Ontario holds some of the largest contiguous wilderness areas left in eastern North America. From the whitewater rivers of the Ottawa Valley to the quartzite ridges of Killarney, from the old-growth pines of Temagami to the 30,000 islands of Georgian Bay, this province rewards those willing to leave the road behind. These are places where you can paddle for days without seeing another party, where wolves still howl at dusk, and where the Canadian Shield drops into water so clear you can count rocks three metres down.
We have organized these destinations by region. Each guide covers access points, route options, permit requirements, and the practical details you need to plan a real trip. Whether you are looking for a weekend paddle or a two-week expedition, start here.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Over 7,600 square kilometres of lakes, rivers, and forest. Ontario's most iconic backcountry canoe destination with more than 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometres of paddling routes.
Ottawa Valley Wilderness
The Ottawa, Petawawa, and Bonnechere rivers carve through Shield country. Crown land camping, world-class whitewater, and deep forest that stretches to the horizon.
The Petawawa River
One of Ontario's legendary river trips. From its headwaters deep in Algonquin Park to the Ottawa River, the Petawawa delivers whitewater, history, and remote wilderness camping.
Madawaska River Valley
Whitewater paddling from Class I to III, flatwater touring on deep valley lakes, and crown land camping through the heart of the Highlands. The Madawaska has range.
Renfrew County
Ontario's largest county by area, with vast tracts of crown land, four major river systems, and small towns that serve as gateways to genuine backcountry.
Georgian Bay
The world's largest freshwater archipelago. Kayak the eastern shore's 30,000 islands, explore the French River corridor, and camp on wind-polished granite.
Temagami
Old-growth white pine, week-long canoe routes, and genuine solitude. Temagami is where experienced paddlers go when Algonquin starts feeling crowded.
Muskoka & Kawartha Highlands
Closer to the GTA but still wild. Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Haliburton Forest, and the Muskoka River system offer rewarding trips for every skill level.
Killarney Provincial Park
White quartzite ridges, turquoise lakes, and the 78-kilometre La Cloche Silhouette Trail. Killarney is widely considered Ontario's most visually stunning park.
Planning Your Trip
Each destination guide includes specific access points, route suggestions, permit details, and seasonal considerations. For broader trip planning resources, see our backcountry trip planning guide and gear checklist. If you are new to wilderness travel in Ontario, our paddling fundamentals and bear awareness pages will help you prepare for what the bush actually demands.