June 21, 2024

Georgian Bay Islands Camping

Difficulty Rating:
Camping
⭐⭐️️
Beauty Rating:
⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Solitude Rating:
⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Adventure Category:
Adventure Start:
Jun 21, 2024 8:00 AM
Estimated End:
Jun 23, 2024 5:00 PM

Adventure Description

Embark on a unique 3-day backcountry camping adventure on Beausoleil Island, the largest island in Georgian Bay Islands National Park. This is the perfect summer trip - civilized but far from the crowds with easy access to the waters of the world's largest freshwater archipelago to cool down.

We begin our journey with a scenic drive to Honey Harbour, followed by a picturesque private boat ride to the island. We'll set up camp on a backcountry site, nestled in the island's serene northern region, known for its rocky outcrops and tranquil bays.

By day, we'll hike the island's diverse trails, such as the Fairy Lake Trail, which offers breathtaking views of Georgian Bay's cobalt waters and windswept pines. The peak summer timing ensures warm, pleasant weather, perfect for swimming and outdoor activities, while the island's breezy conditions help keep bugs at bay.

In the evenings, gather around a campfire to share stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy quality time with your fellow campers. The clear, dark skies of Beausoleil Island provide incredible stargazing opportunities, allowing you to witness the beauty of the night sky in all its glory.

This is not just any camping trip; it's a unique adventure that only Wilderness Union can offer, combining the tranquility of backcountry camping with the comforts of a well-equipped campsite and the magic of the star-studded sky. This trip promises a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an unforgettable summer escape.

Trip Highlights

  • Unique Experience: Beausoleil Island offers a unique blend of rugged Canadian Shield landscapes and lush forests, providing a diverse and immersive backcountry experience.
  • Peak Summer Beauty: Visiting in late June means you'll experience the island in its full summer glory, with vibrant flora and active wildlife. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for hiking and swimming.
  • Avoiding Bugs: While summer can bring out the bugs, Beausoleil Island's breezy conditions and well-maintained campsites help keep them at bay.
  • Quality Time Around the Campfire: Evenings spent around the campfire are perfect for sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying the company of fellow campers.
  • Incredible Stargazing Opportunities: The clear, dark skies of Beausoleil Island provide incredible stargazing opportunities, allowing you to witness the beauty of the night sky in all its glory.

What's included

This trip is professionally guided and includes all camp meals and cooking equipment, along with tents. We have low cost equipment rental for those who need a sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

Before the trip we'll be sharing a detailed packing list telling you absolutely everything you need to think about and pack, as well as an info session to ask any outstanding questions so you can turn up feeling totally prepared, ready to have an amazing time with the WU crew.

Meals

We'll have vegan/veg and meat options for each meal

Friday Lunch - BYO packed lunch

Friday Dinner - Hot dinner around the campfire

Saturday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea

Saturday Lunch - Wraps/sandwiches

Saturday Dinner - Hot dinner

Sunday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea

Sunday Lunch - Celebratory final lunch at nearby restaurant

Embark on a unique 3-day backcountry camping adventure on Beausoleil Island, the largest island in Georgian Bay Islands National Park. This is the perfect summer trip - civilized but far from the crowds with easy access to the waters of the world's largest freshwater archipelago to cool down.

We begin our journey with a scenic drive to Honey Harbour, followed by a picturesque private boat ride to the island. We'll set up camp on a backcountry site, nestled in the island's serene northern region, known for its rocky outcrops and tranquil bays.

By day, we'll hike the island's diverse trails, such as the Fairy Lake Trail, which offers breathtaking views of Georgian Bay's cobalt waters and windswept pines. The peak summer timing ensures warm, pleasant weather, perfect for swimming and outdoor activities, while the island's breezy conditions help keep bugs at bay.

In the evenings, gather around a campfire to share stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy quality time with each other. The clear, dark skies of Beausoleil Island provide incredible stargazing opportunities, allowing you to witness the beauty of the night sky in all its glory.

This is not just any camping trip; it's a unique adventure that only Wilderness Union can offer, combining the tranquility of backcountry camping with the comforts of a well-equipped campsite and the magic of the star-studded sky. This trip promises a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an unforgettable summer escape.

