Tired of Traffic Jams?
Have you ever dreamed of going to live on a desert island? Want to leave the hustle, bustle and noise of the big city behind?
Well, why not escape to a world where there are no motor vehicles and no traffic jams – a place where you can explore the spectacular landscape of the UNESCO Georgian Bay World Biosphere Reserve, the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, by bicycle, foot or boat only. No, it's not a desert island but it is natural paradise.
Located only a 90 minute-drive from Toronto, Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers a truly remarkable Canadian experience for either seasoned outdoor enthusiasts or those new-to-the-outdoors. Chose to go for just a day or do a multiday getaway.
Your adventure starts with a scenic 15 minute Parks Canada boat ride from Honey Harbour to the park’s largest island, Beausoleil.
GREAT WAYS TO STAY ON THE BAY!
Glamping Cabins
Enjoy all the comforts of home – bbq, beds, table, chairs, lights, cooking gear – even a coffee maker! This “green” experience uses solar lighting, refrigerators and composting toilets.
The Cedar Springs cabins sleep up to 5 people and feature screened-in porches, private campfire, close access to the washroom and shower facilities. Enjoy spectacular sunsets at the quieter, west-facing Christian Beach cabins which accommodate 2 people.
All you need to bring is your food, bedding, personal items, a good book and your sense of adventure,” says park Superintendent Gary McMillan.
Equipped Campsites
No camping gear? No problem! Just bring a sleeping bag and settle into one of the fully equipped campsites at Cedar Spring. Your ready-to-go campsite includes a tent, dining shelter, sleeping pads, camping chairs and kitchen kit.
Traditional Camping
Wake up to spectacular views of Georgian Bay, only steps away from the water’s edge. The park has over a hundred campsites at 9 different campgrounds, with some including flush toilets and hot showers.
EXPLORE
GO HIKING! Choose from 12 distinct trails varying in length from 0.3 km to 7.1 km and difficulty. Take in views of Georgian Bay, the historic Brebeuf Lighthouse, Long Bay and more. Learn the Story of Fairy Lake on the must-hike loop trail.
GO MOUNTAIN BIKING! Rent a bike from the kiosk and explore the island. Feel the west wind in your hair on the 7.1km Georgian Trail, watch for signs of deer and bears on the 1.5 km inner island Christian Trail or pedal through beautiful beech-maple forest on the 6.9 km Huron Trail.
GO SWIMMING! Discover the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield, time-worn rock faces, sandy beaches and spectacular scenery of Georgian Bay.
GO BIRD WATCHING! The fall is a great time to watch for warblers, thrushes and hawks as bird migration is in full swing.
TRIP PLANNING INFORMATION
Website: Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Phone: 705-526-9804
Weekends and Holidays (June to Labour Day): 705-427-2532
Email: info.gbi@pc.gc.ca
Camping/Cabin Reservations: 1-877-RESERVE (737-3783)
www.reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca/gbi
HOW TO GET THERE
View Beausoleil Island, Georgian Bay Islands National Park in a larger map