Killarney Provincial Park
Killarney Provincial Park
4.5
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Ashley K
Niagara Falls, Canada31 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We visited George Lake Campground at Killarney Provincial Park for May 24 weekend in 2024. The staff are welcoming and helpful, check in was a breeze and the park itself has a lot to offer. We met up with friends staying at a different site close by, walked down to the lake and enjoyed watching several water snakes go by while hikers and other campers/day trippers enjoyed the area. We didn’t feel it was overly busy at the lake and had the space we desired to enjoy swimming and relaxing. Our campsite was clean, spacious and had two picnic tables and a fire pit with attached grill. Hardwood was for sale for $10/bag and kindling for $7.50/bag. Bring an axe, the hardwood needs to be cut down a bit. Lots of Killarney merch in the store.
A few negatives, we found the sites rather close together (we were in 129) so not a lot of privacy. The bugs were bad which is obviously not the park’s fault, it didn’t help that the area between sites was a bit swampy/wet which attracted more blackflies than I’d imagine some drier years would have. The cleanliness of the bathrooms (comfort stations) was not good and we all felt they needed more attention, on a high traffic weekend a full clean more than once or twice a day would be necessary. Being that it was a bit wet, the mud tracked a lot and some of the toilets/sinks needed repair. Also showers were not open which we originally expected they’d be. I had asked the day ahead of time so I knew this, but many did not. I don’t think they told some of the campers when they arrived because I encountered some people arriving to the comfort station ready for showers and confused/disappointed when they weren’t available.
All in all, I think we would come back in later summer or fall when the bug population tends to be lower. There are a lot of hikes and a big lake available for outdoor activities and that’s something I want to enjoy more of at this park.
A few negatives, we found the sites rather close together (we were in 129) so not a lot of privacy. The bugs were bad which is obviously not the park’s fault, it didn’t help that the area between sites was a bit swampy/wet which attracted more blackflies than I’d imagine some drier years would have. The cleanliness of the bathrooms (comfort stations) was not good and we all felt they needed more attention, on a high traffic weekend a full clean more than once or twice a day would be necessary. Being that it was a bit wet, the mud tracked a lot and some of the toilets/sinks needed repair. Also showers were not open which we originally expected they’d be. I had asked the day ahead of time so I knew this, but many did not. I don’t think they told some of the campers when they arrived because I encountered some people arriving to the comfort station ready for showers and confused/disappointed when they weren’t available.
All in all, I think we would come back in later summer or fall when the bug population tends to be lower. There are a lot of hikes and a big lake available for outdoor activities and that’s something I want to enjoy more of at this park.
Written May 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonathan W
Sydney, Australia448 contributions
Sept 2021
On this occasion I decided to stick to hiking (no canoeing).
I did three of the hikes - The Crack, the Chikanishing Trail and the Granite Ridge Trail. I did these all in one day because of time constraints, which was pushing it a bit. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do two of them in a day, if you are inclined to do so. As advertised by the Provincial Park, there is some steep rock scrambling at the end of the Crack.
My favorite hikes were the Crack and the Chikanishing which have stunning scenery. The Granite Ridge is also a beautiful hike but, in my opinion, not as spectacular as the other two.
If you are planning on head out early in the morning then I recommend that you purchase your Provincial Park entry permit the previous day, as the office at the visitor center only opens at 8.30am.
I did three of the hikes - The Crack, the Chikanishing Trail and the Granite Ridge Trail. I did these all in one day because of time constraints, which was pushing it a bit. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do two of them in a day, if you are inclined to do so. As advertised by the Provincial Park, there is some steep rock scrambling at the end of the Crack.
My favorite hikes were the Crack and the Chikanishing which have stunning scenery. The Granite Ridge is also a beautiful hike but, in my opinion, not as spectacular as the other two.
If you are planning on head out early in the morning then I recommend that you purchase your Provincial Park entry permit the previous day, as the office at the visitor center only opens at 8.30am.
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kim B
5 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
We had a great time visiting Killarney PP. It has awesome scenery and nice hikes. There were only a couple negatives for me but this is just my opinion.
