Ontario Provincial Parks

Fitzroy Provincial Park is an operating provincial park located near the community of Fitzroy Harbour, northwest of Ottawa, Ontario. Situated along the Ottawa River and near the mouth of the Carp River, the park protects a scenic riverside landscape that combines mature forests, shoreline habitats, and significant geological features.

One of the park’s defining characteristics is its extensive river frontage along the Ottawa River, where visitors can access sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters suitable for swimming and shoreline activities. The river is also popular for fishing, with species such as bass, pike, and walleye commonly found in deeper channels and rocky areas. The nearby Carp River rapids add visual interest and contribute to the park’s natural character.

Fitzroy Provincial Park is known for its limestone terraces, which were formed by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago. These geological features are a focal point of the park’s trail system, particularly along the Terraces Trail, which passes through forested areas dominated by oak, maple, and pine. The park’s woodlands support a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species, making it a suitable location for wildlife observation and nature photography.

The park offers a full-service campground with campsites for tents and trailers, picnic areas, playgrounds, and comfort stations with showers. Interpretive programs are offered seasonally, providing information on the park’s natural history, geology, and river ecosystems. Day-use facilities are also available, making the park accessible for short visits as well as overnight stays.

Fitzroy Provincial Park provides a balanced outdoor experience that combines recreational opportunities with educational and natural features. Its riverside setting, geological significance, and family-oriented facilities make it a well-rounded destination for visitors looking to explore eastern Ontario’s natural landscapes.

General Information

Location

Fitzroy Provincial Park is conveniently located near Fitzroy Harbor in eastern Ontario. The park’s accessibility makes it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far from major urban centers. The park is easily accessible by car, making it a feasible weekend getaway or an extended vacation spot.

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Camping

Fitzroy Provincial Park offers a delightful camping experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park features over 200 spacious campsites spread across two main campgrounds—Pine Grove and Two Rivers—accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs.

Group Camping

For larger gatherings, Fitzroy Provincial Park provides group camping facilities in a separate area designed to accommodate multiple tents and trailers. These sites offer a communal camping experience amidst the park’s lush, forested landscape.

Pine Grove Campground

Pine Grove Campground, the larger of the two, boasts 135 sites known for their generous size and privacy. Many of these sites are equipped with electrical hookups and are conveniently located near the park store and office. Some sites even offer picturesque views of the Carp River, providing a serene backdrop for your camping experience.

Two Rivers Campground

Two Rivers Campground offers 100 sites, many with electrical hookups, and is situated closer to the park’s two sandy beaches and day-use areas. This proximity makes it an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy swimming and picnicking by the water.

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Facilities & Recreation

Fitzroy Provincial Park has a balanced mix of camping, day use, and outdoor recreation in a relaxed riverside setting.

The park provides a large day-use area with grassy open spaces, picnic tables, shelters, and a sandy swimming beach along the Ottawa River. While there are no lifeguards on duty, the designated swimming area is popular with families during the summer months. A nearby playground makes the day-use area especially appealing for visitors with children.

Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are popular activities at Fitzroy. A boat launch provides easy access to the Ottawa River for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Calm stretches of the river and sheltered backwaters create ideal conditions for relaxed paddling, fishing outings, and sightseeing on the water.

Anglers can fish the Ottawa River for species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye, following Ontario fishing regulations. The river’s varied shoreline and current patterns offer productive fishing opportunities throughout the season.

Fitzroy features two hiking trails that highlight the park’s natural character. The Terraces Trail is a 2 km loop that explores impressive glacial landforms along the riverbank, while the Carp Trail follows the Carp River through a quiet, forested landscape well suited to casual walks and wildlife viewing.

The campground includes over 200 campsites, with both electrical and non-electrical options available. Sites are spacious, shaded, and well-suited for tent camping, trailers, and RVs. Group camping areas are also available, accommodating larger gatherings such as school groups, scouts, and family reunions.

Visitor comfort is supported by a full range of services, including:

• Accessible facilities, such as barrier-free campsites, comfort stations, and parking areas
• Flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water taps throughout the park
• A dumping station for RVs and trailers
• A park store selling firewood, ice, snacks, camping supplies, and Ontario Parks merchandise

Pets are permitted and must be kept on a leash at all times. A designated pet-friendly beach allows dogs to cool off safely away from the main swimming area.

Outside the main season, Fitzroy remains open for winter day use, offering quiet opportunities for snowshoeing and hiking in a peaceful riverside environment.

Nearby Attractions

Morris Island Conservation Area: Located adjacent to Fitzroy Harbour, this conservation area offers scenic trails through wetlands and forests, making it ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

Penny’s Fudge Factory: A local confectionery shop renowned for its delicious homemade fudge and other sweet treats, offering visitors a delightful taste of local flavors.

Saunders Farm: Situated a short drive away, this family-friendly farm features hedge mazes, a splash pad, a pirate ship, live shows, and hay rides, providing entertainment for all ages.

Diefenbunker Museum: Located just outside of Carp Village, this underground bunker turned museum offers a unique glimpse into Canada’s Cold War history, with exhibits detailing espionage and emergency preparedness.

Nearby Parks

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