Trip Highlights

  • A Rare Opportunity: Sleep on an island! Beausoleil Island offers a unique blend of rugged Canadian Shield landscapes and lush forests, providing a diverse and immersive backcountry experience.
  • Peak Summer Beauty: Visiting in late June means you'll experience the island in its full summer glory, with vibrant flora and active wildlife. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for hiking and swimming.
  • Minimal Bugs: While summer can bring out the bugs, Beausoleil Island's breezy conditions and well-maintained campsites help keep them at bay.
  • Quality Time Around the Campfire: Evenings spent around the campfire are perfect for sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying the company of fellow campers.
  • Incredible Stargazing Opportunities: The clear, dark skies of Beausoleil Island provide incredible stargazing opportunities, allowing you to witness the beauty of the night sky in all its glory.

What's included

This trip is professionally guided and includes all camp meals and cooking equipment, along with tents. We have low cost equipment rental for those who need a sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Tell us what you need to rent here.

Before the trip we'll be sharing a detailed packing list telling you absolutely everything you need to think about and pack, as well as an info session to ask any outstanding questions so you can turn up feeling totally prepared, ready to have an amazing time with the WU crew.

Meals

We'll have vegan/veg and meat options for each meal

Friday Lunch - BYO packed lunch

Friday Dinner - Hot dinner around the campfire

Saturday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea

Saturday Lunch - Wraps/sandwiches

Saturday Dinner - Hot dinner

Sunday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea

Sunday Lunch - Celebratory final lunch at nearby restaurant

Itinerary

Day 1: Friday, June 21st
08:00 - 10:00: Drive to Ferry
Start your adventure early in the morning with a scenic drive to Honey Harbour, where you'll catch the ferry to Beausoleil Island.
10:00 - 11:00: Ferry to Island
Enjoy a picturesque ferry ride to Beausoleil Island, the crown jewel of Georgian Bay Islands National Park. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and islands, setting the tone for your wilderness adventure.
12:00: Lunch and Set Up Camp
Upon arrival, head to your reserved campsite at Oaks Campground. This campground offers a serene setting with amenities like running water, making it a comfortable base for your backcountry experience. Enjoy a packed lunch as you set up your tent and get settled in.
15:00 - 17:00: Hike Fairy Lake Trail (2.5 km)
Embark on a hike along the Fairy Lake Trail, a must-do trail on the island. This 2.5 km loop takes you around the serene Fairy Lake, offering beautiful views and a chance to spot local wildlife such as frogs, turtles, and snakes.
18:00: Dinner - S'mores
After your hike, return to your campsite for a classic camping dinner of s'mores. Gather around the campfire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the sweet treat under the evening sky.
Evening: Fireside Activity
Spend the evening by the campfire, sharing stories, playing games, or simply stargazing. The clear summer skies of Beausoleil Island provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing night.


Day 2: Saturday, June 22nd
08:00 - 10:00: Lazy Morning
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast and enjoy a lazy morning at the campsite. Take this time to relax and soak in the natural beauty around you.
10:00 - 12:00: Outer Loop Hike (13 km)
Set out on the Outer Loop hike, a 13 km trail that takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rocky outcrops. This hike offers a comprehensive tour of the island's natural beauty and is perfect for avid hikers looking for a challenge.
12:00 - 13:00: Lunch
Take a break for lunch at a scenic spot along the trail. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the panoramic views of Georgian Bay.
13:00 - 17:00: Afternoon Chill/Swim
After your hike, spend the afternoon relaxing and swimming at one of the island's beautiful beaches. The clear, refreshing waters of Georgian Bay are perfect for a mid-summer swim, and the sandy shores provide a great place to unwind.
18:00: Dinner - Bannock
Return to your campsite for dinner. Try your hand at making bannock, a traditional campfire bread, and enjoy it with your favorite toppings.
Evening: Chill out around the campfire and stargaze

Day 3: Sunday, June 23rd
07:00 - 10:00: Breakfast and Final Exploration
Wake up early for breakfast and start packing up your campsite.
11:00: Check Out
Check out of your campsite and make your way to the ferry dock.
12:00: Ferry Back
Board the ferry for your return trip to the mainland. Reflect on the wonderful experiences and memories made during your stay on Beausoleil Island.
13:00: Group dinner at a local restaurant

15:00 - Drive Back to Toronto
Depart from Honey Harbour and head back to Toronto, arriving in the early evening. You'll return home refreshed and rejuvenated from your backcountry adventure.

Rental Gear available

Sleeping bags and pads are available for rent

Adventure Cost

Event Cost:
$445+HST
Transport Cost:
$50+HST

Cancellation Policy

Full amount charged on registration. 90% refund available until June 7th, 50% refund available until June 14th. No refunds available after then.
If you cancel and wish to rejoin, please confirm with us on Discord to ensure that the updated registration has been received.