1. Dump/Filling station heading into area - sign is literally at the entrance, easy to miss it. Filling hose has terrible pressure so it took so long we only filled half tank which took 25mins. Dumping area was fine.
2. Gravel road ( hwy 637) was awful, no one slows down, which results in spitting up rocks at vehicles behind and even if we tried to drive slow we just got passed over and over again. I knew it was under construction as it was on the park alert however, we cant adjust to others driving habits.
3. Speed limit in the park is NOT followed. people speeding up and down the road to the comfort station or exit all day long, no regard for others walking and worse at night in the dark night.
Its a nice park, i would go again, I would pick a site off out of the main road area if possible.
1. Dump/Filling station heading into area - sign is literally at the entrance, easy to miss it. Filling hose has terrible pressure so it took so long we only filled half tank which took 25mins. Dumping area was fine.
2. Gravel road ( hwy 637) was awful, no one slows down, which results in spitting up rocks at vehicles behind and even if we tried to drive slow we just got passed over and over again. I knew it was under construction as it was on the park alert however, we cant adjust to others driving habits.
3. Speed limit in the park is NOT followed. people speeding up and down the road to the comfort station or exit all day long, no regard for others walking and worse at night in the dark night.
Its a nice park, i would go again, I would pick a site off out of the main road area if possible.
Written September 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jennifer G
Whitby, Canada145 contributions
Aug 2020
Our family of 5 (parents and 3 teens) stayed in cabin #137. We've only camped in tents before and having a cabin was LUXURY! Since we were in the middle of a pandemic, there were some things that the cabin would normally have, but didn't. However, there was a mini fridge and that was fantastic. No running water but we had electricity and there was a ceiling fan. Lots of windows to open, although the screens weren't the greatest.
We hiked The Crack which is a MUST! It is difficult in parts while your scrambling over tumbled rocks, but so worth the view at the end. Bring water, snacks, a camera and bug spray. Many hiking trails are packed these days because of covid (it's a "safe" vacation option), but this one wasn't. No worries about social distancing.
There is one comfort station (not including the washrooms at the camp office) but they were cleaned regularly and well-stocked with soap. 3 people allowed in at a time and this was never a problem. The beaches weren't crowded either (we were there on the Civic Holiday weekend in August) and there's a great spot where you can jump off "cliffs" about 25' high if you walk past sites 51/56 and down to the water you'll find them.
We decided to wait until we got there to rent a canoe to see what the weather would be like, but that was a bad idea on a long weekend. Killarney Outfitters (5 km outside the park) was completely sold out with a giant waiting list. Rent these in advance! We tried some fishing from the shore but only caught little ones. A beautiful snapping turtle lives under/around the dock (near the main beach). Definitely worth popping by for a visit.
We hiked The Crack which is a MUST! It is difficult in parts while your scrambling over tumbled rocks, but so worth the view at the end. Bring water, snacks, a camera and bug spray. Many hiking trails are packed these days because of covid (it's a "safe" vacation option), but this one wasn't. No worries about social distancing.
There is one comfort station (not including the washrooms at the camp office) but they were cleaned regularly and well-stocked with soap. 3 people allowed in at a time and this was never a problem. The beaches weren't crowded either (we were there on the Civic Holiday weekend in August) and there's a great spot where you can jump off "cliffs" about 25' high if you walk past sites 51/56 and down to the water you'll find them.
We decided to wait until we got there to rent a canoe to see what the weather would be like, but that was a bad idea on a long weekend. Killarney Outfitters (5 km outside the park) was completely sold out with a giant waiting list. Rent these in advance! We tried some fishing from the shore but only caught little ones. A beautiful snapping turtle lives under/around the dock (near the main beach). Definitely worth popping by for a visit.
