The French River area of Ontario’s cottage country is a breathtakingly beautiful area of Ontario known for its rugged landscapes and the endless outdoor activities and adventures possible there. The French River Provincial Park remains a paradise for nature lovers and a home for diverse wildlife.  This 3-season park is most known for its waterways with a number of incredible paddling routes alongside very scenic rocky cliffs.

Location

French River Provincial Park is located roughly halfway between Sudbury and Parry Sound, about 3 ½ hours and 335 km north of Toronto. It’s an easily accessible park right off Highway 69, making it a convenient and easy-to-find destination.

For those looking to combine their outdoor adventures with comfortable accommodations, renting a nearby Parry Sound cottage is a fantastic option. A private rental cottage in Ontario allows guests to enjoy easy access to the park and other attractions in the area while providing a cozy place to relax after a day of exploration.

French River Provincial Park Activities | Paddling, Boating & Fishing | Hiking | Camping | Birds & Wildlife

Paddling & Boating

The French River starts at Lake Nipissing and flows along a 105 kilometres canoe route to Georgian Bay, with dramatic rock formations lining the river and many meandering channels to explore along the way. 

There are multiple paddling routes along the French River from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay and routes that interconnect with the Restoule and Little French Rivers. In non-flood conditions, paddling both upstream and downstream is possible.  

During flooding, typically during spring runoff in early spring, the river can reach a height that’s 4 metres higher than it is during low water conditions.  Please note that Recollet Falls in the French River Gorge has no passable portage during these high flow periods.

Paddling routes range from easy day trips to excursions that can take up to 6 days to complete.  River access is available through numerous locations along the river. 

Otter Bay is the only paddling access point located within the park itself, and here you can launch on the Okikendawt Island Loop, a 3-5 day trip.  All other paddling routes are accessed through private marinas and public boat launches, and several marinas also offer boat rentals and dock space. 

Motorized boats are allowed in certain areas, making it accessible for all types of watercraft enthusiasts.  Boat rentals, dock space and launch facilities are available at multiple private marinas.

Fishing

There is great fishing in the French River too!  Walleye, small-mouth bass, and northern pike are just a few of the fish species that are found in the river.

French River Provincial Park | Hiking

While the French River Provincial Park doesn’t have the trail network that other parks do, the one trail, Recollet Falls Trail, is a good one!  This moderately difficult 3 km linear trail follows the edge of the French River Gorge and ends at Recollet Falls.  Along the way there are spectacular views of the river to enjoy.  During the short portage around the falls you’ll be walking in the footsteps of generations of people, including First Nations, fur traders, and famous explorers.  

French River Provincial Park | Backcountry Camping

French River Provincial Park is a prime spot for backcountry camping, with 283 backcountry campsites along the river’s shores.  There are no developed campgrounds in the park, but these designated backcountry sites provide a necessary stop along the way for multi-day paddling trips, and allow visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature.  All campsites are accessible by boat only, and are marked clearly.

Camping Reservations

Camping reservations are not available at this park. All campsites are first-come, first-served.  An interior camping permit is required; however, and can be purchased online up to two weeks in advance.

French River Provincial Park | Birds & Wildlife 

The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a fantastic place for nature lovers and photographers. Common sightings include white-tailed deer, black bears, otters, and a variety of bird species. Moose are often more elusive, but they can sometimes be spotted too. The river’s shoreline, dotted with towering pines and smooth rock formations, provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing stunning photos.

History and Cultural Significance

The French River has been designated a Canadian Heritage River, due to its historic significance.  The river was once a vital waterway for early explorers, and also Indigenous peoples and fur traders.  The Visitor Centre, located off Highway 69, provides a great introduction to the park’s history and cultural significance, and this fascinating documentary provides a short but in depth look at life and the history of the French River.

French River Provincial Park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly geared to paddling and backcountry camping. Whether you’re paddling along its historic and stunningly beautiful waterways, hiking to scenic waterfalls, or fishing and swimming on the river, the park offers an unforgettable back to nature experience.

For visitors staying in one of our nearby waterfront cottages, French River Provincial Park provides a taste of nature as it was hundreds of years ago.  Be sure to plan on spending a day exploring this lovely park before returning to your comfortable home away from home to enjoy the evening.  

Find your perfect cottage and start planning your trip today to experience the magic of French River Provincial Park!