbellville

7 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Milton, Halton

Nestled conveniently between Toronto, Kitchener/Waterloo, and Hamilton on the Niagara Escarpment, visitors to River Rock Farm find joy and connection through nature and the wonders of 16 Mile Creek running through the property! The property is virtually bugless! Proud to have been voted runner up for best tenting site in Canada for 2023! There are 6 unique private campsites about an acre away from each other. All have picnic tables, seating and a private firepit. #1 - Is at the top of a hill, looking down onto 16 Mile Creek in a heavily forested setting, and can accommodate an RV up to 25 feet. A rustic cabin upgrade with a bed can be purchased as well. #2 - Is one acre away in the opposite secluded corner of the same field. Your group will have maximum privacy. No Hydro line but you can borrow an ac/dc adapter to hook onto your car battery or charge anything at the barn. #3 - Is right beside the river which is a 4 minute walk down the hill from car parking. No Hydro. #4 - Front field on top of a hill directly overlooking 16 mile creek. Hydro available. #5 - Back field corner. This is beside a storage shelter. Hydro available. #6 - Front field Shelter site. On the side of an open field. No hydro line but an AC adapter is available free to use which can be connected to your car battery, or you can charge devices etc. in the barn outlet. There is one shared outhouse and clean potable drinking water from a hose and frost free spigot. Firewood can be purchased on site and a free loaner badminton and croquet set and axe is available. On our property, you’ll find beautiful walking trails to enjoy throughout your stay and 16 Mile Creek that flows through the property where you can spend your days fishing and relaxing in the hammock. Kelso Lake back entrance for swimming is a 5 minute walk down the road. ATTRACTIONS near by: Hilton Falls is a 5 min. walk up the road, and Kelso Lavender Farm is directly across the road. Several Bruce Trail entrances for hiking are very close by as well. Rattlesnake Point conservation area and is a 5 minute drive south on Appleby with Rock climbing and scenic views and the legendary Crawford Lake is 10 minutes by car. Springridge Farm and Chudleighs Apple Farm are a 5 minute drive away as well. There are no farm animals currently - pictures posted by campers were from last year) Campbellville is a small quaint town a 5 minute drive from the farm with fantastic restaurants and a very good local grocery store. Check out all that is local and nearby at the following link: http://www.miltonweb.ca/community-services/tourist-attractions-tourism-in-and-around-milton.html Noise from a few reviews explained: Yes, the highway is close by. The range is anywhere from barely audible to very noticeable and it is generally dependent upon atmospheric conditions and wind direction on any given day. Detailed arrival instructions are sent out 48 hours prior to arrival. Campers with dogs: I do have a very well behaved Shepherd who gets along with all dogs and is usually outside only when I am.

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Erie View Glamping

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Port Stanley, Elgin

Erieview glamping has geodomes nestled in a carolinian forest with the views of lake Erie! The perfect spot to connect with nature and absorb the energy of the earth! Peacefully enjoy a fire on the beach & gaze at the stars! Open all year round so you can enjoy your favorite seasons of Southern Ontario,Canada *New Dome site opening august if you would like to book both domes for friends or family getaway for more information for booking please contact :)

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The Woodzzz

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Haliburton, Haliburton

Among the thick forest of the Haliburton highlands lies a very tranquil, quiet and still place. The area although rugged and pristine offers many activities for all to enjoy such as hiking/biking/boating/kayaking/beaching etc. To escape the calm environment its only 15 minutes to the quaint village of Haliburton where you can find farmers markets, shops, restaurants and art. The Woodzzz was made for those that enjoy the outdoors and are needing a gentle reminder of what little we need to enjoy the life we live!

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Glamping in the Woods

1 site · Lodging34 acres · Foresters Falls, Renfrew

This 30ac property was once the site of a Carding Mill used for the processing of sheep’s wool. Before wool can be spun into thread or yarn, it must be combed, also referred to as carded, to straighten the wool fiber and remove impurities. Water-powered carding machines like the one that was at this site made it much easier and faster to prepare the wool for spinning. It was said that it would take a family months to prepare as much wool by hand as a carding machine could card in a day. The carding mill on this site would have stood along the creek which is leading from the pond to the Grants Settlement road. Earth berms which you can still see today near the opening of the creek, held back water to power the mill. The pond would have been about 10ft deeper than it currently is now. Over the years the beavers have taken up the charge of damming the creek and making a natural aquatic habitat. The Old Mill Cabin was constructed in 2020 using salvaged beams from the old fallen down barn that you pass on your way in. It was a family affair with all getting involved in the process.

