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Matawatchan Provincial Park

The best camping in Matawatchan Provincial Park, ON

Discover Matawatchan Park's ancient rocks and lush mixed forests.

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Stories from the community

STEVEN

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Backwoods Cabin Co

Cozy little cabin. Nice and warm. Had everything we needed for a nice little reset in the forest.

Andrew

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

Natalie and Seth's barn was overall a great experience! We enjoyed all the extras that were provided to us: entertainment system, well stocked kitchen, etc. The art pieces were also a nice addition too. We all slept great and warm. Our only complaint would be that the toilet smell was a little difficult to tame for us. The sawdust helped a bit but still had a faint smell in the downstairs living space so we had to vent out the barn every few hours to get some fresh air. Hope to come back soon! Thanks Natalie and Seth!

Navid

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Hemlock Point Campground

Beautiful land. Great trails. Easy access from the road. Good amenities on site. I didn't expect propane and fire wood to be included in the rental, so I was very pleasantly surprised.

Taylor

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Backwoods Cabin Co

Super cute little get away! lots of blankets provided along with essentials, BBQ had propane, games and dvds were provided for a rainy day. Very peaceful, and close to tweed for last minute runs into town!

3 weeks ago

18 ft travel trailer

Group trip

3 nights at Hemlock Point Campground

Had an amazing time here! The site was beautiful, clean, and well-kept — everything you’d want for a relaxing getaway. The amenities were great and made the stay super comfortable. Daric, was absolutely awesome — friendly, helpful, and made sure we had everything we needed. Definitely recommend this spot and would love to come back again!

Asher

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Hemlock Point Campground

Deric's land is peacefull amd well managed trail with colors direction in wood. Great host

William

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hemlock Point Campground

Had a great time hunting the past few days. Daric is a great host. Unfortunately we didn't see or hear any deer, definitely recommend. Thanks again Daric.

Curtis

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Backwoods Cabin Co

Jacks Cabin was a perfect cozy cottage in the woods. Beautiful property and plenty of classic board games to play by fire light. The wood stove kept up very warm throughout the night. The only con is the outhouse has a window but no curtain. Its a small critique but worth mentioning. We greatly enjoyed our stay and would recommend anyone looking to get away for a quiet weekend check out this property.

Jeffy

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Perth Boho Chic Vintage Caravan

Lisa is a wonderful host — calm, friendly, and with great communication throughout our stay. Her hospitality and attention to comfort were amazing. She kept checking in to make sure we had everything we needed. It was a bit cold during our visit since there’s no electricity in the caravan, but Lisa made sure we had enough warmers to stay cozy. The propane stove worked perfectly, and the kitchen was well-equipped for making coffee and tea. We probably chose the wrong season — early fall or summer would be ideal — but the cold was still manageable for us. Overall, it was a peaceful and memorable experience. We’ll definitely be back!

Alice

October 2025

3 nights at 29-Acre Artistic Forest Retreat

The barn was lovely! It is well equipped, comfy and well situated! The host is very nice and responsive! Exactly what I imagined, I would go back:)

Jeff

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Fagan Lake Heights

Beautiful location, it’s as quiet as the description makes it out to be. The campsite area that was provided was well kept and tidy. Some of the amenities were not available due to the lateness of the season and were disclosed prior to arrival. It’s a pull-in site that I feel limits the overall length of vehicle and trailer to get brother location so I’d recommend you check with the host about that if you’ve got a larger rig and may need to coordinate things. I’m relatively new to backing in trailers and I got it parked without any damage (and no spotter). I didn’t have an opportunity to explore the land as much as I wanted, there’s so much to explore. Eric was very welcoming, and provided ample firewood.

Jim

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hemlock Point Campground

Daric was a great host. The site was fantastic. Very clean, private and alot to do. Definitely recommend!

Braelyne

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

This is an amazing experience. Everyone at the brewery is lovely our site was nice and quiet. We will definitely be back. The beer delicious and well priced, the views are nice. The host is fantastic! He is great, welcoming and nice to chat with.

