Parks and conservation areas

In Ontario, outdoor treasures abound, from its diverse natural landscapes, vast wilderness areas and precious wildlife habitats. Hear the thunder of Niagara Falls and the mighty cascades of Kakabeka Falls, and witness the ancient cliffs along the Niagara Escarpment, the rugged Canadian Shield and countless forests, lakes and star-filled night skies.

This natural heritage is stewarded through a network of parks and protected areas. Ontario’s Parks oversees more than 330 natural and culturally significant provincial parks, including the iconic Algonquin Park.

Parks Canada also maintains a presence in the province, managing six national parks, among them an urban national park, two national marine conservation areas and the celebrated Bruce Peninsula National Park.

Beyond these, 36 conservation authorities, represented by Conservation Ontario, operate nearly 300 conservation areas—the only system of its kind in Canada.

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission and the Niagara Parks Commission further connect visitors with some of Ontario’s most cherished natural landscapes.

Together, Ontario’s parks and conservation areas offer a range of recreational activities, ensuring that nature lovers, family campers, outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife photographers have endless opportunities to discover and explore.