Located just 40 minutes from Canada’s capital in the Ottawa Valley, Fitzroy Provincial Park is a peaceful escape into nature waiting to be explored.
Located in the serene setting of Fitzroy Harbour, just along the Ottawa River, this park offers a unique mix of nature and heritage, making it a top pick for both day trippers and weekend campers.
A Walk Through Time: The Majestic White Pine
One of the park’s most captivating features is its 100-year-old white pines. These towering trees, the provincial tree of Ontario, were once used to make masts for British Royal Navy ships during colonial times. Walking through the wooded areas of Fitzroy, you’ll find yourself surrounded by these majestic pines, standing tall and proud as they have for centuries.
Nature’s Wonders: Waterfalls and Shale Pillars
As you hike the trails, you’ll pass glistening waterfalls and shale pillars that stand as testaments to the erosive power of water. The fields are strewn with erratic, massive boulders left by glaciers, offering a glimpse into the park’s glacial past. By the river’s edge, shale terraces and pillars reveal an even mightier waterway, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Wildlife and Scenic Views
Fitzroy Provincial Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Among the century-old white pines and a stand of 300-year-old bur oak by the Carp River, Ontario Parks says you can spot kildeer, goldfinches, flickers, and white-tailed deer. The park is also home to over 120 documented species of birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
Recreational Activities
Set along the Ottawa River and divided by the Carp River, Fitzroy features campsites with sweeping waterfront views. The park is home to two inviting beaches, ideal for both relaxation and recreation. The larger Main Beach, located in the day-use area, offers canoe and kayak rentals, beach volleyball, and a playground for the kids. Camper’s Beach, a quieter spot reserved for those staying in the Two Rivers Campground, features calmer, shallower waters that are perfect for younger swimmers.
Hiking Trails and Fishing
Fitzroy has two hiking trails that are a must-see. The Carp Trail is a one-kilometre loop that follows the Carp River through a mature mixed forest, featuring a boardwalk and ample birding opportunities. The Terrace Trail, slightly longer at two kilometres, takes you on a geological journey past massive boulders and shale pillars. In the spring and early summer months, you’ll also skirt the edge of a beautiful waterfall.
Fishing is a favourite pastime along the Ottawa River, where anglers can cast for a variety of species, including walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, pike, and panfish. A convenient boat launch within the park accommodates small fishing boats, canoes, and kayaks, making it easy to hit the water for a peaceful day of casting and reeling.
Camping at Fitzroy Provincial Park
Fitzroy Provincial Park is not just a day-trip destination; it’s also perfect for camping. The park offers over 200 campsites spread across two campgrounds: Pine Grove and Two Rivers. Many of these campsites are waterfront, located along the Carp and Ottawa Rivers that bisect the park. Both campgrounds offer a selection of electrical sites and are equipped with amenities such as water taps, comfort stations, and laundry facilities centrally located for convenience.
For families with small children, Two Rivers Campground features a small beach that provides a safe and enjoyable swimming area.
For larger groups, Fitzroy has six expansive group campsites that can accommodate between 50 and 100 visitors, making them ideal for youth groups and family gatherings. These sites are equipped with vault toilets and water taps, ensuring a comfortable camping experience for all.
A Perfect Escape
Fitzroy Provincial Park is the perfect retreat for anyone looking to connect with nature, whether you're new to camping or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast. With its fascinating history, scenic landscapes, and wide range of activities, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone.
So why wait? Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and come uncover one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets at Fitzroy Provincial Park.