Jennifer

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rockingham Creek Valley

I booked a last minute camping trip with my daughter on Augusts Creekside site Oct 18. He greeted us and oriented us on our arrival. The land is beautiful and the site was very spacious. We had the option of pitching our tent on the platform. We had tons of space for our tent, dog bed, chairs and 'kitchen'. The site also has a large fire pit(tons of wood available) and BBQ. We enjoyed our night so much on this peaceful piece of property we definitely plan to go back🌞 Highlights were the trails (rugged), the creek/waterfall and Roxy the horse who was our neighbor during our stay. August assured us he was just across the road should we need anything. Our phone provider didn't work there (Rogers works there) so it was great to know we didn't need to go far in case of emergency.

we went out multiple times to explore the lake

Allie

October 2025

2 nights at Natural Joy! Cosy Canoe Cottage

Paul's cabin is so cozy and situated within such a stunning and remote area. We loved canoeing around Ragged Lake and looking the beautiful big faces of the Canadian Shield. We also loved just starring out at the lake and looking at the birds, the trees and the stars. My partner and I had such a lovely time and will definitely be visiting again!

Paul

October 2025

17 ft toy hauler

2 nights at Hemlock Point Campground

Great place to camp , great views and sun rise . nice an peaceful My trip was a ATV trip with my wife but I could see the hole family enjoing this property for the weekend or week . Nice property wish it was mine ....... Will book again ......5 🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🏕

Thomas

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cartwright Springs Brewery

Great campsite with lots of space (B). Little bit of a walk to the shower but not too bad of a trade off for the privacy of the site. The owner and his family are super nice and he makes some really nice beer in the brewery.

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Fagan Lake Heights

Beautiful property. Loved the lake. Very private. Excellent host!

Семён

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hemlock Point Campground

It’s my 2nd time - great place! Great area, lots of things to do and see! Campsite is very nice and cozy, Daric provided with so much things like propane, bbq, spare tent and more. Highly recommend going there!

Anne-Marie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Pedja’s Tree House

Magnifique séjour! Les paysages étaient superbes et l'hôte a pris soin de tous les détails pour que nous soyions bien. Nous allons assurément revenir!

Top-rated campgrounds

Backwoods Cabin Co

93%

(43)

73km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Tweed, ON

Welcome to Backwoods Cabin Co. We have two unique glamping cabins available on our property located on the outskirts of Tweed and Madoc. The perfect spot to unwind, relax, and snuggle by the wood stove. There is a loop trail that goes around the entire 11 acres of land. There are markers along the trail so you know the boundaries of the area My family and I live on the property, we are here if you need anything urgently. We do spend a lot of time outside so the odd time you might hear our kids playing. We do have 2 VERY friendly dogs named Copper and Chief who might bark at you when you pull into the driveway but are on an electric fence so cannot get back to the cabin. We also have an outdoor cat named Wessie that may come and say hello. Follow us @backwoodscabinco *** PLEASE NOTE: THIS CABIN IS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WOODS SO THERE WILL BE BUGS IN THE APPROPRIATE SEASONS (SPRINGTIME BLACK FLIES AND MOSQUITOS, SUMMERTIME MOSQUITOS AND DEER FLIES, FALL SOMETIMES MOSQUITOS) ***

Hemlock Point Campground

97%

(78)

60km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Madoc, ON

Hemlock Point Campground is set on a private waterway fed by the Black River, nestled among forests and rocky ridges. Internet is limited (cell signal is okay) but the wildlife (some rare) is abundant. Each campsite is spacious and well equipped, with a private driveway, toilet, bbq/Coleman, screenhouse and more. As well as using the canoe and/or kayak provided, campers are also welcome to hike the marked and groomed waterfront trail (over 2 km) or others within the 56 acre property, just down the road is the yellow bridge over the Black River where a decent swimming hole can be found (Look for the groomed trail on the right just after the yellow bridge and follow it to the rapids). ATV's are permitted on the road, (gateway to trails to Lingham, Deer Rock, Caniff, and Skootamatta Lakes, and more) 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, brown river trout and everything in between, either from the vantage of a hammock or on a hike in the forest this natural site won't disappoint.

