Killarney Provincial Park

Experience the authentic Canadian wilderness in Killarney Provincial Park, with its quiet campsites, scenic backcountry trails, and breathtaking views of George Lake.

Encompassing over 645 square kilometres, the park is home to sparkling quartzite ridges, Georgian Bay Coast pink granite, lush forests, and over 50 dazzling lakes that are so clear you can see right to the bottom. The area was so beautiful, a group of famous local artists petitioned the government to establish the park to protect it from development.

Killarney Provincial Park is located on the northern shore of the Georgian Bay in central Ontario. It’s approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Parry Sound along ON-400 N and Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-69.

Get up-to-date information and seasonal details about Killarney Provincial Park’s campsites, trails, permits, and other amenities by visiting their section on the Ontario Parks website. For information about other interesting things to do nearby, keep reading to see what Destination Ontario recommends.

An empty canoe sits on the shore of a big lake on a clear day

Accessibility Features

Support persons welcome

Support persons are welcome to provide  services or assistance with  communication, mobility, personal care,  medical needs or access to facilities.  Please check with the organization about  entry fees, if applicable.

Service animals welcome

Service animal can be identified by visual  indicators (guide dog or other animal  wearing a vest/harness); or  documentation available from a  regulated health professional to confirm  the animal is required due to a disability. 

Accessible washroom

An accessible washroom stall has  adequate manoeuvring room for mobility  devices. Includes grab bars, transfer  space, accessible door latch, sink with  knee clearance, and lever handles or  automatic sensor faucets. 

Accessible recreation trails

One or more accessible trails with firm  and stable surface. All slopes, ramps,  handrails, boardwalks and signage  comply with the technical requirements  of Ontario's accessibility laws.

Wheelchair and/or mobility devices available

Wheelchairs and/or mobility devices are  available, free of charge, or for rent. 

More about Killarney Provincial Park

Straddling the La Cloche Mountains with its white quartzite peaks, Killarney Provincial Park lies in the Eastern forest-boreal transition ecoregion, making it home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life.

Avid wildlife enthusiasts may be able to spot over 100 species of birds, 20 species of amphibians and reptiles, along with deer, black bears, moose, lynx, bobcats, beavers, wolves and martens.

If you’re enjoying the park, appreciate that Killarney Provincial Park is the result of the tireless conservation efforts of the Group of Seven, renowned Canadian painters who made the park’s dazzling landscapes a common fixture in their works of art. Whether you’re an artist or a camper yearning for a quiet escape, the spectacular natural beauty of Killarney Provincial Park will be sure to inspire and invigorate you.

Enjoy a quiet weekend at the George Lake Campground, which sits along the shores of George Lake. It is divided into sections A, B and C and D. On the western side of the campground is section A, set in heavily wooded areas spaced far enough apart to afford campers privacy, and is in close proximity to a gorgeous stretch of beach lining the George Lake. Campers in section A can enjoy waking up to views of pink granite rock walls and the sparkling quartzite hills of La Cloche Mountains.

Sections B and C consists of a mix of mostly large and private camping sites. Those on the western side are in a lower area close to the lake, while the eastern portion is in a more elevated location that is far from the beach but has extensive views of the lake and forests.

Visitors looking to get off the grid will enjoy section D, a radio-free zone that is full of smaller camping sites, some of which look over Proulx Marsh, a popular gathering site for park residents such as herons, and fireflies that cast a gentle glow over the marsh in the summer. Section D is also ideal for hikers, as it is the starting and ending point of the popular Cranberry Bog Trail.

Veteran campers can journey to backcountry camping sites and trails by canoeing across the many lakes and portage sites in Killarney Provincial Park. Dare to reach Silver Peak, the park’s highest point that is 5.5 km each way. Hike the 78 km La Cloche Silhouette Trail and discover remote areas of the park, and spend a night in the many designated backcountry campsites that come fully equipped with fire rings and privies.

Beginner campers can also experience the beauty of Killarney Provincial Park by spending the night in one of its many yurts. Tucked in private, heavily-wooded areas in Section A, these yurts are semi-permanent park fixtures set on wooden decks fitted with grills, fire pits, and picnic tables. Each yurt can comfortably accommodate up to six campers, and come with two sets of bunk beds, electric heating, and power plugs.

While Killarney Provincial Park tends to get fully-booked, there are several nearby campsites and activities for visitors to enjoy. Just 10 km away is Rocher Rouge and its stunning views across Killarney Bay. It is also a good location for exploring the town of Killarney. Drop by Killarney Outfitters for some last-minute equipment shopping or canoe rentals, or for a quick overnight stay in their camping grounds prior to your backcountry adventure. Looking for some creature comforts? Stay at the rustic yet luxurious Killarney Mountain Lodge, or its neighboring waterfront hotel, Sportsman’s Inn.

Last updated: August 18, 2023

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