8 Days in Ontario: Yours to Discover - RV Trip

This RV adventure through Ontario blends scenic trails, sandy beaches, ferry rides, and charming towns. Each day offers something new—whether it’s paddling along a river, hiking through rugged landscapes, or enjoying a peaceful night under the stars.

Day 1 – Pick up your RV and Albion Hills Trails

Kick off your trip by picking up your RV and stocking up on essentials—groceries, snacks, and camping supplies—before heading out. Starting your journey well-prepared will make the days ahead smoother and more enjoyable.
Once ready, make your first stop at Albion Hills Conservation Area. Stretch your legs on the Albion Hills Trail, a moderate 12 km loop through forest and rolling hills. It’s the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of outdoor living and spend your first night surrounded by nature.

Day 2 – Saugeen Beach & Ferry to Manitoulin Island

Leave early and make your way north. Stop at Saugeen (Sauble) Beach, one of Ontario’s most famous sandy shores. Swim, relax, or grab a casual bite in town. Just outside the beach area, visit Sauble Falls—a smaller cascade where you can explore the rocks and take in the rushing water.
By the afternoon, continue to Tobermory to catch the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry to Manitoulin Island. The ride across Lake Huron is a highlight in itself.

Insider Tip: Book your ferry ticket well in advance. RV spots fill quickly, especially in peak summer months.

Once on the island, find a campground close to South Baymouth or Mindemoya to settle in for the evening.

Day 3 – Manitoulin Island: Trails, Waterfalls & Dark Skies

Manitoulin offers a mix of hiking, scenic stops, and cultural charm.

Macleans Mountain Lookout

A panoramic view of the island.

Cup and Saucer Trail

A must-do hike (5 km, moderate) with dramatic cliffs and sweeping vistas.

Bridal Veil Falls

A magical waterfall that feels like something out of another country. You can even walk behind the cascade for a different perspective.

In the evening, enjoy one of Manitoulin’s unique treasures: it’s part of a Dark Sky Preserve, meaning the night sky is brilliantly clear. On a cloudless night, the stars stretch endlessly above you.
Find a campground close to Whitefish Falls or along the North Channel.

Day 4 - Sudbury Stopover

Head east toward Sudbury for a mix of city conveniences, outdoor trails, and a little treasure hunting along the way.

Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

Choose from short, easy strolls to longer loops with lakeside views.

Thibeault Trail

A quick, family-friendly walk if you’re short on time.

Antique & Vintage Shops

The Sudbury region and nearby small towns are dotted with antique stores and quirky thrift shops. Poking around is half the fun—you never know what unique pieces, rustic décor, or local collectibles you might find. It’s a nice change of pace after a few days of hiking and driving.
Find a campground close to French River for a peaceful evening surrounded by lakes and forest.

Insider Tip: Plan to combine your antique browsing with a grocery or supply stop—it’s easy to fit both into your Sudbury detour.

Day 5 – Killarney & Scenic Trails

Spend the day immersed in the wild beauty of Killarney Provincial Park, one of Ontario’s crown jewels. Known for its pink granite ridges, white quartzite cliffs, and sapphire-blue lakes, it feels like stepping into a Group of Seven painting.

Granite Ridge Trail

A short loop (2.6 km) with sweeping views of the La Cloche Mountains.

Cranberry Bog Trail

An easy 3.5 km trail winding past wetlands, granite ridges, and peaceful forests.

The Crack Trail

If you have more time, Killarney is home to longer, iconic hikes like The Crack Trail, which rewards you with jaw-dropping views from a rocky summit.

Find a campground close to French River for the night and relax under the stars.

Insider Tip: If you plan your trip in August, you may be treated to the Perseid meteor shower. Killarney’s dark skies make it one of the best places in Ontario to watch meteors streak across the night sky.

Day 6 – French River & Grundy Lake

Head south along Highway 69 and make some classic northern Ontario stops.

French River Trading Post

A nostalgic stop for snacks and souvenirs.

Grundy Lake Provincial Park

Explore short trails like Gut Lake (3.2 km), Swan Lake (1.9 km), or Beaver Dam (2.7 km), each showcasing wetlands, forests, and wildlife.

Find a campground close to Parry Sound and enjoy a quiet evening by the lake.

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for loons and beavers—Grundy Lake is a great place to spot them.

Day 7 – Orillia & Lake Simcoe Beaches

Head south toward Lake Simcoe. Along the way, stop in Orillia to explore the downtown shops or grab lunch. Once you reach Hawkestone, spend the afternoon at Bayview Memorial Park, a sandy beach perfect for swimming, picnics, and relaxing by the water.
Find a campground close to Hawkestone or Orillia for your final night on the road.

Insider Tip: The sunsets over Lake Simcoe are incredible—plan to stay at the beach until evening if the weather is clear.

Day 8 – Travel Home

Time to pack up and make your way back home. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at camp before hitting the road.
Leave a little extra time for the drive—you may want to stop at a farmers’ market or small town along the way for a last taste of cottage country.

Final Thoughts

This Ontario road trip blends the best of the province—beaches, waterfalls, ferries, wilderness parks, and charming towns. With highlights like Sauble Beach, Manitoulin Island, Killarney, and French River, you’ll experience Ontario’s natural beauty at every turn. And by pacing your days with a mix of active hikes and restful evenings, you’ll return home refreshed and full of memories.