Camping Your Way Around Algonquin Park: A Nine-Day Adventure with a Pop-Up Camper
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Three Campgrounds, Nine Days, Endless Adventure in Ontario's Wild Wonderland
If you're a snowmobiler from Ontario, you may be familiar with the RAP tour, which stands for Round Around Algonquin Park tour. Inspired by this winter adventure, we have created a summer version that replaces the snow and sleds with warm summer nights and a pop-up camper. This nine-day camping trip in Algonquin Park promises to showcase what makes the park a world-famous destination: breathtaking landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and a peaceful escape from everyday life.
Our itinerary takes you to three distinct campgrounds in Algonquin: Kiosk, Achray, and Lake of Two Rivers. Each location allows plenty of time to explore its unique offerings.
While our choice of accommodations is our pop-up camper, this itinerary is equally doable and enjoyable whether you're in an RV, travel trailer, camping in your car, or favouring a tent.
Let's go...
Day 1–3: Kiosk Campground
Starting Your Journey in Toronto
From Toronto, we travel 400 kilometres north along Hyw 400, 11, and 17 toward Algonquin Park's quieter Kiosk Campground. Along the way, there are many charming small towns just off the main route, with the city of Huntsville being your last opportunity to resupply. Kiosk is located in the northwest corner of Algonquin Park and is accessible via a 30-kilometre stretch of Hyw 630, with the last kilometre or so being gravel.
We loved our stay at this tiny campground, which has only 24 campsites, a beautiful lake, and peaceful surroundings. With no cell service to distract us, we swam, paddled, and enjoyed spectacular sunsets and evenings by the fire.
Kiosk Campground, Algonquin Park
Kiosk Campground need to Know
Operating Dates
Kiosk Campground is open from the last Friday in April to late October.
Location
From Highway 17, 17.6 kilometres west of Mattawa, Ontario, follow Highway 630 (paved) south for 30.4 kilometres to the Kiosk Campground on the north shore of Kioshkokwi Lake.
Latitude/Longitude: 46.08944°, -78.877863°
Features & Amenities
24 campsites
Good site seclusion
Flush toilets
Beach
Public telephone
30.4 km paved road to campground
Boat motors permitted (see restrictions)
Kiosk Ranger Cabin (within the campground)
Local Outfitter
Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitter
We offer canoe and kayak rentals, plus total or partial outfitting services, near Kioshkokwi Lake Access Point (#29), Kiosk Campground, and the Mattawa River. Canoe, kayak, paddleboard, motorboat, and equipment rentals available. Ask about our food, guide, and shuttle services.
16 Highway 630, Mattawa, Ontario P0H 1V0
Phone: (705) 744-3265
Toll-free: (877) 544-3544
http://www.algonquinnorth.com
canoe@algonquinnorth.com
Activities at Kiosk
1. Hiking on the Old Railway Trail
This trail's gentle, level terrain makes it ideal for a leisurely hike to soak up the northern Algonquin landscape. Watch for beavers, otters, and possibly even a moose in the nearby marshlands.
2. Paddling on Kioshkokwi Lake
Kioshkokwi Lake offers beautiful, calm waters for paddling, with lush forests and rocky shores. Bring your canoe or rent one to explore the bays and inlets, where wildlife like loons and bald eagles are often spotted.
3. Fishing and Birdwatching
The lake is also a popular northern pike and smallmouth bass fishing spot. If fishing isn't your thing, enjoy the abundant birdlife in the area, from eagles to woodpeckers, making it an excellent location for birdwatchers.
4. Stargazing at Kiosk
With little light pollution, the Kiosk Campground has an ideal night sky for stargazing. On a clear night, the sky is filled with stars; you might even glimpse the northern lights if conditions are right.
5. Cycling
There are no official bike trails here. However, we enjoyed cycling along the park roads and longer rides along Hwy 630.
Near By Attractions
The nearby Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area, located along the Amable du Fond River, offers hiking opportunities in a gorge with great views of rapids and waterfalls.
