Categories: Travel

This globally recognized 40-km sandpit is in Ontario’s fourth oldest provincial park

Image via longpointpp/Instagram

Ontario is home to some pretty spectacular natural gems, and one of the spots on the list is Long Point Provincial Park, which is officially open for the season as of May 10th!

Established in 1921, and located in Port Rowan, Long Point is the Fourth oldest Provincial Park in Ontario. Not only that, but this place is home to a 40-kilometre sandpit that has a very special recognition.

Its natural landscape is so unique it’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, according to Ontario’s Southwest Tourism.

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According to UNESCO, there are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries. These sites are recognized for their excellence when it comes to “the harmonious integration of people and nature.”

“Biosphere reserves are ‘learning places for sustainable development’,” says UNESCO’s website.

“They are sites for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing changes and interactions between social and ecological systems, including conflict prevention and management of biodiversity.”

The soft sand, warm and calm water temperatures, and massive camping area make Long Point a very popular spot to visit in the summer.

It’s also one of North America’s top bird-watching destinations, with over 300 different species of migrating birds and 80+ birds nesting there each year.

For those who enjoy water activities, this park is known to have “excellent fishing and boating opportunities in Long Point Bay.”

And it has large, sandy beaches located by Monarch’s Rest and Turtle Dunes Campground and the day use are in the New Park as well as Cottonwood Campground in the Old Park, according to Ontario Parks.

“Over two kilometres of soft sand and warm water awaits you,” they state.

As this is a popular park, the day use area located the New Park can get busy. It is open daily until 10:00 p.m., with parking that will accommodate over 650 vehicles. Ontario Park recommends to get your vehicle permit “up to five days in advance to guarantee your day use spot at this park.”

It does also offer camping if you want to stay longer.

Safe travels, Ontario!