Don't despair, spring is coming to Ontario Parks

(News Release)

 Learn to Camp

Many Ontarians have always wanted to go camping, but don’t know where to start. This is where Ontario Parks’ Learn to Camp program comes in. Reservations for this year’s program open on May 7.

Learn to Camp is a popular guided overnight camping experience with all equipment provided. By the end of the program, new campers learn all the do’s and don’ts of a successful camping trip, including how to pitch a tent, cook outside, and even make the perfect s’more! The memories made while camping will stay with families forever. 

Sights and sounds of spring

Spring breathes new life to the outdoors. As the weather warms up, we see Ontario’s iconic wildflower, the trillium, popping up. Ontario Parks has several ideal spots for seeing the trilliums as they bloom.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park is just 45 minutes from Toronto, and has several trails to spot the trilliums. Why not visit a provincial park to take in some of the beauty of spring?

And don’t forget about the sounds of spring! The birds are back, and the first wave of songbirds will arrive by the end of April. Visit Ontario Parks to see (and hear) for yourself! Catch a bird-banding demonstration, take in a nature photography workshop, or sign on for a bird-themed hike with our park naturalists.

Take on the backcountry

Ontario’s wilderness is a lot closer than you think. At Ontario Parks, you can have an amazing backcountry adventure within a few hours of Toronto. There are several backcountry gems in southeastern Ontario which offer peace and solitude. For example, Frontenac Provincial Park offers amazing backcountry sites with a rocky northern landscape within southern Ontario. Check out our round-up of some other nearby backcountry parks. Thinking about taking the kids on a backcountry trip? We have some tips for you. 

Go wild for art

Ontario’s provincial parks have long existed as a wild, natural canvas of inspiration for artists, including the Group of Seven. In honour of Ontario Parks’ 125th Anniversary, parks will be hosting programs celebrating our artistic history. Family-friendly outdoor painting events will be hosted on July 20, in honour of Healthy Parks Healthy People day. Visitors can also look forward to paddle painting workshops, outdoor galleries, nature journaling, and more!

Nature is good for you

On Earth Day this April 22, we celebrate the inherent way the Earth gives back to our bodies and minds. Contact with nature has been found to lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, help prevent disease, and reduce stress levels. The Healthy Parks Healthy People movement promotes the connection between nature and health. See for yourself with a dose of nature in one of our parks!

Key contacts

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For more information on Ontario Parks, visit OntarioParks.com.