Day 4–6: Achray Campground
Traveling from Kiosk to Achray
After enjoying the Kiosk, it's time to head toward Achray Campground, located on the shores of Grand Lake. This scenic drive takes you along Highway 17 between the northern reaches of Algonquin Park and the Ottawa River. The hilly ride offers spectacular views of the rugged landscape. Be sure to resupply in Pembroke before heading into the park. About 50 kilometers of the road approaching the campground is gravel.
The additional effort required to get here is rewarded with lovely campsites and a quiet, relaxing setting. The shallow lake and sandy beach provide excellent swimming and paddling. There is no official spot where dogs can play, but the short Jack Pine Hiking Trail takes you to the edge of the campground and a great beach where people go with dogs.
Barron Canyon is the highlight of this segment of Algonquin Park. Whether you hike it or paddle it, it will definitely leave an impression.
Achray Campground, Algonquin Park
Need to know
Operating Dates
Achray Campground is open from mid-May to late October.
Location
On the Highway 17 bypass 3.5 km west of Forest Lea Road (approximately 9 km west of Pembroke, Ontario), turn south on County Road 26 (Doran Road). Travel 300 metres, then turn right onto County Road 28 (Barron Canyon Road) and travel 26 km (on pavement, then gravel) to the Sand Lake Gate (where you obtain permits and information) at the Park boundary. At a point 19.2 km west of Sand Lake Gate (where you bought your permit), turn left and proceed 4.8 km to the access point and Achray Campground on the southeast tip of Grand Lake.
Latitude/Longitude: 45.867255°, -77.757028°
Features & Amenities
45 campsites
Radio-free zone
Dog-free zone
No generators permitted
Good site seclusion
Recreational vehicle (RV) campsites
Flush toilets
Beach
50 km gravel road to campground
Boat launch ramp
Boat motors permitted with restrictions
Yurt
Campground Office
Achray Theatre
Achray Historic Site Exhibit
Outside Interpretive Exhibit
Picnic area
Local Outfitter
Algonquin Bound Outfitters - Barron Canyon
Barron Canyon Road, Petawawa, Ontario K8H 2E6
Phone: (613) 637-5508
Toll-free: (800) 704-4537
http://www.algonquinbound.com
info@algonquinbound.com
Barron Canyon, Algonquin Park
Activities at Achray
1. Hiking the Barron Canyon Trail
This short yet stunning hike takes you along the rim of Barron Canyon, offering breathtaking views from high above the river below. The rugged landscape is quintessential Algonquin, and the vistas make for unforgettable photos.
2. Paddling the Barron Canyon
Paddle down the Barron River, passing between towering canyon walls that create a surreal atmosphere. This paddling route is one of Algonquin's most dramatic, making it a must-do for canoeing or kayaking enthusiasts.
3. High Falls Adventure
A short paddle or hike from Achray leads to High Falls, a scenic spot for swimming and picnicking. With a natural rock slide and sunny ledges perfect for lounging, High Falls is a fun day trip for cooling off and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
4. Swimming and Relaxing at Grand Lake Beach
Grand Lake's calm waters and sandy beach at Achray Campground are ideal for swimming or just unwinding. The scenic backdrop of the lake and surrounding forests provides a tranquil setting for a laid-back afternoon.
Day 7–9: Lake of Two Rivers Campground
Final Stop: Lake of Two Rivers Campground
The last leg of your journey takes you to Lake of Two Rivers, located at the heart of Algonquin Park. This area is bustling with activities and offers easy access to popular trails, rentals, and amenities.
After 24 hours of rain, our drive out of Achray Campground was a bit squishy, and the car and trailer were coated with grey mud! Once back on the pavement, the three-hour drive takes you through some lovely countryside of rolling farmland forests and lakes.
Compared to the solitude of Kiosk and Achray campgrounds, Lake of Two Rivers is a lively carnival teeming with excitement. The beach is full of people, and canoes and kayaks line the shoreline and can be seen bobbing out on the lake.
The lake was our main attraction, so we paddled over to the island for an afternoon of swimming and lounging on the rocks. I tried unsuccessfully at fishing, but the sunset paddles were spectacular.
The energy of a bustling campground is infectious, and we had a good time. Well, except for the sleep thing, that contagious energy can continue well into the night.
