Located on the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario, Canada, Pukaskwa National Park occupies a special place in the hearts of those who seek solitude and exposure to scenic wonderlands. Surrounded by thousands of square kilometers of forest and diverse wildlife, Pukaskwa is a remote destination, far from city distractions.
Plus, there are so many nearby campgrounds and activities here. If you want an introduction for your first visit, read this guide and discover what makes Pukaskwa National Park a bucket list destination.
Best Campgrounds Near Pukaskwa National Park
These nearby Pukaskwa campgrounds should serve you well for your first visit.
Hattie Cove Campground is your best option if proximity is a concern. The campground is a 30-minute walking distance from the park. Visitors have access to 67 vehicle-accessible campsites, potable water, showers, and flush toilets. Those who register between September 15th and October 14th receive reduced fees.
A short walk will take you to some of the area’s best hikes, including the Southern Headland Trail and the Boardwalk Beach Trail. Learn more.
Penn Lake Campground is more of an oasis location than a standard campground because the campground’s warm lake, coupled with its sandy beaches, makes it a suitable selection for a family adventure. There are 16 campsites with 50/30/15 amp services. You can also enjoy the comforts of washrooms and on-site laundry facilities.
If you’re bringing a tent, there are unserviced sites available. Once you’re settled in, paddle your way down the lake!
There are 187 campsites at White Lake, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a spot. There are three campgrounds: Woodlily, Moccasin Flower, and Sundew. Each site offers picnic tables, water taps, and garbage bins.
That said, only a third of them offer 15 and 30 amp services. Do not miss out on the opportunity to explore the 7-10 mile-long White Lake, especially if you plan on fishing or boating during your visit.
The sites at Neys Provincial Park offer an up-close view of Lake Superior — the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. No need to worry about the size of your vehicle either, since most of the sites are suitable for large recreational motor homes. The campgrounds are divided into three areas. The first one offers electrical services at each location.
There are plenty of trails to explore around the park, including ones that take you along scenic rocky highlands.
The oTENTik sites are a unique alternative to the common camping experience. Think of them as a combination of A-frame cabins and canvas tents designed to maximize your comfort level and provide visitors with home-style amenities.
These include furniture, proper beds, and wood stoves for warmth. Best of all, you can find several of them at Pukaskwa National Park. Learn more.
Best Things To Do at Pukaskwa National Park
Whether you’re hoping to walk along the shores of Horseshoe Beach or explore scenic hiking routes, there are plenty of activities worth pursuing on your first adventure.
- Hiking: There are six hiking trails in the park of various difficulty levels. Most of the day hikes are under two miles and offer views of Horseshoe Bay. If you want a challenge, hike the White River Suspension Trail — an 11-mile option that takes you over Chigamiwingum Falls.
- Paddling: You don’t need to look far for paddling destinations. Hattie Cove is a great selection for beginners, given its relatively calm waters. Just make sure to stay updated on changing weather conditions.
- Geocaching: Pull out your GPS unit and put your thinking cap on. It’s time for some geocaching! This is a great way to test your treasure-hunting skills while learning more about the surrounding land.
- Visiting Horseshoe Beach: If you want a simple leisure activity, spend an afternoon basking in the sun at Horseshoe Beach. Expect large crowds if you’re visiting between July and August.
When To Visit Pukaskwa National Park
The summer season is the peak season at Pukaskwa National Park. Even in August, the hottest month, the average maximum temperature hovers at around 68 degrees Fahrenheit with an average low of 54 degrees. This makes summer the ideal season for water-based activities at Horseshoe Beach. If you want to witness the fall scenery up close, early October is the best time for a visit.
Remember, the park is open for camping between May 15th and October 15th. While you can visit a few weeks before and after these dates, you may not see park staff.
Explore Pukaskwa National Park With Cruise America
Here at Cruise America, we believe that the journey is part of the adventure. Our RV rentals come with the latest home-style amenities, so you won’t have to trade in comfort for your trip.
Visit your nearest Cruise America location to get yourself an RV rental.