The best river, stream, or creek camping in Ontario

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Looking for a camping experience along a river in Ontario, Canada? Look no further than Cedar Creek Forest Camping (126 reviews), Tryfan Forest (104 reviews), and Pine the Sky (101 reviews). With popular facilities like toilets, pet-friendly sites, and campfires, and activities such as off-roading (OHV), swimming, and snow sports, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $5, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. Happy camping!

97% (6.2K) • 703 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ontario

Pine the Sky

1. Pine the Sky

98%
(470)
Southgate, ON · 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!
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Hemlock Point Campground

2. Hemlock Point Campground

98%
(152)
Tweed, ON · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Hemlock Point Campground is set on a private waterway fed by the Black River, nestled among forests and rocky ridges. The river offers a unique swimhole in between rapids, and bass fishing within walking or paddling range. Campers may also park at owners (1426) to shorten the hike to the swimhole (see trail map). Each campsite is spacious with a private driveway, outhouse, picnic table, propane BBQ, bicycles, and more. As well as using the canoe (or kayaks at Brookside) provided, campers are also welcome to hike the marked and groomed waterfront hiking trails throughout the 56 acre property, and just down the road is Mt. Moriah, a Buddhist Temple, and numerous backcountry trails, reserves, and lakes. ATV's are permitted on the road, (gateway to trails to Lingham, Deer Rock, Caniff, and Skootamatta Lakes) and friendly dogs are welcome off leash. This is a unique gelogical landscape, situated between Mt. Moriah, the Elzevir pluton complex and the Black River in an ultramafic zone, with coloured quartz veins and pillowed granite outcroppings. Mixed forest with varied species of deciduous and conifer trees - due to aerial seeding after a forest fire over 80 years ago, leaving charred stumps that can still be found from natural char preservation. Home to pileated woodpeckers, hawks, eagles and kingfishers, otters, fishers, salamanders, bass and bullhead and everything in between, either from the vantage of a hammock or on a hike in the forest this natural site won't disappoint.
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Raven Hollow - Woodland Retreat

3. Raven Hollow - Woodland Retreat

97%
(43)
Chesley, ON · 1 site
Tucked away beneath the trees in the heart of Grey-Bruce, Raven Hollow is a little place to disappear from the ordinary for a while. Follow the path into our 50-acre wood, where winding trails disappear beneath the trees, ravens call overhead, and curious wanderers may find a few unexpected things hidden along the way. Days here are meant to move slowly. Wander the trails. Listen for owls after dark. Watch the fire. Look for mushrooms and tiny forest treasures. Or do absolutely nothing at all. Nestled among the trees is Camp Kyle, our tiny off-grid cabin built for unplugging from the modern world—without giving up the pleasure of climbing into a king-sized bed at the end of the day. Outside, you'll find a covered kitchen and dining area and a large open firepit for long evenings beneath the stars. Raven Hollow is intentionally rustic. This isn't a resort tucked into the woods... the woods are the experience. Expect wildlife, changing weather, dirt beneath your boots, dark skies, crackling fires and all the little sounds that come with sleeping in a forest. And while the Hollow can feel wonderfully far away from everything, you aren't. Chesley is about 10 minutes away and Hanover about 20, with hiking, waterfalls, beaches, swimming, fishing, small towns and plenty more to explore throughout the surrounding area. There are also lots of backroads and opportunities for ATV and side-by-side adventures nearby. Dogs are very welcome, but must remain leashed at all times while exploring Raven Hollow. Come wander awhile. The Hollow is waiting.
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Mary Island State Park

4. Mary Island State Park

100%
(2)
State park in New York · 1 site
Take a leisurely ride through the waters of the Canadian shipping channel before arriving at Mary Island State Park. Only accessed by boat, Mary Island offers the ultimate weekend of secluded and wooded adventure! With astonishing views of the Canadian shore from craggy outcroppings, you might never want to gaze upon your neighbor’s house across the street again. But before you sadly leave, take the foot trails one last time to discover Mary Island State Park in all its glory. Then you can peacefully rest your head at night. Sweet dreams of island camping are knocking on your door!
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Franz Jevne State Park

