7 things to remember when arriving at the park gatehouse for day use

In today’s post comes from Project Lead Matt Cunliffe.

When the big day comes, if you’re like me, all you want to do is get to your site: tent set, chairs out, feet up.

I’ve worked for Ontario Parks since 2006, and a few years ago had the opportunity to run a gate house.

This gave me an increased respect for the amazing work our gate staff perform and valuable perspective on just how busy the park can be during check-in time for a long weekend…or any weekend for that matter.

And after a season of answering questions and helping campers, here are a few considerations for this year:

Continue reading 7 things to remember when arriving at the park gatehouse for day use

Trailer-equipped sites at Blue Lake and Rushing River

Did you know that Blue Lake Provincial Park and Rushing River Provincial Park are the only parks in the Ontario Parks system that offer equipped trailer rentals?

Wow!

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to own a travel trailer, why not take a stationary test run with one of ours (minus the trailer transport and setup aspects!)?

If you’re ready to enjoy some additional comfort at a trailer-equipped campsite this season, read on:

Continue reading Trailer-equipped sites at Blue Lake and Rushing River

Campfire safety for the whole family

We all have fond childhood memories of a crackling campfire. It can be the highlight of a camping trip!

Let’s keep those memories positive by making sure even the littlest members of the family know the ins and outs of fire safety.

Parents: if you and your family are enjoying a campfire during your trip, make sure you follow these safety tips.

Continue reading Campfire safety for the whole family

Calling all new campers!

We know camping or visiting a park for the day for the first time can be intimidating.

What supplies do I bring? What are the rules? How can I make my trip as comfortable as possible?

Don’t worry, the Ontario Parks Ambassador program is here to help you make your trip easy and memorable.

Continue reading Calling all new campers!

EDDMapS: report your invasive species sightings

Today’s post comes from our friends at the Invasive Species Centre.

Outdoor adventurers: we need your help. Invasive species are infiltrating our parks and protected areas, but if we don’t know where they are, it’s tough to stop their spread.

Become an Invasive Species Fighter by reporting any suspected sightings of invasive species!

Continue reading EDDMapS: report your invasive species sightings

5 must-try hikes at Frontenac Provincial Park

Today’s blog post comes to us from Assistant Ecologist Erica Kendrick from Ontario Park’s Southeast Zone. 

I may be biased, but Frontenac Provincial Park is a hiker’s dream come true.

Through both work and pleasure, I have become quite familiar with the park and all the beautiful places it has to offer.

Located in the Frontenac Arch, this park is the best of both worlds – where the south meets the north. From the Black Spruce swamps and rock barrens of Slide Lake Loop to the mature maple and oak forests of the Tetsmine and Gibson Lake Loops, this park is truly spectacular!

With over 100 km of interconnected trails, Frontenac has something for every level of hiker!

Here are my top five day hikes to try at Frontenac:

Continue reading 5 must-try hikes at Frontenac Provincial Park

Killbear Provincial Park’s gone paperless!

You heard it right — Killbear Provincial Park has switched to paperless permitting!

That means there’s no need for visitors to stop at the front gate to check in — you can head right into the park and enjoy!

Here’s everything you need to know:

  • when you’re camping
  • when you’re visiting for the day
  • if you’re a seasonal permit holder

Continue reading Killbear Provincial Park’s gone paperless!

It’s May — what are Black Bears up to?

Planning a visit and wondering whether you’ll see a Black Bear? Tune in to our monthly Black Bear feature where our ecologists let you know common bear behaviour for the month or season.

Spring is upon us, and Ontario’s Black Bears are ready for another season of eating to gain fat for winter hibernation.

While young bear cubs are sticking close to their moms, yearling bears (bears that are about a year and a half) may be leaving and striking out on their own for the first time in search of food. (Your actions really make a difference for young Black Bears this month!)

Here’s what our bears are up to this month:

Continue reading It’s May — what are Black Bears up to?