Crimson bronze fall foliage decorating rugged mountainous terrains while overlooking valleys of far sprawling lakes – Historic rivers weaving through towering gorges before giving out to the thunderous roar of some of the world’s most majestic waterfalls – Sweeping soft sands containing rare ecosystems and a rich biodiversity perfect for beach lovers and birdwatchers alike all await within the breathtaking province of Ontario.
With over 330 provincial and national parks protecting its gorgeous landscapes, Canada’s Heartland Province provides nearly limitless adventures through the striking landscapes of its untouched wildernesses.
While I would be hard-pressed to include all its surreal natural areas in a single blog post, you can begin planning epic adventures through some of the province’s most beautiful destinations at these 24 best national parks in Ontario.
1. Algonquin Provincial Park
Established in 1893, Algonquin Provincial Park was the flagship of Ontario’s provincial park system. While Ontario Parks has grown to include over 330 officially protected areas, they have yet to compete with its first natural splendour and striking beauty.
Here, visitors enjoy the quintessential Canadian wilderness experience. Hikers can trek their way through vast deciduous forests and explore abundant wildlife. Meanwhile, the park’s over 2,400 lakes and rivers promise their own untold adventures along a kayaking or canoeing trip through its serene waterways.
Whether travelling by land or water, the park offers both back- and front-country exploration year-round. Still, summer is the best time to visit, with comfortable weather conditions ideal for braving the park’s natural environments.
That said, Algonquin Provincial Park is arguably at its most beautiful in the fall, when the natural landscapes are taken over by the sombre hues of the changing foliage. The only downside to visiting at this time is that the weather can be a little too chilly for extended trips.
2. Bruce Peninsula National Park
If Algonquin has a rival as being the most beautiful park in Ontario, it is the Bruce Peninsula National Park. Officially designated in 1987, the park has long served as one of the province’s premier nature retreats, promising breathtaking coastal cliffs reaching out into the inviting waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.
Covered in dense Carolinian forests, the Bruce Peninsula is famed as the end leg of the Bruce Trail, which weaves its way through iconic natural wonders such as Flowerpot Island, Cyprus Lake, and the Lion’s Head Trail before ending in the cozy camping community of Tobermory.
Meanwhile, just steps from the peninsula’s northern tips are the Fathom Five National Marine Conservation Area, where you can embark on a snorkelling or diving adventure to sunken shipwrecks and marine ecosystems.
3. Killarney Provincial Park
Set on the northern banks of the Georgian Bay and just a short boat ride from Tobermory is Killarney Provincial Park – the second gem of the Ontario Parks network.
Established in 1964, Killarney is famed for its striking white quartzite ridges, which drive their way into the lake’s pristine waters, yielding surreal panoramic views and serene backcountry excursions.
Of the park’s ten hiking trails, the La Cloche Silhouette Trail is the ultimate challenge and the most rewarding experience. It promises a thorough exploration of the park’s unique landscapes.
The park’s famous cliffs can also be explored along the waters throughout the summer, but I suggest visiting in the fall for fewer crowds and the more colourful scenery.
4. Point Pelee National Park
Point Pelee National Park occupies a 15 sq km area around the southern tip of the Canadian mainland and includes some of the country’s most unique ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and beaches.
The park was officially designated by Parks Canada in 1918 and fills a massive ecological niche for North America’s bird species. Every fall and spring, thousands of unique bird species pass through the park’s environments, attracting avid bird watchers from around the world.
Meanwhile, beyond being a popular spot for wildlife spotting, Point Pelee National Park is one of only 13 dark sky preserves in Canada, making it one of the best spots in Southern Ontario for stargazing.
5. Sandbanks Provincial Park
If expansive sandy beaches and towering sand dunes are more your thing than a dense tree-covered wilderness, you should check out Sandbanks Provincial Park.
Set along the northern shores of Lake Ontario in the tranquil countryside of Prince Edward County, Sandbanks Provincial Park has long served as a summertime favourite holiday destination thanks to its laid-back vibes and spacious beach, which includes picnic areas, hiking trails, and some of the largest sand dunes in North America.
While the park makes for a superb beach day in the city, it is also located in one of Ontario’s premier cottage countries, making it a great option for a beachside weekend retreat near the city.
6. Lake Superior Provincial Park
Protecting an expansive region between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa, along the banks of the world’s largest Great Lake, Lake Superior Provincial Park, blends dramatic landscapes, rugged beauty, and lush natural environments to produce a playground of outdoor adventures.
You can explore Central Ontario’s daring landscapes by land or water, both of which offer unique adventures.
Venturing along the waters on a kayak or canoe will bring you to remote rocky beaches lined by towering coastal cliffs. A short hike through the park’s inland mountains yields unique vistas of the tree-covered landscapes and a visit to ancient pictographs and Indigenous rock art.
7. Pukaskwa National Park
Pukaskwa National Park, established in 1978 and located just a little further north of Lake Superior Provincial Park, is another striking preservation that blends remote wilderness with pristine, rugged beauty.
