ALWAYS check Alerts and other information on the official website, as conditions and facility availability are subject to change.
New Camping Rules for 2023 (14-night max) – new for 2023 are revised rules about the maximum number of nights you can camp. In this park, if you are camping between July 1 and the Saturday of the Labour Day long weekend, you’ll be restricted to no more than 14-nights at this park. Outside of those dates, it’s still the old 23-night maximum. Ontario Parks promises this will be clear when booking.
Rules for backcountry camping and the roofed accommodation haven’t changed.
Day Use Vehicle Permits: Because of this park’s popularity, it will need permits to be purchased in advance to guarantee park access. This process was started in 2021 and will be kept for 2023.
If you’re smart, grab the permit before any visit, even mid-week. We found this out the hard way at our local Provincial Park.
You can buy the vehicle permit up to 5 days in advance, which guarantees you access to the park on that day. If you have an annual or season pass, you should still book your permit online, but there’s no extra charge.
Facebook and Website Links
Bonnechere Official website
Bonnechere Official Facebook
Information
Phone #: 613-757-2103
Main entrance co-ordinates: 45.65729 -77.57886
Address: 4024 Round Lake Rd. Killaloe K0J 2A0
Opening seasons: May 12, 2023 to October 15, 2023
Activities
Camping & Accommodation
Campers can enjoy the outdoor life at Bonnechere Provincial Park, with three campgrounds to choose from. Camping in Tall Pines or River Loop is within walking distance of amenities like swimming pools and visitor centres while Sandy Flats has a 10-minute walk for these same services plus it also provides access to central comfort stations where you’ll be able to wash up after your adventures outdoors!
Tall Pines Campground consists of 60 campsites that are set among some spectacular White Pine trees that have survived the logging days. Campsites in Tall Pines campground can accommodate equipment ranging from tents only to large trailers. Twenty-four of these campsites offer electrical hook up.
Campsites in the River Loop Campground can accommodate tents only to small trailers. Electrical sites are not provided in this campground. Many of the campsites are located immediately adjacent to the Bonnechere River, providing direct access to water activities such as boating, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Sandy Flats is a radio-free campground that can accommodate tents to small trailers. Electrical sites are not provided in this campground. Sandy Flats Campground has a mini-comfort station that provides pedal flush toilets and showers in close proximity to the campsites.
Hiking, Biking & Paddling
Hiking
McNaughton Trail – 2 km (40 – 60 minutes) – Out and back to loop – Easy
Take an easy stroll along the meandering Bonnechere River and learn about its rich natural and cultural history by exploring our Foot Prints in Time (FIT). FIT is based on the traditional local First Nations way of teaching and explaining our history. The trail takes you in stride with 13 giant footprints, marked by posts with interpretive and educational text designed to be informative and engage you and your family along the hike. You will truly enjoy this adventure.
Walks of the Little Bonnechere River – 10 trails – varied lengths and difficulties
The Walks of the Little Bonnechere River is a compilation of 10 local trails and stopping places that will help you gain an understanding of the history of the river and its people. Each trail offers a variety of experiences and opportunities to explore natural and cultural history. Trail length and difficulty vary, providing an opportunity for all to enjoy. A booklet with maps, locations, pictures, and descriptive text on these trails can be purchased at the park office at a reasonable cost.
Biking
Biking through the park is a great way to explore it and enjoy some fresh air. You can bike on any road in this vast space, but there are no designated trails for bikes so keep that in mind if you’re going somewhere with more grass than dirt or rocks!
Paddling
Visitors to Bonnechere typically enjoy leisurely paddles along the meandering banks of the Bonnechere River from the park to Jack’s Chute (~3km). Highlights include exploring the oxbows which are habitats for a variety of creatures big and small like turtles, fish, ducks, and deer.
For a bit more adventure you can purchase a canoe route map for the Bonnechere River Provincial Park.
The park rents canoes and kayaks.
Maps & Resources
Local Facilities
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