Best Camping in and near Darlington Provincial Park

A taste of camping, hiking, and marshlands under an hour from Toronto.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Darlington Provincial Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington Provincial Park

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Villa Vida Loca

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Brock, ON

Welcome to our cabins in the woods at Villa Vida Loca, in beautiful Sunderland, Ontario! Our tiny cabins are tucked away in the woods on our gorgeous, private 10-acre property in the heart of North Durham. We offer a unique glamping experience with all the benefits of camping, but with a roof over your head, floor under your feet and super cool amenities. Please read our full listings before requesting a booking. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. We’re very laid back, approachable and inclusive people, and can’t wait to welcome you. Nearby We’re surrounded by Beaverton on Lake Simcoe, Port Perry on Lake Scugog and Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada), which are a close driving distance away. Around the corner from us, the Beaver River Wetland Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail) is the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. There’s lots of other exciting things to do and see in the surrounding areas – fabulous restaurants, breweries and wineries, top golf courses, beaches, fishing, watersports, agri-tourism experiences, events and more. Upon your arrival, we’ll provide you with an up-to-date list of recommendations based on the season.

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New Cozy Tiny House Retreat On Farm

1 site · Lodging100 acres · New Tecumseth, ON

Escape to this cozy cedar tiny house on a peaceful farm, surrounded by nature. Relax in bed while stargazing through the skylight🌟. The natural cedar scent creates a warm and relaxing vibe. Though tiny, it’s fully equipped with everything you need: a full kitchen, hot water, heat and electricity, a cedar shower, and even a bathroom. Perfect for a serene glamping! 💧Our tap water is our well water and is drinkable! 🚿Washroom Comfortably spacious full cedar shower, custom built vanity with a sink, mirror, outlet and a composting toilet. Please do not throw toilet paper inside the toilet 🛌🏻Loft Sleeping Space The loft features a large skylight and a king size bed. With a sturdy staircase up the loft and the skylight, this space is beautiful and the perfect comfortable place to fall asleep under the stars. Enjoy the view of our beautiful farmer's fields in the loft window. We strive to do our best when we make the bed, it is tricky for our cleaners as it is a tighter space and they need to kneel on the bed in order to make it. They do their best to provide a clean, crisply made bed. 🐞The loft skylight will draw bugs, ladybugs etc and we strive to deal with them the best we can but inevitably there will be some even after a full clean. We do our best to deal with bugs, flies and ladybugs etc but inevitably there will be some even after we have done a full clean. 🌱This Tiny House is situated on a 100-acre family farm. The grounds are shared with our family farmhouse, our Wedding Barn and a few other rental units. All the buildings are spread out nicely on the property to give each unit privacy. As a rural property, we have lots of outdoor space. You have access to walking trails through our 40-acre tree bush lot. The quiet traffic area is perfect for biking with most roads paved. During the winter, enjoy skiing, snowshoeing and more (gear not provided). 🚗 Accessibility Roads are paved and easy to access with a regular car. 4x4 is not needed.

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Farm with Views

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents64 acres · Sunderland, ON

A 64 acre farm located just north of Uxbridge. Just a few minutes away, we have some of the most popular walking, hiking, biking trails in Ontario. We also have a walking path that surrounds our property that the campers will have access to. There are lots of birds to watch, views of rolling hills, and wonderful farm lands to oversee. Come enjoy our peaceful space out in the country and have memorable camp fires with your family and friends.

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T's Pond

2 sites · Lodging29 acres · Port Colborne, ON

Like most folks who’ve been bitten by the water ski bug, I dreamed of having my own lake and when I met my life partner Harald, an elite slalom skier, my search began in earnest. By a combination of good timing and good luck, I was able to make that dream come true and in the spring of 2014 I acquired this land with the hopes of building my dream water ski lake on it. 7 years later, we have a thriving water ski club and are constantly making improvements to the site. We now have decided to add some sites for rent to share this incredible property with others outside the water ski community. Site #1 is a small cabin that sleeps 3 and site #2 is a small houseboat that has been converted to a bunkie. Onsite activities include use of a canoe and paddleboard. Use of a kid's swingset and olympic trampoline. Swimming and fishing. Pets are welcome, campfires are permitted.

