Discover the best forest campgrounds in Georgian Bay

Canada
—
Ontario
—
Georgian Bay

96% (276 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Georgian Bay

Under $50

Available this weekend

100%

(27)

Muskoka Lake & Sauna retreat

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · ON

4 acres of lakeside forest. Sauna, camping area, fire pit. Shared parking, and shared dock. Swim-up raft in private bay. Thank you for all of the comments- we are happy to host appreciative guests, but also to always be improving the experience with feedback. *UPDATE* Both sites are now one site for family/group booking** In the town of Mactier, and also close to Port Carling, Bracebridge, Bala, Gravenhurst. Google Maps will be more accurate for directions vs Waze. Great lake for swimming and boating- not too big, not too small. Good fishing! (Bass, Pike, sometimes Pickerel!)

99%

(96)

Olde Eden on Mountain Lake

8 sites · Tents82 acres · Wiarton, ON

Peaceful tent camping with access to Mountain Lake. Perfect for nature lovers, quiet, experienced self-sufficient campers. Check in after 2 pm till before dark. Check out is Noon. Pack it in pack it out policy. The campsites are located down a hill and are close to the lake. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table and ample room for tents and parking for one vehicle. There is one outhouse on the property near the lake access that is to be shared with all campers. There are walking trails to respectfully explore and enjoy local flora and fauna. On clear nights the starry vistas will unfold in the Dark Sky Preserve here on the Bruce Peninsula. The lakefront has a picnic table to enjoy a meal at (no fire pit). You can push off from the shoreline with your kayaks or canoes (bring your own) to explore “The Fens” of Mountain Lake. The lake is NOT suitable for swimming, it has a marl bottom that you will sink into. There is no potable water, please bring your own for drinking and cooking. There are some nice beaches suitable for swimming within a 15-20 minute drive. Sauble Beach is best for a swim and to watch the sunset from. We are located 10 minutes from Wiarton, 20 minutes from Sauble Beach and 1 hour from Tobermory. Enjoy all the Bruce Peninsula has to offer from this convenient base. 2SLGBTQIA supporter 🌈 Please Note: Quiet hours are from 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. Check in after 2pm Must arrive before dark. No late night check ins. Check out time is NOON, unless otherwise pre-arranged with the host. Small group camping only (4 person max per site). No parties. No late arrivals. No ATVs. Any children must be supervised by an adult at all times. The farm animals and livestock are not part of this Hipcamp experience. Please refrain from visiting the host’s farm and house. No pets, as we have farm dogs and livestock. Our dogs are friendly and may wander down to say hello. Our dogs are working dogs and protect our livestock from the coyotes, foxes, raccoons etc … it is wild here. All flammable materials, including cigarettes, are to be extinguished and ‘packed out’. There is No garbage disposal, please take away the garbage you create. Pack it in and take it out

Back 2 Zen

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Meaford, ON

Tait's Island Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Parry Sound, ON

Welcome to our private 4-acre lot, adorned with a multitude of mature trees and shrubs. The lot is mostly flat, with a ridge on the north end. The driveway/parking pad provides an excellent area to park your trailer/campervan. Whether you prefer to revel in the seclusion of the property or embark on a leisurely stroll to Tait's Island along the shores of Lake Manitouwabing, the choice is yours. Come and experience peace and serenity. Conveniently located: 15 minutes from Hwy 400 20 minutes to Parry Sound, ON 10 minutes to McKellar, ON

Garden of Eating

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents143 acres · Meaford, ON

Our ecological farm is your chance to enjoy nature. Planted with 100+ edible perennial species in the orchard garden, beeyard, hayfield, and forest with shiitake mushroom logs. We have 4 sites to choose from: Private Field Tenting @edeninseason - 3 sites available for a variety of campers. Choose from a large private hayfield, or closer to the house for easier vehicle access and proximity to the compost toilet and house wifi. Let us know in advance if you would like firewood, outdoor solar shower access, water, outlets to charge your devices. Tiny Cabin @ Eden in Season - 8' x 20' cabin overlooking a private field. There is a hiking trail that extends along the entire property and an on-site pond. Complementary ecological farm tour available. Seasonal fresh produce and berries for sale. Located steps to Tom Thomson Trail, 2km to Irish Mountain Lookout, and within minutes of Meaford, multiple Bruce Trail trailheads, and Georgian Bay beaches. The hay field was cut August 2nd 2024 so access is unimpeded and you can enjoy the large open fields.

12 top forest campgrounds in Georgian Bay

100%

(27)

Muskoka Lake & Sauna retreat

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · ON

4 acres of lakeside forest. Sauna, camping area, fire pit. Shared parking, and shared dock. Swim-up raft in private bay. Thank you for all of the comments- we are happy to host appreciative guests, but also to always be improving the experience with feedback. *UPDATE* Both sites are now one site for family/group booking** In the town of Mactier, and also close to Port Carling, Bracebridge, Bala, Gravenhurst. Google Maps will be more accurate for directions vs Waze. Great lake for swimming and boating- not too big, not too small. Good fishing! (Bass, Pike, sometimes Pickerel!)

