BON ECHO
2025 INFORMATION GUIDE
Welcome to Bon Echo Provincial Park!
Thank you for visiting Bon Echo Provincial Park during the 2025 season. Whether you are visiting for the first time or are one of our many returning patrons, we trust you will safely enjoy and appreciate one of the province’s most stunning landscapes. Bon Echo Provincial Park permanently protects over 20,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, rich human history, and rugged beauty. Our team strives to manage this natural environment park in a way that encourages the protection of significant natural and cultural resources while also providing opportunities for sustainable recreation and high-quality visitor education.
At the heart of Bon Echo Provincial Park lies Mazinaw Lake, characterized by its deep blue waters, sweeping pine trees, and rocky shoreline cliffs. Above all, it is most recognizable for its striking geological feature, Mazinaw Rock. Mazinaw Rock displays the largest collection of Indigenous pictographs in Southeastern Ontario. Over 260 pictographs depict stories of rich culture and history.
For Indigenous peoples, the Mazinaw Rock is a deeply spiritual and sacred place. In honour of all people, past, present, and future, please respect Mazinaw Rock and all that lives and grows here. You can help protect this sacred place by enjoying the landscape respectfully and responsibly; never touch a pictograph with your hands or another object, and never damage or remove any part of a natural object.
WHAT’S INSIDE
Cover photo credit: Amy Kay Photography
For Your Information
Choosing Your Campsite
If you do not have a reservation, a staff member would be happy to assist you in choosing a site. Keep in mind, Bon Echo is a very popular park and campsites book up quickly. Reserving your campsite in advance is the best way to guarantee a campsite.
Reservations
For reservations, cancellations, and changes, call 1-888-6687275. You can also reserve online at www.ontarioparks.com.
Campsite Check-In / Check-Out Times
Campsite check-in / check-out is 2:00 pm. Campsites must be vacated by 2:00 pm on your departure date. For roofed accommodations, check-in time is 4:00 pm and check-out time is 10:00 am.
Park Hosts
Park Hosts are volunteer ambassadors for Ontario Parks. Their main role is to provide hospitality services, such as helping visitors and distributing information about the park and local area. Park hosts are meant to supplement and enhance the visitor’s experience as well as support park staff. Find our hosts on 300B in the Fairway Campground
Roofed Accommodations
Bon Echo has a variety of roofed accommodations to choose from, including yurts, cabins, and exploration tents. Please see page 8 for more details.
Drinking Water, Washrooms, Showers and Laundry
Taps for drinking water are located throughout the campground. Water is potable unless otherwise posted. In addition to vault toilets found throughout the campgrounds, there are 7 comfort stations available in the park. Check the campground map on page 16 for locations. These facilities have hot water, showers, flush toilets, and electrical outlets. Comfort stations in Sawmill Bay, Midway, and Fairway Campgrounds have laundry facilities.
Garbage Disposal and Trailer Waste
Please sort and deposit your recyclables and garbage into the appropriate bins at the nearest waste station. Trailer sewage may be dumped at the trailer dumping station near the PreRegistration Gate House. A potable water filling station is found at the same location.
Radio Free Areas
Bon Echo has five radio-free camping areas; Midway Campground, Hardwood Hill Campground, Bon Echo Lake Camp Cabins, Joeperry Lake, and Abes and Essens Overnight Hiking Trail. Respect fellow campers by not playing radios and other portable sound systems in these areas.
Barrier Free Facilities
All comfort stations offer barrier-free access. There is also a wheelchair ramp at the day use area, Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café, and Visitor Centre.
Generator Use
Generators may be used between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. Avoid using your generator in excess to reduce noise pollution in the park.
Campfires and Firewood
Every campsite has a fire pit. Wood and kindling vouchers are available for purchase at the gatehouse and for redemption at the Woodyard. Please remember that you cannot burn deadwood from the forest floor or cut living trees for firewood.
Discovery
Interpretive Discovery programs include guided hikes, children’s programs, amphitheatre programs, guided boat tours, and special events. Check our park bulletin boards or drop by the Visitor Centre for a schedule of upcoming events.
Boat Tours
The Friends of Bon Echo operate two unique boat services on Mazinaw Lake for park guests to enjoy: The 45-Minute Interpretive Tour, and the Ferry to the Cliff Top Trail. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bonechofriends.ca/ or at Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café. Please see page 7 for more information.
Rentals
Canoe and kayak rentals for Mazinaw Lake and backcountry camping are arranged at the Bon Echo Paddle Centre located at the Lagoon near Main Beach. Rentals include paddles, PFDs, and a safety kit. Renters must be at least 18 years of age and must agree to all terms of the Equipment Rental Agreement.
