Algonquin Backpackers Hostel

Algonquin State Provincial Park

Last year we stayed at Canisbay Lake site #91 and this year at Mew Lake Site #104. While both sites were fine, Canisbay offers more seclusion than that of Mew Lake. Mew Lake, unfortunately, has a tendency to get grown over with weeds (makes for poor fishing and canoeing) and is not as attractive as other lakes. However, there are many campsites right on the water at Mew Lake and an early morning view over the water is wonderful.
Those of you who wish to be a little more secluded, an interior site may be for you. There are numerous sites that are not too difficult to get to. Then there are those that will have to portage your canoe. We have stopped by several sites that were vacant to have a look. There are several things you should keep in mind when camping at an interior site.
1. Black bears may be a bit more common. Meaning, you have to hang your food (as well as-trash, toothpastes or any perfumed products) out of the reach of bears or your week’s worth of rations may become a midnight snack to a hungry bear. Food should be kept 10 feet off the ground and at least 6.5 feet from the trunk of the tree
2. Do NOT take food with you inside your tent. Tents may keep the rain and wind out but for a hungry critter, they are no match.
3. Bears are not the only animals to watch out for. Though cute, raccoons, squirrels and chipmunks (to name a few) will find their way into supplies that are left out.
4. Cans and bottles are prohibited in the interior. All trash that can not be burned must be backed back out.
5. Facilities are very primitive.

Unique Quality: There are several places to stay in the Algonquin area. You can find motels and lodges from Huntsville all along Route 60 and into the park. However, if you’re coming to visit the park and you plan on being here for several days, camping is the best way to go. Whether you are planning on staying at one of the 11 Car campsites or a more remote interior site, the experience is much more rewarding. Below are the current camping fees as of 2006.
Camping Fees - includes entrance to the Park, access to all trails, museums, beaches, picnic grounds, and facilities

Car Camping (per night)
Maximum 6 people per site With electricity $33.00*
Canisbay Lake, Mew Lake, Lake of Two Rivers, Kearney Lake, Pog Lake, Rock Lake $28.00*
Achray $26.50*
Coon Lake, Tea Lake, Brent, and Kiosk $24.00*
Additional Vehicle $10.00*
Yurt Rental (at Mew Lake and Achray campgrounds) per night $70.00
Interior Camping (per person)
maximum of 9 people per site Age 6 - 17 inclusive $4.25/night*
Age 18 + $9.00/night*
(* Ontario Seniors discount by 20% and Ontario persons with disabilities discount by 50%)
Remember, if you are only coming for the day, there is a Day use fee. This fee is included in any camping site in the park.
Day Use Fees:

Includes entrance to the Park, access to all trails, museums, beaches, picnic grounds, and facilities.
Daily Vehicle Permit $12/vehicle/day* - All access points but those noted below.
$10.00/vehicle/day* - Basin Lake, Bisset Creek Road, Brain Lake, Kiosk, Sand Lake Gate, Wendigo Gate
Bus Permit $80/bus/day*
Ont. School Group Bus Permit $40/bus/day
(* Ontario Seniors discount by 20% and Ontario persons with disabilities discount by 50%)

• Opinion of Price: about average
• Related to: Hiking and Walking, Camping, Sailing and Boating

Algonquin Backpackers Hostel Photo: Wilderness Privy

---

Was this Algonquin Backpackers Hostel review helpful?