Summary
- What is Glamping?
- 1. Fronterra Farm Camp
- 2. Harmony Outdoor Inn
- 3. Northern Edge Algonquin
- 4. Bartlett Lodge
- 5. Glen Oro Farm
- 6. Four Corners Algonquin
- 7. Homegrown Hideaway
- 8. The Glamping Island
- 9. Lungovita Beach Retreat
- 10. Pit Stop 518
- 11. Alabaster Acres
- 12. Long Point Eco Adventures Resort
- 13. Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge
- 14. Whispering Springs Wilderness Retreat
- Why We Love Glamping in Ontario
If ‘roughing it’ camping isn’t your style, glamping is a perfect solution. Ontario’s provincial parks set it up for success as one of the best places in Canada for a glamping experience. These parks have hiking trails, lake views, and more – and when your campsite might even have a formal dining room, it is safe to say you’ll be enjoying this in the lap of luxury. You could be kicking back in a king-sized bed next to a propane fireplace, watching the sun go down over a serene forest scene. What’s not to love? Glamping in Ontario is the best.
Ontario has so many iconic places to visit. In this guide, we’ll give you a rundown of the best areas and glamping sites. Rest assured, after reading this, you’ll be ready to plan your dream Ontario glamping getaway.
What is Glamping?
First things first, let’s take a look at what you can actually expect from glamping in Ontario. Essentially, it is camping but luxury-style. To get a better idea of what it is like, you can read about our experience glamping in Big Sur. But to paint a quick picture, you forgo things like sleeping bags and a basic toilet block. Instead, you get things like an indoor washroom, wood-burning stove, and king-size beds. While most glamping sites still offer some canvas element – such as a luxury safari-style tent or tipi – the facilities inside are much more like a luxury hotel room.
Therefore, you get glamping, a.k.a. glamorous camping. It is the perfect mixture for those wanting to experience being closer to nature without sacrificing comfort. Ideal, right?
Now we’ve got a brief definition covered, and you are on the same page, let’s get into the good stuff. What are the glamping sites you should know about in Ontario? Where should you head for the ultimate camping trip in provincial parks and prospector tents? Here are our carefully selected top fourteen best places for glamping in Ontario.
1. Fronterra Farm Camp
Address: 240 Country Rd 27, Consecon, ON K0K 1T0, Canada
Fronterra Farm Camp is a beautiful place to go glamping in Ontario. If family-run eco-friendly accommodation is your thing, you’ll love staying at Fronterra Farm Camp. It is almost directly located on the shores of Lake Ontario. It prides itself on allowing guests to relax in a self-sufficient bubble in nature.
Fronterra Farm Camp has 10 canvas prospector tents located in the forest or along the lakefront with private viewing platforms over the marshes. Each has a heated outdoor shower, composting toilet, and private kitchen facilities. The bathing facilities are eco showers with unique ecological products to minimize the environmental impact. Its environmental focus is what really makes Fronterra Farm Camp stand out. The camp is also beautifully located in Prince Edward County, with fantastic access to Lake Ontario.
- Sandbanks Provincial Park: This waterfront has the world’s biggest sand dune system and a massive freshwater sand bar. It is where to head if you visit in summer and want a ‘beach’ day.
- Norman Hardie Winery: Try wine tasting at the nearby Norman Hardie Winery. It runs several tours and tasting events just a short distance away.
- Where to dine: Strato’s Pizzeria & Mediterranean Grill: Vibrant Greek cuisine full of flavors.
2. Harmony Outdoor Inn
Address: 6 Harmony Lane, Parry Sound, ON P2A 0B1, Canada
If lakeside views sound up your street, Harmony Outdoor Inn is ideal. The Harmony Outdoor Inn is a 3-star resort with a mixture of traditional hotel rooms and glamping tents. Its tents have access to outdoor shower facilities – hot, of course – and each comes with a spacious outdoor deck and overhead canopy. It is camping made ten times more spacious and much more comfortable.
The main draw with the Harmony Outdoor Inn is its gorgeous setting and onsite activities. Located on Mill Lake’s shores, guests have immediate access to tons of water sports and beautiful views. You can rent kayaks and SUPs to get active, explore from the water, or walk the shores.
Guests get access to a communal kitchen, dock, and even a deck dedicated to hammock seating. Harmony Outdoor Inn is closed for renovations in 2024. But the resort location is so beautiful that we had to add it so you can keep it in mind when it reopens.
- Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere: This brilliant little charity supports the Georgian Bay area and offers regular activities and talks. You can check the official website and see what aligns with your visit.
- North Shore Rugged Hiking Trail: For a medium-difficulty 2.5km trail, this scenic choice presents stunning views of the bay and hidden pebbled beaches.
- Where to dine: Trappers Choice Restaurant: A family-friendly restaurant with snowmobile trail access and a seasonal heated patio.
3. Northern Edge Algonquin
Address: Kawawaymog Lake Algonquin Park, South River, ON P0A 1X0, Canada
Northern Edge Algonquin is a stunning retreat center offering glamping on the shores of Kawawaymog Lake. Think misty mornings on wooden docks and days spent enjoying water activities in the sun. It primarily hosts groups of 8 to 30, so if you are looking for a group camping experience, Northern Edge Algonquin is a great bet.
Northern Edge Algonquin is a great place for outdoor adventure and relaxation. The eco-retreat offers yoga sessions, meditations, and meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. As an extra bonus, it’s also all-inclusive – what is more luxurious than that? Its accommodation is equally impressive, with rustic cabin choices that offer shared or private options.
For us, Northern Edge Algonquin really stood out for its all-inclusive and group-tailored experiences. Finding accommodation that caters to such large groups can be challenging. Whether you are planning a relaxing gathering or a large group holiday, that flexibility stands out.
- Crystal Cave Mineral Exhibit: This unique museum and shop has thousands of crystals on display. You can learn about crystals and fossils through exhibits and shop for souvenirs.
- Winterdance Dog Sledding: In winter, a visit to Winterdance Dog Sledding is a must. You can go for a bucket list-worthy dog sledding ride through the snow and winter woodland.
- Where to dine: Sherri’s Diner: For casual American comfort food in a friendly atmosphere.
4. Bartlett Lodge
Address: Highway 60, KM 23, 7, Algonquin Park, ON P0A 1H0, Canada
Bartlett Lodge is another stunning chic glamping site located within Algonquin Provincial Park. The Lodge has a mixture of cabins and platform tents on its private grounds. For a glamping experience, you should definitely consider the luxury tents featuring a king-sized bed for ultra comfort. Its canvas walls are held in place by beautiful wooden framing. You also get a vast private deck covered by an overhead canopy.
Those staying in the luxury tents access a shared washroom building with hot showers and flush toilets. Inside the tent, you enjoy battery-operated lamps – which feel just that extra bit authentic, like a ‘real’ camping experience.
For us, that authenticity is what makes Bartlett Lodge stand out. It is luxury, but not unrealistic and too far away from the nitty-gritty camping experience, as reminded by the battery-powered lights. It is where to go glamping in Ontario if you want to be based in Algonquin Provincial Park and have a glamping experience that still feels adventurous.
- Track and Tower Trail: Easily one of the best nearby hiking trails. Wind your way past rivers and up a flight of short – but steep – wooden stairs, emerging with beautiful views over Canisbay Lake. It is a respectable 7.5km and moderate in difficulty.
- Peck Lake Trail: This 2.3km loop covers the perimeter of the beautiful Peck Lake and gives you great insight into Algonquin Provincial Park’s ecology.
- Where to dine: Lake of Two Rivers Cafe and Grill: A comfort food cafe and adjoining grocery store.
5. Glen Oro Farm
Address: 2574 Line 10 N, Hawkestone, ON, L0L 1TO, Canada
Glen Oro Farm combines horseback riding stables with a glamping experience. You can enjoy some of the most elaborately designed glamping tents in Ontario and spend your days on trail rides through surrounding fields and woodland. Glamping in Ontario doesn’t get better than this for adventurous tourists and established equestrians.
Each tent has a private fire pit outside, a wood-burning stove, and king beds inside. The tents range from all-canvas options to stargazer and galaxy gazer options – featuring skylights to admire the night sky. The luxury tents also include a kitchenette or full kitchen, making it a perfect spot for enjoying meals amidst nature.
Glen Oro Farm offers tons of shared facilities, including a cedar barrel sauna where you can book private sessions for free. Onsite trail rides are a huge hit, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife, including bears, coyotes, and foxes.
- Bass Lake Provincial Park: Ideal for a lazy afternoon near the water. You can go for a gentle boating ride, swim, or simply enjoy a picnic.