5. Franz Jevne State Park

State park in Minnesota · 21 sites
Discover Franz Jevne State Park's serene beauty and outdoor activities.
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Greener Pastures Eco Farm

6. Greener Pastures Eco Farm

98%
(159)
Woodstock, ON · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Our 75 acre ecological farm is just south-east of Woodstock, ON, with easy access to the 401 and 403. Camp out with views of rolling pastures of cattle, sheep, and free range chickens. Explore the new wetland addition to the farm and sit while enjoying the biodiversity around you. You will be greeted by our German shepherds, Ruby and Brooks, when you arrive. Experience a taste of place by visiting our on-farm store featuring our 100% grass fed beef and lamb and other heritage pastured meat products, as well as a large variety of locally produced groceries. A quiet, beautiful space to wander and explore awaits you. Farm tours or picnics are available for purchase prior to your arrival as extras in your hipcamp booking.
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Spring Arbour Magic Forest &Trails!

7. Spring Arbour Magic Forest &Trails!

97%
(373)
Walsingham, ON · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pitch your tent in our picturesque Carolinian forest in the heart of Norfolk county! Choose from 9 tent sites and 2 lodging sites spread across 10 acres of wooded area on our 49 Acre farm. Well-kept trails to explore throughout. We are proud to have made the runner-up list for best Hipcamp in Ontario 2023 The terrain is mostly flat but interesting. Campsites are private with good separation from each other. ALL sites have 2 car parking, a picnic table, fire pit and covered wood for purchase. Campfires are permitted according to our approved burn plan before midnight. 5G/LTE cellphone service is good for Bell, Rogers and Telus networks. We have 3 outhouses on the premises and an outdoor hot shower. FREE Firewood can be gathered on the forest floor or pay for on-site pre-cut wood. Outhouses are 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. We are situated in the middle of a Recreation Hotspot! Our site is within 3 minutes of paddling the Big Creek, 3 to 10 minutes to several A+ hiking trails, 15 minutes to amazing freshwater beaches of Long Point and Turkey Point, and the area is abound with cycling trails, motorcycle routes, geocaching, boat launches (we have room here for your boat!), cider/wine tours, and more! We are the perfect basecamp for everything the Long Point Bay area has to offer We have some great watering holes nearby like burning kiln winery, hounds of Erie and Charlotteville brewing company. 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. For all tourism options check out https://www.norfolkcounty.ca/visiting/ We look forward to hosting you!
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White Pines Cabin Retreat

8. White Pines Cabin Retreat

99%
(84)
Owen Sound, ON · 1 site
Relax and unwind in this beautiful cabin by the river. Sit on the front deck and relax and enjoy the sounds of the running water. The cabin has limited electricity for lights, ceiling fan, cell phone charging and WiFi etc. There is room to comfortably sleep 4 people. (Please note, for larger groups more than 4 people, tent rental or tent site must be booked at the same time.) There is a single over double bunk bed and a roomy camp cot. Blankets are provided but please bring your own bedding (sleeping bags encouraged during colder months). The room also includes a mini fridge, diesel heater . There is a lovely wooden swing to relax. There is a cooking area that includes a propane BBQ for your use with cooking utensils. There is also a fire pit with a grill and a beautiful wooden outhouse just steps away from the cabin. To help find us enter Google code 77J3+WGV into your browser. The address is 503888 Grey County Road 12, Markdale, ON. 12 hours notice required for booking. Cabin is only 5 minutes from Bells Lake where you can fish, swim, canoe, kayak and paddle Board. Only 10 minutes from Ferns Gold Club and a short drive to Hogg Falls, Eugenia Falls and Ingliss Falls, which all offer amazing hiking Trails. There is a public beach close by in Durham, only 20 minutes away.
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Hidden Oasis Near Elora

