Although camping itself is relaxing and enjoyable for adults, sometimes children need special activities to keep them busy. There are many options for family camping in southwestern Ontario either as a travel destination or close-to-home getaway that offer age appropriate fun for kids seven years old and younger.
Most campgrounds have information on their websites regarding rates and if there are extra costs associated with the children’s activities. The average overnight camping rates for these campgrounds range from $28.00 to $65.00 per night for the 2009 camping season. Here are some conservation areas, private campgrounds and provincial parks that have features that make them especially family-friendly.
Family-Friendly Ontario Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas
Often considered only day use parks, these provincial parks and conservation areas have camping facilities close to city areas.
- Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Burlington gives young campers lots to do with an outdoor swimming pool, as well as a children’s farm and play barn including a petting zoo.
- Brant Conservation Area near Brantford has several playgrounds and 1.25 acre pool with splash pad and lifeguard supervision.
- Catfish Creek Conservation Area has sandy beaches and staff assisted children’s programs throughout the summer near Aylmer.
- Backus Heritage Conservation Area in Port Rowan contains a Heritage Village Museum with special events planned throughout the year.
- Byng Island Conservation Area in Dunnville boasts one of the largest outdoor pools in Ontario.
It is a good idea to book ahead for camping at provincial parks and conservation areas to ensure campsite availability. Many park websites feature a map of the campground making it easier to locate campsites close to kid-friendly features.
Ontario Private Campgrounds Catering to Families
Catering to seasonal campers, private campgrounds are often able to offer a wide array of activities to visiting families.
- N.E.T. Camping Resort in Vineland has two large outside pools and a new splash pad situated on a scenic lake for fishing and water activities.
- Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park/Camp Resort in Niagara Falls has a heated outdoor pool, wading pool, Yogi themed events and large playground.
- Great Canadian Hideaway in Parkhill has a large pool, farm animals, manmade lake for water activities and family centred special events.
- Happy Hills Resort in Embro provides camping families use of a wading pool, large playground, swimming pool, mini golf, and animal farm.
Private campgrounds that are members of Camping in Ontario, display the features and events they have in the campground and nearby making it easier for families to plan their camping vacation.
Southwestern Ontario’s provincial parks, conservation areas and private campgrounds have many family-friendly pools, playgrounds and petting zoos that cater to kids under seven. Camping as a family is a great summer vacation that is easy to plan, fun to experience and fits into a limited budget. For more ideas to keep young kids busy while camping and going to the cottage, read Family Camping in Ontario, Camping with Preschoolers and Easy Kids Crafts for the Cottage.
References
Ontario Parks website
Angela Krueger - As an adoptive parent and PRIDE adoption trainer, Angela uses her insights to help others on their adoption journey.