Garden of Eating

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents143 acres · Meaford, ON

Our ecological farm is your chance to enjoy nature. Planted with 100+ edible perennial species in the orchard garden, beeyard, hayfield, and forest with shiitake mushroom logs. We have 4 sites to choose from: Private Field Tenting @edeninseason - 3 sites available for a variety of campers. Choose from a large private hayfield, or closer to the house for easier vehicle access and proximity to the compost toilet and house wifi. Let us know in advance if you would like firewood, outdoor solar shower access, water, outlets to charge your devices. Tiny Cabin @ Eden in Season - 8' x 20' cabin overlooking a private field. There is a hiking trail that extends along the entire property and an on-site pond. Complementary ecological farm tour available. Seasonal fresh produce and berries for sale. Located steps to Tom Thomson Trail, 2km to Irish Mountain Lookout, and within minutes of Meaford, multiple Bruce Trail trailheads, and Georgian Bay beaches. The hay field was cut August 2nd 2024 so access is unimpeded and you can enjoy the large open fields.

100%

(28)

Maple Rivers Log Cabins

4 sites · Lodging75 acres · Seguin, ON

Stay here for a day or a week, this off-grid little resort has all the necessities that one would need, and make you want to come back again! We are excited to offer 3 off-grid log cabins, providing a highly private setting. 20 min to Parry Sound. These cabins are located within 75 acres of forest. Each cabin features either two single beds or one king-size bed (bed sheets only). Cabins are insulated but have no heat so bring own pillows, blankets and sleeping bags. Accommodation is limited to two adults per cabin. Common areas for all cabins include: 1) Outdoor Kitchen (includes pots, pans, dishes, cups, utensils etc.), 2) Freezer/Fridge, 3) BBQ, 4) Indoor Shower (hot and cold water), 5) Outdoor Shower (hot and cold water) and 6) Toilet/Outhouse with running cold water. The large BBQ is equipped with 5 burners for the grill. There is also 1 side pot burner for foiling water and another ceramic grilling burner. Additionally, we have three tent spots available, with one designated for each cabin. There is ample parking space for guests. You can enjoy the convenience of a shower with hot water and a BBQ pit. Address is 261 Star Lake rd. Seguin. Its the second driveway when going north on Star lake rd. Look for a sign MAPLE RIVERS LANE. From Hwy 400, get off on hwy 141. Go east towards Rosseau. Turn left at Tally Hoe/Swords, then right at Turtle lake rd and left at Star lake rd. Explore the various trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even a small white water creek. There are plenty of lakes in the surrounding area. Seguin Trail is just 1 km away. A beautiful Maple Key Park and sandy beach awaits you only 4 km from the site. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby historic town of Orrville. Stay here for a day or a week, this off-grid little resort has all the necessities that one would need, and make you want to come back again! These 3 off-grid log cabins, providing a highly private setting. Explore the various trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even a small white water creek. There are plenty of lakes in the surrounding area. Seguin Trail is just 1 km away. Fire wood is all around the forest Pick anything that is down and enjoy the common fire pit. Also a flashlight and some bug spray might help. This is a family oriented camping: 1) Please refrain from using offensive language, 2) Smoking allowed around fire pit only, 3) Please place all cigarette butts in fire pit, 4) Absolutely no candles allowed, (if desired please use insents only!) 5) Parties allowed only upon verbal consent from the management, 6) We have no cleaning fee so please keep your cabin neat and tidy. 7) Before checkout please place all garbage in and around the cabin into main bin located beside the outdoor kitchen. 8) Cabin floor should be swept using broom provided in the cabin.