Here, you will uncover primordial landscapes as you venture to unspoiled terrains along the Coastal Trail, where you will enjoy unparalleled views of Lake Superior’s precipitous coastlines.
The park’s backcountry is open for trekkers between May and October, and visitors can also enjoy cozy front-country camping at Hattie Cove Campground throughout the summer.
8. Thousand Islands National Park
Promising one of the grandest maritime adventures in Canada, Thousands of Islands National Park is the perfect Ontario destination for planning a summer holiday.
Consisting of 1,864 unique islands, this breathtaking archipelago straddles the Canada-US border near Lake Ontario and in the headwaters of the St. Lawrence River. It boasts quaint, picturesque castles, historic lighthouses, and lush island landscapes scattered throughout its crystal-clear waterways.
Visitors to the park start their adventures in Gananoque. Famed as the doorway to the Thousand Islands, this welcoming small town is filled with excellent accommodation options and several boat rentals along its harbourfront.
Renting a motorboat or kayak, you can then glide across the crystalline waters of the river, exploring remote wildernesses and campsites.
9. Rouge National Urban Park
Set just outside of Toronto in the GTA, Rouge National Urban Park doesn’t boast the same untouched wildernesses as other national and provincial parks in Ontario, but it is the largest urban park in Canada and one of the largest in all of North America.
As such, it is the perfect destination for enjoying fresh air just a short drive from the city and features a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility.
The park boasts a variety of natural landscapes to explore, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Dozens of hiking trails weave their way throughout the park, offering fantastic hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking opportunities.
10. Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Established in 1929, Georgian Bay Islands National Park consists of over 60 islands scattered across the southeastern waters of the Georgian Bay. The park is famed for its blend of reflective waterways contrasting the remote islands, which are nature preserves with rugged granite cliffs and dense forests that yield exciting adventures for nature lovers.
Visitors can hike, cycle, or kayak their way along these remote island getaways. These include the celebrated Beausoleil Island, known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque hiking trails, and national historic sites, such as an abandoned 19th-century Ojibway village.
Guests exploring the islands can either spend their accommodation camping at one of the backcountry campsites, stay in a cozy lodge, or vacation in a nearby community.
11. Fathom Five National Marine Park
While part of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, the Fathom Five National Marine Park ultimately deserves its own mention on this list of the best national and provincial parks in Ontario for embarking on an epic adventure. It promises some of the best underwater explorations anywhere in the country.
Established in 1987, the park protects the unique marine heritage of the waters surrounding Tobermory. These waters are best known for their dramatic underwater landscapes and historic shipwrecks.
Visitors can explore these monumental wrecks along a glass-floor boat tour, from which Georgian Bay’s crystal clear waters reward unfiltered views reaching down to the depths of the lake floor. Alternatively, guests are welcome to get a closer look along snorkelling or diving adventures, immersing themselves directly into the aquatic ecosystems.
When visiting, you should also plan a stop at Flowerpot Island to marvel at the unique rock formations lining its surrounding bank before returning to your campsite in nearby Tobermory.
12. Uxbridge Urban Provincial Park
Established in 2024, Uxbridge Urban Provincial Park is the newest addition to Ontario’s Provincial Park system. Open throughout the year, the park protects an expansive 1,350 acres and provides a green retreat in Uxbridge for exploring unique ecosystems that include lush woodlands and serene ponds connected by picturesque walking trails.
While the park promises plenty of year-round adventure, it is best visited in the spring or fall, when the changing seasons bring vibrant shades to the already breathtaking landscape.
13. Quetico Provincial Park
Straddling the Canada-US border in Northwestern Ontario, Quetico Provincial Park is a vast wilderness of pristine lakes, rugged terrains, and exceptional canoeing opportunities, making it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Founded in 1913, the park’s remote location and extensive trail system make it a favourite for backcountry camping and canoeing expeditions. Visitors can embrace the absolute solitude of being immersed in the region’s striking natural beauty.
Highlights of the park include the picturesque Beaverhouse Lake, where you will uncover historic pictographs and lush natural environments that yield some of the park’s best photo opportunities.
14. French River Provincial Park
Once a key route for Ontario’s historic fur trade, the French River is the keystone of this provincial park. It yields unforgettable kayaking and canoeing expeditions for nature enthusiasts and history lovers.
Lining either side of the historic river are picturesque terrains of rocky outcrops lined with dense tree-covered boreal forest landscapes, perfect for a lakeside hike or leisurely stroll.
While the park’s frontcountry camping opportunities make for an accessible way to immerse themselves in the region’s serene beauty, visitors should be prepared for more demanding conditions when delving into the conservation’s more remote backcountry areas.
15. Bass Lake Provincial Park
At just 160 acres, Bass Lake Provincial Park is one of the smaller provincial parks in Ontario but provides a breathtaking nature escape complete with a sandy beach and fantastic hiking and biking trails.