Big Rock Eco Retreat & Campgrounds

100%

(25)

27km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gilmour, ON

Big Rock Eco Retreat is a serene and picturesque campground located on the shores of Weslemkoon Lake, in Addington Highlands Township. Situated amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding crown land, this eco-friendly retreat offers visitors an unforgettable outdoor experience. The area is home to a variety of native wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, loons, and eagles, which can often be spotted in their natural habitats. The campsite offers individual fire pits and gas BBQs at each site, allowing visitors to enjoy the great outdoors while cooking up a delicious meal. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the woods, while fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the lake, which is teeming with fish in the summertime. In the winter, visitors can enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, with well-maintained trails for all levels of experience. Each camping site can accommodate a hot tub for an additional fee, based on availability, making it a perfect way to unwind and relax. For those who want to explore the lake further, there is a marina with a general store open in the summer time. Visitors can purchase additional services such as smore kits, fishing rods, small boat rentals, private boat tours of the lake, and snowshoes in the winter. In addition, the retreat also offers a skating pond in the winter when the ice is thick enough. Overall, Big Rock Eco Retreat provides an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Forest Bunkie & Yogazebo

100%

(2)

76km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Tamworth, ON

A 5 minute gentle hike along the trail guides you to our forest opening to the river frontage, with a quaint bunkie cabin that sleeps up to 4 adults, has a screened-in "Yogazebo" and gazebo for "bug free" dining or simple enjoyment. 27 acres of hardwood forest await nature and animal lovers to experience the off-grid camping experience. For those that wish to add extra rejuvenation to their visit can book a private yoga class or 2 with an Experienced yoga teacher in our Yogazebo. We live in a densely forested area. Please be aware that bugs will be a part of that. That said, typically by the end of August and into September, bugs are much fewer.

Cartwright Springs Brewery

96%

(160)

67km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Renfrew, ON

Our micro brewery is located here because of our springs. The campsites are within walking distance to the brewery. The sites are in the forest with either a view of the pond, of Cartwrights Creek or of the Ottawa valley from a hillside. We have short hiking trails, some outdoor games such as horseshoes or beach volleyball, and we have beer. Contact Andre by texting 613-295-3377 FIRE: You must contact Andre before lighting a fire so a permit can be acquired. No fires before 6. GARBAGE: Please collect garbage and bring it with you. We unfortunately cannot accept garbage at the brewery. The municipality limits us to one bag and we have animals that would love to rip through your garbage bag before I can get to it. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE GARBAGE HERE! FOOD... don't leave food out for animals to get overnight... If you don't have a car you can put your food in the silo by the brewery... animals can't get in there!

Tiny Village Bon Echo - Camping

97%

(43)

29km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Renfrew, ON

Tiny Village Bon Echo is a unique nature village located on our 70 acres of property. It is nestled on the shore of the beautiful Mississippi River, located just 30 minutes from Bon Echo Provincial Park. Our sites offer all the benefits of a comfortable cottage lifestyle at a fraction of the cost, as our mission is to make enjoying the great outdoors accessible to everyone. Tiny Village Bon Echo is a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto and a 2-hour drive from Ottawa. Our mission? To provide an extraordinary experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. We believe that enjoying the great outdoors shouldn't come with a hefty price tag. So, whether you're roasting marshmallows with the family or taking a solo hike to recharge, we've designed Tiny Village Bon Echo to be your affordable escape into the beauty of Mother Nature.

Highland Farms N Stables

95%

(20)

64km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Bancroft, ON

Private, off-grid cabins tucked in the wilderness near Algonquin Park—it's camping without the hassle! Vehicle accessible and close to 3 quiet beaches. Enjoy horseback riding nearby, or kayak, canoe, hike, swim, fish, bird watch, snowmobile, or ATV. Fee includes off-grid cabin, deck, campsite, fire pit, screen tent, BBQ with propane, parking, and on some cabins, heat from Sept 15 to May 15. Are we full? Search for Cozy Cabin #2 , Fox Den 3, Moose Run 4 & Meadowlark #5—all our cabins are beautiful! Firewood available on-site, with stores nearby for supplies. PRIVACY PLUS!

Rockingham Creek Valley

100%

(4)

40km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wilno, ON

With over 100 acres to explore in this remote corner of the Upper Ottawa Valley, we have the wilderness experience for you!