9. Hidden Oasis Near Elora

98%
(162)
Ariss, ON · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our hidden oasis! We're a 2025 Canadian Hipcamp Newcomer Award Winner! This is quite an honour, only 8 were given out this year! Copy this link into your browser to view this fun video of our property (thanks Kyle!): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vIBdOV9ar4aWONWWO7ED1Yy-D1iBg0Sg/view?usp=sharing Our 14 acre property is a quiet oasis on several biking trails (G2G, Cottonwood Road, Trans Canada Trail) and a very short drive to famous Elora (7 min) and St. Jacobs (20 min), Elmire (10 min). There is access to several Grand River launch sites, many nearby hiking trails, and countless Mennonite farmers markets with fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and preserves. This is a hidden Oasis just outside of the Waterloo and Guelph areas. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – great restaurants, breweries and wineries, golf courses, rivers, fishing, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. There is really something for everyone around here. We have a beautiful green acreage with a picturesque pond, next to Cox Creek and privacy with open and treed space and the promise of gorgeous sunsets almost every night. We have: - Fire pits, - Picnic tables, - Muskoka chairs, - A lovely composting toilet, - Firewood for sale, - Space for RVs, - Space for tents We DON'T have potable water on site. Please bring your own water. Check out the individual listings for more details about each site. A couple notes about the property: We strive to give you a tranquil experience in a beautiful space where you can enjoy relaxing days close to nature, have space to play games, have a paddle around the pond, or seek out the many surrounding activities. You may encounter property owners (that's us!) and our kids enjoying a walk with their friendly dogs unleashed, picking berries, playing a game or doing yard work near your site and around the property. We hope you don't mind. We aim to give you a lot of privacy, so we aren't going to be around all the time, don't worry. But this is a shared space, that we want to enjoy alongside you and we really hope you enjoy it as much as we do! We'll definitely say hi if we see you but we won't overstay our welcome!
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Camp, Ottawa river, Grenville C-O-G

10. Camp, Ottawa river, Grenville C-O-G

99%
(210)
Brownsburg Chatham, QC · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Come and enjoy a traditional, rustic camping experience on the mighty Ottawa River! Bring your water shoes and a canoe or kayak (or you may rent one of ours) for an unforgettable adventure. Located on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River, east of the bridge that passes over from Hawkesbury, Ontario, this beautiful forest is situated on both sides of the 344/Rte Des Outaouais. The 59 acre property (50 acres of land, ~9 acres of river/water) features scenic views, privacy and is host to many outdoor activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, mountain biking and more. The Point... The main shared area "The Point", is the peninsula that the main roadway ends at (where the BBQ, kayaks and canoes are), this is a shared area for us and our guests to enjoy. The Point offers a large picnic table, a propane BBQ, comfortable seating, a large rock perfect for sunbathing, and a river view. It's an ideal spot for swimming and launching canoes, kayaks, or paddle-board river excursions, thanks to its shallow entry and rocky bottom. Adventurous visitors might choose to paddle upriver, around an island, and return through the remaining historic canal. For a more strenuous workout, consider paddling up the canal to the Grenville lighthouse and then drifting all the way back to camp with the river's current. Enjoy this historic, lazy river experience! Nearby Amenities... Numerous amenities are located within a distance of 1-3 kms, including a gas station with electric vehicle charging facilities, an IGA grocery store, and various restaurants such as McDonald's and Tim Horton's. For a classic poutine experience, Jos Patate is a great choice, having been around for many decades. If you're looking for a wide range of poutine options, La Fromagerie is the place to go and for ice cream lovers, La Crémière is located in the same building! ...It is a "must-visit" on a hot summer day. Tourism... Numerous tourist attractions are conveniently located in the vicinity, such as the exhilarating white water rafting experience on the Rouge River and the wildlife-filled Parc Omega zoo, both within a short 10-25 km distance. For a wider range of activities, day trips to Ottawa, Montreal, the Calypso water park, or Mont Tremblant are all approximately an hour's drive away.
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Muskoka Wellness Retreat

