Ontario Expands and Upgrades More Than 1,000 Campsites Across Provincial Parks
PICTON, ON — Ontario is investing nearly $60 million to build and upgrade more than 1,000 campsites across provincial parks — marking the largest expansion of Ontario Parks in 50 years. The investment will create 300 new campsites and upgrade 800 existing sites with electrical service, making it easier for families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy camping while supporting Ontario’s growing tourism economy.
“This upgrade marks a major milestone for Ontario Parks — the most significant expansion of camping opportunities in 50 years,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “With hundreds of new and upgraded campsites, we’re giving more people the opportunity to support local businesses and jobs while camping at Ontario Parks and making memories to last a lifetime.”
Today, I announced that our government is investing nearly $60 million to expand camping opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts at some of Ontario’s most popular provincial parks. We are building and upgrading more than 1,000 campsites across the province – the… pic.twitter.com/qb04D7Dymq
— Todd McCarthy (@ToddJMcCarthy) September 17, 2025
Expanding Access to Nature Across Ontario
Over the next three years, new campsites will be added to Driftwood, MacGregor Point, Bon Echo, and Killarney Provincial Parks, with additional locations to follow.
At the same time, existing campsites at Sandbanks, Arrowhead, and Bon Echo will receive electrical service upgrades to enhance comfort and accessibility.
At Sandbanks Provincial Park, one of Ontario’s most visited destinations with roughly 750,000 annual visitors, up to 73 sites will be electrified by summer 2026. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall, with some upgraded sites available for booking next season.
“Sandbanks attracts visitors who contribute to our local Bay of Quinte economy and help sustain good jobs in Prince Edward County,” said Tyler Allsopp, MPP for Bay of Quinte. “By investing in upgrades and electrification, our government is ensuring it remains a popular and competitive destination for years to come.”
Strengthening Local Economies and Tourism
The investment will help meet rising demand for high-quality outdoor experiences. Ontario Parks reported 12.4 million visits in 2024, with many parks operating at full capacity during peak seasons.
“Sandbanks is a true gem in our community, helping make Prince Edward County a top tourist destination,” said Steve Ferguson, Mayor of Prince Edward County. “We are pleased to see the province investing in Sandbanks to ensure visitors have an experience they’ll want to relive year after year.”
Tovah Barocas, President of Earth Rangers, also praised the investment for inspiring a love of nature among children. “There’s no better place for kids to build a lifelong connection to nature than in Ontario Parks,” Barocas said. “We’re thrilled to see the province making it easier for families to enjoy the outdoors while ensuring our parks remain resilient for future generations.”
A Milestone for Ontario Parks
Since 2018, Ontario has invested over $76 million to improve park infrastructure. The new $59 million expansion continues that progress by electrifying more campsites and creating new family-friendly spaces that drive regional tourism and support small businesses.
With scenic landscapes, beaches, and trails from the north to the south of the province, Ontario Parks remains one of the largest outdoor recreation networks in Canada — playing a vital role in both environmental conservation and economic development.
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