Toronto, la métropole animée de l’Ontario, est une destination touristique populaire pour les voyageurs de tout le monde. Mais si vous cherchez à échapper à la foule et à la ville animée, il existe de nombreuses options de camping près de Toronto pour vous permettre de profiter de la beauté de la nature.
Whether you’re an avid camper or just looking for a quick getaway from the city, this guide will help you find the best camping spots near Toronto. We’ll explore the top campgrounds, recreational activities, and tips for planning your trip.
Campgrounds near Toronto that have amenities?
Table of Contents
1. Glen Rouge Campground
Located in the heart of Rouge National Urban Park, Glen Rouge Campground is a top choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The campground offers 100 campsites with electricity, as well as washrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience.
Glen Rouge Campground is surrounded by beautiful scenery, with lush greenery and rolling hills nearby. The campground’s proximity to hiking trails and other outdoor activities makes it an ideal base for exploring the park’s natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing, among other activities.
The campground’s campsites are spacious and well-maintained, with picnic tables and fire pits available for each site. The electricity hookups make it easy to charge your devices and keep your gear powered up throughout your stay. The washrooms and showers are clean and modern, providing a comfortable amenity for campers.
In addition to its convenient location and amenities, Glen Rouge Campground also offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages. Guided hikes, nature talks, and campfire programs are just a few of the offerings that make this campground stand out.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time visitor, Glen Rouge Campground is an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to Toronto makes it an accessible and convenient option for a quick getaway or a longer vacation. So pack your gear, grab your sense of adventure, and head to Glen Rouge Campground for a memorable camping experience in the heart of Rouge National Urban Park.
2. Toronto Parks
The City of Toronto operates several campgrounds that offer amenities such as washrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Some popular options include:
- High Park Campground – Located in High Park, this campground offers campsites with electricity and access to washrooms and showers. It’s a great option for families and is close to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. The campground is open from April to October and offers 32 campsites.
- Earl Bales Park Campground – Located in Earl Bales Park, this campground offers campsites with electricity and access to washrooms and showers. It’s a great option for families and is close to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. The campground is open from April to October and offers 40 campsites.
- Centennial Park Campground – Located in Centennial Park, this campground offers campsites with electricity and access to washrooms and showers. It’s a great option for families and is close to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. The campground is open from April to October and offers 32 campsites.
Toronto Parks campgrounds also offer a few extra perk
- Fire pits for campfires (bring your own firewood)
- Picnic tables and benches
- Access to potable water
- Trash and recycling containers
- Pet-friendly campsites (select sites only)
Keep in mind that the Toronto Parks campgrounds are popular and tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season (July and August). Reservations can be made online or in person at the park’s administration office.
Rules and Regulations To Keep in Mind When Camping in Toronto Parks, Such As:
- No alcohol or smoking in the campground
- Quiet hours from 10 pm to 7 am
- No generators allowed
- No more than 6 people per campsite
- No overnight parking in the park (unless you are camping)
Overall, Toronto Parks campgrounds offer a great option for those looking for a convenient and affordable camping experience in the city.
3. Private Campgrounds
There are several private campgrounds near Toronto that offer a range of amenities, including:
- Camper’s Cove RV Resort – Located in Innisfil, Ontario, this resort offers campsites with electricity, water, and sewage hookups, as well as amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and laundry facilities. The resort also has a convenience store, a restaurant, and a fishing pier on Lake Simcoe. Camper’s Cove is a great option for families and is open from May to October.
- Glen Haven Family Resort – Located in Bradford, Ontario, this resort offers campsites with electricity, water, and sewage hookups, as well as amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and laundry facilities. Glen Haven also has a mini golf course, a basketball court, and a beach area on Lake Simcoe. The resort is open from May to October and is a great option for families.
- Indian Line Campground – Located in Aylmer, Ontario, this campground offers campsites with electricity, water, and sewage hookups, as well as amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and laundry facilities. Indian Line also has a convenience store, a restaurant, and a fishing pond. The campground is open from May to October and is a great option for families and couples.
5. Provincial Park near Toronto
- Algonquin Provincial Park – Located just a few hours north of Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the most popular camping destinations in Ontario. With over 7,700 square kilometers of forests, lakes, and wildlife, this park offers a true wilderness experience. You can pitch a tent or rent a yurt, and enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
- Bronte Creek Provincial Park – Located just outside of Oakville, Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a great option for families. The park offers campsites, hiking trails, and a beach area. You can also rent bicycles and explore the park’s scenic trails.
- Darlington Provincial Park – Located in Durham Region, Darlington Provincial Park offers campsites, hiking trails, and a beach area. The park is surrounded by wetlands and forests, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
- Frontenac Provincial Park – Located near Kingston, Frontenac Provincial Park is a beautiful destination for campers. The park offers campsites, hiking trails, and a lake for swimming and fishing. You can also rent kayaks or canoes and explore the park’s many waterways.
- Killbear Provincial Park – Located near Parry Sound, Killbear Provincial Park is a popular destination for campers and beachgoers. The park offers campsites, hiking trails, and a beautiful beach area. You can also rent kayaks or canoes and explore the park’s many waterways.
Recreational Activities near Toronto
- Hiking – The Greater Toronto Area has many hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The Bruce Trail, which runs from Niagara to Tobermory, passes through many parks near Toronto.
- Fishing – Ontario has an abundance of lakes and rivers, making it a fisherman’s paradise. Many campgrounds near Toronto offer fishing spots, or you can explore the nearby lakes and rivers.
