Camping in Barrie, ON, CA: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

Canada
—
Ontario
—
Barrie

96% (1567 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Barrie

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

638 campgrounds

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Algonquin Provincial Park

538 campgrounds

Rouge National Park

855 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(184)

Natures Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents39 acres · Mount Forest, ON

A perfect place to escape and rejuvenate the soul! Our beautiful 39-acre property consists of hard and softwood forests, open meadows for activities, and flat and grassy fields. Whether you're camping with your family or with a group of friends, this remote and private property is the perfect destination for a vacation retreat. There are plenty of trails surrounding the property where one can enjoy connecting with the sights and sounds of nature. Plenty of different bird species, rabbits, deer and wild turkeys abound and often on summer nights around the campfire you can hear the howl of the coyotes. This is a beautiful, tranquil piece of paradise, very private and fantastic for stargazing. We also have a couple goats, pot bellied pigs and chickens on the property. Guests can help themselves to the farm fresh eggs when on site camping. Whether you’re bringing an RV or a tent, we have the perfect campsite for you! We look forward to hosting you and welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.

100%

(178)

Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

100%

(34)

Affordable Camping on Hobby Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Uxbridge, ON

We would love to share with you a touch of country living where you can immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of farm life. While our farm can be busy with traffic, farm equipment and the sounds of animals, it offers a genuine taste of country living. Enjoy lush landscapes, open fields, and fresh air. Wake up to the sound of birds and the sight of grazing animals. Stay warm and cozy by the fire pit while taking in the spectacular view of the stars. We experience some beautiful sunsets and sunrises too so don’t forget your camera! Since our farm is a small intimate affair, with just a few sites available to rent, booking ahead is advised!

97%

(68)

Next to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mono, ON

This is a very private little slice of heaven that I've been pleased to steward for over 20 years. If you love the sound of frogs singing, and bullfrogs plucking their banjo strings, red-winged blackbirds trilling, you will love it here. The property is literally right across the road from the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park which boasts amazing trails, views and features the Niagara Escarpment. The 4-acre pond/wetland is designated 'Provincially Significant' by the Ministry of Natural Resources and is an important part of the Nottawasaga Watershed. This area is renowned for its terrain - the fields are rolling and the views are quite special. You will enjoy a private firepit and private overlook at the pond with hammock. The site isn't visible from the road. Our house is visible from the site but far enough away as to not disturb one another. We have a newly added outhouse with lighting that will make your stay comfortable.

99%

(262)

Pine the Sky

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Southgate, ON

This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!

12 top campgrounds near Barrie

99%

(262)

Pine the Sky

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Southgate, ON

This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!

100%

(178)

Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

Affordable Camping on Hobby Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Uxbridge, ON

We would love to share with you a touch of country living where you can immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of farm life. While our farm can be busy with traffic, farm equipment and the sounds of animals, it offers a genuine taste of country living. Enjoy lush landscapes, open fields, and fresh air. Wake up to the sound of birds and the sight of grazing animals. Stay warm and cozy by the fire pit while taking in the spectacular view of the stars. We experience some beautiful sunsets and sunrises too so don’t forget your camera! Since our farm is a small intimate affair, with just a few sites available to rent, booking ahead is advised!

Next to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mono, ON

This is a very private little slice of heaven that I've been pleased to steward for over 20 years. If you love the sound of frogs singing, and bullfrogs plucking their banjo strings, red-winged blackbirds trilling, you will love it here. The property is literally right across the road from the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park which boasts amazing trails, views and features the Niagara Escarpment. The 4-acre pond/wetland is designated 'Provincially Significant' by the Ministry of Natural Resources and is an important part of the Nottawasaga Watershed. This area is renowned for its terrain - the fields are rolling and the views are quite special. You will enjoy a private firepit and private overlook at the pond with hammock. The site isn't visible from the road. Our house is visible from the site but far enough away as to not disturb one another. We have a newly added outhouse with lighting that will make your stay comfortable.

Natures Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents39 acres · Mount Forest, ON

A perfect place to escape and rejuvenate the soul! Our beautiful 39-acre property consists of hard and softwood forests, open meadows for activities, and flat and grassy fields. Whether you're camping with your family or with a group of friends, this remote and private property is the perfect destination for a vacation retreat. There are plenty of trails surrounding the property where one can enjoy connecting with the sights and sounds of nature. Plenty of different bird species, rabbits, deer and wild turkeys abound and often on summer nights around the campfire you can hear the howl of the coyotes. This is a beautiful, tranquil piece of paradise, very private and fantastic for stargazing. We also have a couple goats, pot bellied pigs and chickens on the property. Guests can help themselves to the farm fresh eggs when on site camping. Whether you’re bringing an RV or a tent, we have the perfect campsite for you! We look forward to hosting you and welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.

