Awenda Provincial Park is a gem in Ontario, packed with natural beauty and rich in wildlife. This park unfolds over 2,915 hectares of forest, captivating landscapes, beautiful beaches, serene lakeshores, vibrant wildlife, and over 30km of hiking trails.
Awenda is a genuine paradise for camping enthusiasts and trailblazers alike. Embark on an adventure that blends relaxation with exploration, offering a priceless escape into Ontario’s wilderness.
Whether you’re pitching up a tent under the star-studded sky, swimming at one of the four beaches on Georgian Bay or tracing your hiking boots along picturesque trails – it’s time to discover the breathtaking allure of Awenda Provincial Park!
Overview of Awenda Provincial Park
Awenda Provincial Park, located in Tiny Ontario, Canada, on Georgian Bay, offers several campgrounds with various amenities for camping enthusiasts.
Hiking, Camping, birdwatching, swimming, boating, canoeing, fishing in Georgian Bay, and exploring natural features are among the many activities visitors can engage in.
Here are just some of the amazing features of Awenda Park;
- Hike or bike on over 30 kilometers of well-maintained trails that cater to different levels of difficulty
- Camp at one of the 6 campgrounds, some radio-free, generator-free, with electric sites, and one dog-free
- Enjoy 4 unique sandy beaches on Georgian Bay and one extra large dog beach
- Check out interpretive programs and guided hikes led by knowledgeable staff members
- Stay at the stone cottage, an 1000 sq ft cottage directly on Georgian Bay
- Explore the smaller Kettles Lake for a hike or canoe
- Cross country ski, snow shoe, or snowmobile on the quiet peaceful trails in the winter
Whether you are an avid hiker, camper, love the beach, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of nature, Awenda Provincial Park has something to offer for everyone.
Please note that a vehicle entrance fee applies to access the park. Alternatively, you can purchase a seasonal or annual Provincial Parks Pass which gives you unlimited access to all Provincial Parks throughout Ontario.
Diverse Ecosystems of the Park
Awenda Provincial Park houses a remarkable range of ecosystems that support a wide array of flora and fauna. As you venture through the park, you will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the beauty and interconnectedness of these natural habitats.
The park’s forests are teeming with life and provide shelter for numerous species. Tall, old growth trees sway in the wind as rays of sunlight filter through their dense canopies. Wildlife enthusiasts will find joy in spotting various animals like white-tailed deer, foxes, many small creatures, and songbirds amidst the vibrant greenery.
The wetlands within Awenda Provincial Park offer a unique glimpse into aquatic ecosystems. Here, delicate marsh plants thrive alongside tranquil ponds that harbor frogs, turtles, and waterfowl. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of beavers busily constructing their dams or great blue herons gracefully wading in search of food.
The sand dunes at Awenda Provincial Park are true natural wonders. Characterized by their shifting sands and grass-covered slopes, these dunes create a distinctive landscape that transports you to sandy shores. These areas are home to specialized plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions, such as beach grasses and wildflowers.
Formed by glacier systems thousands of years ago, you’ll find many large boulders throughout the park, relics from…
Each ecosystem within Awenda Provincial Park presents its own unique beauty and serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature.
Exploring the Park’s Trails
Awenda Provincial Park offers an extensive network of trails, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty that this park has to offer.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, a family bike ride, or a peaceful cross country ski, there is something for everyone here.
The trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, sand dunes, serene wetlands, around Kettle Lake and past the remains from the original farmstead.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Trail | 4km return (1.5 hr) | Easy, Linear | Along Georgian Bay shoreline, Bike trail |
| Bluff Trail | 13km (3.5 hrs) | Moderate, Loop | High bluff and low wetland, excellent Bay views, Bike trail |
| Beaver Pond Trail | 700m (30 mins) | Easy, Loop | Boardwalk, Barrier Free, Beaver Activity, No dogs allowed |
| Brûlé Trail | 4km return (1.5 hrs) | Easy, Linear | Through mixed deciduous forest, Bike trail |
| Robitaille Trail* | 3km return (1hr) | Difficult, Linear | Ancient dune system, abandoned 1902 farmstead |
| Wendat Trail* | 5km (2hrs) | Moderate, Loop | Circles around Kettle lake, excellent dock spots |
| Nipissing Trail | 1km return (30 mins) | Moderate, Linear | 155 step staircase to the bluff |
As you set out to explore these trails, let yourself become captivated by the sights and sounds of nature surrounding you. The dense foliage creates a shaded canopy overhead, allowing sporadic rays of sunlight to filter through the leaves and illuminate the forest floor beneath your feet.
