Nothing’s better than spending a lovely summer day outdoors – especially in a naturally blessed province like Ontario. So when we hear that several Ontario Parks near Toronto are day-trip friendly, we’ve already packed our bags and planned our weekends. We’ve compiled a list of a few parks that are a maximum three hours away from Toronto – or less.
You won’t have to venture all the way up north to enjoy the peace and serenity of nature.
These Ontario Parks near Toronto are worth putting on your bucket list!
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Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Located in Oakville, Bronte Creek has all kinds of fun activities for the whole family.
The main attractions include the scenic hiking trails, disc golf course, campgrounds, the Bronte Creek Ravine, and the spooky ghost walks that take place in August.
Where: 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville, ON
Darlington Provincial Park
If you’re craving a beach day, this is your sign to check out a lesser-known destination in Durham Region called Darlington Beach.
The long sandy beach is located in Darlington Provincial Park in the Clarington region, which is just east of Oshawa and a quick 45-minute drive from Toronto.
The provincial park describes itself as a “hidden gem,” and based on the gorgeous views, activities, and amenities, we’d have to agree.
Where: 1600 Darlington Park Road, Bowmanville
Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
This provincial park is located in Peel region, making it part of the GTA.
You’d never know it, though. The scenery on the famous Bruce Trail is so serene that you will feel a world away from the city.
The spot is popular for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and of course, marvelling at the majestic waterfall.
Where: 17760 McLaren Road, Caledon
Killbear Provincial Park
The best part of the park is taking a much-needed break by the beach.
Head to the day-use part of the beach. Kilcoursie, Beaver Dams, and the day-use area share 2 km of the horseshoe-shaped beach.
According to Ontario Parks, the beaches at Georgian, Harold Point, Granite Saddle, Lighthouse Point, and Blind Bay Campgrounds “are all on smaller beaches flanked by rocky headlands.”
Where: 35 Killbear Park Road, Nobel, ON
Presqu’ile Provincial Park
Presqu’ile Provincial Park is a peaceful haven of trails and beaches just 90 minutes east of Toronto.
The entire park is lined with peaceful paths and sandy beaches along the shore overlooking the sapphire hues of Lake Ontario.
There are plenty of woodland trails through the beech-maple forests, with several lookout points to soak up the views.
Also located at this park is a fascinating 1-km boardwalk trail through lush marshland.
Where: 328 Presqu’Ile Parkway, Brighton
Rouge National Urban Park
While this is technically a national park, it’s worth a spot on our list for its proximity to the city.
It’s the largest urban park in North America right here in the GTA and its history dates back 10,000 years!
The park is open year-round and is filled with vast forests, creeks, farms, and trails as well as marshland, a beach on Lake Ontario.
Where: Zoo Road, Toronto, ON
Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Sibbald Point Provincial Park is a hidden oasis just an hour’s drive north of Toronto.
Nestled on the south shores of Lake Simcoe, this park is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon swimming, hiking, and picnicking.
One of the park’s main attractions is its large sandy beach, perfect for soaking up the sun and swimming in the calm waters.
Where: 26071 Park Road, Jackson’s Point
Six Mile Lake Provincial Park
Hop in the car and head over to Six Mile Lake Provincial Park! This beautiful Ontario park is in the Muskokas, less than two hours by car from Toronto – the perfect place to spend a summer day.
If you’re captivated by the scenic landscape upon arriving to Six Mile Lake Provincial Park, you wouldn’t be surprised to know that the area is often used as inspiration for painters!
Its sandy shorelines also serve as inspiration too – for a relaxing day, that is. It makes for a great place to spend a day sunbathing or swimming, but be sure to note there are no lifeguards on duty.
Where: 2024 Joe King’s Rd, Port Severn, ON
Karen Doradea
Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Netflix, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.
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