Mazinaw Lake: Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards are available to rent for 4 hours, 8 hours, or in 24-hour increments. Backcountry camping on Joeperry Lake: Canoes are available in 24-hour increments for campers registered to Joeperry Lake sites.
Groceries and Supplies
Gas, camping supplies, and convenience items can be found in Cloyne (10 km). Other goods and amenities, such as groceries, a restaurant, and fishing licences can be found in Northbrook (20 km). Nearest major centres include Napanee (86 km), Belleville (100 km), and Bancroft (93 km). Ask a park staff member for more information.
Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café
Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café, operated by the Friends of Bon Echo, is located near the Visitor Centre. Greystones offers a selection of camping supplies, hot and cold drinks, ice cream, apparel, and gifts and souvenirs. Sales from Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café support education programming at the park.
At the Beach
Bon Echo has three designated swimming areas; Main Beach, North Beach, and South Beach. Water safety is your responsibility! Bon Echo does not provide lifeguards.
Pets
Pets are welcome at Bon Echo with their families! Owners, please ensure your pet is leashed and picked-up after out of respect for nature and other park users. Please obey signage indicating pet-free zones like beaches and buildings. Pets are only permitted to be off-leash in designated off-leash areas such as the Pet Beach and Pet Exercise Trail.
Recreational use of drones in provincial parks is not permitted.
Visit www.OntarioParks.ca to learn about applying for authorization for commercial or research purposes.
Mazinaw Rock: An Indigenous Sacred Place
Mazinaw Rock holds profound cultural and ecological significance. It is home to a sensitive ecological community of rare and at-risk species, and the largest collection of Indigenous pictographs in Southeastern Ontario. Over 260 pictographs depict stories of rich culture and history. For Indigenous peoples, the Mazinaw Rock is a deeply spiritual and sacred place. The site was recognized as a national historic site in 1982.
In honor of all people, past, present, and future; please respect Mazinaw Rock and all that lives and grows here. You can help protect this sacred place by enjoying the landscape respectfully and responsibly; never touch a pictograph with your hands or another object, and never damage or remove any part of a natural object.
Beach Accessibility at Bon Echo
Do you love spending time in nature? Do you care about making people happy and healthy? Interested working in a provincial park for the summer?
Visit www.OntarioParks.ca/careers for more information.
Apply early for the best chance to join us next season.
Bon Echo now offers an all-terrain wheelchair to help visitors access the water.
The wheelchair's large wheels make it easier to navigate the sandy beach and uneven terrain, allowing users to reach the water's edge comfortably.
For rental terms, please speak to the staff at the Park Administration Office.
Aquatic Invasive Species
Do your part to protect Bon Echo’s unique aquatic ecology.
• Clean, drain, and dry all camping, boating, and angling gear before arriving at Bon Echo Provincial Park.
• Never move fish or other aquatic species between water bodies
• Use of live baitfish is prohibited
• Photograph and report invasive species to park staff or iNaturalist.ca
Invasive species pose significant threats to Bon Echo’s ecosystems, particularly sensitive species like Lake Trout. Recently, several aquatic invasive species such as Eurasian Watermilfoil have been detected in the park, resulting in damage to natural food webs. Remember, an invasion in one lake can take over an entire watershed!
Bon Echo Provincial Park
INVASIVE SPECIES ALERT
PARK VISITORS!
Please dispose of garbage at designated garbage and recycling areas. If you find a full container when you go to dispose of your garbage, don’t leave it where wildlife can access it. Find a different container with room or contact park staff for advice.
When planning your park visits, consider how you’ll do your part to keep our parks litter-free. Bring garbage bags to collect your trash and aim to make your visit zero or low waste!
We appreciate your efforts to help us protect these beautiful spaces.
Bringing firewood when you travel to or from your favourite provincial park may seem harmless but can spread invasive species such as insects, plants and diseases.
Many of these species are hidden in the wood and are difficult to detect.
Millions of trees have already been infected. Help us reduce the spread by;
• Leaving firewood at home
• Purchasing kiln-dried firewood where available
• Buying local and burning local
If you move firewood out of an area regulated for a quarantined pest without prior approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) you could face penalties of up to $50,000 and/or prosecution.
For more information on firewood movement restrictions and the latest updates about emerald ash borer and other regulated pests, please visit www.inspection.gc.ca or contact the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342
Ontario Parks Recreational Water
Posting Fact Sheet
Recreational water quality is routinely monitored at Ontario Parks designated beaches. Water samples are tested at Public Health Ontario Laboratories for Escherichia coli (E.coli), an organism originally found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals that can make its way into the beach water.