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Lakeport Valley Camp 🏕️

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Colborne, ON

We’re situated in the hamlet of Lakeport, only a 5 minute walk from Lake Ontario!! There are active train tracks within a half kilometre from the home. Other than that there’s no noise, just nature We are located 5km from Wicklow Beach! - 10 km from the Big Apple! - 7km from Old Mill Alpacas! - 40km from Batawa Ski Hill - 8km from Silver Lake Stables, where you and your family can do some horseback riding! - 25km from the Northumberland county forest, where you can do hiking/ off-roading! - 17km from St. Anne’s Spa in Grafton! And soooo much more!!

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Wildwood Cottages

2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Peterborough, ON

Wildwood Cottage sits on 6.5 acres overlooking Otonabee River. In the spring summer and fall we have 6 cottages and 2 bunkies. November to April we keep 3 cottages open with hot tubs and wood burning fireplaces. You can watch the birds off your porch, go for a swim at the beach, use a complementary canoe or even rent a boat or seadoo to explore farther! In the summer months we offer a swimming area equipped with kayaks and water inflatables. In the winter, there is a skating rink when the weather permits! Generally Jan & Feb. Dec and Mar the weather sometimes is not cold enough. One of the best things to do any season - sit at your own fire pit and enjoy the clear sky full of stars while listening to the sounds of natures. We are also pet friendly!

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Meanwhile Farm

4 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Sharon, ON

Family run blueberry farm just outside of Newmarket Ontario. We have 3 private, unserviced, grass campsites for tents or pop ups and we park RVs on the front grass. Outdoor shower and bathroom facilities. Communal fireplace, with perimeter walking trails. Feed the donkeys, goat, chickens, ducks and fish and freshen up for tomorrow's adventure! 5 minutes to restaurants, groceries, gas and 2 golf courses.

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Luna Dreki

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Tottenham, ON

10 acres of beautiful old woods nestled behind an Organic Micro Farm - many endangered trees and fungi to forage. We have built a Nordic inspired spa that includes a Wood - fired Sauna, Hot-tub and Cold plunge We have 3 beautifully appointed 16 ft Bell Tents with shared bathrooms. Outdoor sea-shell inspired shower equiped with hot water to bathe oneself in the forest. Only 45 minutes north of Toronto we offer a respite from the hustle and bustle. As the night falls, gather around a crackling, fire pit, swapping stories and laughter under the starry sky. When culinary inspiration strikes, a shared kitchen is at your disposal, providing all the necessary tools to craft a delightful meal to savour under the open sky.

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Uxbridge Igloo

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Mount Albert, ON

Your own private getaway with a private lake, sauna, forest, trails, wildlife and plenty of places to explore. When hungry, take in the local eateries, wineries, cideries and the trail capital of canada for mountain biking, hiking or walking. In the winter, skate on our private lake or hit the slopes at lake ridge ski or dagmar.

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Island Spirits

18 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Peterborough, ON

Are you looking to get out of the concrete jungle and away from the noise of the city? Once you board our special all included ferry SPIRIT OF THE LOON, to the 25 acre private island …your adventure starts! Oh, look the loon with her baby on her back! Oh the great Canadian echo of the loon call! Do you want to daze at the most beautiful, starry nights, cohabitate with many different species of 80 + farm animals on the island? From elusive alpacas to piglets, peacocks, baby goats, mini horse and donkeys and experience picking your own fresh farm organic eggs for your breakfast! Brushing and feeding the animals and taking them for a walk! We have 8 solar eco cabins and 25 tenting sites privately situated around the entire island. Have all night campfires and zen while watching the sunrise or the sunset as it dances and shimmers off the lake. Or how about experience using our double sided wood fired famous stone pizza oven it’ll be the best pizza you’ve ever made. We have sand volleyball and badminton courts, and a fleet of canoes, kayaks and paddle boards all included . If you enjoy fishing or want to catch a whopper the special fishing barge THE GOLDEN GAL awaits you ! Life is a beach, we have a small beach for your sand fun ! Book today for this upcoming season as you may hit the day that a baby goat is born! Please make sure you understand my pricing. If you have any questions, please let me know because I price out differently than any other place. Obviously, you see all amenities are all included. So , for example , 2 people would be $135/ stay ( which consist of one two or three nights is all the same price for the 2 persons ) . You can put up as many tents / dining tents , as you desire, Each site comes with a picnic table and a private campfire pit. I accommodate small, romantic couples, families , and large groups . I have special large group camping areas also. Awesome ! Captain TJ