Back 2 Zen

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Meaford, ON

Olde Eden on Mountain Lake

8 sites · Tents82 acres · Wiarton, ON

Peaceful tent camping with access to Mountain Lake. Perfect for nature lovers, quiet, experienced self-sufficient campers. Check in after 2 pm till before dark. Check out is Noon. Pack it in pack it out policy. The campsites are located down a hill and are close to the lake. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table and ample room for tents and parking for one vehicle. There is one outhouse on the property near the lake access that is to be shared with all campers. There are walking trails to respectfully explore and enjoy local flora and fauna. On clear nights the starry vistas will unfold in the Dark Sky Preserve here on the Bruce Peninsula. The lakefront has a picnic table to enjoy a meal at (no fire pit). You can push off from the shoreline with your kayaks or canoes (bring your own) to explore “The Fens” of Mountain Lake. The lake is NOT suitable for swimming, it has a marl bottom that you will sink into. There is no potable water, please bring your own for drinking and cooking. There are some nice beaches suitable for swimming within a 15-20 minute drive. Sauble Beach is best for a swim and to watch the sunset from. We are located 10 minutes from Wiarton, 20 minutes from Sauble Beach and 1 hour from Tobermory. Enjoy all the Bruce Peninsula has to offer from this convenient base. 2SLGBTQIA supporter 🌈 Please Note: Quiet hours are from 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. Check in after 2pm Must arrive before dark. No late night check ins. Check out time is NOON, unless otherwise pre-arranged with the host. Small group camping only (4 person max per site). No parties. No late arrivals. No ATVs. Any children must be supervised by an adult at all times. The farm animals and livestock are not part of this Hipcamp experience. Please refrain from visiting the host’s farm and house. No pets, as we have farm dogs and livestock. Our dogs are friendly and may wander down to say hello. Our dogs are working dogs and protect our livestock from the coyotes, foxes, raccoons etc … it is wild here. All flammable materials, including cigarettes, are to be extinguished and ‘packed out’. There is No garbage disposal, please take away the garbage you create. Pack it in and take it out

Tait's Island Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Parry Sound, ON

Welcome to our private 4-acre lot, adorned with a multitude of mature trees and shrubs. The lot is mostly flat, with a ridge on the north end. The driveway/parking pad provides an excellent area to park your trailer/campervan. Whether you prefer to revel in the seclusion of the property or embark on a leisurely stroll to Tait's Island along the shores of Lake Manitouwabing, the choice is yours. Come and experience peace and serenity. Conveniently located: 15 minutes from Hwy 400 20 minutes to Parry Sound, ON 10 minutes to McKellar, ON

Ahki House

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Mc Kellar, ON

Escape the ordinary in your very own off-grid retreat surrounded by 11 acres of private woodland and rolling granite landscapes! Experience the true "JOMO" lifestyle (Joy of Missing Out) while you disconnect from your current routine + reconnect with nature. You'll be minutes away from surrounding lakes and trails, while perched on a granite rock at the edge of a forest in Ontario's wilderness - north of Muskoka. Off grid amenities include outdoor shower + wood fired sauna!

100%

(5)

Beechwood Bunkie Life

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wiarton, ON

We have just under an acre of property with a beautiful bunkie on it in a nicely treed area of the property. Watch beautiful sunsets on the wrap around deck. Enjoy roasting some s’mores around a campfire. Hit the hiking trails. Try some wind surfing. Head to the beach. Very quite a peaceful life here if you just want to escape the city for a couple days.

100%

(15)

Maple Forest Bell Tent

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Wiarton, ON

Secluded glamping site in a soaring maple forest! Visit this beautiful location in a 20-acre mature maple forest complete with the mossy rocks of the Niagara Escarpment. This is the perfect place to reconnect to nature, unplug, relax, clear your mind, read, meditate, and get away from the noise of everyday life. Explore and listen to nature's music as stress melts away, swing in a hammock or sit on a tree platform and rest. Explore and listen to nature's music as stress melts away, swing in a hammock or sit on a tree platform and rest. The cabin is a complete bedroom, fall asleep in a luxurious double bed as you enjoy the delights of camping without the work. This is a truly unique experience, whether you're looking for a secluded romantic getaway or the space to find freedom in solitude. Your site is located 50m down a lit path through the woods. If you love the idea of exploring pristine wilderness but hate the idea of lumpy ground and setting up and tearing down camp, this is the camping you have been waiting for! This cabin offers "glamping" at its finest. You will not be completely off-grid, there is electricity and Wi-Fi is available at the trailhead. Outside, there is a new private outhouse with a compost toilet, outdoor shower, sink and basin for washing. Showers are outdoor and solar (or kettle) heated. Please stay on the trails and limit walking on the moss to reduce damage to this magical environment. When leaving, you should leave-no-trace and be sure your campsite is returned to its natural glory! We charge a minimal cleaning fee; so we do expect site to be left how it was found. Please take everything with you and leave your trash in the parking area. There is a wagon available for transporting any heavy items. There is a shared hot tub near the main house. You must have a reservation for private use to maintain social distancing. There is also a tuck shop items for sale, including firewood, free range eggs, honey, maple syrup and our bees wax candles. You can self-check-in and check-out. Your space has everything you need, there is no need to leave the site unless you want to. Outdoor Kitchen Area: - table and chairs - propane BBQ with side burner - pots and pans - plates - cutlery - bowls - cups, mugs - utensils - wine glasses can/wine opener - kettle - coffee peculator - drinking water - toaster - salt, pepper, and oil - cooking sticks for fire pit - matches - camp sink - dishcloth and towel - biodegradable dish soap - Garbage bag - Coffee, tea, sugar, creamer Inside the Cabin: - queen bed with all bedding provided - extra blankets - throw pillows - washcloths (face cloth) - Games and books Out house: - hand washing sink (sanitizer will be provided) - toilet paper Shower: - Coleman Solar Shower - body wash, shampoo, and conditioner -hand towels Please bring: - flashlight - food - cooler - extra bath towels - Coffee, tea, sugar, cream, wine (essentials) Please also check out our belle tent available for rent on the same property.

