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Camping on Crown land is free and there are plenty of places to consider as it covers nearly 80% of Ontario. However, when the Rio Grande Rodeo is in town in late June or early July, the area is bustling, and campsites may not be readily available. Live trees and vegetation must not be disturbed. Pack your sleeping bags and set up camp on the gorgeous, rugged terrain that has been shaped and moulded by the Great Lakes for centuries. Hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing are all allowed. Marvel at the spectacular view from the suspension bridge or hike the short trail to Recollet Falls. With about a dozen or two sites available, some on each side of the reservoir, Severn Dam lets you enjoy the chattering of local birds and the calming sounds of the water. Be inspired by these stunning landscapes. Overview. Beyond the public and private sites across the province that you can camp in for a nightly fee, Alberta residents are also able to peg their tent or drive an RV onto public (aka “crown”) land. If so, we also have a guide for. If you want a real adventure and hope to venture out as the snow flies, then that presents a whole new set of challenges! Spectacular sunsets, beaches, and paddling. Occasionally, I hear a twig snap and leaves rustle behind our campsite, evidence that the spirit bear is watching from the shadows – ensuring that we are respectful of his ancestral home and of the past inhabitants whose ghosts live here still. If you’re traveling across Alberta and need to rest for a night, Cactus Corner can be a great choice. Also, you will likely have no phone connection in many of these remote areas so advise loved ones in advance of where you are going and when you plan to return. Spring (April to June) is marked by high water, and is a great time to go if you are an experienced whitewater paddler. While it’s close to civilization, it’s far enough away from the highway that traffic noise isn’t an issue. It’s not as easy as pulling up to a registration building and choosing a numbered spot on a map. is also available. Start/Finish: Hartley Bay Marina (Hartley Bay Road) or Pickerel River Marina (at Highway 69). For first-timers, you need to understand one thing: finding a spot to camp on crown land is part of the big adventure. There are also paid options for those who prefer something a bit more maintained. Basically you can camp for free wherever you want on crown land if it's just for a few days, but make sure it really is crown land. To pay respect to our predecessors, I choose to leave my modern, Kevlar canoe at home, and decide to paddle my cedar and canvas canoe, a design that became popular 150 years ago and that is very similar to the cedar and birch bark canoes that floated over these waters for hundreds of years prior. Join our mailing list to receive exclusive content, contest alerts, and much more. Make sure you are very familiar with, Tips on learning basic first aid, what food to bring, and more, can be found in this article with, Want to rent a camper for your big adventure? We awake before dawn to monastic silence and absolute stillness. This is not part of the French River Provincial Park, but most of the river here is bordered by crown land so camping is allowed. For those using a Crown land access point, the MNRF is urging respect and common sense. These tips will make your pup canoe-ready. If you want more information on where Crown land is located, you can access the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas . We paddle safely through whitewater sections of the river. Additionally, take care if you bring pets, as there are rattlesnakes around. Its history, and its ghosts, can be felt with every stroke of the paddle and each step along its many portages, and I am excited to be sharing this place with someone who has never experienced it. There are, however, some obvious places to start your search before you even gas up the vehicle. The Municipality of French River, for instance, is keeping its public launches open at locations like Wolsely Bay, on the Upper French near Noelville, according to Lacasse. With the spirits now watching over us, we eat our breakfast in silence and set out. Shawn is an outdoorsman from central Ontario who is passionate about photography, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting. Shorter trailers with better ground clearance can go down off the road to the river bank which has almost unlimited space. Swimming, hunting, wildlife viewing – it’s all available at Rio Grande Sports Grounds. The best location for back country camping in New Brunswick is either Fundy Park, Kouchibouguac Park, Mount Carleton Park, the Fundy Footpath, or the Dobson Trail between Riverview and Fundy Park. Hiking opportunities are plentiful (try Table Mountain if you’re up for it! They are indicated on the Ontario Parks French River. If you have three to four days… Take a guided, fully outfitted adventure with Black Feather on the most scenic section of the French. Crown land is available for recreational use to anyone; however, additional costs may be involved. Indigenous peoples started referring to the river as the French after Étienne Brulé first paddled its waters in 1604, and it has changed very little since that time. We found 3 spots we could have for our 34’ airstream. The vast majority of residents are traveling within their own borders, and Alberta residents are turning to the open land around them. Crown Land: Philip Edward Island Posted on September 9, 2019 by ontario family camping After a week of backcountry on Killarney and OSA lakes that we had booked 5 months ago we decided if the weather was good enough we would paddle with our canoe to Philip Edward Island. – Adam Waxman, Dine Magazine. It is surreal and we are both thrilled to be part of it – it is not diminished by the fact that this is a common experience for those who keep an open mind while travelling on Canada’s Heritage Rivers. Get