Located just 40 minutes from Canada’s capital in the Ottawa Valley, Fitzroy Provincial Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Nestled in the picturesque Fitzroy Harbour in Ottawa, this park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it an ideal destination for both day trips and extended camping adventures.
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 sparkling 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 stunning 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
Situated on the Ottawa River and bisected by the Carp River, Fitzroy offers campsites with breathtaking river views. The park boasts two beautiful beaches, perfect for a day of relaxation and fun. The larger Main Beach, located in the day-use area, offers canoe and kayak rentals, beach volleyball, and a playground. The smaller Camper’s Beach, exclusive to campers in the Two Rivers Campground, provides a shallower swimming area suitable for younger children.
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 along the Ottawa River is another popular activity, with about a dozen species for recreational fishing, including walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, pike, and panfish. The park’s convenient boat launch is suitable for small fishing vessels, canoes, and kayaks, making it easy to get out on the water and enjoy a day of fishing.
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 an ideal escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of recreational activities, Fitzroy Provincial Park is a destination that truly has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on this secret gem of Ontario. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the wonders of Fitzroy Provincial Park.