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Off Grid Cabin in The Woods

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Uxbridge, ON

Main Amenities: 40 minutes from downtown Toronto Entirely off-grid experience (with good cell phone coverage Bell/Rogers/Telus) Wood-burning stove Small but Well-equipped kitchenette Farm Fresh Eggs Loft bedroom with queen-sized bed Futon for additional sleeping space Modern Cinderella incinerating toilet Panoramic forest views Outdoor fire pit Hiking trails Explore the farm and visit our sheep, chickens, and livestock guardian dog Direct access to over 100 acres of public forest Board games Minutes to golf courses, horse back riding, ski resorts, restaurants, and the Schitt's Creek film set in Goodwood (Check out my Guidebook!) *Note: the cabin is a 3-5 minute walk from the parking area. Winter Activities: - Cross Country skiing on trails directly connected to property from the front door of the cabin. Please BRING YOUR OWN SKIIS, as we do not have rentals available. - Hiking Description: Escape the noise and embrace the tranquility of our secluded off-grid cabin, nestled on our picturesque farm in the heart of the forest. This woodland retreat, just 40 minutes from Downtown Toronto, provides a perfect escape for those seeking a break from the ordinary. Welcome to Our Handcrafted Oasis: Immerse yourself in rustic charm at our handcrafted cabin, where every detail tells a story. I personally built this entire cabin, pouring passion into every nail and beam. Much of the wood material was sustainably sourced from the surrounding forest and milled right here on our hobby farm. The roof and flooring, crafted with care, echo the natural beauty that surrounds you. Sustainability: I used as much recycled, and reclaimed materials as possible in the build instead of new materials. Even the wood floors and ceiling were milled from trees that died naturally in the very same forest the cabin is located. The cabin is totally off grid, and relies on a small solar panel to power the electronics of the incinerating toilet. Cozy Interior with Forest Views: Inside, a warm and inviting interior awaits. The open-concept living area features a wood-burning stove, ensuring cozy evenings. Large windows frame panoramic forest views, bringing the outdoors in as you relax in comfort. Well-Equipped Kitchenette: Prepare delightful meals in the small, but well-equipped kitchen, complete with a gas stove. Share your culinary creations in the dining area, surrounded by the beauty of the woods. Or if you prefer, order in from the many restaurants and Pizza joints in town. We can have your order brought right to your cabin. Loft Bedroom and Extra Sleeping Space: The cabin comfortably accommodates up to four guests. Upstairs, a loft-style bedroom boasts a queen-sized bed, while the lower level offers a cozy futon for additional sleeping space. Drift off to sleep to the gentle sounds of the forest. Please note you must be able to climb a ladder to access the loft. Modern Amenities in Nature: Our commitment to sustainability includes a modern toilet in a separate washroom building. Please note our toilet relies on solar power, during the winter and long stretches of cloudy weather, the battery may become depleted. We have battery back ups available so please let us know of any issues and we can rectify them right away. Board Games for Cozy Nights: Take your games night to the next level with our selection of board games. Whether you're a strategic mastermind or a casual player, enjoy quality time with friends and family in the warmth of the cabin. Outdoor Bliss: Step outside to explore the hiking trails that wind through our forested haven. With direct access to over 100 acres of public forest, every hike is a new adventure. Share stories and toast marshmallows around the outdoor fire pit as you gaze at the starlit sky. Farm Life Bonus: As you explore the area, you'll encounter our friendly chickens, happily pecking and clucking around the farm. As well as our newly added family of sheep followed closely behind by our livestock guardian dog, Nala, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all our animal friends. Discover the Area: For those eager to explore beyond the cabin, historic downtown Uxbridge is only 10 minutes away. Here, you'll find a charming array of shops and restaurants, many of which are highlighted in our guidebook. Indulge in local flavors and discover hidden gems in this vibrant community. Your Hosts: As advocates for sustainable living, we're here to ensure your stay is memorable. Reach out for assistance or local tips during your woodland getaway. Book Your Forest Retreat: Escape the ordinary and reconnect with nature. Secure your reservation at our off-grid cabin, just 40 minutes from Toronto, where modern comfort meets the tranquility of the woods. Create lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of the forest. Other Notes: The cabin is off grid and reflects the outside temperature. If it is cold, the cabin will initially be cold. In the summer, it may be warm. During the winter, we suggest lighting the fire right away, or let us know and we can have it started for you. We provide a 2 gallon jug of clean filtered water for drinking or preparing coffee or tea. However, we ask that you bring any additional drinking water that you think you may need. Please bring anything you would like to add to your coffee or tea as we don't have milk or cream available in the cabin. The following is a full listing of all items and kitchen equipment available. Main Cabin: - Coffee - Tea - Hot Chocolate - Olive Oil - Salt and Pepper - sugar - 6 eggs - tongs - spatula - wood spoon - small pot - small pan - set of 4 large and small plates, bowls, mugs, drinking glasses, utensils - full knife set - small cutting board - 2 gallon water jug - french press coffee maker - paper towel - facial tissue - garbage bags - bin for dirty dishes - dish soap - dish detergent - multipurpose cleaning spray - battery lamps - battery inverter for charging small devices - board games (Clue, Uno, cards, Code Names) Washroom: - 2 gallon water jug - hand soap - hand sanitizer - toilet paper - paper towel - baby wipes - water basin -extra garbage bags