Members Attending

Rahim
kirti
Vamsi Mohan
Marie
Charlotte
Daniel
Yilong
Emily
Laura
Joanna
Julie
Britt
Kelly
Ruishen
Laura
Kelsey
Sarah
Adrian
Zac

Members on Waitlist

Omkar
Alex
Sai

Adventure Cancellations

kirti
Kelly
Sarah

Sign-Up Deadline

This adventure opens for registration soon!

Trip Updates

Apply for Membership or log-in to sign up for this adventure

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Fall Colours at Rattlesnake Point
Frontenac Fall Colour Hike
Algonquin Park - Fall Colours Hike
Hardy Lake + Lookout
Fall Colour Hike and Apple Picking
Hardy Lake Hike + Ice Cream (CANCELLED)
Wilderness Book Club - Into The Wild
Algonquin Highlights - Canoe and Hike
Secret Summer BBQ Social
Secret Wilderness Hike + Mystery Adventure
Cave Hike and Creemore
Tubing the Grand River
Spectacular Scenery Hike
Wilderness Lake Paddle - 4
Exploring Temagami - An Epic 5 Day Canoe Loop
Secret Location Wilderness Hike
Crawford Lake
Muskoka River & Waterfall Hike
Niagara Falls Daytrip & Whirlpool Hike
Wilderness Lake Paddle - 3
Wilderness Book Club - Entangled Life
WU Outdoor Movie Social
Wilderness Lake Paddle - 2
Wilderness Lake Paddle
Humber River Canoe and Picnic
Wasted Wings
Crawford Lake
Wilderness Book Club - On Trails
Canoeing the North West Territories Talk
Camping Trips - Info Session
Tree Planting at Heartwood Farm
Canoe Camping in Killarney
Wings & Waste #4
Tea 'n Bannock Social
Earth Day Clean-Up
Hiking Ishpatina Ridge
Canoe Camping Overnight
Georgian Bay Islands Camping
A Meditative Old Growth Forest Hike
Toronto Island Paddle & Picnic
Bruce Peninsula Camping
Overnight Backcountry Camping Intro
Hilton Falls Hike
McCrae Lake Hike
Advanced Navigation Exercise
Crawford Lake
Wings & Waste #3
Wings & Waste #2
The Walrus Talks Nature
Wings & Waste
Wilderness Book Club - The Golden Spruce
Frontenac Mega Hike
Secret Location Muskoka Wilderness Hike
Bruce Peninsula - Day Trip 2
Introduction to Navigation
Movie Screening and Social
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Spring Foraging Masterclass
Epic Panorama Hike
Algonquin Park - Centennial Ridges Trail
Hamilton Waterfall, Donut and Brewery Tour - '24 edition
Secret Location Wilderness Hike + Mystery Adventure
Bruce Peninsula - Day Trip
Video Games & Drinks at Tilt
Total Solar Eclipse Tour
Interpretive Nature Hike at Tommy Thompson Park
Secret Hike + Winter Clothing Clinic
Winter Clothing Clinic & Discounted Shopping Event
More Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt St Louis Moonstone
Winter Camping in Wild Temagami
Wilderness Book Club - January
Activate Social
Information Session 2
Victoria Day Camping in Algonquin
St Jacobs Tour
Fire & Ice Forest Skating Trail at Arrowhead
McCrae Lake Hike/Snowshoe
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt St Louis Moonstone
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowtubing & Pub Lunch
Mystery Location - Winter Hike
Hardy Lake Hike
Festive Farm Visit & Hike
End of Year Celebration
The Wilder Loop
Epic Panoramas & Famous Waterfalls
Archery Lesson & Lunch
New Years Eve Log Cabin Getaway
Mindfulness Hike
Intro to Disc Golf
Goats, Monsters and Port Hope
Bronte Creek - Free Hike
Boyne Valley Hike (swapped for mindfulness hike)
The Best of Muskoka
Mystery hike
Cave Hike and Creemore Visit
Terracotta Pot Painting Social 2
Halloween Hike, Bonfire and Pizza Party
Highland Creek Hike
Rouge Valley - Free Hike

Other Upcoming Adventures

The Wilder Ones
NEWSLETTER

Sign up for our newsletter to reconnect with the wild, discover new adventures and get updates from Wilderness Union.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.