Islands of Quiet: Camping, Kayaking and the Granite Heart of Georgian Bay
A granite-strewn archipelago of islands, loons, and backcountry campsites — accessible only by water.
You step off the small water taxi with salt-washed oars and the lake immediately rearranges your frame of reference. The horizon tilts; the wind takes a new voice, sharpening into a slate-blue whisper that pushes against your life jacket and the brim of your hat. Granite rises like an old, patient shoreline — bare, pale, and mottled with lichens and cedar roots that clutch the rock like hands. Pines lean into the weather and make a sound like pages flipped in a book. On a place like Georgian Bay Islands National Park, the landscape is both map and metronome: it sets the pace for how you move and how you listen.
Trail Wisdom
Reserve sites early
Summer campsites and docking are limited and fill fast; book through Parks Canada well before your trip.
Bring water and a treatment plan
Most islands lack potable water; carry at least 3 L per person per day and a filter or purification tablets.
Wear a PFD on the water
Even calm crossings can become hazardous in wind; life jackets should be worn at all times while paddling or on small craft.
Plan for bugs
Mosquitoes and black flies are common in spring and early summer; carry repellent and a head net for camp.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small interior coves for sheltered paddling and lunchtime beach landings
- •Granite ridgelines on less-trafficked islands offering uncrowded viewpoints
Wildlife
Common loon, Osprey
Conservation Note
Parks Canada limits development and regulates campsite numbers to protect fragile island ecosystems; visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace and park rules.
The area has long been used by Anishinaabe peoples for navigation and seasonal harvest; European voyaging and recreational cottage culture followed in subsequent centuries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: early-season solitude, migratory birdwatching, cool-weather paddling
Challenges: cold water and air temperatures, abundant insects late spring, shorter service schedules
Spring offers quiet camps and migrating birds but expect chilly waters, early bugs and limited services.
summer
Best for: warm-water paddling, full campground services, ideal camping conditions
Challenges: crowds on popular sites, need for advance reservations, higher boat traffic
Summer is peak season for comfortable paddling and open facilities; book early and come prepared for company.
fall
Best for: fall colours, calmer waters on cool days, wildlife viewing
Challenges: shorter daylight, cooler nights, reduced services
Fall brings crisp air and color but colder nights and reduced park services — bring warm layers.
winter
Best for: icebound photography (from shore), off-season solitude, birding on mainland
Challenges: islands largely inaccessible by boat, dangerous ice conditions, most park facilities closed
Winter is not practical for island camping; the park is quiet and largely inaccessible, so focus on mainland viewpoints.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)Essential
Mandatory for any paddling or boating; choose one rated for active use.
Dry bags and waterproof phone caseEssential
Protects gear from spray and rain during crossings and landings.
Water treatment (filter or tablets)Essential
Most islands lack potable water; treat or carry enough for your stay.
Sturdy water shoes and light hiking boots
Water shoes for beach landings and light boots for scrambling across granite and trails.
Common Questions
How do I get to the islands?
Access is by private boat or water taxi from Honey Harbour, Midland or nearby marinas; check boat schedules and weather before departing.
Do I need a permit or reservation?
Yes. Campsites and docking are managed by Parks Canada and should be reserved ahead of time during the summer season.
Is there potable water on the islands?
Potable water is limited or non-existent on many islands; bring at least 3 litres per person per day and a water-treatment option.
Are there marked trails and campsites?
Larger islands like Beausoleil have maintained trails and designated campsites; smaller islands may have primitive landing spots only.
Will I have cell service?
Cell service is intermittent and often unavailable on islands; plan for limited connectivity and carry navigation and emergency supplies.
What wildlife might I encounter?
Expect birds like loons and osprey, small mammals and the occasional deer; black bears are more common on the mainland than on small islands.
What to Pack
PFD (safety on water), 3 L+ water per person (no potable sources), dry bags (keep gear dry), insect repellent and head net (spring/summer bugs)
Did You Know
Georgian Bay contains over 30,000 islands, and Georgian Bay Islands National Park protects a selection of these islands, including Beausoleil Island, as part of the world’s largest freshwater archipelago.
Quick Travel Tips
Book campsites through Parks Canada well in advance; check water taxi schedules from Honey Harbour or Midland; carry a physical map and compass as cell service is unreliable; bring a small stove—open fires are restricted on many islands.
Local Flavor
Cottage-country hospitality defines the nearby towns: think small marinas, fish-and-chip shacks, and summer markets. Respect local Indigenous history by learning about Anishinaabe connections to the land and waterways.
Logistics Snapshot
Access: boat or water taxi; Reservations: Parks Canada required for campsites; Facilities: primitive sites with pit toilets on many islands; Water: pack or treat your own; Safety: mandatory PFDs, watch wind forecasts.
Sustainability Note
Pack out all waste, minimize campfire use, and use established campsites and toilets to protect fragile island soils and nesting birds. Follow Parks Canada regulations to reduce impact.