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Hilltop Glamorous Camping

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Verona, Frontenac

Sitting on 20 acres with purifying plants & comforting earth tones, Hilltop Glamorous Camping is home to guests from all over the world! A perfect space to unplug from technology and plug into nature to reboot the mind, body, and soul with family and friends. We have all the amenities you need! Private toilet and hot shower, clean drinking water, an outdoor kitchen with all cooking supplies, picnic table, and a barbecue. This space is especially great for first-time glampers, folks who only want to pack their clothes and food and nothing else, or even introducing a family member or friend to camping for the first time. Campfires are permitted and pets are welcome! There's so much to do in the South Frontenac Region! Enjoy the great outdoors, hiking, bird watching or visit the many lakes that are a stone's throw away for fishing, swimming, or boating. Go ATVing on the many trails in and around South Frontenac.

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Whispering Pines - Curran, Ontario

30 sites · Tents60 acres · Prescott And Russell

'Whispering Pines' was bought about 35 years ago as our dream retirement home, a place to rest, have a quiet life, enjoy nature and have a peaceful retirement for ever and ever...In past years we have been a family camp. and an event camp with camping festivals, special events, and day visits. Now we welcome visitors who are looking for a casual, rustic, laid back experience with nature in a simple, peaceful setting. Nature is allowed to thrive on our property, and the entire property is forested and wild. The majority of our campsites are shaded under a verdant and lush canopy. Our private beach and small lake welcome you for a swim. All we ask of our visitors is: that whatever you bring in you take home with you, that you leave your campsite and the property the way you found it, and the only thing you take from here are pictures and happy memories. All of our campsites are off-grid, un-serviced, drive-in camping. Campfire wood and recycling facilities are available on site. Maintained outhouses are available throughout the property. There is no potable water on the property so please bring your own drinking and cooking water. Children under 12 can camp for free. When booking a campsite please only include any guests over 12 years of age in your guest count. Children under 12 do not need to be included in your booking. Contact us to inquire about large group and event rates. We host LARPing weekends twice a month. We also have a limited number of seasonal sites available from June to September. I love this property and all the people who visit us, many have become extended family and for this I am grateful. There is nothing nicer than to have people drop by and spend a couple of hours, a day or a weekend, sometime when I get real lucky it's for a longer period of time :-)

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Fish’s Yurt Romantic Luxury Escape

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Burk's Falls, Parry Sound

This traditional four season Mongolian Yurt features it’s own bathroom, kitchen, living area and queen size bed. It is heated with a thermostatically controlled fireplace. Located four hours north of Toronto in one of the most beautiful areas of Ontario, Almaguin Highlands between Killarney Provincial Park, Grundy Provincial Park, and Restoule Provincial.

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Tiny Teal Cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Kingston, Frontenac

Enjoy the best of both country and city. The property boasts amazing views of the Rideau Canal and glorious sunsets. Enjoy the outdoor fire pit, private Hot Tub and explore 10 acres of wooded, Canadian Shield bliss. Tiny home/guest cabin nestled in the trees but still conveniently located near parking and the main Road to town. Quick 15 minute drive to tourist attractions & historical downtown Kingston. Also near multiple lakes, hiking trails and other outdoor pursuits. Inside our Tiny Cabin is a main floor with living area, fold away dining table, full bathroom with toilet, sink and shower. The kitchenette has a sink, bar fridge with small freezer, stove top convection over/toaster, drip coffee maker, single burner element and microwave. It is fully stocked with cookware, utensils, dishes, coffee grounds, some spices and cooking oil. There is also an outdoor BBQ. The upstairs loft has Queen size bed, smart TV and clothing storage. All linens (sheets, towels etc. are included). The cabin is heated and we provide fans in the Summer months. We love animals but unfortunately our tiny cabin is not suitable for pets. Our cabin is strictly non smoking. We are passionate about tiny home living and leaving the smallest environmental footprint possible. The Tiny Teal Cabin was thoughtfully built to utilize minimal space and be energy efficient, all the while providing a serene sanctuary and escape amongst the trees. We encourage our guests to discover what it would be like to live with 'less' while discovering more in their surroundings.

