When you're looking for a lazy summer experience with some paddling on the side, portage free camping is the perfect option. Portage free camping on the French River is perfect, because you will be able to follow in the footsteps of the voyageurs. By day, you can paddle the beautiful river, enjoying the majestic views and taking in the peace and tranquility it has to offer. At the end of the day, paddle straight into a backcountry campsite in the French River Provincial Park - you don't even have to reserve your spot!
Hartley Bay offers kayak and canoe rentals (must be booked in advance) for your convenience, and you can obtain a camping permit on arrival or on the Ontario Parks website.
Why Portage Free Camping?
Unless you are a hardcore fitness buff with strong arms and back, you may not be keen on carrying your heavy canoe across long distances to reach your campsite - after a day of paddling. That's alright!
Hartley Bay Marina makes it easy for the whole family or groups of all ages to join Canada's canoe culture, without breaking too much of a sweat. Simply paddle into our marina and set up camp.
Portage Free Camping at Hartley Bay Marina
The French River Provincial Park has become a tourist destination for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a place that is still relatively untouched by modern society. For this reason, the French River was designated as Canada’s first Heritage River in 1986 and has many established French River canoeing routes.
The resort offers a range of campsites and fisherman's cottages for the ultimate portage free camping experience.
