Ontario Provincial Parks

Bon Echo Provincial Park is a large destination park located near Cloyne in eastern Ontario. The park is best known for Mazinaw Rock, a steep cliff rising directly from the shoreline of Mazinaw Lake, and for the lake itself, which forms the centre of most recreational activity. The park combines protected natural landscapes with developed facilities that support both day use and overnight stays.

Mazinaw Lake is one of the deepest lakes in Ontario and plays a central role in how visitors experience the park. Canoeing and kayaking routes run along the base of Mazinaw Rock, allowing close shoreline access, while designated areas support swimming and casual boating. The rock face also contains a significant collection of Indigenous pictographs, which are viewed from the water and protected as part of the park’s cultural landscape.

Bon Echo Provincial Park includes a maintained trail system that ranges from short walks to longer hikes. Trails pass through forested terrain, wetlands, and elevated areas, with one route leading to the top of Mazinaw Rock for views over the lake and surrounding region. These trails are clearly marked and managed for regular visitor use rather than backcountry travel.

Camping options at Bon Echo include front-country campsites, interior sites, and roofed accommodations. Visitor services such as a campground office, interpretive programs, and designated day-use areas support high seasonal visitation. Bon Echo Provincial Park is well suited to visitors looking for a structured park experience that combines lake-based recreation, hiking, and cultural interpretation within a managed setting.

General Information

Location

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Camping

Bon Echo Provincial Park offers a diverse range of camping experiences amidst its stunning natural beauty. From the towering Mazinaw Rock adorned with Indigenous pictographs to the serene waters of Mazinaw Lake, the park caters to campers of all preferences.

Car Camping

The park features two main campgrounds: Mazinaw Lake and Hardwood Hill. Mazinaw Lake Campground comprises three loops—Sawmill Bay, Midway, and Fairway—accommodating everything from tents to large trailers, with many sites offering electrical hookups. Amenities such as water taps, comfort stations, and laundry facilities are conveniently located nearby. For those seeking a quieter experience, the Midway loop and Hardwood Hill Campground are designated as radio-free zones. Additionally, Sawmill Bay offers five walk-in campsites situated right on Mazinaw Lake, providing a more secluded atmosphere.

Backcountry Camping

For adventurers seeking a more rugged experience, Bon Echo offers backcountry camping along the Abes and Essens hiking trail. This 17 km trail features five campsites strategically located around its three loops, each situated on one of the three interior lakes. These sites provide a secluded retreat amidst the park’s pristine wilderness.

Group Camping

Bon Echo also accommodates larger gatherings with group camping options. These sites are equipped with necessary amenities and are located in proximity to the park’s main attractions, making them ideal for family reunions or group outings.

Roofed Accommodation

For those who prefer a roof over their heads, the park offers rustic cabins and yurts. These accommodations provide a comfortable alternative to traditional camping, complete with essential amenities to enhance your stay.

Beyond camping, Bon Echo Provincial Park boasts a variety of activities, including hiking trails ranging from 1 km to 17 km, boating, swimming, and educational programs at the Visitor Centre. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, Bon Echo provides a memorable experience for all.

Facilities & Recreation

Bon Echo Provincial Park is a fully operating park best known for the dramatic cliffs of Mazinaw Rock and its rich cultural and natural history. The park maintains controlled access and offers a wide range of amenities for both day visitors and overnight campers. Accessible facilities are available throughout the park, helping ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the campgrounds, beaches, and main activity areas.

Camping at Bon Echo is well supported and suits a variety of preferences. Visitors will find tent and trailer sites, group camping areas, and roofed accommodations such as cabins and yurts. Comfort stations are equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities, and potable drinking water. RV users have access to a dumping station, and firewood and ice are available for purchase within the park. A park store provides basic supplies, snacks, and souvenirs for added convenience.

Water-based recreation centres on Mazinaw Lake, a long, deep lake bordered by the towering face of Mazinaw Rock. A boat launch provides easy access for boating, while canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals allow visitors to explore the shoreline at a relaxed pace. Paddling along the base of Mazinaw Rock offers a close-up view of the towering cliff and its Indigenous pictographs, one of the park’s most memorable experiences. Swimming is popular at the park’s three natural sand beaches—Main Beach, South Beach, and North Beach—each offering designated swimming areas in a scenic setting.

Bon Echo also offers a range of hiking opportunities. Trails vary from short, easy walks such as the Bon Echo Creek Trail to more demanding routes like the Cliff Top Trail, which rewards hikers with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding forest. Picnic areas with tables are located throughout the park, making it easy for day-use visitors to enjoy meals close to beaches and trailheads. A playground provides a fun space for children near the main camping areas.

Fishing is another popular activity, with Mazinaw Lake and surrounding waters supporting species such as lake trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, yellow pickerel, lake whitefish, and northern pike. Anglers must hold a valid Ontario fishing licence and follow provincial regulations. Pets are welcome in the park when kept on a leash, although they are restricted from certain areas such as designated swimming beaches.

While the park does not operate full services during winter, the area remains attractive in the off-season. Visitors may enjoy activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on selected trails, depending on conditions. With its striking landscape, strong visitor facilities, and mix of cultural and outdoor experiences, Bon Echo Provincial Park offers a well-rounded destination for both short visits and extended stays.

Nearby Parks

Nearby Attractions

Mazinaw Rock: A striking 100-meter-high cliff adorned with over 260 Indigenous pictographs, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient artistry and the opportunity to explore its base by canoe or kayak.

Walt Whitman Monument: An engraved tribute to the famed American poet, nestled within the park, reflecting the area’s rich cultural history.

Kashwakamak Lake: A serene lake located southeast of Bon Echo Provincial Park, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxation amidst picturesque surroundings.

Joeperry Lake: Situated within Bon Echo Provincial Park, this tranquil lake is ideal for canoeing and fishing, providing a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.

Helpful Links

The Friends of Bon Echo Park

Park Blog