Mountain Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Halton Hills, ON

A beautiful, peaceful oasis with 7 acres on the Niagara Escarpment, in the middle of Silver Creek Conservation Area. Hike in from the Bruce Trail (the Roberts Side Trail runs to the property). Enjoy our trees and gardens that surround our charming old stone farmhouse. Trampoline available (with permission). Trees, field, wildlife, campfire - our small piece of paradise. Near horseback riding. Close to Georgetown and Erin. Camper vans and RVs may park in driveway (not long term), and there is room for several tents. If you are through-hiking and want some meat or other goodies for the campfire (we have a grill), let us know what you'd like a week in advance, and we'll have it ready for you at cost (cash only, please).

Farm with Views

6 sites · RVs, Tents64 acres · Sunderland, ON

A 64 acre farm located just north of Uxbridge. Just a few minutes away, we have some of the most popular walking, hiking, biking trails in Ontario. We also have a walking path that surrounds our property that the campers will have access to. There are lots of birds to watch, views of rolling hills, and wonderful farm lands to oversee. Come enjoy our peaceful space out in the country and have memorable camp fires with your family and friends.

97%

(16)

Uxbridge Igloo

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Mount Albert, ON

Your own private getaway with a private lake, sauna, forest, trails, wildlife and plenty of places to explore. When hungry, take in the local eateries, wineries, cideries and the trail capital of canada for mountain biking, hiking or walking. In the winter, skate on our private lake or hit the slopes at lake ridge ski or dagmar.

97%

(18)

Beaver Valley Base Camp

6 sites · Lodging, Tents64 acres · Collingwood, ON

This 64 acre property in the beaver valley has a rolling terrain that leads you through several different forests, with tones of spectacular views along the way The creek side trail, immediately takes you to another world. The fast flowing water trickling down through hundreds of mini waterfalls creates the perfect natural spa sound/environment. At night the darkness in the valley allows for a beautiful night skies. Spring and summer bring fire flies and all year round you get unbelievable big sky starry nights

92%

(12)

The Eh Frame

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Kawartha Lakes, ON

Take a trip to our beautiful off-grid cabin nestled in the woods sitting on 25 acres with beautiful trails throughout the property. Get ready to cozy up for a warm campfire and enjoy the starry night sky before bed.About the A-Frame:The A-Frame Cabin sleeps 4 guests comfortably with 2 guests on the futon and another 2 guests enjoying the bed in the loft. The cabin is fully insulated and heated with a wood stove. We have a composting toilet located in the outhouse just steps away from the cabin.Things to do:- Our property includes access to tons of trails to explore, with more off the property nearby. - The cabin is less than 5 minutes from the Head lake public beach and boat launch. - You are only 10 minutes from town.- We're located 20 minutes to Balsam Lake Provincial Park.

100%

(1)

Forest Bunkie on Bruce Trail

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Orangeville, ON

Being avid hikers ourselves, we realize that there are not a lot of accommodations just off the Bruce Trail. So our main goal is to assist hikers as they explore the Bruce Trail. Whether you are doing the ‘end-to-end ‘ in one go (Bravo!), or doing a more relaxed multi day hike, our little bunkie will be a welcome place to lay your head at the end of the day. Our forest bunkie is nestled in the woods, a few minutes walk off the trail, and conveniently located approximately at the half way point of the Caledon Hills section. You truly feel like you are one with nature here. At night you may hear the coyotes howling in the distance or hear the local raccoons out on their nightly stroll. You have complete privacy at the bunkie. However, if you need assistance our home isn’t too far away. Please note that it is an off-grid bunkie…which means no electricity! We do have lamps available in the bunkie, however bringing your own headlamp or flashlight is recommended. There is a cute, private outhouse w/ washbasin. We have an outdoor shower a little ways away from the bunkie site, with hot water. There is a double bed in the loft. The pull out couch on the main level also can be converted to a double bed. There is no running water at bunkie, however we will have some potable water provided. You will be met upon arrival. PLEASE NOTE: *There is a strict NO fire rule anywhere on the property. *There is a hill (w/some forest stairs) that you will have to navigate to get to bunkie site. Mono Mills is 6 minutes away w/ Starbucks, Tim Hortons, gas stations, pizza. Hockley Village is 7 minutes away, with the must visit Hockley Valley General Store. Orangeville is 15 mins away for all food and supplies you may need. We can assist w/ Bruce Trail (Caledon Hills Section) pick ups/ drop offs if we are available.