Dog-friendly getaways

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WÄRME Sauna Cabin: Couples Retreat

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Tottenham, Simcoe

Check into a Spa Cabin - a SPOT TO RETREAT to relax and endure downtime : by yourself, a romantic stay to connect, or two close friends who are looking for quality time 'away from it all' - enjoy the benefits oF sauna/spa culture or use our spot as an off grid tiny cabin (with power & camper style outside cook space or restaurants to order from nearby). Queen bed. Bedding supplied. Mini fridge inside cabin. No oven/microwave. Bbq, toaster, electric cooktop, water, tea, coffee. Cutlery, plates bbq utensils supplied. Upon request/availability we welcome you with a meditative sound bath using crystal sound bowls - grounding, centring, calming the thinking mind among the panoramic view. We then hand you a plush spa robe. Provided in the cabin Facial supplies (exfoliate, cleanse, nourish ), body scrubs, massage oils, and hotel quality spa linens to name a few. This is an experientail stay, a small cabin heated by a wood burning stove - & a large 8 person sauna aside from the cabin lounge space & Queen size bed... Dip in the outside Hot tub on a covered deck looking into Scenic hills surrounded by 100’s of farm land - think your favorite Ontario spa's with no crowds. The 2 acre property is full of evergreens; fire pits, yoga gazebo, sun decks star gazing and restautants nearby for a date night. We encourage guests to explore . Horse stables, nature trails, farmland spot to buy fresh honey, eggs nearby. Or if you just want to listen to music, journal, read a book, watch birds ; & reflect on life - the high vibrational energy of the lands are sure to tap into your inner peace. Must be comfortable operating & starting a fire. If this is of interest, message and let us create an unforgettable experience for you!

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Simple Cabin in town

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Haliburton Village, Haliburton

Open space, including kitchen, comfy bed, couch and wood stove. There is an outhouse and spring water is provided for drinking, wash up and rinsing (no running water) Basic cooking utensils, small fridge, hot plate, coffee press and kettle. The cabin is in town, there are neighbors and general sounds of town. - 2 min drive to Main street-shops, cafes, pub, lake access, ice skating - 5 min drive to cross country ski trails, snowshoe trails and a sculpture forest - 15 min drive to ski hill and water spa There is a cedar sauna on the property you are welcome to use during your stay. Along with a simple outdoor / off grid shower for rinsing. Parking is on the street in front of the cabin. Please keep tight to the right for the snowplow and neighbors to get by.

