Ontario Provincial Parks

Driftwood Provincial Park is an operating provincial park located near the community of Stonecliffe in eastern Ontario, along the north shore of the Ottawa River. The park is known for its elevated viewpoints, riverfront setting, and mixed forest landscape, offering visitors a well-serviced camping and day-use destination within the Ottawa Valley.

The park’s setting along the Ottawa River provides broad views across the water toward the Laurentian Hills. Forested slopes, rocky outcrops, and mature pine and hardwood stands shape the terrain, creating a varied landscape that supports both recreational use and wildlife habitat. The river plays a central role in the park’s character, influencing scenery, recreation, and local ecosystems.

Driftwood Provincial Park offers maintained campgrounds with sites suitable for tents and trailers, along with comfort stations, picnic areas, and beach access. The park includes a small sandy swimming area and designated day-use spaces, making it suitable for short visits as well as overnight stays. The Ottawa River also supports activities such as fishing and paddling, subject to local conditions and regulations.

Several maintained trails allow visitors to explore the park’s forested uplands and river viewpoints. These trails vary in length and difficulty and provide opportunities for nature observation, photography, and quiet walks through the park’s natural setting. Wildlife commonly associated with river corridors and mixed forest environments may be present.

Driftwood Provincial Park is well suited to visitors looking for a serviced campground and day-use park with scenic river views. It offers a balance between natural surroundings and accessible facilities, making it a practical option for families, campers, and travelers exploring the Ottawa River corridor.

General Information

Location

Driftwood Provincial Park is conveniently situated near Stonecliffe, offering a picturesque escape for both locals and visitors. The park provides easy access to the enchanting Driftwood River, promising a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature’s embrace.

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Camping

Driftwood Provincial Park offers a scenic and tranquil camping experience perfect for nature lovers and families. The park is known for its peaceful riverside setting, panoramic views of the Laurentian Mountains, and opportunities for paddling, hiking, and stargazing. With well-maintained facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a popular stop for campers traveling along Highway 17 or seeking a quiet getaway in northeastern Ontario.

Car Camping

Driftwood offers two main campgrounds—Brumm and Pine Grove—both of which cater to car camping. Sites vary in size and privacy, with options for both electrical and non-electrical setups. Many campsites are located along the shoreline, offering beautiful views and easy access to the water. Comfort stations with showers, flush toilets, and laundry are centrally located for convenience.

Brumm Campground

Brumm Campground is the larger of the two loops and includes a mix of electrical and non-electrical sites. It’s close to the park’s boat launch and day-use beach, making it ideal for families and paddlers. Several sites back onto the river, providing gorgeous views and a cool breeze in the summer months.

Pine Grove Campground

Pine Grove is a quieter loop, with non-electrical sites tucked into a more wooded setting. This area is perfect for tent campers looking for shade, tranquility, and a more rustic feel, while still being close to the water and trails.

Group Camping

Driftwood does not offer designated group camping areas, but adjacent sites can often be booked for small group gatherings. It’s recommended to call ahead or book early through Ontario Parks’ reservation system during the summer season.

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Facilities & Recreation

Accessible facilities include barrier-free comfort stations with accessible washrooms near the upper parking area, making the park welcoming for visitors with mobility needs.

A boat launch is available, providing easy access to the Ottawa River for canoes, kayaks, and small motorboats.
Boating is popular, with calm waters well suited for paddling, fishing, and relaxed cruising along the shoreline and nearby bays.

Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park office, making it easy to explore the river without bringing your own equipment.
Canoeing and kayaking are especially enjoyable in McConnell Bay and along quieter stretches of the Ottawa River.

Controlled access is in place, with a staffed gatehouse and designated vehicle access hours to maintain a safe and peaceful environment.

Day-use areas include picnic tables, grassy spaces, and a beach area, making the park ideal for short visits, family outings, and riverside relaxation.

Drinking water is available at treated potable water taps throughout the campground and near comfort stations.
A dumping station is provided for RVs and trailers, including water refill access.

Firewood is sold on-site at the park office and store.
Fishing opportunities on the Ottawa River include Northern Pike, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, and panfish, with additional trout species found in nearby lakes.

Flush toilets and hot showers are available in the main comfort stations near the Hilltop and Ottawa campgrounds.
Vault (pit) toilets are also located in more remote areas near trails and outlying campsites.

Group camping is available at two reservable group sites, offering more privacy for larger gatherings such as family reunions or youth groups.

Hiking trails include the Oak Highland Trail and the Chevrier Creek Trails, both offering forested terrain and scenic views overlooking the Ottawa River.

Ice is available for purchase at the park store, and coin-operated laundry facilities are located near the comfort stations for longer stays.

Pets are permitted and must be kept on a leash. A designated pet exercise area allows dogs more freedom under control.

Picnic areas are spread throughout the park, particularly near the beach and day-use zones.
A playground near the day-use area provides a safe and fun space for children.

Propane is not sold on-site, so campers should plan accordingly.
Pull-thru RV sites are available in the Brumm Campground, suitable for larger rigs.

Swimming is available at a sandy beach along the Ottawa River. There is no lifeguard on duty, but the shallow shoreline makes it a popular spot for families.

Tenting options include both serviced and unserviced sites, with several waterfront campsites offering excellent river views.

Winter use is not officially supported. The park is closed to regular winter operations, but experienced visitors may access the area for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at their own risk.

Nearby Attractions

Canadian Clock Museum: Located in Deep River, this museum showcases a vast collection of Canadian-made clocks, offering insights into the country’s horological history.

CFB Petawawa Military Museum: Situated in Petawawa, this museum provides a comprehensive look into the history of one of Canada’s primary military bases, featuring exhibits on military artifacts and local heritage.

Valley Artisans: Found in Deep River, this cooperative gallery displays and sells works from local artists and craftspeople, ranging from paintings to handcrafted jewelry.

Nearby Parks

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