95%

(20)

Ranchers2

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Amaranth, ON

Learn more about this land:A beautiful property with sites overlooking a 2 acre pond which can be used for fishing paddleboards or canoeing. Enviromentally protected wetlands allow for unusual species of wildlife to be seen. Farm animals on site please do not feed them. Smoking is only permitted on your site.

Star Hosts in Barrie

99%

(262)

Pine the Sky

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Southgate, ON

This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!

Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

Affordable Camping on Hobby Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Uxbridge, ON

We would love to share with you a touch of country living where you can immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of farm life. While our farm can be busy with traffic, farm equipment and the sounds of animals, it offers a genuine taste of country living. Enjoy lush landscapes, open fields, and fresh air. Wake up to the sound of birds and the sight of grazing animals. Stay warm and cozy by the fire pit while taking in the spectacular view of the stars. We experience some beautiful sunsets and sunrises too so don’t forget your camera! Since our farm is a small intimate affair, with just a few sites available to rent, booking ahead is advised!

Next to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mono, ON

This is a very private little slice of heaven that I've been pleased to steward for over 20 years. If you love the sound of frogs singing, and bullfrogs plucking their banjo strings, red-winged blackbirds trilling, you will love it here. The property is literally right across the road from the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park which boasts amazing trails, views and features the Niagara Escarpment. The 4-acre pond/wetland is designated 'Provincially Significant' by the Ministry of Natural Resources and is an important part of the Nottawasaga Watershed. This area is renowned for its terrain - the fields are rolling and the views are quite special. You will enjoy a private firepit and private overlook at the pond with hammock. The site isn't visible from the road. Our house is visible from the site but far enough away as to not disturb one another. We have a newly added outhouse with lighting that will make your stay comfortable.

Natures Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents39 acres · Mount Forest, ON

A perfect place to escape and rejuvenate the soul! Our beautiful 39-acre property consists of hard and softwood forests, open meadows for activities, and flat and grassy fields. Whether you're camping with your family or with a group of friends, this remote and private property is the perfect destination for a vacation retreat. There are plenty of trails surrounding the property where one can enjoy connecting with the sights and sounds of nature. Plenty of different bird species, rabbits, deer and wild turkeys abound and often on summer nights around the campfire you can hear the howl of the coyotes. This is a beautiful, tranquil piece of paradise, very private and fantastic for stargazing. We also have a couple goats, pot bellied pigs and chickens on the property. Guests can help themselves to the farm fresh eggs when on site camping. Whether you’re bringing an RV or a tent, we have the perfect campsite for you! We look forward to hosting you and welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.

Available this weekend

100%

(178)

Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

Natures Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents39 acres · Mount Forest, ON

A perfect place to escape and rejuvenate the soul! Our beautiful 39-acre property consists of hard and softwood forests, open meadows for activities, and flat and grassy fields. Whether you're camping with your family or with a group of friends, this remote and private property is the perfect destination for a vacation retreat. There are plenty of trails surrounding the property where one can enjoy connecting with the sights and sounds of nature. Plenty of different bird species, rabbits, deer and wild turkeys abound and often on summer nights around the campfire you can hear the howl of the coyotes. This is a beautiful, tranquil piece of paradise, very private and fantastic for stargazing. We also have a couple goats, pot bellied pigs and chickens on the property. Guests can help themselves to the farm fresh eggs when on site camping. Whether you’re bringing an RV or a tent, we have the perfect campsite for you! We look forward to hosting you and welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.

Next to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mono, ON

This is a very private little slice of heaven that I've been pleased to steward for over 20 years. If you love the sound of frogs singing, and bullfrogs plucking their banjo strings, red-winged blackbirds trilling, you will love it here. The property is literally right across the road from the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park which boasts amazing trails, views and features the Niagara Escarpment. The 4-acre pond/wetland is designated 'Provincially Significant' by the Ministry of Natural Resources and is an important part of the Nottawasaga Watershed. This area is renowned for its terrain - the fields are rolling and the views are quite special. You will enjoy a private firepit and private overlook at the pond with hammock. The site isn't visible from the road. Our house is visible from the site but far enough away as to not disturb one another. We have a newly added outhouse with lighting that will make your stay comfortable.