Water Quality Factors
Recreational water quality is influenced by a number of factors and can change frequently between sampling periods. Influences may include:
• Heavy rainfall
• Temperature
• Depth of water
• High winds or wave activity
• Large numbers of swimmers
• Large numbers of waterfowl (birds)
Visitors should avoid swimming if any of these conditions are present.
Recreational Water Posting
Ontario Parks staff post signage at beaches (example below) when sampling indicates that E.coli levels in the water have exceeded provincial standards. Signage is placed to warn bathers that the recreational water may be unsafe for swimming. Swimming in recreational water that is posted for elevated bacterial levels may cause:
• Skin infections/rash
• Ear, eye, nose, and throat infections
• Gastrointestinal illness (if water is consumed)
Postings are based on E.coli counts in recreational water samples taken within the past 24 hours and are removed when test results show that bacterial levels are back to an acceptable level.
Beach Closures
Ontario Parks staff may physically close beaches using caution tape and post informational signage in the instance that a health hazard exists that could present a health and safety risk to visitors (presence of blue-green algae for example).
How you can help
Ontario Parks visitors can help maintain our recreational water quality by following these simple guidelines:
• Do not feed birds or other wildlife, to prevent harboring in the beach area
• Leave nothing behind - dispose of all garbage/food waste in the designated waste disposal areas throughout the park
• Use designated pet beaches when swimming with your dog - pets are not permitted on Ontario Parks public beaches. Stoop and scoop in all areas of the parks.
• Use swim diapers for young children
• Do not use any shampoos or soaps in lakes (even those that claim to be biodegradable)
Ontario Parks operates and maintains our recreational beaches under the guidance of the local public health units, applying the Ministry of Health’s Recreational Water Protocol, 2019, and Operational Approaches for Recreational Water Guideline, 2018.
Please contact South East Health Unit for more information on beach monitoring.
Discover Adventure
at the Bon Echo Paddle Centre!
Canoe and kayak rentals for Mazinaw Lake and backcountry camping are arranged at the Bon Echo Paddle Centre located at the Lagoon near Main Beach. Rentals include paddles, PFDs, and a safety kit. Renters must be at least 18 years of age and must agree to all terms of the Equipment Rental Agreement.
Mazinaw Lake: Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards are available to rent for 4 hours, 8 hours, or in 24-hour increments.
Backcountry camping on Joeperry Lake: Canoes are available in 24-hour increments for campers registered to Joeperry Lake sites.
Mazinaw Lake rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rental canoe availability is guaranteed for Joeperry Lake campers; there is no need to reserve, but if you require more than one canoe per campsite, notice is appreciated. Please contact the park for more information: 613 336-2228.
For safety, Mazinaw Lake rentals may be suspended at any time due to high winds or weather watches/warnings, at staff’s discretion.
Make sure anything with a scent:
• food
• condiments
• toiletries
• empty cans & bottles
• barbeques
• coolers
• eating utensils
• garbage is stored securely in your vehicle with all of the windows up, when you are not on your site during the day, after dark or when you go to bed for the evening. Any scent of food and you will likely have a visit from raccoons. Cooler lids, plastic containers and bar fridges are all
Raccoons Are Not Picky Eaters
easy puzzles for raccoons to figure out how to open.
Never leave garbage unattended and dispose of all waste products in the central waste collection for your campground prior to going to bed.
Pet food should be put away after your pet has eaten and never leave it unattended.
Failure to keep a clean campsite could result in being charged under the Provincial Parks and Conservations Reserves Act
Do your part to keep wildlife wild. Keep your campsite clean and animal proof.
Have you ever wanted to learn about plants and animals living in the park you’re visiting? Want to help us protect the living things that make parks beautiful?
Visit iNaturalist.ca or download the app. It’s a simple as:
Snapping a picture of a living thing Uploading it to the app
✓Letting iNaturalist’s algorithms and experts help identify what you saw
Help park ecologists even more by joining the Ontario Parks project within iNaturalist. Select “trust this project with hidden coordinates” at the bottom of the page, and “yes, for any of my observations.
This free app helps park staff, scientists, and your community protect nature. Try iNaturalist today and help protect the places you love to visit.
Explore Bon Echo with Discovery Staff!
