Bruce Peninsula National Park of Canada

By Lauren Himiak

National & State Parks Expert, about.com

Overview:

This national park protects one of the largest forest remains in southern Ontario and is a stunner to visit. Visitors will enjoy rugged landscapes of limestone and have an opportunity to experience the shoreline cliffs - part of Ontario´s "Great Wall", the Niagara Escarpment, a World Biosphere Reserve which runs from Niagara Falls to Tobermory.
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History:

The park was established in 1987.

When to Visit:

Bruce Peninsula is open year-round. Summer is the best time to plan a trip as early spring, late autumn, and winter weather can be quite variable. Be sure to contact the park for specific advice if you plan on visiting during those seasons.

Getting There:

Visitors traveling from the south can reach the park from Highway 6. If you are traveling from the north, check out the Owen Sound Transportation Company MS Chi-Cheemaun, which operates during the spring, summer, and fall. They can be contacted directly at (519) 596-2510.

Direct bus service, Parkbus, is also offered from Toronto on select weekends.

Check out the Parkbus schedule online or contact them at 1-800-928-7101.

Lastly, there are options to reach the park are by private boat or plane.

[post_ads]Fees/Permits:

There are no fees to enter the park, however there are specific fees for certain activities. Fees are as follows:

• Group Camping - One Night: $4.90
• Cyprus Lake - One Night: $23.50; Winter Camping: $15.70
• Firewood: $6.80 per bundle
• Backcountry Camping: $9.80 per night
• Heritage Presentation Special Programs: $5.00 per person
• Education Program: $73.50
• Backcountry and Group Camping: $9.80 per reservation; $5.80 cancellation
• Parking: $11.70 per vehicle daily/$49.00 seasonal ; $49.00 per bus daily/$132.40 seasonal

Things To Do:

Do not visit this park without hiking the world-famous Bruce Trail - Canada's oldest and longest footpath! The trail is a superb way to experience the great outdoors and your best opportunity to see abundant wildlife and plants. Other activities include camping (year-round), swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The park also offers interpretive and educational programs fun for the whole family.

Accommodations:

Camping is your best bet in the park. Reservations and detailed information can be found through the National Parks Canada Campground Reservation Service. To reserve a campsite in the park, check online or call 1-877-737-3783. If you are calling from abroad, the international number can be found online.

You may also send an email to inquire about camping.
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Areas of Interest Outside the Park:

• Georgian Bay Islands National Park of Canada
• Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site of Canada
• Fathom Five National Marine Park of Canada

Contact Info:

By Mail:
Bruce Peninsula National Park
P.O. Box 189
Tobermory, Ontario
Canada
N0H 2R0

By Phone:
(519) 596-2233 (General Information, Visitor Center)
(519) 596-2263 (Camping Office - May to October only)

By Fax:
(519) 596-2298

Email:
bruce-fathomfive@pc.gc.ca