You and your vehicle are all set for summer: the gas tank is full, your interiors are protected, and your GPS is begging for a new destination’s coordinates to be plugged in. The warm, sunny weather is sending you a sign that it’s time to get out of the city for a spell. So, for anyone who wants to experience the great outdoors but still wants to stay in a reasonable vicinity of civilization, keep on reading for our top camping picks, all within a couple of hours of the Greater Toronto Area.
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Bancroft
This provincial park offers a backcountry camping experience while still being relatively close to civilization. Campers are invited to hike, swim, and fish in the park, and for those with a higher cold tolerance, winter camping opportunities are available, too.
Sibbald Point Provincial Park, Lake Simcoe
With two playgrounds and a beach with shallow and warm water, Sibbald Point is a perfect spot for families with kids. As a bonus, the park is dog-friendly, has on-site bathrooms and showers, and has a variety of campsites available, with group sites and on-site electricity. Activities like canoeing and cycling are also encouraged, and the park has an on-site museum.
Whispering Spring, Grafton
For those who like to enjoy nature but with more than a sleeping bag between them and their ground, Whispering Spring is the best of both worlds. Guests have the option of staying in prospector-inspired luxury safari or bell tents, or beautifully appointed cabins for larger groups. This glamping ground offers hiking, yoga, and volleyball, and has a spa on-site.
Lakefield Park and Campground, Lakefield
Featuring on-site electricity options, a beach, and nearby boat rentals, this campground only minutes away from Peterborough is open from May to October and offers special rates throughout the season. Pets are welcome, and if you haven’t tried your hand at pickleball yet, there’s an opportunity to do so here.
Warsaw Caves Conservation Area and Campground, Warsaw
If you’ve always wanted to try out spelunking, this is the spot to do it. The unique caves are the result of glacial melting that occurred over 12,000 years ago, and the conservation area also features hiking trails and bicycling paths. Beware of bats in the caves if you decide to take a trip in the colder months, as the caves are their hibernation hideaways.
Long Point Eco-Adventures, St. Williams
For those who would prefer a glamping experience that’s a little more rugged—well, it exists, and it’s here. Long Point Eco-Adventures offers deluxe accommodations in unique pods equipped with bathrooms and wi-fi in the heart of the Long Point UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Traditional camping activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking are available, as are axe-throwing and ziplining.
For more tips on vehicle care and leisure, subscribe to our blog so you never miss an update!