Guided Hikes, Children’s Programs and Evening Programs
Join Discovery staff at our park programs. Bring a child to our fun & interactive kids’ programs or learn about flora & fauna at an evening program. Check park bulletin boards for our Discovery program information, social media, or ask park staff for updates.
The Hidden Wonders of Bon Echo
Explore the Visitor Centre and discover some of Bon Echo’s rich cultural and natural history. Enjoy the interactive displays and learn about the pictographs, Bon Echo Inn, Peregrine Falcons, and more.
Boat Tours on Mazinaw
Join a Discovery Naturalist on the 45-minute interpretive tour or take the ferry service to the Cliff Top trailhead. Check Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café or the Friends of Bon Echo web site for more information.
You Can Be a Part of the Team!
Bon Echo is home to some amazing wildlife. Each species contributes to the park’s biodiversity. While canoeing, hiking, or relaxing at your campsite, keep your eyes and ears open for birds, plants, etc. Come to the Visitor Centre and tell us what you saw or record your sightings in iNaturalist.
Friends of Bon Echo Park
Friends of Bon Echo
Friends of Bon Echo Park is a dedicated not-for-profit organization committed to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Bon Echo Provincial Park. The Friends of Bon Echo Park work to support the park's conservation efforts, enhance educational and interpretive programs, and promote sustainable practices. Through various initiatives, including the operation of Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café, and the 45-Minute Interpretive Boat Tour, the organization ensures that visitors can enjoy and appreciate the park's beauty while contributing to its preservation. The Friends of Bon Echo Park organize a variety of activities to engage visitors and support the park's conservation efforts. Some of our key activities include:
1. Boat Tour and Ferry Service: The Friends of Bon Echo operate two unique boat services on Mazinaw Lake for park guests to enjoy: The 45-Minute Interpretive Tour and the Ferry to the Cliff Top Trail. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bonechofriends.ca/ or at Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café.
2. Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café: Operated by the Friends, this shop provides visitors with souvenirs and refreshments, with proceeds supporting park initiatives.
3. Little Shoppe of Shorers: A pop-up shop with all your beach necessities located at Main Beach for your convenience.
4. Trail Maintenance and Development: The friends support the maintenance and development of hiking trails within the park, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences for hikers.
5. Special Events: The Friends of Bon Echo fund numerous special events in the park annually. From guest lectures to children’s entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
6. Festival of the Arts: The Festival of the Arts is an annual event organized by the Friends of Bon Echo Park celebrating local artists and the park's natural beauty. Festival highlights include an art exhibition, children’s activities, and a BBQ!
Learn to Fish - Friday, July 4th to Sunday, July 6th: Learn to Fish staff will show you how to use fishing equipment and fish legally, safely, and sustainably. Find out about some basic tips about fish identification and anatomy. Registration required for this event.
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location: Bon Echo Creek Boat Launch
Special Events
Healthy Parks Healthy People Day - Yoga on the Beach with WildRoga! - Friday, July 18th: To celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People Day on July 18, we invite you to join us for yoga on the beach with instructor Ro from WildRoga! There will be a special sunset yoga session taking place at 8:00 pm that you won’t want to miss. All are welcome!
Time: 1:00 pm and 8:00 pm Location: Pumphouse Beach (near Amphitheatre parking lot)
Friends of Bon Echo Festival of the Arts - Friday, July 18th to Saturday, July 19 th: Various artists will be showing and selling their works at this Friends of Bon Echo event. Come to enjoy local art and stop in for a hot dog, sausage, or hamburger at the BBQ!
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Location: Main Beach
Rock Painting with Restoring Our Roots Indigenous Youth Collective - Sunday, July 20 th: Swing by the Picnic Shelter to create your own rock painting and learn about Anishinaabe culture and language. Everyone is welcome!
Time: 2:00 pm Location: Picnic Shelter (near the Lagoon)
Speaking of Wildlife - Sunday, July 27th: Would you like to see some wildlife up close? Join staff from Speaking of
Website: www.bonechifriends.ca
X: BonEchoFriends
Facebook: bonechofriends
Instagram: friendsofbonecho
Set Sail on an Unforgettable Adventure!
The 45-Minute Interpretive Tour:
Join us on the 45-minute Interpretive Boat Tour to experience Mazinaw Rock from the water. Mazinaw Rock has many stories to tell, including those of rich Indigenous culture and history.
During this 45-minute tour, visitors will be guided by an Ontario Parks staff through thousands of years of natural and cultural history, all while taking in the magnificent views of Mazinaw Rock from up close.
Ferry to the Cliff Top Trail.
