20 Interesting Things to Do at Killarney Provincial Park

Nature lover! We got the perfect spot for you! Killarney Provincial Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Canada was founded in 1964. It is a municipality in Northern Ontario named after an Irish city with similar characteristics. 

This 645 km² green desert is located approximately 4 hours north of Toronto and has 7 access points. with raw pink granite Georgian Bay Coast, the white quartzite peaks of the La Cloche Mountains, and more than 50 extremely pure blue lakes nestled among Jack Pine hills. 

Now that we know a bit about this magical park let us look at the activities, we could have fun with here.

1. A Historic Village

Founded in 1820 as a trading post by a French-Canadian wool merchant, the town of Killarney is the oldest community on the northern coast of Ontario.

It is 10 km from Killarney Provincial Park, located at the entrance to the North Channel, and George Island defends its port in Georgian Bay. Also surrounded by beautiful white mountain peaks and rocks in the pink desert.

2. The La Cloche Mountains

La Cloche (‘iron’ in French) is said to be about two billion years old. Although once elevated above the Rocky Mountains, it is now only 543 m (1,781 ft) high, thanks to the climate of this park.

Its highest point is the Silver Peak, which gets its name from the silver appearance of white quartzite when the sun shines on it. The panoramic view of silver peak from this summit is simply breathtaking.

3. Outstanding Observatory

The Killarney Provincial Park Observatory was established in 2010 and now has two buildings, each with a public telescope. There are many educational programs taking place throughout the year.

In the summer, visitors can participate in the free program of Natural Heritage Education. As the preferred location of the Dark-Sky Preserve in Canada, the viewing area enhances awareness of light pollution and the park does its part to maintain this status quo.

4. Route Hiking Trails

The special thing about Killarney Provincial Park trails is that they offer the opportunity to see more! There are 6 hiking trails in the provincial park, which means you can choose from a moderate 2km trek across the La Cloche Mountains to a 7–10-day trek through an 80km windy area. 

In addition to hiking, there are many other activities that people of all ages can take part in during the warmer months.

5. Old Killarney Jailhouse and Killarney Museum

Although these buildings are not located within Killarney Provincial Park itself, they are just a 10-minute walk from there and you should check them out if you are a history lover. The Old Jailhouse was built in 1886 and has undergone many changes since then.

The Killarney Museum is a wooden building behind the Jailhouse that was designed and built by local people in 1982. It contains artifacts that tell the story of Killarney Provincial Park from its original inhabitants, the natives, to the commercial center, and then to the logging/fishing community and now a tourism-oriented economy.

6. Killarney East Lighthouse

East Lighthouse dates back to 1866. It was rebuilt in 1909 and has just been renovated. The lighthouse is located approximately 12 minutes from Killarney Provincial Park.

The exterior of the tower is painted white with a reddish tinge, making it an ideal backdrop for photographs. Also, there are rocks around the bank that you can sit on to enjoy the beauty around you and the serenity.

You can plan a moderate 3-hour trek along the line of the lighthouse line, which will take you to the glorious Georgian Bay area and a forest full of map and pine.

7. Herbert Fisheries

Since 1981, Herbert’s Fisheries have entertained visitors with their new fish, which are offered in their area overlooking Georgian Bay. Even if they are no longer working on their red and white bus, you may find the enjoyment of the meal more rewarding. 

8. Boating

These lakes are bright and blue in colour and the view around them is amazing, giving them the name: ‘dream of a boat rider’.

One of the most popular boat routes is the Bell Lake and the David Lake loop in Killarney Provincial Park. It is easily selected according to the usual categories of rapids and can be done at the weekend. Boat lines also have transportation of varying lengths and difficulties.

9. Camping

The famous George Lake campground is the only one within Killarney Provincial Park but is open to campers all year round. Spread out near George Lake, the campground is a mix of camping sites, some of them close to the sea, some clifftops, and some retreating to forested private areas. The George Lake campground has several well-appointed yurts.

It is also the only developed camping site in Killarney Provincial Park. The George lake campground also provides 2 rustic cabinets and 6 yurts for rent.

Also, note that there are backcountry camping fees. You cannot miss experiencing this beauty on your long weekend.

There are other notable resorts and accommodations available in George Lake campgrounds, such as the private Killarney Mountain lodge and the Rocher Rouge camping site.

The park has the East Sea (which is the main sea) and the West Coast. Both are perfect for family fun! You can bathe in the sun, build sandcastles, have picnics, and play games on shiny sand while enjoying nature or two picnic tables for eating.

If you have a dog that loves the outdoors, you would be very happy to find out that Killarney Provincial Park has part of a dog beach! Like many dog-friendly places, Ontario Park authorities have a list of rules to follow.

