The arrival of September is a gentle reminder that autumn is just around the corner. Although summer's not over yet, it's not too early to plan ahead for the fall season. There are a lot of things to look forward to - the brisk jacket weather, reuniting with friends from school, and the beautiful sight of autumn colours.
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This fall, a visit to one of Ontario's provincial parks would definitely be worth your while. Algonquin, Killarney and Bon Echo are all examples of popular parks that will surely not disappoint. However, if you're looking to escape the crowds, it may be in your best interest to consider one of these 10 provincial parks that are relatively off the beaten path:
Mississagi
Algoma
Mississagi Provincial Park is west of Sudbury and is known for its rugged hills and crystal blue lakes. It features several hiking trails, campsites and lookouts that will keep you occupied.
(Open from May 20, 2016 - October 2, 2016 for day use)
Ferris
Campbellford
Ferris Provincial Park has a breathtaking suspension bridge that stretches across the Trent River Gorge, and it offers some of the best views of the surrounding area. Over 10 km of trails and a lookout over the glorious Ranney Falls make this park worth visiting.
(Open from May 13, 2016 - October 11, 2016 for day use)
Earl Rowe
Tosorontio Township
Earl Rowe Provincial Park has a unique fish ladder that you can climb to view the salmon spawning that occurs in the lake during the fall. Several hiking trails and group campsites are also available.
(Open from May 13, 2016 - October 11, 2016 for day use)
Arrowhead
Huntsville
Arrowhead Provincial Park is located in the heart of Muskoka and features three sand beaches, 15 kilometres of hiking trails (including one that leads to a waterfall), and a few lakes for canoeing and kayaking. There are also some car campsites and roofed accommodations available in the area.
(Open from May 13, 2016 - October 11, 2016 for day use)
Bronte Creek
Oakville
Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a particularly great option for families looking to camp because it is near the city. Five hiking trails, a children's farm, and interactive courses like ghost walks and maple syrup activities are offered at this park.
(Open from January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 for day use)
Rondeau
Chatham-Kent
Rondeau Provincial Park is located on the edge of Lake Erie and features 11 km of sandy beaches. Hiking, biking and rollerblading trails are available at this park, as well as various bird-watching and water recreation opportunities.
(Open from January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 for day use)
Bonnechere
Killaloe
Bonnechere Provincial Park has several rustic cabins that are available for rent. Sandy beaches by the lake and interactive trails make this park a great option for groups and families.
(Open from May 13, 2016 - October 11, 2016 for day use)
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MacGregor Point
Port Elgin
MacGregor Point Provincial Park is one of the most ecologically diverse places near Lake Huron and even includes rare species of reptiles and carnivorous plants. Visitors will enjoy hiking and biking trails, as well as several water recreation activities like canoeing and fishing.
(Open from January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 for day use)
Obabika River
Temagami
Obabika River Provincial Park connects to two other parks in Ontario via canoe routes. A string of rivers and lakes cut through the park, allowing for great canoeing and fishing opportunities.
(Open from April 29, 2016 - October 23, 2016 for day use)
Rainbow Falls
South Bruce Peninsula
Rainbow Falls Provincial Park features a trail that leads to the beautiful Rainbow Falls which flow into Lake Superior. Two main campgrounds are available for groups and families who are planning to stay overnight.
(Open from May 20, 2016 - October 11, 2016)
Not satisfied with this selection? Check out these other Ontario provincial parks that are also stunning in the fall:
14 Ontario Provincial Parks You Must Take A Road Trip To At Least Once
12 Unique Camping Spots In Ontario You Need To Try At Least Once
(Sources: Ontario Parks)
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