Natural Joy! Cosy Canoe Cottage

100%

(82)

58km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 1 site · Lodging · Bancroft, ON

The cottage is at the edge of a large wilderness area. We supply an ultra-safe large canoe with paddles and lifejackets. It's an easy and fun 15 minute paddle to reach the cottage. The cottage is an artistic gem on a safe and quiet lake with beavers and loons and numerous bird species -- owls, herons, hawks, ospreys, and many migratory songbirds. In over 20 years of experience on the lake, we've seen no bears. It's a cosy three-room place with a small bedroom (8x12) with an antique double bed; a main room (16 x12) with a single bed; and a kitchen (8X12). Sleeps 3, max. Access to the cottage is up a short set of irregular stone stairs from the lake. This could be an impediment for elderly or frail people. The lake is not a private lake. There are other cottages. But it's a very quiet lake and often there's no one else there. The landscape is very similar to Algonquin Park's. North Kawartha is famous as the birthplace of the canoe. This is a thinly-populated landscape of rugged granite bluffs, thickly-forested hills and valleys, and gorgeous lakes that remain quiet and peaceful even during the hottest summer weeks. This place was made by and for lovers, artists, poets, musicians, dreamers, writers, environmentalists, ecologists, escapists...and their children. Enjoy!

Burke’s Barnyard - Farm Camping

100%

(87)

39km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Harcourt, ON

420 Friendly Camping on the Farm! Welcome to Burke's Barnyard, where the fun never stops! Located on a breathtaking 4-acre property nestled in the beautiful Boulter hills, just 30 minutes from either Barry's Bay or Bancroft. Gather around our campfires, indulge in delicious food, and mingle with our friendly animals, including pigs, ducks, chickens, and turkeys. Take a dip in our nearby lakes or soak up the sun on our sandy beaches. And that's just the beginning – there's so much more to explore here at Burke's Barnyard. Our ACMPR-registered hosts ensure your safety and comfort throughout your stay, and we pride ourselves on being cannabis-friendly. So come on over and experience the ultimate getaway with us. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube – just search for @burkesbarnyard. Don't miss out on the fun – see you soon!

Perth Boho Chic Vintage Caravan

100%

(23)

63km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Perth, ON

Welcome to our romantic off-grid retreat nestled between the picturesque towns of Perth and Westport! Tucked away in a beautiful 23-acre wooded property, our vintage caravan offers a cozy and charming escape for solos, girls retreat or couples seeking a romantic getaway. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil walking trails, our boho-chic caravan boasts plenty of south-facing light, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you prefer basking in the sunlight or seeking shade under the canopy of trees or the hammock, you'll find the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The stars and sky at night are literally awesome and amazing. For families looking to join in on the adventure, there's ample room to pitch extra tents on our expansive property, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. While our retreat offers a private setting, the main house is within sight, providing a sense of security and convenience. Nearby, a multi-purpose rail trail beckons outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, or exploring nature. The beautiful town of Perth is a 15 minute drive away with Saturday morning market, cute mainstreet shopping or Stewart Park Festival in July as well as access to provincial parks or lakes and rivers within a 5 minute drive. Our amenities cater to your comfort and convenience, a pump faucet for fresh water washing and a propane stove for cooking delicious meals, a power pack to charge your phone, solar and USB lighting. A campfire area awaits, complete with foraging the forest floor for wood or can be provided for cozy evenings under the stars. A library/art gallery/outhouse in the woods is a fun place to experience when nature calls. Wake up in the morning, make coffee or tea (which come supplied with biscuits) to start your next days adventure. We look forward to welcoming you to our off-grid oasis and creating unforgettable memories together.

Footprints Resort

93%

(7)

71km from Matawatchan Provincial Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bancroft, ON

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!

The best camping in Matawatchan Provincial Park, ON guide

Overview

About

Embark on a journey through Matawatchan Provincial Park, a treasure trove of geological wonders and diverse ecosystems. Venture into a world where sugar maples and hemlocks stand tall, and the rare walking fern adorns marble outcrops. With no campgrounds to speak of, this nature reserve is a day-tripper's paradise, offering a serene escape into Ontario's natural heritage.

When to go

The best time to visit Matawatchan Provincial Park is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the full splendour of the forest can be truly appreciated. Winter visits offer a stark, silent beauty, but accessibility may be limited due to weather conditions.