The perfect base for exploring the Bruce Peninsula, hiking the Bruce Trail, and seeing Georgian Bay.
Owen Sound is a city at the crossroads of waterfront fun, hiking galore, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can head up the gorgeous Bruce Peninsula to scuba dive at one of Canada’s five National Marine Conservation Areas. The Bruce Trail offers days and days of hikes along the Niagara Escarpment. The city sits on the Georgian Bay waterfront, but is also just a short drive from the shores of Lake Huron. Whichever way you look, there’s something to explore near Owen Sound.
Owen Sound to Wiarton
Along the 35-kilometre stretch between Owen Sound and the town of Wiarton, family-oriented campgrounds are plentiful. Mountain Lake Camp, Bass Lake Park, and Bluewater Park all offer natural lakes for swimming.
Sauble Beach
The cottage community of Sauble Beach sits on the western side of the peninsula, on Lake Huron. Several campgrounds and camping resorts surround the town and many offer swimming pools, playgrounds, and other family-friendly amenities. Sauble Beach is a popular spot in summer, so don’t expect solitude! Visiting off-season (after Labour Day) will provide a more relaxing experience.
To Access the Bruce Trail
The Bruce Trail follows the Niagara Escarpment from Niagara Falls to Tobermory, at the top of the Bruce Peninsula, but camping is not allowed on the trail itself. Harrison Park Campground provides access to the Bruce Trail via a side trail, while Bass Lake Park offers camping further north, just a short drive to a trail access point.
Hikers will enjoy the Bruce Trail access all year, but the most comfortable times to hike the trail are spring and fall. Summer can be hot and buggy (and busy), but if swimming and hanging out on the beach are your priorities, June to August is the best time for you. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers make the most of winter in the area, but most campgrounds will be closed from October to mid-May.