Toanche Haus

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Tiny, ON

Nestled in the serene landscape of Tiny, Ontario, our property offers a perfect getaway for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. Enjoy peaceful walking trails through the forest, unwind in our outdoor hot tub, rejuvenate in the sauna, or take a refreshing dip in our cold plunge. In the evenings, gather around the outdoor fire pit to relax under the stars. Whether you're camping in a tent or parking your RV, experience the tranquility and natural beauty of this unique escape.

Cranberry Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Pointe Au Baril Station, ON

Cranberry Camp is located 7 kms past the hamlet of Pointe au Baril. It’s surrounded by Ontario native forest (the “bush”) and wetlands in the hinterlands of Georgian Bay. We are 3kms from Sturgeon bay Provincial Park (a nice beach!) and 3kms from the Bayfield Inlet public launch on Georgain Bay (visit the iconic pink rocks and windswept trees of Georgian Bay). We help people create healthy homes and buildings and sought fresh air and clean water to host workshops and retreats. The property has a small house, a guest lodge for retreats, 2 lovely and private recreational vehicles (a 24’ Jayco & a 27’ Cougar) as well as a tiny home. All spaces are scent-free, low VOC and no WiFi. Hipcamp sites are on hard-packed dirt/gravel on a driveway that runs parallel to the road in front of the former restaurant. There is a composting toilet.

100%

(15)

Bruce Peninsula Forest Getaway

6 sites · Lodging80 acres · Georgian Bluffs, ON

80 acres of land, trails, tree forestry and spacious land to just breathe, relax, unwind and be off the grid, a city escape. Within minutes of lakes, bruce peninsula trails, waterfalls, caves, ATVs trails and beaches! The land used to be part of 100 acres farm, part of the land served but what remained is a diamond in the rough, with wildlife, and friendly dogs to meet and greet.We have two different listings to choose from Cottage Puppy Paradise and Private Off-Grid Camping!There are private walking trails to explore, beautiful wildlife, and starry nights! We are in a central location, close to lakes, beaches and lots to do! There are restaurants and grocery stores within a minute's drive to our property.We look forward to hosting you!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping in Georgian Bay guide

Overview

Georgian Bay, part of Lake Huron in Ontario, offers crystal-clear water, rugged shorelines, and various outdoor activities. The incredible rock formations are part of the Canadian Shield and are included in the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, where rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, and birdwatching are phenomenal. Additionally, several provincial parks are situated along Georgian Bay or within a very short drive of it, adding additional options for outdoor fun and camping. This is cottage country and most towns come equipped to serve those who love being active outdoors—you’ll find outdoor gear outfitters, craft breweries, independent coffee shops, cafes with take-out picnic options, and tour guides.

Where to go

Manitoulin Island

Often described as Northern Ontario’s best-kept secret, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world—so large that it’s home to over 100 lakes itself! Visitors can check out several lighthouses, including the famous Split Rock Light, while photographers love the stunning lookouts on the island’s many hikes. Put the Cup and Saucer Trail on your list for incredible views. Additionally, the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation is an excellent place to learn about Indigenous culture.

Parry Sound

This town is a great base camp for those exploring the great outdoors. It’s home to an excellent selection of shops and services—from downtown, you can even catch a scenic boat tour of Georgian Bay or call an outfitter to arrange fishing, hiking, and ATV tours. A 10-minute drive away, Oastler Lake Provincial Park is a nice spot for family-friendly activities.

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach has a reputation as one of the region’s best spots for outdoor enthusiasts to base themselves—and to party, if that’s your scene. Although once known as a bar-hopping destination, today the vibe is much more family-friendly and focused on nature. The town is home to the world’s longest freshwater beach and offers panoramic views of the nearby Niagara Escarpment. You can rent gear to try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. There is also excellent hiking, most notably on the Nottawasaga Bluffs Trail.

Killarney Provincial Park

This park’s landscape is different from what you might expect. It’s home to iconic pink granite rock formations, something both hikers and photographers love. No wonder Canada’s Group of Seven painters (including A.Y. Jackson, Franklin Carmichael, and A.J. Casson) found inspiration here! There are ample opportunities for backwoods canoeing, hiking, and camping, as well as more accessible car camping sites and soft shelters such as yurts.

French River Provincial Park

Set along the French River, Canada’s first designated Heritage River, this Provincial Park offers a 65-mile canoe route of interconnected lakes, gorges, and rapids from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay. All camping here takes place in the backcountry with no advanced reservations.