One of the coolest things about visiting Long Point is the nature, wildlife, and the number of birds to spot. On top of these nature activities, there are a number of ways to see it all. This could include the beach, the park’s four campgrounds, or the natural areas around Long Point Provincial Park. Being on Long Point Bay makes it easier to enjoy nature from a paddleboat or motorboat.
Located in Norfolk County, Long Point Provincial Park is also an excellent beach destination in the summer, with long stretches of soft sand, beach amenities, comfort stations for campers, and gorgeous views.
Some of the Best Birding in North America
Located in a World Biosphere Reserve, Long Point Provincial Park is one of the largest areas across the entire continent for bird and waterfowl migration. This includes the birds’ staging, too, meaning that they migrate and stay around for the warmer months.
- Over 300 bird species will migrate across the provincial park during spring and fall, with several places across the park for great birding. This includes the campground and day use beaches, or the boat launch area.
- Also nearby is the Birds Canada National Headquarters, located on a large piece of protected wetland. The organization has curated trails around the property for great waterfowl viewing opportunities.
Water Fun
Long Point extends out into Lake Erie while dividing the lake from Long Point Bay. These two areas offer a variety of water fun and recreational opportunities for all sorts of getaway types.
- The park offers over 1.5 km of sandy beach space perfect for relaxation, swimming, or a picnic. The beach is open to day-use visitors and campers.
- Use of the New Park’s boat launch is included with the price of camping or a day-use permit and will get you out onto Long Point Bay.
- The park may not offer boat rentals, but shops are located along Long Point Bay for boat rentals, like Old Cut Boat Livery and AquaWave.
- Fishing is made a bit easier with gear rentals available at the park and the ability to acquire a license in Long Point. From here, set off to Long Point Bay for excellent bass opportunities.
Staying at Long Point Provincial Park
The greatest part about camping at Long Point is that all four campgrounds are a short walk from the beaches.
- The three campgrounds in the “New Park” section all offer a mix of unserviced sites with electrical hook-ups.
- The “Old Park” section has one large campground with unserviced sites and is still a short walk to the beach.
- These campgrounds include comfort stations, too, which provide showers, flush toilets, and access to the park store.
Exploring Port Rowan & More
To the east and west of Long Point Provincial Park, there is much more to see and do on the shores of Lake Erie.
- The Big Creek National Wildlife Area is what separates Long Point Provincial Park and community from the town of Port Rowan. Hiking areas are accessible from the main road passing by the area. The Grand River Rafting Company also offer guided boat and paddle tours through the waters of Big Creek.
- During a trip to Long Point Provincial Park, Port Rowan can offer local shopping and dining, the Friday Farmers’ Market, or more accommodation options.
- Explore more of the nearby Provincial Park beaches on Lake Erie. Port Burwell and Turkey Point are both options within a short drive from Long Point.
- Backus Heritage Conservation Area & Backhouse Historic Site, north of Port Rowan and Long Point, offers more camping, great hiking, and historical attractions to explore: the village, the 1798 Backhouse Mill, Mill Pond, the Cottonwood Trail, and the Cemetery Trail.
Long Point Provincial Park Events
The summer events, tours, and workshops at Long Point Provincial Park take place from June to August each year. The guided walks usually centre around a specific topic or theme related to the park, while the workshops often focus on camping activities.
Planning your Trip – Long Point Provincial Park
What: Long Point is a peninsula on Lake Erie’s northern shores. The 40-kilometre-long peninsula surrounding Long Point Bay is part of two National Wildlife Areas and a designated World Biosphere Reserve. The fourth-oldest Ontario Provincial Park is easily enjoyed through camping, beach days, picnics, and birding.
Location & how to get there: 10km south of Port Rowan; 110km southeast of London
use Highway ON-3 to access Highway ON-59 heading south and continue until Long Point Road
Best time to go: May-November, check alerts before travelling
Cost: Day-use permit ($18 – Daily Vehicle Permit) or camping rates
For more information:
Long Point Region Conservation Authority