11. Muskoka Wellness Retreat

95%
(87)
Huntsville, ON · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated in the heart of Huntsville, our 150-acre property is more than just a campground – it's a registered nature reserve, and home to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. You'll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, tall trees, and the enchanting sounds of local wildlife. The property is a hidden gem, providing a peaceful escape while being conveniently located just 15 minutes from restaurants and grocery stores. Check us out on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/muskoka.wellness.retreat?igsh=MmVlMjlkMTBhMg== Campsite Overview: We offer four distinct campsites, including a “Glamping“ Canvas Tent. Each site is thoughtfully positioned to provide a sense of privacy while maximizing the breathtaking views of the surroundings. The harmonious blend of seclusion and community allow guests to enjoy the solitude of nature while sharing the experience with their companions. Basic amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site. A portable toilet is available for your use. Lake Access: One of the highlights of our property its direct access to a pristine lake, offering a picturesque setting for water-based activities. With exclusive access to the lake, we encourage you to embark on a kayaking or canoeing adventure, or simply enjoy a peaceful swim. (Kayaks and a canoe are available to all guests on a first-come, first-served basis.) Stargazing and Campfires: As the sun sets over our nature reserve, the real magic begins. With minimal light pollution, our property becomes an ideal spot for stargazing! Gather around a crackling campfire at your designated site sharing stories and forging unforgettable memories under the vast expanse of the night sky. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled escape, or a bit of both, Muskoka Wellness Retreats provides the perfect backdrop for your next camping experience! Please feel free to reach out with any questions. We look forward to hosting you 🙂 (NOTICE: Please add firewood to your booking before arrival, or we may not be able to accommodate your request.)
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Heavens Acres

12. Heavens Acres

100%
(151)
Dornoch, ON · 2 sites
Heavens Acres has been a stop over since the 1850's for people travelling by horse from Toronto to Owen Sound. We have 100 acres surrounded by another 200 acres of conservation land. There is camping in the pine forest as well at the very back of the property where you will find a hardwood bush with trails. Please note that the hipcamp map shows a large body of water on the property, as does google driving maps. It is a marsh, not a lake. Google Earth shows it better. There is however, a creek and pond, but don't bring your boat. :) This is a "LEAVE NO TRACE" campsite, so please take all garbage when you leave. There is no water or power, but there is an outhouse Your furry friends are allowed for free but if you have extra people please pay for them. You can adjust your booking if there are more people than originally requested. This covers costs like insurance and private property access, property taxes and the huge initial investment. Please note that in the winter months. There’s a $25 surcharge. This is required for snow removal to access the sites that are at at least 1 km into the bush. We are in a snow belt area and it is very difficult to keep the sites open in the winter. Four-wheel-drive is required for access in the winter!
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River Rock Eco-Camp

13. River Rock Eco-Camp

100%
(14)
Goderich, ON · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to River Rock Eco-Camp! Tucked along the beautiful Maitland River, River Rock Eco-Camp offers a peaceful, rustic, off-grid camping experience just 10 minutes from Goderich and the shores of Lake Huron. You’ll be close enough to enjoy all the essentials—including the LCBO, Walmart, Canadian Tire, and Tim Hortons—while still feeling like you’ve escaped into nature. We offer several private riverside campsites, open from May through October. We welcome tents, pop-up trailers, and camper vans for a relaxed camping experience surrounded by nature. What you’ll find: • Riverside campsites with fire pits • Up to two tents per site • Fishing, swimming, canoeing, and exploring • A large communal area for games, gatherings, and socializing • Peaceful river views and plenty of room to unwind • Completely off-grid with no electrical hookups—solar chargers and battery-powered devices are recommended Camp amenities: • Communal outhouse • Water for cleaning • Garbage disposal • Firewood, drinking water, and ice available for purchase Families, groups, and pets are welcome! Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend by the river, an outdoor adventure, or a place to gather with friends and family, we’d love to have you stay at River Rock Eco-Camp. Unplug, slow down, and enjoy nature.
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BAM’s Spanish Riviera

14. BAM’s Spanish Riviera

99%
(70)
Greater Sudbury, ON · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled between Sudbury and Manitoulin Island, BAM’s Spanish Riviera boasts protected woodlands along the mighty Spanish River. A former eco-tourism basecamp, BAM’s Spanish Riviera offers: restored 1920s cabins or a private tent site; the opportunity to experience an authentic wood-burning sauna with others; great paddling with access to the camp canoe or kayak; and... last but not least--nature immersion in a low-tech, eco-friendly setting with fellow kindreds.
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La Nation BedROCK 🤘 🏕️🔥🌲