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Spirit Ridge Acres

2 sites · Lodging55 acres · Bobcaygeon, ON

We are a small hobby farm set within a mature forest setting. There are two, newly built tiny home bunkies that are situated in private areas of our property, yet close enough to our main house for security, Each bunkie has a modern outhouse with composting toilets and non potable water for washing Guests will have the opportunity to commune with nature as we have a multitude of bird species and there is always good possibilities of wildlife viewing, as guests stroll down the nature trails. There are plenty of very cool areas along the trail where guests are able to participate in forest bathing/meditation or can just relax and listen to the wind rustling through the leaves of the trees. We have a couple of very gentle horses on our farm, that if anyone wishes, can schedule a time meet them and do some therapy grooming. There is also a small flock of egg laying hens that are quite social. We have a small on site store, which has some beautiful wood crafts that are created in our woodworking shop. Live-edge wood tables/charcuterie boards and other beautiful pieces as well as a large display of gorgeous healing crystals and metaphysical items are available for purchase if that's your interest. We are less than a 10 minute drive to Bobcaygeon, where you can find the world famous Kawartha Dairy, scrumptious restaurants, specialty clothing boutiques, grocery stores and pharmacies. Sturgeon Lake is the predominate lake with fabulous fishing/boating/ swimming. A 20 minute drive will get you to Fenelon Falls, Buckhorn or Kinmount where you will find the famous Kinmount Movie Theater that have the latest movies available. The Canadian Rail Trail is also nearby for anyone that wants to do some biking/hiking.

The best camping near Darlington Provincial Park guide

Overview

About

This popular weekend park with over 200 campsites near McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve offers access to beaches, marshlands, and ravines—plus loads of electrical sites. But be forewarned: Darlington’s popular day-use area and proximity to the city and surrounding suburbs mean it’s busy on most summer weekends. Bordered by three bodies of water, the campground area is divided from the day-use area. With hiking options ranging from 30-minute routes to almost two hours, young new campers can easily get a taste of the outdoors. Don’t forget your camera to try and catch a snap of the elusive great blue heron.

Notable campgrounds

Best for celebrations: Darlington has four large day-use areas with picnic tables, barbecues, water taps and washroom facilities. Picnic shelters are available for rent in three of the areas.
Best cliffside camping: If you’re looking for a lofty spot with great views, try site 114, 115, 116, 158, 159, 160, or 161.
Best for wheelchair access: Lakeside Campground has two wheelchair-accessible sites. There are steep, but short, hills throughout the park.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Camping is available from May 7 to October 12. Have your laptop up and ready to book online five months in advance on the Ontario Parks’ website at 7am sharp. Keep alternative sites in mind.
If you can’t find a spot (common for holiday weekends), check the Ontario Parks’ Facebook for cancellations or consider driving one hour north to less busy parks.

When to go

Bring a camera if arriving in fall, as the colours and marshland wildlife (think waterfowl and raptors) are incredible at this time of year. The park’s store rents fishing poles, and four fishing nodules are set up on McLaughlin Bay for those waiting for something to bite. With ice cream and treats, the store is also a popular summertime spot. Winter is fantastic for a romp on snowshoes.

Know before you go

Bring a bike to ride part of the Waterfront Trail, a 350-kilometre, paved, multi-use trail that skirts around Lake Ontario.
For RVs, it’s best to fill your water tank at the potable hose near the dump station before heading to your site.
Bring your dogs but know that they must remain on a leash. Find a dog-friendly park in nearby Oshawa, just a short 10-minute drive on the 401 highway.