Ontario Provincial Parks

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Mnidoo Mnissing Provincial Park is a non-operating provincial park located on Manitoulin Island near Elliott Lake, Ontario. The park protects approximately 3,400 hectares of shoreline, forest, and inland terrain along the North Channel of Lake Huron. Its name reflects both colonial and Indigenous history, with Mnidoo Mnissing meaning “Spirit Island” in Anishinaabemowin, a long-used Indigenous name for Manitoulin Island.

The park’s landscape includes rocky Lake Huron shoreline, mixed forests, wetlands, and limestone-based ecosystems characteristic of Manitoulin Island. Of particular ecological importance are alvar communities—flat, thin-soiled limestone areas that support specialized and often rare plant species. These habitats, along with forest and shoreline environments, provide important areas for birds, mammals, and other wildlife native to the Great Lakes region.

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Mnidoo Mnissing Provincial Park has no developed facilities, maintained trails, or designated campsites. Recreation is limited to low-impact activities such as paddling, shoreline travel, wildlife observation, and backcountry exploration. Access is generally by water, and the park is intended for experienced visitors who are prepared to travel and camp without services while respecting the area’s ecological sensitivity and cultural significance.

The park is managed primarily for conservation, helping protect both the natural systems of Manitoulin Island and landscapes of long-standing importance to Indigenous communities.

General Information

Location

Latitude: 49.758122 Longitude: -92.653490

Facilities & Recreation

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Mnidoo Mnissing Provincial Park is a remote, non-operating wilderness park defined by a network of interconnected lakes and waterways. Boating is permitted throughout the park and provides access to many of its quiet, undeveloped areas. Canoeing and kayaking are especially well suited to the landscape, with flatwater routes that support peaceful backcountry travel and extended paddling trips.

The park operates without staffed facilities or controlled access points, and all visits require a self-sufficient approach. Day-use activities such as paddling, fishing, and nature exploration are possible, but there are no developed amenities or services. Visitors should plan carefully for remote conditions and limited support.

Fishing opportunities are found across the park’s lakes and rivers, with anglers commonly targeting walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Hunting is permitted during Ontario’s designated hunting seasons and must follow all provincial regulations. These activities reflect the park’s traditional wilderness use and low-impact recreation focus.

There are no maintained hiking trails, but experienced visitors may explore on foot along portage routes and natural corridors. Primitive backcountry camping is permitted at non-designated sites, and visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles. Pets are allowed when kept under control, and during winter months, skilled adventurers may access the park for snowshoeing or backcountry winter camping, as there are no groomed trails or facilities.

Nearby Attractions

Vidal Bay Forests and Shoreline: Adjacent to the park, this expansive protected area features coastal cliffs, undeveloped Lake Huron shoreline, inland lakes, wetlands, intact forests, and globally rare alvars, offering opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and experiencing diverse ecosystems.

South Baymouth Museum: Located in the village of South Baymouth, this museum showcases the maritime history of Manitoulin Island, featuring exhibits on local shipping, fishing, and ferry services.

Perivale Gallery: Situated in Spring Bay, this gallery exhibits contemporary Canadian art, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry, highlighting the talents of local and national artists.

Cup and Saucer Trail: Located near M’Chigeeng, this popular hiking trail offers panoramic views from one of the highest points on Manitoulin Island, featuring dramatic cliffs and diverse flora along the route.

Nearby Parks

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