Crown Land and Camping

In Ontario, travel for recreational purposes on Crown lands and waters is generally free and unrestricted. Generally, camping is allowed free on Crown land for up to 21 days at any one site, except where posted. To qualify for a separate site which can be occupied for an additional 21 days, a second camp site must be at least 100 metres from the first site. However, some Crown lands may have restricted travel zones for forest fire prevention, officially closed forest access roads and areas posted with signs to prohibit all or certain kinds of travel.

Non-residents who are 18 years of age or older require a permit to camp on Crown lands north of the French and Mattawa Rivers, unless they are using a camping unit rented from a commercial outfitter in Ontario or own real property in Ontario. (A camping unit is defined as equipment used for the purpose of outdoor accommodation and includes a tent, trailer, tent-trailer, recreational vehicle, camperback and any watercraft equipped for overnight accommodation.)

Crown Land Camping Permits are available from numerous fish and wildlife licence issuers and from the Ministry of Natural Resources district offices in northern Ontario. Cost of a Crown Land Camping Permit is $10.57 per person per day.

Contact your local MNR office for more information.

NOTE:  Non-residents camping on Crown lands must observe Conservation Licence limits in the following Fishing Divisions:  Divisions 20, 21, 22, 22A, 24, 30, 31, 33 and 34 (except for Border Waters Area)