10 Reasons to RV Northern Ontario This Season
Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means we will earn a commission on the products or services you purchase using the links. There is no additional cost to you, and the earnings help keep this website running.
Epic Road Trips, Stunning Scenery, and the Freedom to Explore
Northern Ontario should be at the top of your list if you're looking for the ultimate road trip destination. With its vast wilderness, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming small towns, this region offers some of Canada's best RV travel experiences. Whether you’re chasing adventure, seeking solitude, or looking for the best campgrounds with full hookups, RVing in Northern Ontario has something for everyone.
From scenic drives along the Lake Superior coastline to incredible wildlife encounters and some of the best stargazing spots in the country, here are 10 reasons you should RV Northern Ontario this season.
The stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa is considered one of the best drives in Canada. While we agree with that designation, many other drives throughout the north will leave a lasting impression. There is Highway 11 as it travels north among old-growth stands of pines; Highway 6 north of Manitoulin Island snakes its way between the white quartz walls of Lacloche Mountains, and Highway 129 twists between water and rock in the remote wilderness of northern Ontario.
1. Scenic Drives Like No Other
One of the biggest reasons to RV Northern Ontario is the sheer beauty of the roads you’ll travel. Picture yourself cruising along the Trans-Canada Highway, with the deep blues of Lake Superior on one side and towering forests on the other. Here are some of the best scenic routes for RV travelers:
Lake Superior Circle Tour – A bucket-list drive offering dramatic coastal views, historic sites, and pristine beaches.
Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway) – Runs from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay, passing iconic spots like Old Woman Bay and Aguasabon Falls.
Manitoulin Island Route – Accessible by ferry from Tobermory, this scenic drive takes you through the world’s largest freshwater island.
With well-maintained roads, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of RV-friendly stops, Northern Ontario is a dream for road trippers.
National parks, provincial parks, and numerous private RV campgrounds make discovering that unforgettable spot easy. Some of our favourites are beachside camping at Providence Bay Tent & Trailer Park on Manitoulin Island, the magical setting at Agawa Bay Campground in Lake Superior Provincial Park, Wawa RV Resort, and anywhere in Algonquin Park. However, we do favor Kiosk and Achray.
2. Incredible Provincial Parks & Campgrounds
Northern Ontario is home to some of Canada’s best provincial parks, many offering RV-friendly campsites with electric and water hookups. You'll find it here whether you’re looking for a lakeside retreat or a base for outdoor adventures.
Killarney Provincial Park - Famous for its pink granite cliffs and crystal-clear lakes.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park – Offers breathtaking hiking trails and stunning views of Lake Superior.
Lake Superior Provincial Park – Perfect for beach lovers and paddlers.
Nagagamisis Provincial Park – A hidden gem for those seeking peace and quiet.
These parks offer camping and access to hiking, paddling, and fishing, making them perfect for an extended RV stay.
Spend any time touring northern Ontario, and you will surely see a variety of wildlife. We have encountered bears, moose, deer, coyotes, and wolves. We have lost count of the bald eagle sightings and, at one point, had to stop the RV on the Trans-Canada Highway west of Wawa to let a bear cross right in front of us. Of course, the camera is never ready when driving, so I only have this snapshot of a family of Mergansers in Algonquin Park.
3. Wildlife Encounters in Their Natural Habitat
Northern Ontario is one of the best places in Canada to see wildlife in its natural habitat. From moose grazing near the roadside to black bears foraging in the forests, nature surrounds you. Some of the top wildlife viewing opportunities include:
Moose watching along Highway 144 and in Algonquin Park.
Bald eagles are spotted along Lake Superior’s rugged coast.
Bear sightings in remote areas (from a safe distance!).
Beaver lodges and otter families along quiet waterways.
For photographers and nature lovers, RVing through this region offers endless opportunities to witness Canada’s incredible Canada's
Experience some of Ontario’s best mountain bike trails in Sault Ste. Marie, fish in the world-renowned St. Mary River, paddle hundreds, if not thousands of lakes, or hike to the top of the Sleeping Giant. So much to do, so little time.
4. Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures
Adventure seekers will love the range of activities Northern Ontario has to offer. Whether you’re an avid paddler, hiker, or cyclist, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.
Hiking the Top of the Giant Trail in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Kayaking or canoeing in Killarney, Lake Superior, or the French River.
Fishing in some of Canada’s best freshwater lakes.
Biking on scenic gravel roads and rail trails.
With so much untouched wilderness, Northern Ontario is an outdoor paradise for RV travellers who love to explore beyond their campsite.
Whether you enjoy the RV resort atmosphere at Serpent River Campground or the privacy of Northern Ontario Park, there is a place for you.
5. Remote and Secluded Camping Options
If you love the idea of escaping the crowds and finding a peaceful spot to camp, Northern Ontario is the perfect place. In addition to provincial parks, you can enjoy:
Crown Land Camping – Free or low-cost camping in designated areas.
Private Campgrounds – Offering quiet, well-maintained sites in scenic locations.
Boondocking Opportunities – Plenty of off-grid camping spots for self-sufficient RVers.
Many areas provide lakefront sites, meaning you can wake up to the sound of loons calling and enjoy complete tranquillity.
Despite spending countless nights in Northern Ontario, we have yet to experience the spectacle of the Northern Lights. For now, we have to settle for the belief that the chase is better than the catch :)
6. The Northern Lights & Starry Skies
One of the biggest perks of RVing in Northern Ontario is seeing the Northern Lights. Thanks to low light pollution, some of the best stargazing spots in Canada are found here.
Best places to see the aurora borealis:
Pukaskwa National Park
Chapleau Crown Game Preserve
Quetico Provincial Park
Manitoulin Island
If you've never witnessed the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, this is your chance!
Discover Northern Ontario's rich history of Indigenous and local culture.
7. Local Culture & Indigenous Heritage
Northern Ontario is rich in history, and many communities offer experiences that connect you to the region’s Indigenous and settler past. Must-visit cultural sites include:
The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre (Sault Ste. Marie).
The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (Manitoulin Island).
Fort William Historical Park (Thunder Bay).
These locations provide a deeper understanding of the land and its people, adding meaning to your RV journey.
Our favourite thing about RVing in northern Ontario is discovering a balance between nature and civilization. We enjoy spending days immersed in the simplicity of a remote camping spot and the hospitality and energy of vibrant northern communities like Little Current on Manitoulin Island.
8. Small-Town Charm & Local Eateries
One of the best parts of RV travel is discovering small towns with great food and friendly locals. Some must-stop spots include:
Wawa – Home of the famous Wawa Goose and great local bakeries.
Thunder Bay – Don’t miss the iconic Persian pastries.
Kenora – Fantastic waterfront dining and craft breweries.
Providence Bay (Manitoulin Island) – Known for its fresh fish and chips.
Supporting local businesses makes your trip more enjoyable while helping small-town economies thrive.
Travelling by RV allows you to set your own pace and savour every moment of the journey.
9. Affordable Travel Compared to Other Destinations
RVing in Northern Ontario is a budget-friendly way to travel. Here’s how you can save money:
Camp for free on Crown Land.
Take advantage of low-cost provincial park passes.
Enjoy free outdoor attractions like waterfalls and hiking trails.
Stock up on groceries and cook in your RV to save on dining.
Compared to expensive resorts or international trips, an RV road trip in Northern Ontario gives you incredible experiences without breaking the bank.
Discover the beauty of Northern Ontario... Highway 129… Algoma
10. The Freedom of the Open Road
Finally, RVing in Northern Ontario gives you the ultimate travel freedom. Want to stay an extra night by a secluded lake? No problem. Found a cozy campground you love? Extend your stay.
There’s nothing quite like the flexibility of RV travel, where the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
Northern Ontario is an RV traveler’s dream, offering stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or planning your first big trip, this region should be on your bucket list.
So, pack up your RV, hit the road, and explore Northern Ontario this season!
Do you have a favorite RV spot in the region?
Please share it in the comments below!
