Visiting a provincial park? Let us help you plan the perfect trip!
This blog will explain how to:
Click on a link above to jump to each section!
Plan your trip
Here’s a few tips that will help you plan your visit:
Choose your park
Not sure which park to visit? Use our park locator to find the parks near you.
Want a park with a specific activity (like biking or fishing)? A park with a specific facility (like a dog beach or rentals)? Just check off that option on the park locator.
Once you’ve chosen a park to visit, you can click the park name on the map to find out more information.
Book your trip
You need to buy a permit to visit most provincial parks.
A daily vehicle permit can be reserved up to five days in advance of your visit. Your permit covers admission for one vehicle and everyone inside.
Most permits are valid from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but can vary from park to park.
You can book your permit in advance online (be sure to select “day use”) or by phone at 1-888-668-7275. Learn more about how to book your permit.
At participating libraries, you can borrow a daily vehicle permit for free! Find out more about the permit lending program.
Prepare for your trip
Time to get ready for your trip! Remember these tips so you have a safe, fun day:
Staying safe
Did you know that we have an entire section on our blog about safety and regulations at Ontario Parks?
If you’re new to parks or need a refresher, here are some great resources:
Plants and animals
Hiking
Here are three blogs that will help you stay safe and feel comfortable while hiking a new trail:
Weather
Learn how to stay safe in:
Water
There’s nothing quite like relaxing at the beach. Learn about:
- staying safe in the water
- borrowing a free PFD (personal flotation device)
- how to choose the right PFD
- how to practice good beach etiquette
Enjoy your trip: what to do when you get here
Check-in
The first thing to do is check-in. Check-ins are different at every park.
Your confirmation letter will have information on how to check in when you arrive.
Remember to bring physical or digital proof of purchase with you.
5 fun activities
Have a picnic
Enjoying a picnic with friends or family is a great way to spend a day at Ontario Parks. Nearly all parks have picnic tables and day use areas with washrooms.
Some parks even offer large reservable picnic shelters for groups including barbecue areas.
Make sure to use the Park Locator and search by activity or facility type to find out more.
If picnicking is on your wish list check out our top 10 spots for a picnic, learn the do’s and don’ts of a picnic, how to reduce waste, and what to do with your garbage.
Attend a Discovery program and explore a Visitor Centre
Did you know that our Discovery program has offered interpretive programs to visitors for 80 years?
Explore a new trail on a guided hike, play with your kids at children’s programs, learn about park history at a Visitor Centre, or pick up activities to explore on your own at a Nature Connection program.
These activities are included with your vehicle permit.
Rent equipment
More than 50 parks offer rentals of various equipment, depending on the season.
Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, bikes, snowshoes, skis, skates, and even fishing rods and PFDs are available.
Use the park locator to see what options are available.
Sport and recreation
There are a wide variety of sport and recreational opportunities available at Ontario Parks.
Some parks have basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and disc golf courses.
Other parks have large grassy areas perfect for a self-organized game of soccer, cricket, bocce ball or volleyball.
Check what amenities are available using the park locator before you visit.
Watch the sunset
It’s the best way to end your day at the park.
Seeing a sunset in nature is scientifically proven to benefit our health by lowering stress and boosting well being.
Read our recommendations for 10 spots for the best sunset views.
See you next time!
We hope you found something new to experience at Ontario Parks.
By following a few simple tips and tricks you can keep our parks safe and start a new memorable tradition.