The Ferry Service is a convenient way for park visitors to access Bon Echo’s most popular hiking trail, The Cliff Top Trail. The Cliff Top Trail is located on the east side of Mazinaw Lake and can only be accessed by boat. This 1.5-kilometer linear trail provides hikers with a one-of-akind view from the top of Mazinaw Rock, approximately 300 feet above Mazinaw Lake. Hop on the Ferry to be shuttled to the Cliff Top Trail trailhead dock and back after your hike!
Tickets can be purchased online at https://bonechofriends.ca/ or at Greystones Gift Shoppe and Café.
Wildlife for a close encounter with some animals native to the Bon Echo area. Bring family and friends to this 1 hour presentation and learn some amazing things about Ontario wildlife.
Time: 1:00 pm Location: Amphitheatre
Learn to Fish - Wednesday, July 30 th to Thursday, July 31st:
Learn to Fish staff will show you how to use fishing equipment and fish legally, safely, and sustainably. Find out about some basic tips about fish identification and anatomy. Registration required for this event.
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location: Bon Echo Creek Boat Launch
David Archibald - Saturday, August 2nd: Join our special guest, David Archibald, for a musical romp celebrating Ontario Parks! David is a singer, songwriter, children’s entertainer, and all-around parks legend that you won’t want to miss!
Time: 7:00 pm Location: Amphitheatre
Paddling Puppeteers, The Big History MysterySaturday, August 16th: Come join us at the Amphitheatre for a puppet show with Glen Caradus and the Paddling Puppeteers! The Paddling Puppeteers have been performing puppet shows across Ontario and Eastern Canada for almost 20 years. The show will aim to teach visitors of all ages about Canada and its beautiful land, critters, and people.
Time: 7:00 pm Location: Amphitheatre
Wild Ontario - Saturday, August 23rd: Calling all bird nerds! Wild Ontario will be bringing their live raptor
show to Bon Echo in August! Join us at 1:00 pm at the Amphitheatre to find out what makes Ontario’s birds of prey so special!
Time: 1:00 pm Location: Amphitheatre
“The Bear That Ate Me, Almost - The Dangerous Life Of A Naturalist” with Michael Runtz - Saturday, September 13th:
In his career as a naturalist, Michael Runtz has explored much of Ontario, from Point Pelee National Park to Hudson Bay, from Lake of the Woods to the Frontenac Axis. His 15 natural history books are lavishly illustrated with his award-winning images, and this highly visual presentation focuses on the stories behind them.
Time: 7:00 pm Location: Amphitheatre
Monster of Mazinaw Trail Race - Saturday, September 20 th: On Sunday, September 21, Happy Trails Racing will be hosting the Monster of Mazinaw Trail Race at Bon Echo Provincial Park! Please exercise additional care while driving and biking on park roads, and expect to encounter increased foot traffic while enjoying Bon Echo’s trails.
Time: All Day Location: Bon Echo
Bird Names in Anishinaabemowin with Creators Garden - Date TBA: Come join Joseph Pitawanakwat, Andres Jimenez and Junaid Khan in a discussion about the depth of traditional knowledge housed in Anishinaabemowin names, and how these names can teach us about the important roles and behaviours of birds that live around us.
Time: TBA Location: TBA
Roofed Accommodations
Looking for a hassle-free camping experience? Try a yurt, cabin, or
156, 157, and 162
A yurt is a semi-permanent insulated tent structure mounted on a wooden platform. Each yurt can accommodate a maximum of 6 people.
Site amenities:
• Electric heat
• Outdoor propane BBQ
• Two sets of bunk beds
Fees:
• Per Night: $163.74 (includes H.S.T)
• Table and chairs
• Fire pit and picnic table
• Two night minimum stay
Site amenities:
• Outdoor propane BBQ
• Sleeping platform with 4 mattresses
Fees:
• Per Night: $119.84 (includes H.S.T)
• Table and chairs
• Fire pit and picnic table
• Two night minimum stay
Pet-Friendly Roofed Accommodations
Location:
Twelve cabins are located on the shore of Bon Echo Lake. Each cabin accommodates a maximum of 5 people.
Site amenities:
• Electric heat
• Outdoor propane BBQ
• One double bunk bed and one double bed
Fees:
• Per Night: $163.74 (includes H.S.T)
Cabin on the Hill
Location:
• Table and chairs
• Mini fridge, microwave, and kettle
• Fire pit and picnic table
• Two night minimum stay
Cabin on the Hill is a historic log cabin dating from the 1870s. It has been moved twice during its lifetime and is now located near the Visitor Centre. Guests staying at the cabin will enjoy a great view of Mazinaw Rock.
