With 340 provincial parks in Ontario alone, there are no doubt many choices for where to go for your next vacation. Whether you are looking for a day trip with friends and family or a longer group trip excursion, there are many great parks to visit around the GTA.

Getting to the Provincial and National Parks

While you can easily hop in the car and drive yourself to any of these parks, it’s often much easier to hire a bus and driver to get you and your group there safely. Having a bus to drop you off and pick you up, whether you have planned on a day trip or a longer excursion, makes the group trip as easy as can be!

Reasons to book a school bus for your group trip:

  • Safe driver to get you there
  • No need to focus on the road rather than the fun
  • No problem with parking when you arrive
  • Variety of sizes to accommodate your whole group and their equipment
  • Take a nap after your busy trip

Top Provincial Parks in Ontario

Which is the best Provincial Park? They’re not listed in order – that’s our challenge to you! Visit them all and decide for yourself. There’s so much to discover in Ontario – let’s explore together!

Algonquin Provincial Park

Located 3 hours north of Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is an amazing area to experience the great outdoors that Ontario has to offer. Home to a variety of wildlife and with campgrounds located around the lakes, your group will have a great time hiking and canoeing among the many lakes, waterways and waterfalls.

If you are interested in Canadian art, the on-site Algonquin Art Center is the perfect place to check out during your visit to the park.

Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Home to Canada’ largest collection of petroglyphs (native rock carvings), Petroglyphs Provincial Park is the perfect setting for a lesson in Canada’s history. The visitor center and guided storytelling walks offer an abundance of interesting information that both kids and adults will appreciate.

You’ll also find an unusual lake at this Provincial Park. McGinnis Lake is one of only a few lakes in Canada that has layers of water that don’t mix, creating an awesome view.

Killarney Provincial Park

One of Ontario’s most publicized provincial parks thanks to The Group of Seven, Canada’s most famous artists, Killarney Provincial Park is home to some seriously stunning backdrops. With white quartzite mountains, pink granite cliffs and brilliant blue water hiking and canoeing around this park will be an incredible experience.

Killbear Provincial Park

This family friendly provincial park on Georgian Bay is the perfect destination for a camping weekend. With sandy beaches and rocky shorelines, you’ll have a blast playing the water, checking out the hiking and biking trails and setting up camp. Killbear Provincial Park is also the perfect setting for a budding photographer to gain inspiration.

Bass Lake Provincial Park

Perfect for a quick escape from the city to hit the beach, have some water fun and hit an easy walking trail, Bass Lake is located just outside of Orillia. Your group can easily hire a bus for a quick overnight camping trip and be back in the city before you know it.

Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park

Though this one is a National Park rather than a Provincial one, it’s still worth mentioning on this list. The Bruce Peninsula and Fathom Five National Parks are located just outside of Tobermory, a few hours drive from Toronto. With dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, beautiful beaches and tons of activities to keep you entertained, this is an amazing destination for a weekend or a week.

One of the most notable facts about the Fathom Five National Marine Park is that it is home to more than a dozen different shipwrecks, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving.

Plan your summer trip today

With so many ways to get out there and enjoy the beauty of Ontario’s Provincial Parks, there’s no reason not to plan a summer trip. Whether you want to get away with a few friends or plan a big family reunion, hiring a school bus is the best way to get your group on the road to fun.