- Scout Valley Loop Trail: A beautiful approximate 4-kilometer loop through some of Ontario’s prettiest flora. You pass through forests and meadows, making it perfect in autumn for stunning fall foliage.
- Where to dine: Brewery Bay Food Co: A laid-back restaurant with a burger and pizza-style menu.
6. Four Corners Algonquin
Address: 29924 ON-60, Whitney, ON K0J 2M0, Canada
Four Corners Algonquin boasts one of the best glamping sites available. Located only four miles from Algonquin Park’s East Gate, it grants easy access to famous hiking trails like Bat Lake Trail during the day. The luxury tents vary from bubble tents for sleeping under the stars, safari tents, authentic pole tents, and novel ‘tiny homes’. It is a superb way to experience the great outdoors with the comfort of luxurious linens and a warming wood stove.
The glamping site covers 90 acres and is completely off-grid. Glampers share a fully accessible comfort station, featuring flush toilets, hot showers, and electric outlets. When you stay at Four Corners Algonquin, you receive a comfortable bed, propane BBQ, picnic table, and Muskoka chairs. The site’s brilliant motto, ‘disconnected but not totally unplugged,’ encapsulates the glamping experience effectively.
The innovative photovoltaic system aims to create net zero energy, which is praiseworthy. This system is so effective that guests can enjoy free WiFi. The bubble tents are also remarkable, especially since Algonquin is well-known for Northern Lights sightings.
- Galeairy Lake Memorial Park: This scenic lake is perfect for a morning walk, featuring a military gun and cenotaph paying respects to fallen soldiers.
- Algonquin Logging Museum: Located just within the provincial park boundaries, it has outdoor exhibits on the region’s logging history. There’s also a 1.3km trail to complete.
- Where to dine: Bongopix Tavern: An establishment for pub-style grub and Algonquin’s unique nightlife.
7. Homegrown Hideaway
Address: 524 St John’s Rd E, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2, Canada
Homegrown Hideaway is family-owned, which adds a unique touch to your glamping accommodations in Ontario. Situated just outside Port Dover, it allows you to enjoy remoteness for a romantic getaway while still being close enough to take advantage of tourist attractions. The site’s atmosphere is minimal fuss, with unique-looking glamping tents set amid beautiful scenery. Homegrown Hideaway is your best choice for a wholesome vibe.
All the tents are constructed from Canadian raw materials sourced as locally as possible. Each tent comes equipped with a queen-sized bed, while select options offer a couple’s outdoor shower. You’ll have access to a shared kitchen and outdoor washroom building complete with hot showers and flush toilets.
The 17 acres of family land produce its own fruit and vegetables, which you can add to your stay with a ‘rustic comfort package.’ Additionally, there is direct access to the Lynn River for swimming and fishing, making Homegrown Hideaway best suited for a summer retreat.
- Lynn River Falls: A beautiful spot to hike to, accessible directly from the property. It features an easy trail following the river path.
- Port Dover Harbour Museum: Offers a traditional sightseeing experience, providing insights into local history alongside various special events and exhibitions.
- Where to dine: Knechtel’s on the Public Beach: Specializes in comfort-style fish and chips, hot dogs, and ice creams.
8. The Glamping Island
Address: 620 Lakeshore Rd, S Farr Island on Lake Temiskaming, Haileybury, ON, P0J 1K0, Canada
How does luxury camping on a remote island in Lake Timiskaming sound? The lake marks the border between Ontario and Quebec, allowing you to enjoy island life off the mainland shore. It is one of Ontario’s most unusual places for glamping, making it a must-visit location.
The island site spans 5 acres and offers only six accommodation choices, so it’s best to book ahead to ensure availability. Options include two luxury tents, three cabins, and a novelty tiny home. Each option incorporates a private waterfront deck and a solar-powered lighting system for charging your phone. The addition of private hammocks and fire pits enhances your glamping experience.
For an unforgettable stay, consider one of the prospector tents. You can explore the entire island, which features a network of hiking trails and viewpoints over the water. Enjoying water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding becomes effortless. Shared access to a communal kitchen containing all necessary cooking facilities is provided. Please note that instead of a freezer, you will have an ice box stocked continuously with fresh ice.
- Waterfront Boardwalk Trail: This beautiful boardwalk runs along part of the Lake Timiskaming shores, beginning in New Liskeard. A fantastic option for those who enjoy scenic mainland walks with views of the island.
