Ontario Campground Bookings Open February 1st 2026: Get Ready for Camping Season
Hey camping lovers! Grab your mugs, your maps, and your sense of adventure, because the moment we’ve all been waiting for is almost here. In Ontario, the 2026 camping season reservation window officially opens on February 1st!
Whether your dream is to sip coffee by a shimmering lake, roast marshmallows under the stars, or wake up to birdsong in a lush forest, now’s the time to lock in those sites.
How it works
Ontario Parks lets you reserve campsites up to five months in advance of your arrival date—starting at 7:00 a.m. ET on the day the window opens. That means on February 1st, you can book stays beginning as early as July 1st!
This five-month rule applies to car camping, roofed accommodations (cabins/yurts), and backcountry spots alike. The earlier you’re in the system, the better your chances of snagging that dream waterfront site or cozy tucked-away spot.
Why it can feel like a mad dash
Popular parks like Algonquin, Killbear, Sandbanks, and Presqu’ile book up fast, often within minutes of opening. That’s why camping pros set alarms, refresh screens at 6:59 a.m., and have their wishlists ready to go.
But don’t stress! Even if your first choice fills up, Ontario Parks has tools like availability notifications, so you get alerted if your ideal site opens up due to a cancellation.
Tips for Securing Your Ideal Site
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Create or update your reservation account ahead of time.
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Scout out your preferred campgrounds early and have a few backup choices ready.
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Know your dates and be logged in before reservations go live.
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Be flexible; sometimes the best memories come from trying a new spot.
Looking Ahead
Ontario’s campgrounds offer everything from quiet forest hideaways to lively family-friendly beaches. Booking early helps ensure you get the experience you’re looking for, whether it’s a peaceful retreat or a full summer adventure.
So mark February 1st on your calendar, get your wish list ready, and start planning for another great season of camping in Ontario. The countdown to fresh air, campfires, and starry nights begins now.
Ontario Provincial Parks (e.g., Algonquin, Pinery, Sandbanks)
You can book a site on the Ontario Parks reservation service or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275).
National Parks (e.g., Bruce Peninsula, Thousand Islands)
- 2026 Season: Reservations for most Ontario National Parks (like Bruce Peninsula, Fathom Five, and Georgian Bay Islands) for the 2026 season are scheduled to launch on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. ET.
- Booking: Bookings can be made via the Parks Canada Reservation Service. (Parks Canada )
- Saugeen Conservation Areas (Saugeen Bluffs and Durham): Online bookings for the season from February 1 through Thanksgiving are available starting on February 1.
- Grand River Conservation Authority: The 2026 online reservation system for GRCA campgrounds is scheduled to open on Tuesday, February 24, at 8:00 a.m..