French River is the perfect destination for a peaceful and tranquil getaway!
The river mostly forms the border between the Parry Sound and Sudbury districts and is typically regarded as the line separating Northern and Southern Ontario.
This picturesque area is a stunning natural beauty, offering lots of adventures. Your next trip will be one you’ll never forget, thanks to the French River’s beautiful campsites.
1. Camping at the French River
The French River is a Canadian Heritage River located in central Ontario. It is the first river in Canada to be listed as a national historic site and one of the country’s most diverse rivers.
It was traveled by Native Americans, French explorers, fur traders, and voyageurs. An interconnected network of lakes, gorges, and rapids spanning 105 kilometers from Lake Nipissing.Georgian Bay via boat.
Kayaking along the coast of Georgian Bay is possible through the French River Delta. A range of activities includes motorboating, fishing, and wilderness paddling.
1.1 The Camping Experience
French River camping is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts searching for a lengthy multi-day trek down the river. The river is lined with towering pine trees, the shoreline is dotted with rocky outcrops and sandy beaches, and has well-maintained portages designated throughout with buoys.
A fantastic way to spend your day in the river is fishing from the shore of your campsite or while paddling to your next site. You can also watch moose, beavers, otters, and bald eagles.
Several campgrounds along the river offer amenities such as showers, bathrooms, and electricity.
1.2 Permits and Reservations
This park does not accept bookings for camping. First-come, first-served applies to every campsite.
Interior camping permits are required for camping in the interior of the French River Provincial Park. These permits are available at the park office or the Ontario Parks website.
Outside of the park’s limits, camping is only permitted with an exterior camping permit. The local municipality and the Ministry of Natural Resources both offer these permissions.
In addition, certain municipal permit issuers and the French River Visitor Center on Highway 69 at the French River sell permits.
Finally, check for guidelines and laws to camp along the French River. These include observing the park’s rules and regulations and those about fire safety, the environment, and other matters.
Check out this amazing French River camping documentary!
2. Fun Things to Do Around French River
2.1 Hiking
French River is the perfect destination if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure combining stunning scenery, wildlife, and hiking trails.
It is home to various hiking trails, from easy to difficult, and the most popular trails are the Voyageur and the La Vase Portages.
The Voyageur trail is a moderate hike through the picturesque French River Valley. By hiking this trail, your life will never be the same again.
You will discover rapids, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way. You’ll walk by rapids, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way.
The La Vase Portage is a more challenging trail that takes you through the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield.
Make sure to buy local maps to better understand the forest, lakes, and interconnected lakes.
2.2 Boating
French River is the perfect experience for a peaceful day on the water, whether you’re looking for boating or visiting the many coves and inlets.
The river is lined with amazing cottages, and the calm waters and gentle wind make it easy to drive boats and swim.
2.3 Fishing
French River is a beautiful and unique area that offers some of the best fishing experiences in the country because the river is home to a wide variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and lake trout.
The river is also home to many boat launches, making it easy to get out on the water and start fishing. It is suitable for anglers of all skill levels.
Whether a beginner or an experienced fisherman, you will get plenty of opportunities to catch various fish.
3. Famous Attractions Around French River
3.1 French River Provincial Park
With a selection of campsites, the French River Provincial Park is in the center of the French River Delta. You can find the best camping locations on the North Shore and the South Shore.
Electricity, water, and sewer hookups are available at varying levels on several sites on the North Shore. The South Shore provides more remote campsites without water or electricity points.
You might witness the beauty of a bald eagle in the French River Provincial Park home.
Additionally, you can paddle a canoe or kayak out onto the river or visit the numerous trails and waterways. Be ready for the wonderful experience of French River camping in this area.
3.2 Five Finger Rapids
The rapids were formed by glacial activity during the last ice age, and they are a popular destination for tourists and adventurers alike.
The rapids are a superb spot for whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and viewing wildlife, like moose, caribou, and bears. You can also go fishing here, as the river has various fish, including trout, grayling, and whitefish.
Additionally, the rapids are one of the top destinations for bird watching. You can observe bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons here.
3.3 French River Trading Post
The French River Trading Post is a historic site that French-Canadian fur traders once used in the late 1700s.
Now, it serves as a museum showcasing the area’s history and the people who lived there in the past. You can visit trading posts and learn about the history of the area.
3.4 Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay’s gorgeous waters have long been a favorite vacation spot for tourists who want the most of the French River camping trip.
Georgian Bay, a sizable bay of Lake Huron, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and many leisure opportunities.
3.5 Grundy Lake Provincial Park
The Grundy Lake Provincial Park is located in the center of the Parry Sound District and is a nice campsite to go to if you want some peace.
Grundy Lake Provincial Park is the ideal campsite for relaxing and exploring nature because of its breathtaking vistas, unique animals, and various activities.
3.6 Lake Nipissing
This lovely lake’s pure, healthy waters and abundant aquatic life are well known. It houses many fish species, including walleye, pike, bass, and muskellunge, and several waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and swans.
It is also a popular location for birdwatchers because it has an abundance of resident and migratory birds. Furthermore, Lake Nipissing is a well-liked location for camping, boating, and fishing.
Lake Nipissing is also a well-liked location for leisure pursuits. Camping, boating, and fishing are all well-liked pastimes in this area.
Many lodges and resorts provide guests with various lodging choices on the lake. It is a fantastic location for nature exploration.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
4.1 What is the best way to visit the French River?
Ans. French River is easiest to reach by car. Highway 400 route connects it to Toronto Highway, two hours north. The French River is about an hour’s drive from the Sudbury route, which is reachable by bus or car from Toronto.
4.2 What is the best time of year to experience the French River camping?
Ans. Outdoor activities are perfect during summer due to the pleasant sun and bright weather. June, July, and August are the best times for camping along the French River.
4.3 Should I take any safety precautions when camping at French River?
Ans. Yes, be aware of the wildlife in the area and take necessary precautions.
Final Thoughts
French River camping is a fantastic experience that has something to offer everyone. It is the ideal location whether you want a tranquil retreat, an action-packed vacation, or to reconnect with nature.
The natural setting is magnificent, with beautiful wildlife and adventures like bird watching, motorcycling, hiking, fishing, and more.
The French River camping is a memorable experience thanks to the breathtaking scenery, unusual animals, and wealth of outdoor pursuits.
Last Updated on by Narayani Bhardwaj