Biking Through the Park
Awenda is a great place for cyclists or for an easy family bike ride. There are several kilometres of newly paved roads available for cyclists as well as several compacted flat trails, including Beach, Bluff, and Brûlé Trails.
Regardless of where you bike, you’ll be surrounded by a canopy of old forest trees. Finish your ride at the beach for a quick dip.
Since the trails are multi-use, racing is not allowed and remember to yield to pedestrians and hikers.
Exploring the Water and Beaches
Awenda offers 4 unique beaches, drivable from campsites with ample parking space, and a trail that connects them all. The sandiest and quietest beach is beach 3 at Methodist Point Bay.
There are lots of spots for shade and you can find picnic tables on the beaches, outdoor toilets and change areas throughout but a note to all that there are no Lifeguards on the beaches. If you forgot life jackets, PDF’s are available to borrow with a refundable deposit.
There is also a large pet beach with lots of space for your dog to explore and owners to relax. This is the only beach pets are allowed in Awenda. Don’t forget to clean up after your dog.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Don’t forget to explore the small and calm Kettle Lake, with two dock lookout points (only one is accessible). This is a motor free lake but a great spot to take out your canoe or kayaks. Canoes are available to rent in the park, $40 for 4 hours with a deposit.
Boating: Georgian Bay is an incredible place to go boating with Giant’s Tomb, Hope, and Beckwith Islands close to Awenda Provincial Park. Launch your boat in Penetanguishene or at the public launch in Tiny at Jackson Point.
Fishing: Georgian Bay is home to a number of fish. Bass, Northern Pike, pickerel, and smaller panfish are frequently found between the park and the islands. The smaller Kettle Lake also has Bass and panfish although not the best fishing spot in the area, you may have luck near the bridge at the back of the lake.
Camping in Awenda
Camping in Awenda Provincial Park offers a remarkable experience surrounded by nature’s beauty and tranquility. Whether you are a seasoned camper or exploring camping for the first time, Awenda has something to offer for everyone.
The park features several campgrounds, each with its own unique atmosphere and amenities. One of the key draws of camping at Awenda are the large, private sites, surrounded by forest. For those who prefer more convenience, there are many RV-friendly electric sites and a few group sites to choose from.
Each campground has a fire pit, water taps, a comfort station with clean showers and toilets, additional parking, close access to trails and a playground for kids. Here are more details about each campground;
- Wolf: Electric sites, On Bluff trail route
- Turtle: Laundry facilities, close to Bluff trail
- Hawk: Hydro and non Hydro sites, Laundry facilities
- Bear: Radio-free, Laundry facilities, close to Brûlé trail
- Snake: Pet-free, radio-free, Doesn’t have a playground
- Deer: Radio-free, On Bluff trail route
Reserve your site at https://reservations.ontarioparks.ca/ or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275). Online you have access to a map of the park, photos of the sites, and info about each site when deciding where you want to stay for your vacation.
Awenda does not have back country sites or winter camping available, although it is still a popular spot for winter activities, like skiiing and snowshoeing.
Group Campsites: Awenda has three group campsites, where 20 to 40 people can camp together in tents.
Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and enjoy some rest, relaxation, hikes in nature, and enjoy some time at the beach while camping in this serene environment.
Roofed Accommodations
If you’re looking for a comfortable roofed accommodation in Awenda, there is only one option, The Stone Cottage.
The cottage is located right on Georgian Bay, with incredible sunsets and views of Giants Tomb, Beckwith, and Hope Islands from the large deck. You can sleep up to 6 people in this 1,000 sq ft refurbished cottage.