Located just a 10-minute drive west of Orillia, Bass Lake Provincial Park provides a quieter retreat with fewer crowds than the more popular Lake Simcoe nearby. Meanwhile, the front-country amenities of the park’s four campgrounds make the park one of the best family-friendly summer destinations in Ontario.
16. Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Founded in 1976, Petroglyphs Provincial Park protects an area with the most extensive collection of indigenous rock carvings in Canada that dates back over 1,000 years.
Etched into the rock surfaces, these ancient petroglyphs, known as “The Teaching Rocks,” offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of the area’s First Nations people. They feature depictions of snakes, birds, turtles, and more.
Meanwhile, surrounding the historic rocks are beautiful hiking paths weaving through lush forests and clear lakes, making the park perfect for a day trip from nearby Woodview.
17. Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
Covering an expansive 37,587 hectares, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is one of the largest provincial parks in Southern Ontario, second only to Algonquin Provincial Park.
While not quite as famous as Ontario’s first park, the Kawartha Highlands are a breathtaking gem of natural beauty. They are best known for their comprehensive waterways and strikingly rugged terrains.
Highlights of the park include trekking along its extensive network of walking trails and kayaking along its myriad lakes and rivers, including Cranberry Lake and the scenic Rathbun Lake.
While several backcountry campsites are available for multi-day visitors, the park does not feature any maintained campsites, and those seeking front-country accommodation will need to book a site at a nearby campground.
18. Bon Echo Provincial Park
Established in 1965, Bon Echo Provincial Park is home to an iconic landmark of Ontario’s topography: Mazinaw Rock. Rising dramatically above Mazinaw Lake, this towering cliff is adorned by over 260 Indigenous pictographs depicting human and animal figures painted thousands of years ago.
While the park is best known for its historical relevance, the surrounding landscapes promise breathtaking hiking trails along the lakeside, leading through lush forests to serene natural escapes and beautiful vistas.
19. Killbear Provincial Park
Occupying a 4,349-acre peninsula separating the Georgian Bay from Parry Sound, Killbear Provincial Park is easily one of the most beautiful parks in Ontario and blends rocky shorelines with dense forests and scenic vistas over the two monumental waterways,
The park’s picturesque beaches are popular for swimming and picnicking, while its inland terrains are a favourite for hiking through unique ecosystems and lush wilderness.
While there are several great hiking trails through the park, I recommend embarking on the Lighthouse Trail. This trail leads visitors to some of the region’s most striking viewpoints, with surreal vistas of the bay and surrounding islands.
20. Pinery Provincial Park
Combining beautiful campgrounds with unique ecosystems and abundant biodiversity, Pinery Provincial Park is one of my favourite parks in Ontario for a family camping trip.
Here, you can embark on your favourite camping activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and beachgoing, while embracing some of the rarest ecosystems in North America, including one of the most significant remaining sections of Canada’s Oak Savannah and Coastal Dune Ecosystems.
While open to hikers throughout the year, the best time to visit Pinery Provincial Park is during the summer months, when warm temperatures and pristine weather conditions allow you to fully enjoy the region’s shoreline.
21. Awenda Provincial Park
Another of the best parks in Ontario is Awenda Provincial Park, set along the peninsula lining the southern edges of the Georgian Bay Islands National Park.
Officially designated in 1975, Awenda is known for its diverse landscapes of rolling hills and dense forests leading to the striking coastal oases along its serene lake. The park’s tranquil hiking trails lead visitors throughout these various ecosystems, with some of its best routes being the Sixteen Mile Creek Trail and its Wendat Trail.
While the park is excellent for a day trip, visitors are also welcome to spend the night within the conservation area at one of its frontcountry or backcountry campsites.
22. Silent Lake Provincial Park
Just north of the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Silent Lake Provincial Park is another playground for outdoor adventures, including hiking, kayaking, camping, and mountain biking.
In total, the park boasts 19 km of hiking trails and 17 km of mountain biking trails, with some of its top routes being the Silent Lake Shoreline Trail and Bonnie’s Pond Trail. Meanwhile, the park’s eponymous lake promises fantastic aquatic adventures, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
To make the most of your visit, plan to stay at the park’s onsite campgrounds, which offer tent camping and rustic cabins.
23. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
One of the most iconic stops near the middle of the Bruce Trail, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is best known for its dramatic cliff views and the complex diversity of its surrounding ecosystems.
While the Bruce Trail is one way to experience the park, the area promises dozens of fantastic hiking trails, including the Cliff-Top Trail and its striking Spillway Trail, which guides trekkers through its picturesque canyon.
For added beauty, try to plan your visit in the fall and marvel at how the season’s sobering hues enhance the overall appeal of the region’s lush natural landscapes.
24. Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
Located just outside the GTA in Belfountain, the Forks of the Credit Provincial Park is best known for its iconic waterfall but features a stunning blend of natural wonders, including scenic river valleys, rugged cliffs, and dense forest-covered terrains.
While Cataract Falls are the main draw to this reserve, other activities include hiking to breathtaking lookout points and serene fishing spots, which the winter months bring some of the best cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the province.
