NEWS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY
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It's not too late to make a New Year's resolution to explore Ontario's provincial parks this winter.
From camping under the stars in the crisp winter air or in a warm roofed accommodation to hiking and sightseeing, there are activities to keep everyone happy.
And if the weather cooperates this winter, you can also lace up your skates or strap on your skis for more winter fun and exercise.
This year, resolve to:
Try something different
You could go on a winter camping experience in a roofed accommodation.
Some of the provincial parks offering these great rentals are Sandbanks in eastern Ontario, Arrowhead in Muskoka, MacGregor Point in the southwest, Windy Lake in the northeast and Quetico in the northwest.
Here's a tip – book mid-week when there's better availability.
Learn something new
Don't know how to camp in the winter, or snowshoe? We can fix that! Frontenac offers workshops in both.
Challenge yourself
Commit to camp for at least one night a month in a provincial park.
This is a great way to see the province or just visit your favourite park every season – starting with winter.
Stay active
Hike with friends, and if the weather permits, snowshoe or cross-country ski.
Plan ahead
Check out some snowy adventures for later in the winter.
In early March, Sleeping Giant hosts a cross-country ski event – perfect for expert skiers, families, children and even those who have never skied before.
Or plan to wrap up winter with a late March candlelight Ski and Tea at Quetico.
As the temperature drops, check out the Olympic-sized skating rink at Bronte Creek or a lit 400-metre skating trail through the woods at MacGregor Point.
You can also reserve a winter RV site at Mew Lake in Algonquin and MacGregor Point.
"Don’t let the cold weather keep you inside this winter. Ontario’s provincial parks offer great open spaces and wonderful activities for family and friends to share. Make a resolution this year to find your favorite provincial park and enjoy it year-round – starting now." said Bill Mauro, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.
QUICK FACTS
- There are more than 330 provincial parks in Ontario, covering more than eight-million hectares — an area larger than Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island combined.
- In 2015, Ontario’s provincial parks received more than 9.8-million visits from people around the world and brought in more than $70 million in revenue, which supported jobs and businesses across the province.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Winter activities and events in Ontario parks
- Ontario Parks ski report
- Buy winter permits for vehicle parking
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