Pine the Sky

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Southgate, ON

This beautiful spot was re-forested with pine a number of years ago, and was sectioned off from the surrounding farmland, which is now maintained by the mennonite community. It is 8 1/2 acres of wetland and forest, with a mown perimeter, and cool places to tuck into the forest for the night. The current owner was a special educator, and now is slowly turning the land into her homestead. There is a beautiful, spa quality outdoor shower next to a tidy and 'fancier than most' outhouse, a strawberry patch as well as wild alpine strawberries all over the property, a big dog and a small indoor cat keep her company. Here is what the land offers: -Bunkie in the Forest: A sweet 8x8 ft. space with new bunk and mattresses as of April 2023 -Strawberry Fields bunkie: an 10x12 space with a loft with a queen memory foam mattress and a main floor with a full futon and a small table -Campsites: Meadow, Forest and River spots. Close to each other, but you'd never know it! All three are chill and serene places. The property backs onto a ten-foot swimming hole in an otherwise shallow part of the Saugeen River. -RV Spot: With electric hook up ideal for RVs 30 feet and under -a connection to the organization, 'Black Folks Camp Too'! Welcoming to all!!!!! So much to see and do in the area!

Affordable Camping on Hobby Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Uxbridge, ON

We would love to share with you a touch of country living where you can immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of farm life. While our farm can be busy with traffic, farm equipment and the sounds of animals, it offers a genuine taste of country living. Enjoy lush landscapes, open fields, and fresh air. Wake up to the sound of birds and the sight of grazing animals. Stay warm and cozy by the fire pit while taking in the spectacular view of the stars. We experience some beautiful sunsets and sunrises too so don’t forget your camera! Since our farm is a small intimate affair, with just a few sites available to rent, booking ahead is advised!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Barrie guide

Overview

Set on the shores of Lake Simcoe’s Kempenfelt Bay, downtown Barrie can feel like an escape. Watercraft filled with happy boaters roll in and out of the main marina, while parks and beaches stretch for several kilometres along the shoreline. Live events and festivals light up the night, including the concert stage and glittering midway of Kempenfest in July and August. Spend some time strolling through the butterfly bushes and rose gardens at Sunnidale Park’s arboretum, or head back in time at Historic Fort Willow, a supply depot during the War of 1812. Then head for the hills—some of the province’s best public parks and ski resorts (which welcome mountain bikers in summer) are just a short drive away.

Where to go

Springwater Provincial Park

Just 15 minutes’ drive northwest of downtown Barrie, Springwater is small but mighty. There’s no camping here, but day-use visitors can enjoy 12 kilometres of hiking and biking trails, some skirting a swan-filled pond. Winter is also fun—the park grooms eight kilometres of cross-country ski trails, plus a designated snowshoe path.

Earl Rowe Provincial Park

Set on the Boyne River and Earl Rowe Lake, this is a perfect place to get into the water. With two big beaches, plus a massive, one-acre swimming pool, campers can rent a canoe from a booth on East Beach, or watch the salmon spawning at the fish ladder. Then spend the night at one of 400 campsites.

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

The world’s largest freshwater archipelago, this park once inspired the Group of Seven, Canada’s most legendary painters. Here, the rugged rock of the Canadian Shield meets the clear waters of Georgian Bay. Swim in sheltered coves on Beausoleil Island (some with romantic names, like Honeymoon Bay), fish, hike, bike, canoe, and kayak, then spend the night—they’ve got cabins, glamping, and camping.

Sibbald Point Provincial Park

The beach is the biggest drawing card here. Lining Lake Simcoe, the sand stretches in a big, broad crescent with gentle waves perfect for families. Once you’ve dipped your toes, climb into a boat, canoe, or motorboat, or fish for jumbo perch, pike, trout, and northern pike. (You can also ice fish in winter.)

When to go

This part of Central Ontario experiences four very distinct seasons—the darkest nights in winter can dip below -40°C, while summer days can top 35°C. Time your visit to coincide with your interests: Skiers and snowboarders can expect good snow on the nearby slopes from December to March, while swimmers can get in the lakes from June to early September. Autumn is always glorious with an explosion of colour and some of the best sweater weather you’ll find anywhere.

Know before you go

Barrie sits about an hour’s drive north of Toronto. Roughly halfway between Toronto and the heart of Muskoka, traffic on Highway 400—the main thoroughfare connecting the two—can be very heavy in summer, especially on Fridays (northbound) and Sundays (southbound).
Load up before you leave town—Barrie has a number of camping and sporting goods stores and big supermarkets.
Instead of driving, take the GO Train—the distinctive green, double-decker cars of Toronto’s commuter rail system connect Barrie with downtown’s Union Station in under 90 minutes.