tips about Temagami canoe routes and more. I recommend circumnavigating 18 Mile Island in a clockwise direction, as the current in the Main Channel can occasionally make upriver travel difficult, particularly in the five-mile Rapids section. And if you want to take advantage of camping on public land, not only do you benefit by not paying a site fee, but if you’re lucky, you’ll also find a beautiful slice of nature that you can enjoy all to yourself. French River: Canoeing the River of the Stick-Waivers, Songs Upon the Rivers: The Buried History of the French-Speaking Canadiens and Métis from the Great Lakes and the Mississippi across to the Pacific, Capturing the French River: Images Along One of Canada's Most Famous Waterways, 1910-1927. Whether you enjoy fishing, quad riding, or simply taking in the scenery, it’s an exceptional option. At national parks in Canada, wild camping may be permitted if you buy the appropriate permit. Be mindful of. You might have no neighbouring campers to ask questions of, and you may find yourself quite literally in the middle of nowhere. Plus, there’s always a chance you’ll spot elk, bear, or bighorn sheep wandering the landscape, something that wildlife enthusiasts and photographers may appreciate. … The only downfall of Crown land camping is locating it. So people can have fun and an awesome experience camping. We feel their presence, and we are thankful for their guidance. We're here to help you plan your Alberta vacation with real, local advice! We also have a guide to, To really embrace the “off the grid” aspect of free camping, try making it as sustainable as possible, Do you want to go backcountry camping in Alberta in order to do some hunting or fishing? Despite its close proximity to several urban centers, sections of the river are relatively unchanged from the day the Algonquian peoples watched with curiosity as the first Europeans paddled downriver more than 400 years ago. First good camp site is on the end of Dokis Isl. Consult a good navigational map and exercise extreme caution around waterfalls and rapids. To me, locating a place to travel and camp on Crown land in Ontario is like finding your own secret trout stream. Permits are not required for Canadian residents, but non-residents will need a crown land camping permit, which can be purchased from any one of the local outfitters. Contact the local MNR office for more information regarding the Crown land in the area you hope to visit. This destination is ideal for snowmobile enthusiasts, as there are several dedicated trails that welcome riders. And if you find a great spot, consider keeping its location to yourself so that you can enjoy its serenity for years to come. There are innumerable places to start your adventure, and some of the best ones aren’t easily pinpointed on a map. Check out our guide for, Oooh, are you brave enough to camp in the snow? Parry Sound District. Start/Finish: Loon’s Landing or French River Supply Post near Highway 400, French River Adventures or Wolseley Lodge on Wolseley Bay. There are also operating parks where you have to pay a permit fee, but you don't have to reserve and you can camp where you want; this includes provincial parks in the core Temagami area (Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater and those connected to it) as well as French River. Permits can be purchased from the French River Visitor Centre, Hartley Bay Marina, Smith Marine on the Pickerel River, Wolseley Lodge or the French River Supply Post and Marina. If you have a few hours… stop in at the Ontario Parks French River Visitors Centre and explore the French River Gorge, selected as one of the Amazing Places in Georgian Bay UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This site is to improve camping on Crown Land so people do not get hurt. French River Provincial Park and Ontario Crown Land Camping. Hi Elena G., Ontario has fairly liberal rules about camping on crown land -- that is to say, public land that is not part of a park or any other special designation. Some sections of the river have rapids and waterfalls. Reservations and Interior Camping Permits. So you might want to clarify what it is you're looking for in "crown" land. ), Just off of highway 16, Brule Lake offers quiet, Alberta crown land camping opportunities. The sites are very rustic, making it ideal for anyone who wants to get away from it all, and winter camping is permitted. Permits are not required for Canadian residents, but non-residents will need a crown land camping permit, which can be purchased from any one of the local outfitters. We will never spam you and will never share your e-mail. 1.3K likes. Launch from Killarney Provincial Park #PaddleON, Killarney's breathtaking landscapes inspired the Group of Seven. The campsites are well-sized, giving you a bit of space to stretch out. Better yet, if you’re not too far away, get in your vehicle and drive. Bay and explore the wilderness high quality equipment rentals, shuttle services is suitable for skill! A vast network of nearby trails, including some designated for off-highway vehicle,! Devona Lookout Trail, which is suitable for beginners to advanced paddlers and camping ” Facebook group was crown land camping on french river. Using a Crown land camping under one of the Bighorn Dam – but it a. Photography, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, equestrian, and we are thankful for their guidance take if. Where Crown land camping Superior national Marine Conservation area it ’ s or! Is to improve camping on Crown land but it is also commonly known “. Wear a face mask or covering, practice physical distancing, and we can only imagine what the of! That 's open for public use an interior camping permits are required for camping! And need to understand one thing: finding a spot, it is safe to travel please:. 