The best camping in Bonnechere Provincial Park, ON

Visitors to Bonnechere Provincial Park often feel like they’re stepping back in time thanks to the Walks of the Little Bonnechere River, a series of 10 trails and spots designed to showcase the history of the river and the people who have lived beside it. One of the most popular designations is the two-kilometre McNaughton’s Walk, which leads campers alongside the Bonnechere River via the Footprints in Time (FIT) program. This program is based on Indigenous teachings, with the trail guiding hikers to 13 giant footprints, each providing interpretive information. In addition to these memorable treks, Bonnechere offers sandy beaches, comprehensive park services, and a wide variety of accommodations.

• Best for RVs: Tall Pines Campground can accommodate tents and large trailers. Twenty-four of the 60 sites have electrical hookups.
• Best for water sports: Many of River Loop’s campsites are next to Bonnechere River and provide direct water access.
• Best for peace and quiet: Sandy Flats is radio-free and a 10-minute walk to the main section of the park.

1. Camping reservations open up five months in advance of arrival. If you miss out on an early-bird booking, try again at the four-month mark. That’s the earliest that cancellations are accepted and you could snag a site when it comes back on the market.
2. There are two notable properties you’ll want to consider reserving at Bonnechere in addition to the traditional campgrounds. The three-bedroom C5 Cottage isn’t so much a cottage as it is a luxury retreat with its whirlpool tub, leather furniture, fully stocked kitchen, and own canoe. Additionally, four rustic cabins are available to rent (Sandbar, Floodwaters, Riverside, and Fallen Tree). Guests here can expect log beds, a small living room, and a basic kitchen.

Bonnechere is open from late May to mid-October. Busy weekends include Victoria Day (the second last Monday in May), Canada Day (July 1), and the Civic Holiday (the first Monday in August).  In summer, staff members operate a children’s Discover Drop-in program of nature activities. 

• If staying in one of the cabins, you’re still responsible for bringing your own bedding (pillows, sheets, blankets) and towels.
• If you love to read, seek out the Bonnechere Book Tree. Bonnechere Provincial Park’s twist on the “little library” involves a canoe, a tree, and multiple book “windows.”
• Bonnechere is just down the road from the community of Killaloe, home of the beavertail. This beloved Canadian pastry consists of flat, thin, whole wheat dough that is deep-fried, coated in butter, and topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to garlic and cheddar. Consider it a camping must-eat treat!