Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Todd McCarthy was in Picton on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, to make what will surely be a welcome announcement for campers across the province and beyond.
The Ontario government is investing nearly $60 million to expand camping opportunities at provincial parks, adding up to 300 new campsites and upgrading 800 sites with electrical service.
“This upgrade marks a major milestone for Ontario Parks — the most significant expansion of camping opportunities in 50 years,” McCarthy said in a statement.
“More people than ever before are looking to vacation in Ontario and across Canada to support their local communities. With hundreds of new and upgraded campsites, we’re giving more people the opportunity to support local businesses and jobs while camping at Ontario Parks and making memories to last a lifetime.”
The upgrades are expected to roll out over the next three years. New campsites are planned for Driftwood, MacGregor Point, Bon Echo, and Killarney provincial parks, with more locations to follow.
Campsites at Sandbanks, Arrowhead, and Bon Echo Provincial Parks will be upgraded with electrical service, with additional parks to be announced later. Sandbanks, which draws about 750,000 visitors each year, will see up to 73 sites electrified by summer 2026. According to the province, parks were selected based on project readiness, cost-effectiveness, and visitor demand. A full list of additional locations is expected at a later date.
“With its beautiful beaches and wooded campgrounds, Sandbanks Provincial Park attracts visitors who contribute to our local Bay of Quinte economy and help sustain good jobs in Prince Edward County,” said Bay of Quinte MPP Tyler Allsopp.
“By investing in the upgrade and electrification of its inventory of campsites, our government is ensuring it will remain a popular and competitive destination for years to come.”
Prince Edward County Mayor Steve Ferguson said Sandbanks is central to the region’s tourism appeal.
“With its expansive sandy beaches, unique sand dune formations, and extensive hiking trails, it’s easy to see why Sandbanks Provincial Park is one of the most popular natural destinations in Ontario. Sandbanks is a true gem in our community, helping make Prince Edward County a top tourist destination. We are pleased to see the province investing in Sandbanks to ensure the many visitors have an experience that they will want to relive year after year,” said Ferguson.
Environmental organizations also welcomed the expansion.
“At Earth Rangers, our mission is to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards — and there’s no better place for kids to build a lifelong love for nature than in Ontario Parks,” said Tovah Barocas, president of Earth Rangers, in a statement.
“We’re thrilled to see the province making it easier for families to enjoy the outdoors, while also ensuring our parks remain resilient and accessible for future generations.”
The government said demand for camping at Ontario Parks has grown sharply in the past decade, with many sites at full capacity during peak seasons.