10. Swimming

The pristine lakes are so clear and blue that it is hard not to be tempted to swim in them and you certainly should jump in.

If you want a safer option for beginners and toddlers, then choose swimming pools with slower curves. If not, it is best to limit swimming to beaches within the Killarney Provincial Park, although those do not have lifeguards.

11. Fishing or Hunting

There are only a few places where fishing or hunting is allowed in Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario. You will also need to obtain the appropriate licenses and comply with the rules provided.

12. Look at The Colours of The Fall

Every autumn it produces a variety of incredible colours. The official colour-coded report of all Ontario parks is available and includes a crown jewel, Killarney Provincial Park. 

13. Skiing Across the Country

Killarney becomes a cross-country skiing haven during the winter. The park’s campground develops into a fantastic trail system. The ski paths are groomed and maintained while the roads are left unplowed.

There are three trail loops, ranging in length from 8 to 14 km, offering a total of 35 km of skiable terrain. Prior to leaving, be sure to check the Snow Report for current conditions.

14. Walking on Ice

If you are a hiker, then you can find trails of varying lengths across the Killarney Provincial Park. If you are looking for a challenge, the 1300 km long Sudbury Trail Plan Association Trail is a must-try for that adrenalin rush.

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15. Snowshoeing

The great thing about snowshoeing is that it is easy to learn, offers good cardio, and has a lot of winter outdoor fun. And if you don’t want to plant your own snow boots right now, there are places in Killarney Provincial Park where you can rent the right gear. However, do not forget to dress appropriately.

16. Astrology

You already know about observatories, but that is not the only way to look at cosmic bodies. It’s just fun to get inside any of the six hot yurts at the George Lake Campground.

The Killarney Provincial Park also has two armoured cabinets in the camp, which can accommodate up to 5 people each. Good night, all you have to do is look up and see the Milky Way stretched out in the clear sky!

17. Bird Watching

There are more than 100 species of birds that spend time in Killarney Provincial Park and you can watch them at different times of the year. You can also find some help in identifying birds from naturalists inside the park.

However, every December, the park catches a number of Christmas birds, which attract birthday lovers, amateurs and professionals alike. You can learn from others, watch and count the birds, and have lunch with your new friends.

If you can’t count Christmas, there are spring and summer loon counts.

18. Camp Food

You may not be able to catch your fish or hunt deer, but you can still have nutritious food to give you all the energy you need at Killarney Provincial Park.

The camp has unique recipes that will make your desert experience absolutely enjoyable!

19. Photography

In addition to your photography skills, Killarney Provincial Park presents great photo opportunities. A natural list of colours and fun activities is guaranteed to fill your camera memory instantly!

You may also be able to catch wildlife as they carry on their business in the relatively undisturbed wilderness.

20. Drawing

Killarney Provincial Park offers a number of art programs, including free art lessons for guests. So even if you are not a professional, you can still try brush-brushing on canvas and see what you come up with!

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Where Can You Stay in Killarney if The Campgrounds Are Full?

Camps book in advance and if you find yourself not booking or just wanting a little comfort, there are a few good accommodation options. The best place to stay in Killarney is Killarney Mountain Lodge.

This long-running facility offers a rustic charm while providing quality accommodation and amenities. Staggering near the Killarney Channel, on the eastern edge of the town of Killarney, the area has a watery cottage and beautiful views from cabinets and rooms. It also has beautiful outdoor areas to enjoy nature.

The two restaurants offer delicious food or snacks, and the outdoor balcony overlooks the water. The resort offers inclusive options, boat trips, and other activities. Killarney Mountain Lodge opened under new management in 2016 and has greatly improved and improved.

The new owners also use the nearby Sportsman’s Inn, a historic high-rise hotel by the water.

What Is the Best Time to Camp at Killarney?

Summer is the best time and the busiest season. In July and August, the weather is hot and a great time to enjoy the beaches. Late May and June may also see warmer temperatures but bedbugs, especially mosquitoes, can be a problem.

Autumn is a great time for boating and hiking when temperatures are slightly cooler. Although the nights are usually cool in October, many people come to the park to enjoy the fall colours, and it can still be a fun time to set up camp.

What Are the Resources Available Nearby?

The town of Killarney has a small grocery store and if you want to pick up some items you may have forgotten during packing. You can also stop at a fish and chips restaurant at the supermarket for lunch, take ice cream at an ice cream shop, or enjoy a delicious dinner at restaurants at Killarney Mountain Lodge or at the Sportsman’s Inn.

Keen on knowing more about Killarney provincial park, check out the 7 best camping areas in Killarney provincial park, Ontario.