Escape to the Backcountry

Ontario Parks offers incredible wilderness experiences in the Northwest.

Looking for adventure? Ontario Parks offer unparalleled backcountry opportunities for paddling, hiking and camping amidst scenic beauty and remarkable wilderness landscapes. 

Northwestern Ontario's three largest wilderness parks (Quetico, Wabakimi and Woodland Caribou), collectively offer over 5,000 km of canoe routes over 18,000 square kilometres. Each park is special and offers different backcountry experiences.

Quetico Badge 3

Wabakimi badge 3

Woodland Caribou badge 3
 

Backcountry Banner

Ontario Parks has 7,000 backcountry campsites accessible only by canoe or on foot. Backcountry campsites are basic, typically a pit privy, a few tent sites and a fire ring The paddling and hiking are second to none. Trip planning is essential. Get tips here

About Trish Manning

Trish Manning is an adventure travel writer. She is an avid outdoor person who loves to hike, paddle, SUP, snowshoe, cross-country ski and explore Ontario's great outdoors with her golden retriever, Daisy.

Recommended Articles

Backcountry Skiing in Ontario

Here are the best spots to find powder.

Adventure Races Ontario

Find out where to go and why you’ll love it.

Ontario's Other Camping Option

10 best private campgrounds in the province.

Pancake Bay: Ontario’s Ultimate Beach Escape

Discover the shores of an inland sea.

Beach Camping in Ontario

14 sandy places to pitch your tent and swim to your heart’s content.

Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in Ontario

11 places where Fido can join in the fun.

Call Us Crazy

23 Adrenaline Rushes Found Only in Ontario

Stargazing in Ontario

4 of the best places to see the night sky.

What You Need to Know about Ticks in Ontario

With the proper precautions, you don't have to let these creepy crawlies ruin your summer fun.

Incredible Swimming in Ontario

12 best destinations to take a summer dip.

Hike the Lake Superior Coastal Trail

Discover beaches, lookouts, and sacred sites on this 65 km trail.

Best Places to Glamp in Ontario

No roughing it here.

Paddling "the Pet"

Why it's her favourite Algonquin trip.

Guide to Restoule Provincial Park

Find out how to plan a front or backcountry trip to this little-known gem.

Hike The Best Trails

Discover your next great adventure.

Girls’ Getaways

21 ideas for an adventurous escape or bachelorette party in Ontario.

Hidden Gem: Chutes Provincial Park

Camping, hiking and waterfall-viewing in Northern Ontario.

Plan Your Adventure

10 amazing sights you can only see in winter in Ontario.

Best Backcountry Camping in Ontario

7 destinations that are wild with beauty and fun.

Adventure Hotspot: Mississagi Provincial Park

Get the lowdown on camping, hiking and paddling north of Elliot Lake, Ontario.