Site amenities:
• Electric heat
• Outdoor propane BBQ
• One bedroom with a double bed
• Two pullout sofa
• Table and chairs
Fees:
• Per Night: $261.03 (includes H.S.T)
• Stove, fridge, microwave, and kettle
• Fire pit and picnic table
• Indoor washroom and running water
• Seven night minimum stay (Saturday to Saturday)
Looking to escape to nature with your furry friend? Yurt 157 and Cabin 612 are pet-friendly roofed accommodations. When 1-2 dogs present, an additional flat fee of $45.20 (including H.S.T) is applied. For reservations, cancellations for changes, call 1-888-668-7275 or reserve online at www.ontarioparks.com.
ORCKA Safe Canoeing Workshops
Looking to advance your paddling skills and confidence on the water? Look no further! Sign up for one of two ORCKA Safe Canoeing Workshops at Bon Echo in 2025!
Date: June 29 & August 3
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Offered by: Walter Sepic - Firefly Adventures
Cost: $30 plus daily vehicle permit
The workshop will begin with dry land theory, covering topics such as canoe designs, materials, care, and parts. We’ll also discuss paddles, including types, sizing, and care, as well as emergency equipment and its use. Additionally, we’ll cover PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), including sizing and care.
In the canoeing section, you’ll learn about entering, launching, landing, exiting, balancing, trimming, sitting versus kneeling, and the roles of the bow and stern positions. We’ll also cover various strokes and canoe physics, along with lifting and portaging techniques. After lunch, we’ll spend ample time on the water practicing these skills. You’ll then take a tour of Mazinaw Lake to refine your new canoeing abilities. If you have a canoe, PFD, safety kit, and paddle, please bring them. These items are also available for rent. Please indicate your rental needs at the time of registration. Register now: Email waltsepic@gmail.com
Explore Area Attractions
Bon Echo Provincial Park is a nature-lover’s paradise. Once you arrive you may never want to leave. But for those of you looking to explore outside the park gates, there are a number of great attractions and outdoor activities we’re sure you'll enjoy here in Lennox & Addington County.
If you’re looking for details about the area’s paddle routes, hiking trails, or fishing hot spots, be sure to check out www.NaturallyLA.ca. You can also find information about pristine night skies, local museums, as well as a long list of area events. Plus, if your campfire dinner didn’t turn out as well as you had hoped, you can also find info about nearby restaurants, so you don’t go to sleep hungry. Below is a short list of destinations. Talk to park staff for more details about things to do in the area.
Cloyne Pioneer Museum & Archives
14232 Highway 41, Cloyne | 10 km south of Bon Echo
Learn about the local area at the Cloyne Pioneer Museum & Archives. You’ll find hundreds of artifacts, including books, clothing, photos and documents that illustrate how the area evolved from its lumber industry beginnings in the 1850s, through the ups and downs of the mining booms, and learn about the long-held importance of tourism in the region. You’ll enjoy the growing collection of Bon Echo artifacts, including a 1920 sketch by Merrill Denison. The Pioneer Museum & Archives is operated by the Cloyne and District Historical Society and is open from July to Labour Day. Admission is free. Donations are gratefully accepted. Learn more at pioneer.mazinaw.on.ca.
L&A Forest Trails
100 John Street, Flinton | 28 km south of Bon Echo
The Lennox & Addington County Forest Trails in Flinton is a great destination for mountain bike riders. Less than a 30 minute drive from the park gate, riders will be immersed in the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield’s landscape of tall pines and granite. When exploring the Forest Trails, you’ll experience 6 kilometres of logging roads and single-track trails designed with bermed curves and elevations that incorporate the natural terrain of the forest. The L&A Forest Trails are always open and admission is free. Visit https://naturallyla.ca/explore/ cycling/ for more info.
L&A County Dark Sky Viewing Area
7980 County Road 41, Erinsville | 41 km south of Bon Echo
The L&A County Dark Sky Viewing Area is the most southerly point in Ontario that offers a night sky experience very similar to what was available more than 100 years ago. The DSVA is a perfect destination for anyone looking to observe the natural wonder of the stars. The DSVA hosts laser-guided stargazing tours and astrophotography events on weekends from May through September. Check out the website for the full schedule. The L&A Dark Sky Viewing Area is open year round. Admission is always free. Find out more at https://naturallyla.ca/explore/ dark-sky-viewing-area/
Bonnechere Caves
1247 Fourth Chute Road, Eganville, ON
Looking for an adventure? Spend some time at Bonnechere Caves. Stairs take you underground where you can see fossils and stalactites. Bats may also be seen. It’s cool underground so bring a sweater or light jacket. Low-heeled shoes and a flashlight are also recommended. A picnic area is available. Call toll-free at 1-800-469-2283 for more information.
