Ontario is known as being home to famous places like Toronto and Ottawa—locations that boast world-class attractions, historical sites, and plenty of things to do. But if you are more interested in getting into the great outdoors, have no fear; there’s plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in Ontario as well.
9 Why Choose A Yurt?
Camping is a wonderful way to explore all the natural beauty of Ontario and there are plenty of parks that offer sweet retreats away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities. However, camping isn’t for everyone, and that’s why yurts are the ideal solution for those among us who aren’t necessarily the most rugged outdoor experts. So head out to one of these Ontario parks this summer to the max and relax in a yurt of your own.
8 Windy Lake
Windy Lake is home to four all-season yurts—yes, that means you can even head out in the winter for some skiing and snowshoeing adventures. But with beautiful beaches, great swimming spots, and a reputation as a fishing hotspot, you may want to plan your trip during the summer months. Either way, you can be sure to have a great time in one of their cozy yurts that sleep up to six people.
7 Bon Echo
The yurts at Bon Echo have electricity—so you won’t be roughing it entirely. History fans will enjoy the over 200 Indigenous pictographs at Mazinaw Rock, while hikers can take advantage of Bon Echo’s many trails. Another fun thing to do here is participate in an interpretative boat tour of Mazinaw Lake and over to the Rock. The park is only open from May to October, so plan accordingly.
6 MacGregor Point
In the Birch Boulevard section of the park are located 12 yurts equipped with table, chairs, lighting, electric heat, and an outlet. These yurts are available all year long, so you can take advantage of your yurt’s toasty interior. MacGregor Point is also known for its diversity and has many summer programs that introduce visitors to the surrounding habitats. It’s also a great place for birdwatching, so don’t forget to pack your binoculars.
5 Pancake Bay
Open from May to October, Pancake Bay is home to a beautiful sand beach that overlooks pristine blue water. Take a hike on the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout trail to catch a breathtaking view of Lake Superior, or bring along your bike for some all-terrain cycling. The yurts can sleep up to six people and are equipped with an outdoor picnic table, fire pit, and, a propane BBQ.
4 Windy Lake
These all-season yurts are equipped with electric heat to keep you nice and warm in the winter, and a large deck, picnic table, and propane BBQ to keep you cooking in the summer. And there are plenty of activities no matter what the time of year—hiking, swimming, and boating in summer and ice fishing, snowshoeing, and skiing in winter make Windy Lake a scenic and enjoyable destination.
3 Bronte Creek
Bronte Creek is a great destination for families as it boasts an indoor pool, disc golf course, and a Children’s Farm where the kids can meet live animals. Other attractions include Bronte Creek Ravine and five scenic hiking trails. The yurts here all have electricity—so that means heat to warm up after a long day of tobogganing.
2 Silent Lake
Another park that is open year-round, Silent Lake is a beautiful location with access to beaches and both hiking and biking trails. And winter enthusiasts can rejoice, as the park also has more than 20 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails. Be sure to plan accordingly, especially in the winter, as the yurts do not have electricity or lighting.
1 Charleston Lake
The yurts at Charleston Lake are located in the park's Shady Ridge Campground and can sleep up to six people. Electricity and electric heat are included as well, so no need to bundle up on those cooler nights! Charleston Lake is also known for being a family-friendly destination, with plenty to do--including swimming, boating, and wildlife spotting. Take a hike on one of their many trails to get an amazing view from the highest peak in the country, and bask in a view of the lovely surrounding forest.
If you’re looking for a new outdoor adventure, then consider booking a yurt at one of Ontario’s provincial parks, many of which offer activities all year long. With so many sites to choose from, you can be sure to find a spot with plenty to do that is scenic, relaxing, and most importantly, fun.