Written August 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lucie Cross
1 contribution
Oct 2021 • Couples
Terrible staff. Got stopped multiple times by frowning staff for petty issues such as walking speed (which was normal). Called in for a campsite cancellation, which was agreed through phone. My husband, who has an accent, went in to check out and they treated him in a racist manner. He was told that a refund was not avaliable for him and they took advantage of his politeness and lack of english. When he came back and told me this, I was quite disgusted. If you check the website there is no past 12 pm no refund policy. I went inside and the old woman treated me fairly better as I speak English at the native level. She and another male staff member went back and forth trying to come up with excuses for the lack of refund such as "the computer does not allow any refunds" and a cheque refund request form. This explanation was not offered to my husband when he went there by himself. I held my ground and finally they relinquished and refunded him. Through out the process, the staff was rude and passive aggressive, avoidant, and racist. Will not be returning as I cannot stand discrimination of any sort.
Written October 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Doulamel
Clinton, Canada222 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Our first trip to Killarney, it is absolutely breathtaking!! The lakes and trails were stunning, our campsite was nice but right across from the parking lot so lots of traffic and noise which was disappointing but I was so happy to even have gotten a site. Next time I would avoid those sites 1-6 if at all possible. Was really hoping there would be monitoring of noise levels at night but we never saw anyone patrolling. There was a phone number you could call but we didn’t ever call, just put the earplugs in and tried to sleep. Would love to try one of the interior sites right on George Lake someday to get a better feel of the peace and quiet.
We go to Algonquin all the time and love it there, I have to say that they scenery at Killarney was a step above Algonquin. The trails were too, but we missed having the use of free guidebooks and the clear maps they provide at Algonquin.
We hope to return to Killarney again someday if we can get in. Visiting in the fall is on my bucket list once my kids are all grown and finished school, I’m sure it’s incredible and would love to visit when it’s not the busy season.
We go to Algonquin all the time and love it there, I have to say that they scenery at Killarney was a step above Algonquin. The trails were too, but we missed having the use of free guidebooks and the clear maps they provide at Algonquin.
We hope to return to Killarney again someday if we can get in. Visiting in the fall is on my bucket list once my kids are all grown and finished school, I’m sure it’s incredible and would love to visit when it’s not the busy season.
Written August 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
YCai
Toronto, Canada7 contributions
Oct 2022
It's secluded corner on the eastern bank of Georgian Bay.
It IS beautiful!
Granite Ridge Trail you can get to a lookout for the entire Georgian Bay. You will have to hike a bit!
There's a lookout (I forgot the name) on your way to Killarney Visitor Centre, for which you have to reserve a parking and it's very popular.
No washroom, no cellphone, no gas station along Hwy 637. So plan accordingly!!
It IS beautiful!
Granite Ridge Trail you can get to a lookout for the entire Georgian Bay. You will have to hike a bit!
There's a lookout (I forgot the name) on your way to Killarney Visitor Centre, for which you have to reserve a parking and it's very popular.
No washroom, no cellphone, no gas station along Hwy 637. So plan accordingly!!
Written February 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nakkawita L. Seneviratne
Toronto, Canada14 contributions
Jun 2022
We got lost while taking the Chickanashing Trail and requested help from the park staff and it was promptly responded by them and sent two Park Rangers named James and Jacob to guide us back on the trail. They were very helpful to us. It is a fairly difficult trail but is very beautiful. The park office staff is not very helpful and so you have to be prepared with maps and trail details and ask questions for any details especially for the first time visitors like us. Certain sections of Hwy 637 is full of pot holes and is under repair when we visited on June 03, 2022. There are bugs and mosquitoes and be prepared with the repellents. Avoid rainy days.
Written June 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wigsy
Hamilton, Canada606 contributions
Sept 2020
Spectacular park. We spent the day canoeing on George Lake, the beautiful scenery the peace and quiet(no motor boats) was amazing. The mountains are like no other in Ontario. I would highly recommend a trip to this park we will definitely be returning.
Written September 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kdt282
Pickering, Canada39 contributions
Aug 2021
This is my favourite provincial park with the best hiking trails and canoeing in southern Ontario. The reason for the poor review is that we had the worst experience ever in a campground. We had noisy neighbours for all 5 nights that we were there. One group actually was quiet until 1 or 2 in the morning when they would become very noisy and wake us all up. Our friend called the park warden but we never heard him come to speak to them.