Your valid camping or day-use vehicle permit from Bon Echo gives you free entry to other provincial parks for day-use.
Rock Climbing
During your visit to the park, you may observe rock climbers ascending the face of Mazinaw Rock. These individuals are typically members of the Alpine Club of Canada and have registered for climbing activities. They are highly trained, knowledgeable, and equipped with appropriate climbing gear, and are authorized to climb only on designated routes. Climbers who are not affiliated with the Alpine Club of Canada must check in at the park office prior to climbing and will be required to sign waivers.
Unauthorized climbing or scaling of Mazinaw Rock is strictly prohibited at all times. Additionally, jumping off the rock is expressly forbidden.
LOCAL SERVICES
LOCAL SERVICES
LOCAL SERVICES
Summary of Provincial Park Offences
There is one basic rule in Ontario Parks: Have respect and consideration for your fellow visitors and the park environment. The following table lists some of the more common laws enforced in provincial parks. Under the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, the registered permit holder is responsible for the conduct of all campsite occupants and could be charged with an offence based on the actions of the occupants of the registered campsite. The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006 and other legislation governing behaviour in provincial parks can be reviewed at provincial park offices and on the e-Laws website at www.ontario.ca/laws. These laws are enforced by provincial park wardens who have all the power and authority of a member of the Ontario Provincial Police within a provincial park. Many of the listed offences could result in eviction from a provincial park. Evicted visitors are prohibited from re-entering any provincial park for a period of 72 hours. Minimum fines listed below include court costs and the victim fine surcharge.
$ 125.00
If you are 19 years of age or older, you are permitted to possess or consume liquor (beer, wine, spirits) only on a registered campsite.
Drivers are responsible for ensuring that liquor is properly stored while in a vehicle. Liquor must be in a container that is unopened and the seal unbroken or is packed away and not accessible to any person in the vehicle.
No person under 19 years of age can possess or consume cannabis.
Drivers are
or readily available
•
Pets
with others’ enjoyment of the park. Pets are not permitted in the swimming area, on the beach or in a posted prohibited area at any time.
Environmental Protection Damage / deface / remove Crown property
Disturb / harm / remove natural object
Disturb / cut / remove / harm plant or tree
• Kill plant or tree
• Disturb / kill / remove / harm / harass animal $ 155.00
Camping Permit
Fail to vacate and remove property from campsite on permit expiry
Unlawfully occupy campsite
• Camp over time limit
Camping Equipment / Persons
Place more than 3 pieces of shelter equipment on campsite
Place more than one tent trailer, travel trailer or self-propelled camping unit on campsite
$ 95.00
$ 155.00 $ 95.00
• Excessive number of persons occupying campground campsite / interior campsite $ 95.00
180.00
To maintain the park as a natural setting, the removal of natural objects is prohibited. All vegetation, wildlife and natural features are protected in provincial parks. Cutting any live growth or damaging any natural or other object is prohibited. You may not take any fallen or dead wood from a provincial park for the purpose of a campfire or other such intent.
You are required to vacate and remove all property from your campground campsite or interior campsite by 2:00 p.m. on the date your permit expires so that others may have access to it. The maximum length of stay on a provincial park campground campsite is 23 consecutive nights and 16 consecutive nights on an interior campsite to ensure park visitors have an equal opportunity to enjoy our campsites and limit environmental impact.
Without a limit on the amount of camping gear allowed, campsites would quickly deteriorate, becoming larger, eventually destroying the surrounding vegetation. The maximum number of campers allowed per campground campsite is six persons and the maximum number of campers allowed on an interior campsite is nine persons.
Fines are subject to change. This is not a complete listing of offences; please refer to the specific legislation. The minimum fine amount includes the applicable set fine, plus $5.00 court costs, plus the applicable victim fine surcharge.
Backcountry in Bon Echo
Bon Echo Provincial Park offers a fantastic backcountry camping experience, perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility. The park features 26 backcountry sites spread across Joeperry Lake and the Abes and Essens Overnight Hiking Trail.
Joeperry Lake
Joeperry Lake provides 21 canoe-in campsites, accessible via a short paddle and a 500-meter portage. These sites are ideal for beginners, offering a gentle introduction to backcountry camping with easy access and beautiful scenery.
