Backcountry Camping
1. The Experience:
From the rugged hills and thick forests of the Canadian Shield to the channels, bays, and lakes that interconnect along this waterway, French River Provincial Park is a maze of quiet hideaways and fast-moving water. The French River flows for 105 km from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, offering breathtaking scenery.
Backcountry camping in French River is perfect for adventurers looking for a long multi-day trip along the river. All fast-moving water has been marked and there are well-maintained portages to bypass these areas.
Fishing on the French River is a great way to spend a day, either from the shore of your campsite, or on the paddle to your next site.
French River paddlers and boaters have their pick of 291 backcountry campsites scattered along the shore of the river. They can also enjoy sailing and paddling in Georgian Bay. All campsites and portages in French River are accessible by boat and are clearly marked.
All campsites have a firepit, and most are equipped with box privies, where the landscape permits.
2. Reservations and Interior Camping Permits
Campsite specific reservations are available online or by phone up to five months in advance of your arrival date. When making a reservation, you will select a specific site along the river to camp at for each night of your trip. Backcountry camping permits may also be purchased at the French River Visitor Centre, where availability exists and during applicable hours of operation.
Reservations are recommended to secure your backcountry campsite.
You do not need to pick up your permit at the French River Visitor Centre. Once you have your reservation, simply print out a copy of your reservation letter (or keep a digital copy available) and this will be your backcountry camping permit.
Campers are responsible for ensuring their reservation details (i.e. Number of people, license plate(s), dates, etc.) are accurate prior to their trip. If you need to make changes such as occupants or vehicles, you can call the reservation centre at 1-888-668-7275 or log in to your account on the reservation website.
3. Trip Planning
Please carefully review your planned trip before making a reservation. It is your responsibility to ensure you can safely complete the trip. Remember, don’t overextend yourself – travel within your capabilities and according to weather conditions.
For emergency purposes, some backcountry sites have been made non-reservable on the reservation system. These sites are to only be used by campers in instances of severe weather prohibiting extended travel, medical emergencies, or if your reserved site is occupied upon your arrival. Please report these instances to park staff as soon as possible of the change to your trip plan.