- Kayaking and Canoeing – Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the many waterways near Toronto. The Rouge River, Humber River, and Credit River offer beautiful scenery and a peaceful escape from the city.
- Cycling – The Greater Toronto Area has many cycling trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The Oak Ridges Trail, the Hamilton-Brantford Rail Trail, and the Waterfront Trail are just a few options.
- Birdwatching – Ontario is home to many bird species, and the campgrounds near Toronto are no exception. Algonquin Provincial Park, Bronte Creek Provincial Park, and Frontenac Provincial Park are all great spots for birdwatching.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
- Book early – Campgrounds near Toronto can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Be sure to book your campsite well in advance to ensure a spot.
- Pack wisely – Make sure to bring essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, and flashlight. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Check the weather – Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before your trip. Pack accordingly and bring layers for cooler weather.
- Respect the environment – Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment. Bring all your trash and leave the campsite in the same condition as you found it.
- Bring a map – Ontario has many beautiful hiking trails, but it’s easy to get lost. Bring a map.
- Consider renting a campsite with amenities – If you’re not a seasoned camper, you may want to consider renting a campsite with amenities like running water, showers, and flush toilets. Many campgrounds near Toronto offer these amenities, and they can make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Bring bug repellent – Mosquitoes and black flies can be a nuisance in Ontario, especially in the summer months. Be sure to bring plenty of bug repellent to keep them at bay.
- Check for park closures – Sometimes, campgrounds and parks near Toronto may be closed due to maintenance or other reasons. Be sure to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm that the park is open before you head out.
- Plan for wildlife encounters – Ontario is home to many wild animals, including bears, coyotes, and raccoons. Be sure to store your food and trash properly to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
- Pack a first aid kit – Accidents can happen when camping, so it’s important to be prepared. Pack a first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Respect the environment – Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment. Bring all your trash and leave the campsite in the same condition as you found it.
- Bring a map and compass – Even with a GPS, it’s always a good idea to bring a map and compass as a backup. Many campgrounds near Toronto offer hiking trails, and it’s easy to get lost without a map.
- Let someone know your itinerary – Before you head out, let someone know your itinerary, including where you’re going and when you plan to return. This way, if something happens, someone will know where to look for you.
- Bring a portable stove – If you plan to cook while camping, a portable stove can be a lifesaver. Many campgrounds near Toronto have fire pits, but it’s always good to have a backup plan in case of bad weather.
- Have fun! – Camping near Toronto can be a great adventure, so be sure to enjoy yourself and take in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
What Should You Do if you Encounter Wildlife While Camping
If you encounter wildlife while camping in Toronto, it’s important to remember that these animals are wild and should be treated with caution. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a safe encounter:
- Stay calm: Keep your voice and movements calm, and avoid sudden movements that may provoke the animal.
- Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the animal, at least 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) away. Do not approach the animal, even if it seems friendly.
- Do not feed wildlife: Feeding wildlife can make them associate humans with food, leading to aggressive behavior and dependence on humans for food. It can also cause harm to the animal’s health.
- Secure food and trash: Keep all food and trash in sealed containers and store them in airtight bins. Do not leave food or trash out in the open, as this can attract wildlife to your campsite.
- Use a flashlight: If you need to walk around your campsite at night, use a flashlight to avoid startling animals.
- Keep pets on a leash: If you have a pet with you, keep it on a leash and under control at all times. Do not let it interact with wild animals.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings and watch for signs of wildlife, such as tracks, scat, or nests.
- Follow park regulations: Familiarize yourself with the park’s regulations regarding wildlife encounters and follow any guidelines provided by park rangers or signs.
- Report encounters: If you have a confrontation or encounter with wildlife that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, report it to park rangers or authorities immediately.
- Respect wildlife: Remember that wild animals are an important part of the ecosystem, and it’s important to respect their space and allow them to live undisturbed.
Remember, it’s important to enjoy wildlife from a safe distance and not to interfere with their natural behavior. Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for you and the wildlife in Toronto’s parks.
Can I camp in Toronto during the winter months?
Yes, some of Toronto’s public campgrounds are open year-round, including Algonquin Provincial Park and Darlington Provincial Park. Private campgrounds may also offer winter camping options. Be sure to check with the park beforehand to ensure that camping is allowed during the winter months
It’s important to note that winter camping in Toronto can be challenging due to the cold weather conditions. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow and ice may cover the ground. It’s essential to have the proper gear and equipment to keep warm and safe during your camping trip.
Some tips for winter camping in Toronto include:
- Dress warmly: Pack layers of warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a scarf. A good sleeping bag and sleeping pad are also essential for keeping warm during the night.
- Bring appropriate gear: Snowshoes or skis may be necessary for navigating through snow-covered terrain. A winter tent with a good rain fly and a tarp can help protect you from snow and wind.
- Use a portable heater: A portable heater can help keep you warm inside your tent, but be sure to follow safety guidelines and use it in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Keep warm drinks and food nearby: Hot drinks and warm food can help keep you warm and boost your morale during the cold winter nights.
- Be prepared for emergencies: Winter camping can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be prepared for emergencies. Pack a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a communication device, such as a cell phone or a two-way radio.
- Check the weather forecast: Always check the weather forecast before embarking on a winter camping trip and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Respect the environment: Winter camping can be harsh on the environment, so it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles and minimize your impact on the natural environment.
Remember, winter camping in Toronto can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Be sure to check with the park for any specific regulations or guidelines for winter camping and always prioritize safety.