- Bunker Military Museum: To delve deeper into local history, visit this museum on the mainland featuring hundreds of artifacts.
- Where to dine: Kingsway Restaurant: A Chinese eatery that caters to your cravings following a few days immersed in island life.
9. Lungovita Beach Retreat
Address: 225 Country Rd, 50 E, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0, Canada
Adults-only glamping in Ontario is available at Lungovita Beach Retreat. This unique location offers beautiful geo dome tents overlooking the water and retreat bookings. Nestled in the heart of Essex County wine country, you get access to a 16-acre private property – simply dreamy! Check out the selection of single and multi-day retreats, which includes yoga and self-love sessions.
If you seek a more organized experience, a stay at Lungovita Beach Retreat offers one of the most rewarding glamping experiences in Ontario. Beyond the exceptional accommodations and included retreat components, you can access an array of facilities such as year-round hot tubs and saunas, a saltwater pool, a hammock section, a meditation area, and onsite massages. It truly doesn’t get much more luxurious than Lungovita Beach Retreat. The geo domes even come equipped with AC.
- Viewpointe Estate Winery: Enjoy wine tasting just a 10-minute bike ride or a 15-minute walk away, along with delightful lunch experiences.
- Colchester Harbour and Beach: Visit this spacious beach and quiet marina located in the charming small town of Colchester.
- Where to dine: Colchester Bar & Grill: A local spot offering a burger-style menu and grilled dishes in the heart of town.
10. Pit Stop 518
Address: 1734 ON-518, Kearney, ON P0A 1MO, Canada
Luxury camping in a yurt can be found at Pit Stop 518, located in the Almaguin Highlands. Featuring impressive Mongolian yurts, this glamping site uniquely mixes cultural experiences with luxurious comforts. Each yurt includes a private outhouse toilet, a wood-burning stove, and a kitchenette. There’s also a picnic table and portable 1000-watt power supply with AC and USB ports. Shower facilities are available in the main building for a small fee.
The yurts are situated on a 3-acre flower meadow. Guests can enjoy an onsite cafe open for breakfast and lunch from Tuesday to Saturday. Opt-in for a food delivery package for meals offered right at your yurt door.
The nearby town of Kearney is surrounded by four lakes, making it an ideal spot for fishing and water activities. Another significant point to note is that Pit Stop 518 is pet-friendly.
- Rent a kayak from Algonquin Base Camp: A fantastic activity where you can rent a kayak and explore the lake’s beauty.
- Brook’s Falls: Take a short hike to this picturesque waterfall near Pit Stop 518 following the Deer Lake Road trail.
- Where to dine: Fork on Main: Enjoy a selection of sandwiches and burgers.
11. Alabaster Acres
Address: 18692 Hurontario St, Caledon Village, ON L7K 0Y1, Canada
Alabaster Acres is an exquisite example of luxury camping. Nestled within 100 acres of private farmland, the glamping site features three luxury tents situated in scenic clearings. Just an hour’s drive from Toronto, you can seamlessly reach Alabaster Acres, making it a convenient getaway.
You have three tent options: the Copper Retreat, Gunmetal Getaway, and Platinum Hideout. Each tent presents a slightly different experience, including a king-sized bed, kitchenette, heated mattress, wood stove, mini bridge, Bluetooth speaker, and cooking equipment. The site exudes a quiet, intimate allure, ensuring a private escape while being surrounded by nature.
- Visit Island Lake Conservation Area: A perfect spot for walking, featuring an 820-acre lake accompanied by wetlands and forests near the neighboring town of Orangeville.
- Hike through Forks of the Credit Provincial Park: Plan a stroll in this stunning park; advance reservations are required for the best experience among the waterfalls and forest views.
- Where to dine: Inaka Japanese Restaurant: Enjoy family-friendly, authentic Japanese meals.
12. Long Point Eco Adventures Resort
Address: 1730 Front Rd, Turkey Point, ON N0E 1P0, Canada
Long Point Eco Adventures features some of the best glamping in Ontario. Just check out the Wilderness Suite glamping accommodations, fit for kings and an exciting base for a few days. Each tent is equipped with a mini-fridge, fan, heater, and heated blanket. The luxury camping tents are pet-friendly and even offer WiFi. Long Point Eco Adventures Resort impresses visitors with its exceptional offerings.
Situated along the shores of Lake Erie, it presents a convenient two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking to include a glamping experience in their Toronto city break or Niagara Falls-centric trip.
