We all love Algonquin Park, but we don’t love that it can take over four hours to drive there. So here are some campsites that are just as scenic and beautiful, but are less than two-hours drive from the city. Whether you prefer a more naturalistic approach or you love your cozy trailer, there’s something for campers of every style.
Indie88’s Summer Detour is presented with Muskoka Brewery. Experience the taste of Muskoka with a dry hopped Session IPA that’s up for all of life’s adventures. Order now at shop.muskokabrewery.com
Jellystone Park
Location: Niagara
View this post on Instagram
That’s right, you can camp at Yogi Bear’s park. You can bring your own RV, trailer, tent, or rent a spot in one of the cabins. There’s a huge variety in the levels of luxury available, so whether you prefer to sleep on the ground in a tent, or you’re more into “glamping,” Jellystone Park has it all. There’s also lots of family-fun activities happening throughout the campsite all summer long.
Albion Hills
Location: Caledon
The Albion Hills campground is located around hour north of Toronto. Here you can enjoy hiking, swimming, biking, and more. Bring your own trailer or RV and choose whether you want a spot with running water and electricity, or if you’d rather rough it with a tent. The campsite highly encourages visitors to explore the area, which features over 50 km of bike trails. And, pets are allowed.
Rockwood Conservation Area
Location: Guelph
This spot is great for families. Located just outside of Guelph, this conservation area doubles as a campsite filled with hiking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and more. You can rent small boats and lifejackets for canoeing/kayaking if you don’t have your own. There’s also lots of cliffs and ruins to walk through and explore, as well as playgrounds with mini putt for kids. Both campfires and dogs are allowed at the campsite.
Bronte Creek
Location: Oakville
This campsite is perfect for those who love hiking and animals. The park is home to over 190 different species of birds, including hawks, eagles, and many different types of owls. Fishing is also allowed, where people can catch rainbow trout, Pacific salmon, and more. Pets are encouraged, with two leash-free areas for your animals to run around.
Sibbald Point
Location: Sutton West
View this post on Instagram
Sibbald Point is located on the beautiful Lake Simcoe, and there are a huge variety of activities available. The lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, sailing, motorboats, canoeing, and kayaking. Educational programs are also offered for those who wish to learn more about this park through guided tours, guest speakers, evening events, and more. There’s also a free program teaching beginners of all ages how to fish.
Victoria Park
Location: Coburg
View this post on Instagram
This campground is perfect for anyone who wants to get out of the busy city and into a peaceful spot in a small town. The campground is located on Victoria Beach, overlooking Lake Ontario. The campsite comes with picnic tables and fire pits. It’s also within walking distance to Coburg’s historic downtown district.
McRae Point
Location: Orilla/Longford Mills
One of the great things about McRae Point is that the campsites are so large. So if you have a bigger trailer or RV, feel free to bring it. It’s also on the shore of Lake Simcoe, where fishing, boating, and swimming are allowed. A must-see during your camping trip is Water’s Edge Trail. The trail offers visitors the ability to learn about the diverse ecosystem at the park, and gives you an amazing view of the sun set over Lake Simcoe.
Indian Line Campground
Location: Brampton
Indian Line is the closest campground to downtown Toronto, so if you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, this is the best place to be. The campground is also very close to Claireville Dam and Black Creek Pioneer Village, where you can learn all aboutToronto’s heritage by touring through 150 year-old buildings. Canoeing and pedalboating are permitted. And if that wasn’t good enough, pets are allowed, too.
Image courtesy Ambercoates via Instagram