Abes and Essens Overnight Hiking Trail
For hikers, the Abes and Essens trail offers five backcountry campsites along its 17 km route, providing stunning views of glacial formations, wetlands, and diverse ecosystems. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire pit, and box privy, ensuring a comfortable stay in the wilderness.
Not interested in hiking the full 17 km? That’s fine, you can hike the first and second loops of the Abes and Essens trail for a shorter day-hike. Notice: Loop 3 (Abes) is CLOSED between campsites 529 and 530 due to storm damage.
Kishkebus Canoe Route
The Kishkebus Canoe Route at Bon Echo Provincial Park offers an exhilarating paddling adventure through stunning landscapes. This 21 km loop takes you past the majestic Mazinaw Rock, adorned with Indigenous pictographs, and through serene waters of four different lakes.
With four portages along the route, including a challenging 1.5 km portage, this moderately difficult trail is perfect for honing your paddling and portaging skills. Ideal for a day trip, the Kishkebus Canoe Route promises a memorable adventure for both seasoned paddlers and those looking to challenge themselves in the great outdoors.
Take to the Trails!
Loop 1 (Clutes):
Loop 2 (Essens):
(Abes):
Ticks and Lyme Disease
Do ticks and contracting Lyme disease make you wary of going outdoors? By being aware of ticks and understanding the role they play in spreading Lyme and other tick-borne diseases you are taking the first step to protect yourself and your loved ones.
There are many different species of ticks and not all of them carry Lyme disease. The most common tick you may encounter is the American Dog Tick, which does not carry Lyme disease. The only tick that carries Lyme disease in Ontario is the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick, scientifically known as Ixodes Scapularis. Both types of ticks can be found in wooded areas, leaf litters and tall grass habitats. In Ontario, Blacklegged ticks are most commonly found in rural areas along the north shores of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River. Blacklegged ticks are known to feed on migratory birds and as a result, they can be transported throughout the province. Therefore, while the potential is lower the further north you go, it is possible for people to encounter Blacklegged ticks, or to be infected with Lyme disease from the bite of an infected Blacklegged tick, almost anywhere in the province, especially with climate change impacting migration patterns and increasing temperatures across Ontario.
Ticks feed slowly, and an infected tick must feed on a person for at least 24 hours in order to transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Because of this delay, prompt detection and removal of ticks is one of the key methods of preventing Lyme disease. If you become infected from a tick bite, symptoms usually begin within 1 - 2 weeks, but can take as long as one month to begin. The “classic” symptom is a bulls-eye rash that can develop anywhere on the body; however, this rash may not occur in all cases. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, fatigue, stiff neck, jaw pain, swollen glands and sore muscles. If untreated, problems with the heart, nervous system, and joints can occur months or years later. Lyme disease can be easily treated in its early stages so seek medical attention immediately if you feel unwell.
When you are out in tick habitat you can better protect yourself by taking a few precautions:
1. Wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into your socks, and your shirt into your pants.
2. Wear light coloured clothing so you can detect ticks before they attach.
3. Use insect repellent containing “DEET” (please follow manufacturer’s directions). Apply it to your exposed skin and outer clothing.
4. Conduct a tick check when you come in from outdoors. Look on your clothes, body, and pets. Pay close attention to your groin, scalp, and armpits.
5. Shower within 2 hours after arriving home from being outdoors, as ticks can be easily removed during this process.
6. If you find a tick on your body, properly remove it by using tweezers and grasping the head as close to your skin as possible, to ensure that the tick stays intact during removal. To preserve the tick for future identification, place it in a sealed container. Visit www.etick. ca for tick identification. Additionally, you may contact your family doctor for questions on Lyme disease and follow-up.
By following these simple suggestions, you can have a safe and enjoyable time exploring Bon Echo Provincial Park.
For more information, please consult the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website: ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease
Use fine point tweezers
4 Grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible
4 Gently pull the tick straight out, without breaking or damaging the tick.
4 Disinfect the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water
4 Save tick (alive if possible) in a jar, with a piece of damp paper towel for identification (www.etick.ca)
4 Watch for symptoms and seek medical attention if you feel unwell, if the tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, or if you cannot safely remove the tick.
DON’T
6 Grasp around bloated belly and squeeze the tick
6 Use a match, heat or chemicals to try and remove it
6 Twist the tick when pulling it out
Kishkebus Canoe Route
Mazinaw
Pictographs
Lagoon
Blacklegged Tick
Photo by: Jim Gathany, CDC
Bon Echo Provincial Park - Park Over view
