In the summer of 2023, amidst the backdrop of uncertainty and longing for adventure, I embarked on a journey that would take me across Ontario, covering over 6000 kilometers and camping at 13 Ontario Parks. It was a summer filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, breathtaking vistas, and a deep immersion into nature's embrace. One of the highlights of my journey was making new memories with my niece Kaidence. Among the 14 parks I visited, 5 stood out for their unique charm and natural splendour. Join me as I recount my unforgettable experiences of my top 5 Ontario Parks of 2023!
5. Pinery Provincial Park: 2 hrs 30 min from Toronto
Pinery Provincial Park I visited twice last year. Once in April and then again in November. Both times I was there the park was very quiet due to the fact that it was the off season. The towering sand dunes, lush forests, and beautiful waters coverage created a paradise for me as an outdoor enthusiasts. Relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches, I watched in awe as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in a palette of vibrant colours. The hiking trails are plenty. They all vary in length from 0.8km up to 3 km. Most of the trials have beautiful viewing platforms where you can see the lake. If you are looking for a park with a beautiful beach and easy hiking trails, this park is for you!
4. Point Farms Provincial Park: 2 hrs 25 min from Toronto
Perched on the shores of Lake Huron, Point Farms Provincial Park charmed me with its windswept beaches, sand dunes, and sweeping vistas. Walking along the park's pristine shoreline, I felt the cool breeze caress my skin and the warm sand between my toes. It was at this park where Kaidy and I made a ton of memories. We walked to the beach at dusk to watch the sunset and she was determined to get a handstand just right in the waves that were crashing up to the beach. We also made a bunch of TikTok Videos of her cooking high protein meals at the campsite and we took a drive into the cute little town of Godrich where she showed off her workout skills at the gym they had at the beach. As we watched the waves crash against the shore the memories that were made on this trip will stick with me forever!
3. Grundy Lake Provincial Park: 3 hrs from Toronto
Tucked away in the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Shield, Grundy Lake Provincial Park beckoned me with its rugged beauty and untamed wilderness. Exploring the park's rugged terrain, I encountered some very large snakes, (that I am petrified of), tranquil lakes, and towering granite cliffs. The park's extensive trail network offered a variety of hiking options, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks through remote wilderness areas. Camping beneath the canopy of stars, I savored the simple joys of roasting marshmallows over a crackling fire and listening to the symphony of nocturnal sounds echoing through the forest. I visited this park in early September, and the moon was one of the brightest I have ever seen. It lit up the entire campground like there were street lights. After leaving this park, I saw in a Facebook group that other people had even seen the northern lights while they were there. I wasn't so lucky.
2. Charleston Lake Provincial Park: 3 hrs from Toronto
Located in the heart of the Thousand Islands region, Charleston Lake Provincial Park welcomed us with its enchanting blend of rugged landscapes and serene waterways. This was the first trip that Kaidy came on. After this trip, her love for camping just grew. We kayaked along the park's channels, and stared at the towering cliffs and emerald-green forests that framed the shoreline. There were jumping rocks that people would climb up and jump off into the lake. There was one part of the lake where no motor boats were allowed and that was perfect for us kayaking. We are both relatively new at it so staying away from the large wake was just what we needed. The hiking trails took you through ancient woodlands, revealing hidden treasures such as limestone caves and rare wildflowers. It was after one hike at this park, Kaidy decided she HATED hiking! I am very much a sunset girl, and as we watched the sunset paint the sky in hues of gold and crimson, I realized that Charleston Lake was not just a place—it was the beginning of an adventure with Kaidy.
1. Pog Lake Provincial Park: 4 hrs 30 min from Toronto
Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park, Pog Lake captivated me with its pristine wilderness and tranquil surroundings. I visited this particular campground in Algonquin twice last summer and both times it did not disappoint! I have been wanting to camp here for many years and have never been able to get a site until 2023 when I was able to get 2! As I hiked through dense forests and paddled across crystal-clear lakes, I felt a profound sense of connection to the natural world. The park's expansive network of trails offered endless opportunities for exploration, leading me to secluded beaches, and panoramic viewpoints. Camping under the star-studded sky, I was lulled to sleep by the haunting calls of loons echoing across the lake—a melody that still echoes in my memories. Algonquin Park will always hold a very special place in my heart. I have said it in previous blog posts, but as soon as I hit Hwy 60, all the worries of the world just disappear. If you are looking for a park that has everything you could ever want when camping, Algonquin is the place for you to go!
Travelling over 6000 kilometers in my 2009 Toyota Corolla, through Ontario's diverse landscapes was an experience that left an indelible mark on my soul. From the rugged beauty of Algonquin's wilderness to the tranquil shores of Lake Huron, each park offered its own unique blend of natural splendor and outdoor adventure. As I reflect on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of Ontario's provincial parks and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you want to go back through my blog, there are in-depth park reviews on each experience I had in 2023.
Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Ontario's parks offer a sanctuary where you can reconnect with nature and nourish your spirit. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on your own adventure—you never know what wonders await just beyond the horizon. I cannot wait to see where 2024 takes me. I have 4 trips booked thus far starting with Killarney Provincial Park for May 24 long weekend. I am sure I will head back to a few of these parks that made this list as well.
Happy Camping 🏕️
Love,
Liz
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