Ontario Provincial Parks

Alexander Stewart Provincial Park is a small day-use park located near the community of Burnstown in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley. Set along the Madawaska River, the park provides accessible green space rather than a full-service camping experience. Its size and layout make it a practical stop for short visits, local outings, and travellers exploring the surrounding valley communities.

The park’s landscape includes mixed forest, open grassy areas, and river frontage, creating a setting that supports casual outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Short walking trails pass through wooded sections and alongside wetlands, offering opportunities to observe seasonal changes, native plant life, and local bird species without requiring extended hikes or specialized equipment. The terrain is generally gentle and well suited to relaxed exploration.

The Madawaska River is a focal point of the park, offering shoreline access and open views of the water. Visitors commonly use the area for picnicking, short walks, and informal river-based activities such as paddling or fishing where permitted. The park’s proximity to the river also contributes to its appeal as a quiet place to pause rather than a destination that requires detailed trip planning.

Alexander Stewart Provincial Park does not have campgrounds or overnight facilities and is best suited to day use. Its location near Burnstown makes it easy to combine a park visit with nearby attractions or community stops. The park emphasizes simple access to nature and low-impact recreation, appealing to visitors looking for a brief outdoor experience rather than a remote or backcountry setting.

General Information

Location

Alexander Stewart Provincial Park is located near the village of Burnstown in Renfrew County, Ontario. The park is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient destination for day trips from nearby towns and cities.

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Camping

Alexander Stewart Provincial Park is a day-use park, meaning that it does not offer overnight camping or extensive facilities such as picnic areas, restrooms, or playgrounds. Camping is not permitted within the park boundaries. However, visitors will find a peaceful and well-maintained environment that’s perfect for a day of outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Facilities & Recreation

Alexander Stewart Provincial Park is a minimally developed wilderness park that offers a quiet, low-impact outdoor experience. There are no formal facilities, maintained trails, or designated campsites, so visitors should be prepared to be fully self-sufficient. The park is best suited to experienced outdoor users who are comfortable navigating undeveloped terrain and practicing responsible backcountry travel.

Water-based recreation plays a central role in the park. Alexander Lake, Crooked Lake, and nearby ponds provide calm settings for canoeing and kayaking, with informal shoreline access points used to launch small watercraft. Boating is limited to non-motorized or small craft, making the area well suited for peaceful paddling and shoreline exploration. Fishing is permitted in the park’s lakes and ponds, with anglers likely to encounter species typical of Northern Ontario waters, depending on conditions and season.

Day-use activities include hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. While there are no marked hiking trails, old roads and informal paths allow visitors to explore forests, wetlands, and shoreline areas at their own pace. Wildlife viewing opportunities vary throughout the year, and the park’s undeveloped setting encourages quiet observation and minimal disturbance.

Backcountry camping is permitted, although there are no designated tenting areas or amenities. Campers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and may remain in one location for up to 21 days. Hunting is allowed in accordance with provincial regulations, and hunters should ensure they hold the appropriate licences and are familiar with current rules. Pets are permitted but must be kept under control at all times to protect wildlife and other visitors.

In winter, the park remains accessible for experienced users interested in snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. As with all seasons, visitors should plan carefully, as there are no maintained access points, facilities, or services within the park.

Nearby Parks

Nearby Attractions

Bittersweet Fine Craft & Art: Explore a curated collection of fine crafts and artworks from over 50 Canadian artists, including jewelry, paintings, pottery, and textiles, at this charming gallery nestled in Burnstown.

Neat Coffee Shop: Enjoy wood-fired pizza, freshly brewed coffee, and live music performances at this vibrant café known for hosting notable artists in an intimate setting.

Café Laurent: Indulge in homemade ice cream and specialty coffees at this delightful café, offering a variety of flavors and a cozy outdoor seating area perfect for relaxing.

Burnstown Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of the Madawaska River at this well-maintained beach, featuring clear waters, picnic areas, and equipment rentals for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Blackbird Café: Savor a diverse menu of delicious dishes, from grilled veggie wraps to maple chipotle salmon, in a rustic setting that captures the essence of Burnstown’s welcoming community.

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