Although there are no showers or toilets in the cottage, it is equipped with a propane gas fireplace, a large kitchen and dining area, BBQ, potable water, a large deck with chairs, and a comfortably furnished living room.
Reserve your stay at the Stone Cottage far in advance as it is a high demand stay and books up quickly. You can’t beat the sunsets, beach, and swimming area at this spot.
Check in for camping is at 4pm and checkout is at 10am.
Don’t Miss the Discovery Centre
Awenda Provincial Park offers a range of educational programs through their discovery centre, Trail and Activity shelter, or at the amphitheatre that run from June into the fall. There are regularly scheduled guided hikes, Ask the Naturalist sessions, programs for kids, evening activities, and special events.
Check out the information board in the park when you arrive for the calendar of events during your stay.
Winter Activities at Awenda
Although camping and access to Kettle Lake are closed for the winter, there is still much to do and enjoy in the winter. Awenda is a popular place for snowshoeing, nordic skiing, and cross country skiing, with over 17km of trails to explore. There is also a Trail Centre with a rustic heated log cabin.
Don’t forget to check out the Ski Report for current trail conditions
If you enjoy snowmobiling, Awenda has scenic, and infrequently travelled trails, on the north end of the Ontario trail. This trail is groomed by the Georgian Bay Snowriders (GBSR).
Birdwatching in the Park
As you explore the trails and natural features of Awenda Provincial Park, keep your eyes and ears open for amazing bird sightings, with over 120 breeding bird species. The park’s rich biodiversity attracts numerous bird species throughout the year, making it a haven for birdwatchers of all levels.
From majestic raptors soaring in the sky to small songbirds hidden within the trees, there is always something captivating to discover, including the Cerulean Warbler, an endangered species that takes refuge in the park.
Wildlife Sightings
Observing the wildlife at Awenda Provincial Park not only deepens our appreciation for the natural world but also fosters a sense of connection and conservation. By witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural environment, we develop a greater understanding of their importance and the need to protect their habitats for future generations.
In the park you may be lucky to spot some of the following;
Turtles – As you explore the park, you will find wooden boxes with netting over them. These are protected areas for turtle nests. You will find information about the type of turtle that has laid eggs there and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to witness them hatching.
For the safety of the eggs and turtles, please don’t touch these boxes and keep your distance from any
Snakes – Awenda is home to a number of species of snakes, including the Massassauga Rattlesnake.
Although sightings are very rare, they do live within the park boundaries. You’ll find snake crossing areas on your drive down to the beach that have been installed for the safety of the park’s snakes.
Raccoons – You may have a close encounter with a raccoon on your campsite, especially if you’ve left food or garbage out. They’re opportunists and will come for a visit if you don’t keep your site clean.
Other Wildlife – Keep an eye out for White-tailed Deer, Eastern Cottontail, American Beaver, River Otter, North American Porcupine, the Northern Flying Squirrel, Virginia Opossum, American Mink, Moles, Stoat, Weasels, or Fisher.
You might even catch a glimpse of elusive creatures like foxes or coyotes, if you’re lucky. There is occasionally a Black Bear, Bobcat, Eastern Wolf, or Lynx sighting, although this is quite rare.
Remember to always observe wildlife from a safe distance and respect their natural behaviors. It’s important not to approach or disturb them to ensure their well-being and preserve their natural habitats.
Book Your Trip To Awenda
Whether you’re looking to spend the day exploring the park or camp for an extended stay, different passes are available for your stay. There are Day Use vehicle permits, Seasonal or Annual passes to all Provinical Parks, and of course full access when you book your overnight camping trip.
Awenda is open for camping from May until October but you can still explore the park’s ski and snowshoe trails during the winter season.
Exciting Expansion to Awenda
Awenda recently received Federal funding to expand the boundary of this beautiful provincial park an additional approximately 265 acres, over the next three years. This includes the mainland portion of Awenda as well as parcels of Giants Tomb Island.
This will increase the shoreline, hiking trails, protected areas, and