15. La Nation BedROCK 🤘 🏕️🔥🌲

96%
(350)
Casselman, ON · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the old town of Lemieux, ONTARIO which is know in our local history for having been washed away by mudslides which left away a breathtaking landscape of wooded ravines in trails under the canapé of hardwood trees. We have a 130 acre property and are located beside crown lands that have incredible trails. You can also fish from the comfort of your campsite!
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CREEKSIDE Camp

16. CREEKSIDE Camp

100%
(115)
Burk's Falls, ON · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to my beautiful piece of Central Almaguin Only site 3 is available for winter camping. Site 3 now has a private thunder box. Off grid camping. I live on 8.25 acres of level fairly open land. 10 min NE of South River The campground is about 3 acres, with 3 sites Beside a small lake, Wendigo Lake, with a wide creek exiting the lake . Paddling distance to 2 other lakes that feed into Wendigo lake. very quiet, private place, stress free, excellent for relaxing, great place for staging daytrips, safe if you want to do a few days in Algonquin Park. dogs and pets welcome, but must be leashed on the property. I have a friendly dog Penny. the sunsets here are awesome, see pics Located only 12 kms from West entrance to Algonquin Park. Dark skies and fairly open area for stargazing. Many walking trails close by . ATV trails and tours nearby also. Bird migration route, excellent for bird watching. In my 10 yrs here I have seen 97 different species of birds on the property or flying over. Very private, closest neighbor 3/4 km away. Bring your own camp toilet please.
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Three Ponds Homestead

17. Three Ponds Homestead

97%
(72)
Severn, ON · 6 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!
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Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

18. Beneath the Stars - Haliburton County Escape

94%
(88)
Minden, ON · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have a beautiful, densely treed, and well-groomed 1-acre piece of property in desirable cottage country that's craving your company! The mature trees, corner lot and private road offer seclusion, tranquility and peaceful atmosphere. The terrain is steep and hilly; however there are flatter areas to pitch a tent or level a trailer. The site boasts serenity as it remains untouched to significant changes to honor its original beauty and encourage its sustainability. It is within walking distance to the world-famous, Panam Summer Games host " The Minden White Water Preserve/Rapids", which is used for kayaking and hiking. Walking distance to a public beach on the desirable Horseshoe Lake, part of a 3 chain lake, where you can fish, swim and relax in clean, sparkling waters. Our oasis welcomes you! Choose from two options. Beneath The Stars Tenting Escape - tent or RV(up to 25 feet) site with an outhouse Rustic Cozy Cabin - ideal for a family or group. Currently can sleep 5 adults comfortably, or 6 with small children. We are in a very desirable location; only 10 minute drive to the village of Minden, and surrounded by natural beauty and activities for nature lovers!
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Beaver Ranch

19. Beaver Ranch

100%
(202)
Owen Sound, ON · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spend a weekend, a night, or even just a day enjoying 137 acres of serendipity along the shores of the Saugeen River. We offer 3 sites right along the river, a tent/trailer site which can easily accommodate both larger and smaller groups, a tent only site which can accommodate rooftop camping, and a one bedroom/room cabin. Our tent/trailer site, and the tent/cabin sites, are each booked on a first come basis and the opposite is made unavailable during your booking. We are happy to accommodate groups that camp together in mixed styles of accommodation. A short 10 minute drive to nearby amenities (groceries, box stores, gas and liqour) and a quick 1 hour drive to nearby beaches and waterfalls including McGowan Falls, Sauble Beach and Sauble Falls, Hoggs Falls, Inglis Falls. Take a leisurely float down river by tube, canoe or kayak, step in for a swim or try your hand at casting a rod and reel, by day and camp along the shores by night. Not the water type? Strap on your boots and take in the nature by walking the property, or nearby at one of the many Saugeen River Conservation Areas. Are you a night hawk? Fill your evenings with campfires and local entertainment, such as the nearby Drive-In Theater in Hanover or local breweries (Neustadt or Hanover) (10 minute drive). Surrounded by farm land and nature’s best features, book now and find yourself lost in the middle of the heart land.
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Rugby House Retreat

20. Rugby House Retreat

100%
(15)
Oro Medonte, ON · 3 sites
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😊
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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