Booked 1 time

Open Sky Glamping Kawartha Dome

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Belleville, Hastings

Escape to nature in Kawarthas, 2 hours from Toronto. Woodland trails, cycling, star gazing, bird-watching, or immerse in nature's tranquility with the calls of loons and birdsong. Cozy up by the wood-burning stove, and watch the natural world unfold outside. Our spacious dome embraces serenity, inviting you to slow down and savor life's simple joys. Perfect for romantic getaways or adventures with friends. Marmora Retreat's Dome offers a unique and inviting escape like no other. THE SPACE This exceptional 500 sqft dome boasts spacious living quarters and 13' high ceilings adorned with a skylight that invites you to stargaze from the comfort of your cozy queen-size bed. You'll find a fully-equipped kitchenette, complete with a solar-powered fridge and freezer, allowing you to enjoy all the conveniences of home while reducing your ecological footprint. Hang out beneath the bamboo light fixtures, savor meals at the dining area for four, and stay warm by the wood-burning stove on cooler evenings. Eco-conscious guests will appreciate the bathroom featuring a composting toilet, aligning with our commitment to sustainability. With plenty of power outlets and a pull-out couch, the dome accommodates up to four guests, making it ideal for romantic getaways, nature adventures with friends, or peaceful solo retreats. Step outside onto the sprawling 500 sqft deck, where you can relax on comfortable patio furniture while observing local wildlife. A wood-burning hot tub beckons you to unwind beneath the stars, and a cozy fire pit and BBQ offer opportunities for outdoor dining and socializing. A sail shade provides shelter from the elements, and a refreshing outdoor shower completes the outdoor oasis. Marmora Retreat's Dome is entirely off-grid, running on solar power and sustainable heating, allowing you to enjoy modern comforts in harmony with nature. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a nature-filled adventure with friends, or a tranquil solo getaway, our dome promises an unforgettable experience in the embrace of the great outdoors. Come and savor off-grid living at its finest! THIS RETREAT OFFERS Nature View Parking Area Pets Allowed (damage deposit required) Spacious 500 sqft indoor living space. Kitchenette with all you need. Solar-powered fridge and freezer. 13’ high ceilings with a skylight for stargazing. Cozy hanging bamboo light fixtures. Plenty of power outlets. Comfy queen-size bed and pull-out couch. Wood-burning stove. Dining area for 4. Huge viewing window. Bathroom with a composting toilet. A big 1000 sqft deck. Relax with comfy patio furniture and watch wildlife. Outdoor dining for 4. Sail shade for sun or rain. Wood-burning hot tub. Lovely evening lights. Cozy fire pit. Full size BBQ for your cookouts. Refreshing outdoor shower. Guest access Access to BBQ grill & cozy fire pit on the outdoor deck. OTHER THINGS TO NOTE Only 1-2 pets are permitted during your stay at the Dome. Please note that Dome guests do not have access to Marmora Retreat's Farmhouse area, pool, and waterfront dock area. Outdoor Fires - based around the Marmora township, all fire warnings are set at the time of your visit. All outdoor fires must be small, controlled and monitored at all times, they must also be put out with water before being left. Sound - after 10:00 pm there is a noise curfew, but even before that you must make sure you are respectful of other guests on the property who come to relax, as well as our neighbors in this quiet countryside region. In the event of any noise rule violations, such as loud music or disturbances after 10:00 PM, a $500 fee will be applied from the deposit. Power - we are on solar energy, embracing an eco-conscious lifestyle. Our off-grid setup ensures that your stay in the Dome is in harmony with nature. The water system operates on a pump-action system. Enjoy a sustainable, peaceful retreat, leaving a lighter impact on the environment during your stay.

Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Burk's Falls, Parry Sound

Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat is the perfect place to relax in nature, reflect on life and restore your soul. It is located on 10.5 acres in the Almaguin Highlands, an all season getaway three hours north of Toronto. The sites at Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat are the perfect combination of camping and rustic luxury. There is a small cabin, a geodome and a bell tent with future plans for a safari tent as well. There is communal space in the charming barn that has a kitchenette, farmhouse table and sofas for all of my guests to retreat to when the weather outside is cold or rainy. The vision going forward is for Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat to become a community where people can come together for workshops and a sense of community. If you have any ideas for a workshop please forward your ideas to me.

Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, Durham

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

Star Hosts in Ontario

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Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, Durham

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

Erie View Glamping

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Port Stanley, Elgin

Erieview glamping has geodomes nestled in a carolinian forest with the views of lake Erie! The perfect spot to connect with nature and absorb the energy of the earth! Peacefully enjoy a fire on the beach & gaze at the stars! Open all year round so you can enjoy your favorite seasons of Southern Ontario,Canada *New Dome site opening august if you would like to book both domes for friends or family getaway for more information for booking please contact :)

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Flesherton Bunkie & Camping

3 sites · Tents100 acres · Flesherton, Grey

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.

Simple Cabin in town

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Haliburton Village, Haliburton

Open space, including kitchen, comfy bed, couch and wood stove. There is an outhouse and spring water is provided for drinking, wash up and rinsing (no running water) Basic cooking utensils, small fridge, hot plate, coffee press and kettle. The cabin is in town, there are neighbors and general sounds of town. - 2 min drive to Main street-shops, cafes, pub, lake access, ice skating - 5 min drive to cross country ski trails, snowshoe trails and a sculpture forest - 15 min drive to ski hill and water spa There is a cedar sauna on the property you are welcome to use during your stay. Along with a simple outdoor / off grid shower for rinsing. Parking is on the street in front of the cabin. Please keep tight to the right for the snowplow and neighbors to get by.

Edges Sideroad Springs

6 sites · Lodging, Tents65 acres · West Grey, Grey

We have owned the property for 19 years. The camping area was once a gravel pit which was rehabilitated in 2020. There is agricultural land that is farmed in the summer as well we host bees at that back of the property . A unique feature on the property is a natural spring that bubbles up and feeds the two streams on the property.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Mary Island State Park

Alexandria Bay, New York

Franz Jevne State Park

Baudette, Minnesota

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.