Ontario Provincial Parks

McRae Point Provincial Park is located near Orillia, Ontario, along the eastern shoreline of Lake Simcoe. The park protects a small but well-defined area of shoreline, forest, and wetland within a heavily used recreational lake system in south-central Ontario.

As an operating provincial park, McRae Point provides both campground and day-use facilities. Lake Simcoe is the park’s central feature, supporting activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing within designated areas. The shoreline includes sandy and gently sloping sections, while inland areas contain mixed forest and wetland habitat typical of the region.

A short trail system passes through forested and low-lying areas, allowing access for walking and nature observation. These habitats support common bird species and small wildlife associated with Lake Simcoe’s shoreline environments. The park’s compact layout allows visitors to reach key features without extensive travel within the site.

McRae Point Provincial Park is managed to provide accessible outdoor recreation while protecting a representative section of Lake Simcoe’s natural shoreline. Its primary role is to support camping and day use in a maintained setting that balances recreational access with environmental protection.

General Information

Location

McRae Point Provincial Park is conveniently situated near Orillia, Ontario, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.

Latitude: 49.6583346 Longitude: -89.40982199

Camping

McRae Point Provincial Park offers a delightful camping experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The park features two main campgrounds—North Campground and South Campground—each catering to different camping preferences.

North Campground

Ideal for RV and car camping, North Campground provides spacious pull-through sites equipped with electrical hookups, accommodating large trailers and motorhomes. The area is open with scattered trees offering partial shade, fostering a communal atmosphere perfect for group gatherings. Proximity to the beach and day-use area adds to its appeal for those seeking easy access to Lake Simcoe’s inviting waters.

South Campground

For campers seeking a more secluded experience, South Campground offers both electrical and non-electrical sites nestled among mature trees, providing enhanced privacy and shade. While some sites may have uneven terrain, careful selection ensures a comfortable setup for tent camping and smaller RVs.

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Facilities & Recreation

McRae Point Provincial Park is a popular, operating park on the eastern shore of Lake Simcoe, well suited to families, campers, and day visitors looking for easy lake access and modern amenities. A staffed entrance operates during the season to help manage visitor use and provide assistance, contributing to a relaxed and well-organized park experience.

Water-based recreation is a major highlight of the park. Visitors have convenient access to Lake Simcoe for boating, fishing, and paddling, with a nearby boat launch serving recreational boats and anglers. Canoeing and kayaking are great ways to explore the shoreline from the park, while fishing opportunities include popular Lake Simcoe species such as perch, lake trout, and bass.

Day-use visitors can enjoy a designated area that includes picnic tables, open green space, and access to a sandy swimming beach along the lake. The beach provides a refreshing place to swim during the summer months, and nearby amenities make it easy to spend a full day relaxing by the water. A children’s playground near the day-use area adds to the park’s family-friendly atmosphere.

Camping facilities at McRae Point Provincial Park are designed for comfort and accessibility. Campsites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, with both electrical and non-electrical options available. Accessible campsites, barrier-free comfort stations, treated drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers, and an RV dumping station support convenient overnight stays.

Additional amenities include on-site firewood and ice sales, a park store offering snacks, camping supplies, and souvenirs, and multiple washroom options including pit toilets throughout the campground. Pets are welcome when kept under control, with a designated pet exercise area and a pet-friendly beach section available so visitors can enjoy the park with their dogs.

Nearby Attractions

Stephen Leacock Museum: Explore the historic summer home of renowned Canadian humorist Stephen Leacock, offering guided tours and insights into his life and literary contributions.

Orillia Opera House: Experience a variety of live performances, including theater productions, concerts, and community events, in this historic venue known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere.

Casino Rama Resort: Enjoy gaming, live entertainment, and diverse dining options at this expansive casino resort, which hosts international artists and offers a range of amenities for a complete entertainment experience.

The OPP Museum: Delve into the history of the Ontario Provincial Police through engaging exhibits and artifacts that showcase the evolution of law enforcement in the province.

Mnjikaning Fish Weirs National Historic Site: Discover ancient wooden fishing weirs used by Indigenous peoples for over 5,000 years, located at the narrows between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, highlighting the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Nearby Parks

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