There’s a unique charm in the call of the wild, a sense of freedom that only nature can provide. My recent camping trip to Killarney Provincial Park with my bestie and my beloved bulldog, Rosie, was an adventure that encapsulated this spirit perfectly. Nestled on the northern shore of Georgian Bay, Killarney is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged terrain. Our journey was a blend of camaraderie, canine joy, and the pure, unfiltered beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
Our trip began late on Thursday night when we loaded our gear into the car, ensuring ther was enough space for Rosie in the backseat. We didn't leave the city until Friday afternoon, but I like to have the car packed up the day before so as soon as work is done, it is time to hit the highway. Rosie, ever the eager explorer, sensed the excitement and did not want to go on her morning walk on Friday. The drive to Killarney, though long, was filled with anticipation and scenic views that set the tone for our adventure.
Arriving at the park, we were greeted by the serene beauty of the landscape. Towering pine trees, the gentle murmur of the wind, and the sight of La Cloche Mountains in the distance made us feel like we had stepped into a postcard. Our campsite was near George Lake, known for its stunning sunsets and tranquil waters. It took us some time to try to find where we were going. We arrived at the park after the office was closed so we had no map.
Setting up camp was a breeze with two pairs of hands. Rosie supervised, her nose twitching at every new scent. The tent was pitched, a fire pit established, and soon enough, our campsite felt like a home away from home. We spent the evening by the campfire just chatting under a canopy of stars, listening to The Hip, with Rosie nestled comfortably between my legs on my Kuma chair.
The next day when we woke up, we decided we wanted to take it easy. It was a long drive up there after a long day at work. We drove to the office and checked in and picked up some firewood for later that night. With less than half a tank of gas in the car, we decided to head into the town of Killarney and fill up. When we arrived in the town, we were delighted to see how small and quaint it was. The only gas station was at a marina/General store so we topped up there. The general store was so cute. It really reminded me of the general store in my hometown. It was fully stocked with everything and anything you might need, however, it was extremly overpriced. Luckily, all we needed was gas.
After a quick drive through the town we headed back to the campsite. The sun was shining and the weather was perfect. I sat in my chair, drank a beer and read a sleezy romance novel while Rosie took a nap. For dinner that night we kept it quick and simple and cooked up an Old El passo taco kit. After dinner, we decided to head down to the beach and watch the sunset.
The views in this park were stunning. The mountains were high, the lakes were clear. It was like nothing I had ever seen before. I was in pure "awe" of the landscape. One of the biggest downfalls fo camping at this time of year is the bugs. The blackflies were aweful! They made watching the sunset unenjoyable so we headed back to camp and started a fire.
The next day, we were eager to tackle one of Killarney’s most famous trails: The Crack. Known for its challenging terrain and rewarding views, this trail promised an adventure like no other. With Rosie leading the way, we set out early right after some protein coffee. This trip I tried a new product called Coastal Coffee Filters. They made the perfect drip coffee on the campsite. Make sure you go and check them out!
The hike began with a gentle ascent through a forested path, but soon enough, the trail lived up to its name. We found ourselves scrambling over large boulders and navigating narrow passages. Rosie, ever the intrepid explorer, handled the rough terrain with surprising agility, her sturdy little legs powering through the climb.
The final ascent to the top of The Crack was a test of endurance, but the panoramic view that awaited us was worth every step. From the summit, we could see the vast expanse of Killarney’s rugged wilderness, the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay, and the rolling hills of the La Cloche Mountains. We took turns going to the top becuse Rosie looked at the rock wall and said "Hell NO, this isn't for me". She is a really great hiker but she knows when enough is enough.
Our evenings were spent around the campfire, the flickering flames casting a warm glow. We cooked simple but delicious meals, sharing laughter and gossip as the night deepened. Rosie, exhausted from the day’s adventures, would curl up by the fire, her presence a comforting constant.
One particularly memorable night, we decided to walk though the campground and let the moonlight guide us. The moon was so bright it felt like there were street light on. The sky was flooded with stars. I'm sure if we were here the weekend before we would have been able to see the Northern Lights.
Camping at Killarney Provincial Park was more than just a trip; it was an experience that brought us closer to nature and to each other. The rugged beauty of the park, the joy of exploring with Rosie, and the simple pleasures of camp life created memories that I will cherish forever.
As we packed up our campsite on the final day, there was a bittersweet feeling. We were leaving behind the peace and solitude of the wilderness, but we were taking with us the spirit of adventure and the joy of shared experiences. Killarney had given us a precious gift – a reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of friendship and companionship.
If you’re seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Killarney Provincial Park is the perfect destination. Whether you’re hiking its trails, paddling its lakes, or simply relaxing by the campfire with your best friend and a faithful canine companion, Killarney offers an unparalleled connection to the natural world. Our trip with Rosie was a testament to the park’s magic, and we can’t wait to return for more adventures.
Happy Camping 🏕️
Love,
Liz
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