A Beginner's Guide to Group Car Camping in Ontario Provincial Parks

Camping in Ontario Provincial Parks is a wonderful way to experience the great outdoors and create lasting memories with friends and family. However, group camping requires a bit more preparation than solo camping, as you'll need to coordinate with your fellow campers and ensure that everyone has what they need. In this guide, we'll go over the essentials of group car camping and what you can expect during your trip.

Weather Preparedness: Before you head out on your trip, it's important to check the weather forecast for the park you'll be camping in. Ontario Provincial Parks are known for their unpredictable weather, so it's best to be prepared for all conditions. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing, such as rain jackets and warm layers, and bring a sturdy tent that can withstand wind and rain.

Typical Activities: Group car camping provides the opportunity to participate in a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and fishing. Be sure to research the specific park you'll be visiting to learn about the activities available. You may also want to plan group activities, such as a group hike or a communal meal, to make the most of your time together.

Essential Items: When packing for group camping, there are a few essential items that every camper should bring:

Tent: Choose a tent that can comfortably accommodate your group and withstand the weather conditions.
Sleeping bags and sleeping pads: Make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping bag and pad to get a good night's sleep.
Cooler: Bring a cooler to store food and drinks, and make sure to pack enough ice to keep everything cold.
Personal dishes and utensils: Bring reusable utensils (ie. spork), hot water safe cup or mug, and dishes (reusable bowl and/or plate) for eating eating.
Lighting: Headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns are essential for navigating the campsite and finding your way to the bathroom at night.

Group Items: There are also some items that you can bring as a group to make your camping trip more enjoyable:

Large water container: Bring a large water container to store water for cooking and cleaning.
Tarp: A tarp can be used as a shelter or a rain fly over your tent.
Camp stove and fuel: A camp stove is essential for cooking meals, and don't forget to bring extra fuel.
Cooking equipment and utensils: Bring pots, pans, and cooking utensils.
Hammock: A hammock provides a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Board games and playing cards: Bring some games to play in the evenings or during downtime.
Portable speaker: Bring a portable speaker to enjoy music or podcasts around the campfire. Depending on the location of your campsite, your site may be radio-free and won't allow loud music to be played.
First aid kit: Bring a well-stocked first aid kit in case of any injuries or illnesses.

Conclusion: By following these tips and packing the essentials, you'll be well-prepared for your group car camping trip in an Ontario Provincial Park. Remember to coordinate with your fellow campers, have fun, and leave no trace behind. Happy camping!