Lake of Two Rivers campground, Algonquin Park
En Route Stop: Wilno Tavern, Wilno
At about the halfway point, the Wilno Tavern is a must-visit. Known for its Polish heritage and delicious homemade fare, Wilno Tavern is the place to try pierogi, schnitzel, or Polish sausage. The tavern's rustic ambiance provides a warm, welcoming break on the road.
Resupply at Barry's Bay
Barry's Bay is your only chance to resupply with several options for groceries and outdoor supplies before heading back into the park:
Barry's Bay Outfitters is a well-stocked outdoor shop for extra camping gear or fishing supplies.
Your Independent Grocer: Great for restocking fresh food, snacks, and beverages for the days ahead.
Resupply & Bike Rentals at Lake of Two Rivers
Lake of Two Rivers Store: The campground's general store is stocked with essentials like groceries, ice, and camping supplies.
Bike Rentals at Lake of Two Rivers Store: Rent bikes right at the campground to explore the nearby Old Railway Bike Trail.
Operating Dates
Lake of Two Rivers Campground is open from mid-May until late October.
Location
The Lake of Two Rivers Campground is at km 31.8 of Highway 60.
Latitude/Longitude: 45.579433°, -78.502354°
Features & Amenities
241 campsites (wheelchair accessible)
Recreational vehicle (RV) campsites
Low site seclusion
Electrical sites
Flush toilets (wheelchair accessible)
Showers (wheelchair accessible)
Laundry facilities
Beach
Store
Boat motors permitted with restrictions
Local Outfitter
Algonquin Outfitters - Canoe Lake Store
Access Point #5, Canoe Lake (km 14 of Highway 60), Algonquin Park, Ontario
Phone: (705) 633-5235
Toll-free: (800) 993-5253
http://www.canoelakestore.com/
canoelakestore@algonquinoutfitters.com
Algonquin Outfitters - Lake Opeongo
Access Point #11, Lake Opeongo, Algonquin Park, Ontario
Phone: (613) 637-2075
Toll-free: (888) 280-8886
https://www.algonquinoutfitters.com
info@algonquinoutfitters.com
Opeongo Outfitters
29902 Highway 60, Whitney, Ontario K0J 2M0
Phone: (613) 637-5470
Toll-free: (800) 8790-1864
https://www.opeongooutfitters.com
info@opeongooutfitters.com
Activities at Lake of Two Rivers
1. Hiking the Centennial Ridges Trail
This trail is challenging but rewarding, with lookout points offering expansive views of Algonquin's lakes and forests. The Centennial Ridges Trail provides some of the park's best vistas, making it a fitting way to wrap up your adventure.
2. Biking the Old Railway Bike Trail
This 16 km scenic route is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. It follows an abandoned railway line through forests, marshlands, and rivers. The Lake of Two Rivers Store offers bike rentals.
This ride is delightful. The trail's railbed design means the only challenge is no hills, just a few rocks and potentially muddy sections.
3. Canoeing on Lake of Two Rivers
The lake offers peaceful paddling and several scenic coves and shorelines to explore. Along the way, watch for turtles, beavers, and a variety of birds, adding a touch of wildlife to your paddling adventure.
4. Visiting the Algonquin Logging Museum and Visitor Centre
A short drive from Lake of Two Rivers, the Algonquin Logging Museum offers a walk-through experience of the region's logging history, with dioramas and interactive exhibits. The Algonquin Visitor Centre is also nearby, featuring educational displays on the park's ecology and a lookout with sweeping views of Algonquin's wilderness.
5. Sunset or sunrise out on the lake
Watching the sun rise or set over a calm glass lake is magic.
This nine-day tour of Algonquin Park from Kiosk to Achray to Lake of Two Rivers offers a well-rounded experience of Ontario's most iconic wilderness. Along the way, towns like Mattawa, Wilno, Barry's Bay, and Whitney provide unique stops for delicious meals, supplies, and local culture.
With ample opportunities for hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, this journey is both rejuvenating and packed with adventure. As you wrap up your trip and head back to Toronto, you'll carry memories of Algonquin's diverse beauty, a deeper connection to nature, and the knowledge that Ontario's wild heart is always ready to welcome you back.
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