Additionally, Long Point Eco Adventures hosts a winter observatory, zipline tours, and water activities. With an onsite restaurant available, guests can opt for meals aside from cooking over the fire pit.
- Go wine tasting at Burning Kiln Winery: This winery is just a short distance away and offers regular tasting experiences, which are always enjoyable.
- Turkey Point Provincial Park: Perfect for mountain biking, featuring great biking trails and suitable challenges for avid cyclists. It also boasts a beach and plenty of hiking trails.
- Where to dine: The Jetty Bar and Grill: This iconic blue-painted restaurant specializes in predominantly seafood dishes while providing stunning waterfront views.
13. Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge
Address: 574 Snake Creek Rd, Mattawa ON P0H 1V0, Canada
If you are envisioning a holiday for big kids (aka adults), Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge is a fun choice. The ‘lodge’ comprises various tents and cabins, including a geodesic dome, a typical glamping tent, a levitation tent, a Mongolian yurt, and a Pacific Yurt option – which accommodates up to six guests. Nature’s Harmony Lodge prioritizes fun.
This unique lodge even offers activity equipment rentals like paddle boards and skis. In winter, you can enjoy snow tubing, snowshoeing, skating, and relaxing in a wood-fired sauna. During summer, the lodge features over 25km of trails, swimming opportunities, berry picking, star gazing, and paddle-boarding. A stay here guarantees an action-packed experience.
While the tent options do not have private kitchens or bathing facilities, you’ll get communal eco showers, composting toilets, and BBQ facilities. Nearby restaurants provide additional dining options. Nestled among the stunning Laurentian Mountains, the lodge is just a 15-minute drive from the town of Mattawa.
- Mattawa Museum: This museum offers excellent insights into indigenous culture and history in the region, along with information on the Algonquin area’s natural history.
- Antoine Mountain: If visiting during winter, take the opportunity to ski in the Laurentian Mountains at one of the 15 available runs.
- Where to dine: The Moon Cafe: A lovely cafe offering upscale breakfast and lunch options.
14. Whispering Springs Wilderness Retreat
Address: 141 Mercer Ln, Grafton, ON K0K 2G0, Canada
Whispering Springs Wilderness Retreat is simply stunning. Set in Northumberland County, just 90 minutes from Toronto, it’s an ideal destination for anyone flying to Ontario, offering a boutique take on the glamping experience. Forget sleeping bags and picture instead mood lighting and in-tent en-suites.
You could book a treetop tent featuring a spacious covered balcony, sharing communal cooking facilities and a hot tub with two other treetop tents, creating a delightful community in the sky. Alternatively, opt for a deluxe, mini, junior, or traditional safari tent. All accommodations merge a bohemian meets classic Canadian prospector tent aesthetic.
The boutique quality is exceptional, with chunky cut wooden furnishings complemented by crisp white lines. The focus on creating unique experiences truly elevates Whispering Springs beyond the usual offerings.
Besides accommodation options, Whispering Springs features a saltwater pool, a spring-fed pond inhabited by turtles and otters, a cedar barrel sauna, and over 4km of hiking trails. There’s also an a la carte restaurant onsite, offering wellness activities like outdoor yoga and fire meditation classes.
- Nawautin Nature Sanctuary: This 5-hectare wildlife sanctuary is a haven for animal residents like deer, foxes, and beavers. Evening or early morning visits present the best chance to spot wildlife.
- Cobourg Beach: A scenic town on Lake Ontario. The public beach serves as an easy detour from Whispering Springs, taking just 25 minutes by car.
- Where to dine: Triple O’s Colborne: Try a classic Canadian burger chain known for super-fast service.
Why We Love Glamping in Ontario
Glamping in Ontario is simply incredible, thanks to its beautiful parks and attention to detail in its accommodations. This region features amenities ranging from solar-powered lighting to hot tubs, enhancing your outdoor experience. Whether immersing yourself in nature in Northumberland County or Prince Edward County, the glamping sites are generously spread across the province. Any of the top 14 will treat you to a beautiful stay, and we hope you’ve found a few favorites.
Before you rush off, remember to check out some exciting attractions and activities in Ontario. After all, glamping in Ontario is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploration. Consider tasting the wilderness and city culture; head to Northern Ontario and Southern Ontario to truly soak up what the province offers. Ontario is home to nearly 40% of Canada’s population, so you’ll want more than a few days to uncover its treasures.