Discover A Winter Wonderland In Ontario's Provincial Parks
TORONTO - Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay today invited everyone to consider a winter getaway in Ontario's world-class provincial parks.
"The demand for winter camping in Ontario's provincial parks has more than doubled in the past five years," Ramsay said. "Many of our parks now offer comfortable indoor alternatives to sleeping in a tent or under the stars, which is perfect for people who think they might enjoy camping but are reluctant to brave cold temperatures."
Provincial parks that offer a variety of heated indoor accommodations for an overnight winter visit include:
* MacGregor Point, near Point Elgin on Lake Huron
* Algonquin, east of Huntsville
* Sandbanks, on Lake Ontario near Picton
* Silent Lake, south of Bancroft
* Killbear, outside of Parry Sound
* Quetico, near Atikokan
* Pinery, near Grand Bend
Several provincial parks also offer well-marked, groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking. Some also have hills for tobogganing or artificial rinks for ice-skating.
Reservations are required for all roofed accommodations, and for basic winter campsites at Bronte Creek, MacGregor Point and Pinery. For other parks, reservations for basic winter campsites are recommended but not required.
"Whether visitors are staying overnight or just out for the day, basic cold-weather precautions should always be taken before heading to a provincial park in winter," said Ramsay. "Always contact park staff for the latest information on snow and ice conditions before finalizing plans."
To make a reservation or to get further information, please visit the Ontario Parks Web site at www.OntarioParks.com. Reservations can also be made by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275). To make a reservation for lodge accommodations in Killbear, Pinery and Quetico, it is necessary to call the park directly.
Fact Sheet: Ontario Parks - Stay the Night This Winter
Contact:
Jolanta Kowalski
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
(416) 314-2198
Barbara Mabee
Ministry of Natural Resources
Ontario Parks
(705) 755-1734
