You’ve done the weekenders, now you're ready to venture a little deeper into the wild. Within 3 hours of Toronto, you’ll find some of Ontario’s most iconic camping spots — and yes, that includes Algonquin. These sites are perfect if you’re craving those classic Canadian landscapes: canoe-friendly lakes, dense forests, and wildlife that isn’t pigeons.

Here are our top Campa-approved picks for a real-deal nature reset.

 1. Mew Lake – Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: ~3 hours
Open: Year-round access
Best for: Quiet paddling, and stargazing

Mew Lake is one of the few Algonquin campgrounds open all year — and it's stunning no matter the season. You’ll get great access to trails, especially the Track and Tower trail (bring snacks, it's a big one). Sites are spaced out enough for privacy, and there are even some with electrical hookups if you’re a comfort camper.

👉 Campa Tip: Fall camping here is magic — bring a camera and a cozy sleeping setup.

2. Pog Lake – Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: ~3 hours
Open: May 15 - October 14
Best for: Swimming, large group sites, and canoe access

Pog Lake has some of the best waterfront campsites in the park. The lake is shallow and great for swimming, even for little ones or nervous paddlers. It’s a bit busier in summer, but the space is well-designed, so you won’t feel crowded.

👉 Campa Tip: Reserve early — this one books up fast in July and August.

3. Lake of Two Rivers – Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: ~3 hours
Open: May 9 - October 26
Best for: Classic Algonquin experience with a general store on site

Lake of Two Rivers gives you all the Algonquin charm with a few extra amenities, like a park store and bike rentals. The beach here is sandy and flat, perfect for chill afternoons, and the nearby Old Railway Bike Trail makes for a scenic, easy ride.

👉 Campa Tip: Pack for cool nights — even in summer, temps can drop here.

4. Earl Rowe Provincial Park – Alliston

Distance from Toronto: ~2.5–3 hours
Open: May 9 - October 14
Best for: Family-friendly vibes and easy car camping

While it’s a little closer, Earl Rowe gives big campground energy with a bit less wilderness intensity. There’s a large swimming pool, spacious sites, and plenty of spots to stretch out and relax.

👉 Campa Tip: Bring your Comfort Package here — it’s roomy enough to spread out and enjoy the space.

5. Arrowhead Provincial Park – Huntsville

Distance from Toronto: ~2.5 hours
Open: Year-round access
Best for: Canoe loops, waterfalls, and winter glamping

Arrowhead is lowkey a four-season gem. The summer brings all the usual favorites (hiking, paddling, relaxing), but the winter here is next level with skating trails through the woods. Even in warmer months, the waterfall hike is a must.

👉 Campa Tip: Book a double Comfort Package and make a weekend out of it — Arrowhead is worth the time.

Three Hours = A Whole New World

Going the extra distance from Toronto means deeper forests, bigger skies, and a chance to fully unplug. If you’ve got the time (and the snacks), these campgrounds are so worth the drive.

Ready to level up your trip? Let Campa handle the gear — we’ll pack it up, drop it off, and get you ready for wherever the road takes you 🚗🌲