The comfort station was closed and they said it would be 6 to 8 weeks before it would be fixed. That left numerous outhouses which were in various states of disrepair. One had two toilets but no lock on the door. This was reported at the beginning of our stay and it was never fixed. The outhouse closest to us was out of toilet paper in the late afternoon so we reported it at the office. It was not refilled until the next day. I feel that we pay a fair amount for camping and the least that they can do is have clean, well stocked toilets.
I will be back but will have to wait for a year when it is less busy and we can get backcountry sites.
The comfort station was closed and they said it would be 6 to 8 weeks before it would be fixed. That left numerous outhouses which were in various states of disrepair. One had two toilets but no lock on the door. This was reported at the beginning of our stay and it was never fixed. The outhouse closest to us was out of toilet paper in the late afternoon so we reported it at the office. It was not refilled until the next day. I feel that we pay a fair amount for camping and the least that they can do is have clean, well stocked toilets.
I will be back but will have to wait for a year when it is less busy and we can get backcountry sites.
Written September 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cubo_p_B
Atlanta, Georgia
Typically, which month do the tree leaves begin to turn colors and how cold are the days and nights at that time?
Written January 26, 2025
Hello there, are there sites at Killarney that accomadate a 27 foot trailer. Thank you.
Written September 29, 2021
sorry we did not book any sites at the park, just went in for the day to hike. You can try emailing/calling the park office
Written September 30, 2021
Stephanie S
Toronto, Canada
Hi there, I would love to know everyone's favourite campsite (Drive-up & Back Country) at Killarney and why. Please provide photos as well, if you have any. Thank you!
Written March 9, 2021
Hi, i was there for the drive up and was fortunate to get campsite 10 in George Lake A.
I liked it since it was right across from George Lake and good place for sunset/sunrise. Furthermore, it was right across from the entrance of the back country trail, which made it even better.
Written March 30, 2021
Does anyone know of a company that is able to deliver a pop-up trailer/camper then pick up; for those who would prefer this to pitching a tent?
Written April 1, 2020
Hi folks,
Wondering if anyone has stayed on site 13 or 14 at the George Lake Campground and can give an opinion re privacy, spaciousness. Going with family this summer: fingers crossed we can all get out again and enjoy our great provincial parks by then...
Written April 1, 2020
Hi, I want to plan a road trip from the lower East Coast of the US through Ontario. If my friends and I plan to stay for less than a day trip in this park, what trails should we take? I see pictures of high spots that would be a wonderful experience. Also, what should we know beforehand about the wildlife?
Thank you
Written March 30, 2020
The Crack Trail is a must do. I would set out in the morning, to give yourself ample time to enjoy the trail. Definitely wear a backpack so that you can have both hands free. Also wear gloves, there is a lot of scrambling over sharp rocks. Don't forget your water and snacks.
Written March 31, 2020
Hello Karen154980,
Sounds like you had a great time. We're planning to go there in the winter and wondered if you could answer a few questions.
- How far is it from the parking lot to the Yurts?
- Is the comfort station open? (Showers)
- Is there a sled you can borrow to bring your gear in from the parking lot to the yurts?
- Is there potable water?
Thanks so much,
Dean
Written August 25, 2019
Tourist
Toronto, Canada
Hello, Need your opinion please.
We are a family of 5 & planning to drive from Toronto for a night stay.
For now, I have to decide either Bon Echo park Or Killarney national park. Kindly suggest which one if below are my main requirements.
-Should be Scenic full of lakes/mountains, etc....
-For a night stay, should be plenty of such natural places to see & take pictures...I love scenic pictures..
-Boating rides..
thanks in advance
Written July 26, 2019
We loved our brief stay. Chikanishing trail is our favorite because it's beautiful the whole way and has a good swimming spot. You can rent canoes down the road. We also stayed at Killarney lodge for $110 a night. Simple double bed, shared bathroom room. You have canoes and paddle boards included in the stay.
Written July 27, 2019
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