If you’re looking for rare biodiversity, spectacular sunsets, and year-round outdoor adventures in unique forests, the Pinery Provincial Park is a staggering 6,330 acres that houses over 325 bird species, 60 butterfly species, and 757 plant species. The Pinery contains the largest protected forest in southwestern Ontario, and this includes a rare Oak Savanna ecosystem. It’s silent winter beauty is created through the ice-covered river and deer and rabbit tracks in the snow, and roaring campsite fires.
Go yurt camping
The park has an astounding 1,275 campsites for summer camping, 404 of which have electrical hookups. In the winter time, yurt camping is a favored option – 12 available in an area of the Riverside Campground. A firepit, barbecue, and comfort station are available.
See thousands of Tundra Swans
Because of Pinery Provincial Park’s rare habits, 319 different species of birds can be found there, 124 of which have nested. In the winter months, Tufted Titmice and Red-tailed Hawks are commonly seen at the feeders located at the Visitor Centre. During February and March, enjoy the sights of thousands of of thousands of Tundra Swans and other migratory waterfowl in the Thedford Bog.
Go cross-country skiing
Pinery Provincial Park is considered to have some of the best cross-country skiing in Southwestern Ontario. Challenge yourself on 38 kilometers of beginner and advanced loops and head on a winter escape through an extremely biodiverse landscape.
Go tobogganing near the Winter Chalet
Take a run down the tobogganing hill near the Winter Chalet, whether during the day under blue skies or at night where the hill is lit for your convenience.
Participate in Family Fun Guided Activities
After an orientation at the Visitor Centre, experience the best of Pinery in the winter months through a scavenger hunt, nature documentaries in an indoor theatre, exhibits, a guided hike, winter sports, and even a picnic lunch. Some enjoy an overnight stay after the event, whereas some like to take the magic of their day home with them. Guided hikes and other activities are offered on weekends.
TRIP PLANNING
PARK HOURS: Open Year Round.
The Visitor Centre and Friends of Pinery Park Nature Store: Open on Saturdays, Sundays, and over March Break | 10am to 5 pm.
Friends of Pinery Nature Store offers coffee, hot chocolate, toys, books, and gifts. Cross-country skis and snowshoe equipment rentals are available at the Rentals Building on Saturdays, Sundays, and March Break, from 9:30am-3pm provided there is sufficient snow.
Phone: (519) 243-2220
Reservations: 1-888-668-7275 (1-888-Ont-Park)
Address: 9526 Lakeshore Road
Grand Bend, Ontario
Pinery Provincial Park is an absolute gem! I recently had the most serene experience walking along its stunning beach. The soft, powdery sand beneath my feet and the soothing sound of the waves instantly put me in a state of relaxation.
If you’re looking for a tranquil escape and a moment to unwind, I highly recommend checking out this beautiful video of my beach walk at Pinery Provincial Park: https://youtu.be/Zs8DU5FQna4?si=yuWrbVke-Z3YUelv