Bon Echo Provincial Park

Historic Mazinaw Rock | Addington Highlands

Bon Echo Provincial Park is a world-class destination in Addington Highlands featuring the 100-metre high Mazinaw Rock and 260 Indigenous pictographs. Visitors can access over 40km of hiking trails and 530 campsites, making it a primary hub for on-the-water activities, including interpretive boat tours and backcountry paddling on Mazinaw Lake.

Bon Echo Provincial Park is a designated provincial park characterized by its dramatic geological formations and deep cultural heritage. The site protects the Mazinaw Rock, which features one of the largest collections of visible Indigenous pictographs in Canada. Managed by Ontario Parks, the area balances intensive recreational use with the preservation of the Canadian Shield ecosystem.

Status/Season:
Open seasonally from May to December; check official site for dates
Facilities:
530 campsites, 21 roofed accommodations, visitor centre, store, amphitheatre
Best Time to Visit:
July and August for swimming; September and October for fall foliage
Accessibility:
Barrier-free campsites and select trail sections available
Cost:
Provincial park daily vehicle permit or overnight camping fees apply
Parking:
Multiple day-use lots located near main beaches and trailheads
Time Required:
4 to 6 hours for day use; 2 to 4 days for full experience
Pet Policy:
Leashed pets allowed; designated pet exercise and swimming areas provided

What to Expect

The park offers a mix of land-based and on the water activities centered around Mazinaw Lake. Hikers can choose from several looped trails, while paddlers can rent equipment to view the cliffs from the water. Bon Echo Provincial Park is known for its high-occupancy camping and well-maintained day-use areas. Visitors should check Bon Echo Provincial Park prices before arrival to ensure they have the correct permits for their group size.

 

Here’s What’s Different

  • It features the only 100-metre high vertical rock face in the regional park system.
  • The site contains over 260 historic Indigenous pictographs visible from the water.
  • It offers a dedicated 45-minute interpretive boat tour specifically for cliff viewing.
  • The park manages over 500 campsites, making it the largest accommodation provider in the area.

Good to Know 

  • Daily vehicle permits are limited and can sometimes sell out on weekends; advanced online booking is recommended. See Ontario Parks reservations.
  • The Addington Highlands region experiences significant temperature drops at night, even in summer.
  • Mazinaw Lake is the 7th deepest lake in Ontario at 145 metres.
  • The park encompasses over 40 km of total trail network.
  • 8,294 hectare (20,494 acre) park and 3 natural sand beaches

Location Details

Your Route

What We Offer

  • Paddleboats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent at the Bon Echo lagoon.
  • Paddle-in campers staying on Joeperry Lake can enjoy their own secluded beach.
  • Enjoy family programming at the amphitheatre & program areas.
  • Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the many picnic areas.
  • Swim at the popular Main Beach which has a sandy shore, a buoyed swimming area and picnic areas. Or take a dip at North or South Beach.
  • Stop by Greystones Shoppe & Cafe for souvenirs and essentials.

Common Questions

What are the best hiking trails and viewpoints at Bon Echo Provincial Park?

The Cliff Top Trail provides a panoramic view from the summit of Mazinaw Rock, while the Shield Trail explores local geological features.

How do I book a boat tour to see the Indigenous pictographs on Mazinaw Rock?

Tickets for The Wanderer interpretive boat tour can be purchased at the Greystones Store or the park’s main office. Visit https://bonechofriends.ca/ to secure your tickets.

Do I need a day-use reservation to visit Bon Echo?

Yes, it is recommended to book your daily vehicle permit online in advance through the Ontario Parks reservation system to guarantee entry.

Contacts

16151 Hwy 41, Cloyne

613-336-2228

Website

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Getting Here

16151 Hwy 41, Cloyne

Access the park via Highway 41, located approximately 15 minutes north of the village of Cloyne. The main gate provides direct access to all campgrounds and day-use facilities.

Travel Ideas

Boating
Cataraqui Trail (L&A)
Menzel Centennial Provincial Nature Reserve
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