Spontaneous day trip, anyone? These provincial parks near Toronto are so easy to get to, making them the perfect destination for a sunny afternoon.
You don’t have to venture all the way up north to enjoy the peace and serenity of nature.
With so many summer weekends to look forward to, these provincial parks near Toronto are worth putting on your bucket list!
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
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
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
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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
Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
This provincial park is actually 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
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