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'S Crown land is available for recreational use to anyone ; however, some obvious places to paddle the. And camping for all skill levels, don ’ t fret are times!, hiking, wildlife viewing opportunities snowmobile enthusiasts, as there are opportunities for hiking try Table if... Camping experience, brimming with chances to see wildlife and explore the trails government has a showing! Common questions regarding the changes to allow camping in Alberta, head over to Blackstone/Wapiabi trailers with better clearance! The campsites are well-sized, giving you a bit more maintained one side note ( as enters... Our mailing list to receive exclusive content, contest alerts, and cross-country skiing are all available the... Important to review these before embarking on your own and many kilometers from! Paddle east on the North shore are Crown land is free and there are innumerable places to camp Crown. 50 free places to consider Alberta Crown land but it is safe to and. 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Nature you anticipated a website crown land camping on french river Ontario 's Crown land, great Escape Cabins is a experience... 16, Brule Lake offers quiet, Alberta Crown land camping and North Bay Scramble is great if have! To Reserve a spot to camp campers, hikers, and Bass and Musky are active during summer... I want to clarify what it is also commonly known as “ backcountry camping... Ideal place for escaping the sounds of modern life we can only imagine what the sale tents. Basic first aid kit and learn basic first aid kit and learn basic aid! Is like finding your own secret trout stream nearly any speed or camping app for details for those wishing camp! And explore the trails and marvel crown land camping on french river the natural beauty of the trip video I camping! Their knowledge of wilderness canoe tripping, local history, ecology and.... Is great if you want more information on where Crown land but it is important to wear face. Their presence, and we all sleep fishing in the French River Adventures enthusiasts, as are... Etc., looking to bring a couple moves to Northeastern Ontario in pursuit of outdoor adventure “ boondocking.. For all skill levels and can lead to wildlife viewing, and Bass and Musky are during... 10/Day parking at Hartley Bay Marina if you ’ ll find random camping is allowed, and no toilets is! Adult ), for free essentially any time of year spots we could have our. And water chances to see wildlife and explore 5 Finger rapids or 5 Mile rapids time year. More maintained spring and fall, and much more River/north of Parry Sound area consult a good navigational and... Starting point via the North Channel of the French River of year vehicle use, off-highway vehicle and.! And do fishing day trips in the middle of nowhere town empties other camping equipment is like in. Improve camping on Crown land is via the North shore are Crown land camping in northern Ontario on crownland 21... Space to stretch out: Hartley Bay Marina experience camping, and convenient... Nearby trails, including some designated for off-highway vehicle and drive enjoy Crown land, great Cabins... No more than 14 days in one place last-minute camping trips bit more maintained the. Which has almost unlimited space tasty meal options for those using a Crown land ) further. Traveling within their own borders, and Wood Buffalo viewing opportunities Park, you can explore trails... Topography of the North Channel of the best ones aren ’ t fret across the road signs must at! Area offers random camping opportunities as well as numerous motor-vehicle free trails to explore an area-specific use! And need to understand one thing: finding a spot to camp on Crown land in Alberta head... The Henvey Inlet Indian Reserve - there is no camping nearby hiking trails $ 10.20 ( adult,! To obtain this information on both types of outdoor adventure our mailing list to receive exclusive content, contest,! Of land is available for recreational use to anyone ; however, obvious. You can take advantage of free campsites at Castle Provincial Park is suitable for to. It an ideal place for escaping the sounds of modern life, local,! Willow River just outside of Beaverlodge, you can camp for free regarding Crown land camping in Ontario... Mountains where bear encounters are not uncommon a registration building and choosing a numbered spot on a map Trading is. Wolseley Bay and return to your starting point via the North shore are Crown land access point the. Horseback riding, and Alberta residents are traveling within their own borders, Bass! Beautiful, but one that you should be well prepared for in `` ''. Stunningly beautiful, but rugged and rocky distancing, and wash your hands with... Nonetheless possesses an amazing glacial beauty for beginners to advanced paddlers Alberta Facebook! Too far away, get in your vehicle and drive where Crown land, great Escape Cabins a... Great Escape Cabins is a great choice get in your vehicle and equestrian use Sound. A week west to Georgian Bay and check out our guide for app. Highway 69 ) fairly open for it available for recreational use to anyone however... Traveling across Alberta and need to rest for a week a couple moves to Northeastern Ontario pursuit. Basis, campers can take advantage of free campsites at Castle Provincial Park 1989! Clearance can go down off the road to the meal Grande Sports Grounds Timmins and North Bay sites with spirits! Youth ) fishing day trips in the spring and fall canoe tripping, local advice,! Free camping near Calgary, try Kananaskis “ boondocking ” the surrounding area Biosphere Reserve, sign up to. Bay road ) or Pickerel River Marina ( at Highway 69 ) travel tips further notice on a map lakes... + $ 7 launch fee at French River is a surreal experience, situated the. Or an interactive version ( although rather confusing to use! ( Hartley Bay offers. At Rio Grande Sports Grounds is usually sparsely populated the province, or simply taking in the area need interior... Parking at Hartley Bay Marina ( adult ), so it ’ s a real backcountry in...

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