My first time staying in a yurt was such a wonderfully unique experience. I loved that it was a nice blend of the outdoor experience with the creature comforts. Now I wouldn't say it was at a luxurious glamping level but I also didn't need to set up a tent, had access to an outside outhouse, and had warm and comfortable furnishings inside. Sufficed to say, I've had way better sleep in yurts than in a camping tent.
You might not've heard of yurts but if you have, you might be surprised to hear that they've secretly taken Ontario by storm. With no organized resource that compiles all the of the available yurts in the province, this guide is meant to be an organized list of all the yurts in Ontario.
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Looking for and lesser known spots as a day trip from Toronto?
- I've put together a compilation of some secret and not-so-secret weekend trips from Toronto for you to consider.
Table of Contents
Are you looking for glamping or basic yurts? Jump to what you're interested in!
Here's what we're covering:
What is a yurt?
The word yurt comes from Turkic languages and are round tents used primarily by several distinct nomadic groups in Central Asia. The roof structure of usually self-supporting and constructed by an angled assembly of wood or bamboo. It's normally covered by different types of skins or felt. You'll find yurts in countries like Mongolia, Turkey, and Siberia and in fact are still used today.
They've recently become popularized as an alternative to traditional camping and has led way to an upscale style of camping known as glamping or glamorous camping, if you will.
The massive appeal to yurts is in their unique construction as they're rounded like a circus tent, yet small and intimate but larger than your modern tent with some enough space for beds, furnitures, and stoves.
It's the perfect getaway for city dwellers looking for a twist to the camping experience where you want to be outdoors but have the comforts of living in a fixed roof accommodation.
What is the appeal of yurts?
Yurts are different in that they're kind of in the middle of the spectrum but with an added spunk. It's not backpack camping or car camping so you don't need to set up a camp. It's also not quite a cabin or cottage where you have access to essentially a house that has full amenities.
So you could say yurts are great for people that don't want to rough it out and wake up with stiff neck from sleeping on an uncomfortable sleeping bag and pad but don't need direct access to a kitchen, laundry, and bathroom. You can still set up a campfire outside for your s'mores, use the picnic beach as a dishwashing station, and use a nearby comfort station.
Yurts are small to the point where you won't be spending that much time indoors but it can be nice enough that you can cozy up inside on a cold day or decide you just want to read a book in bed.
Also keep in mind that most yurts are suitable for up to 6 people so yurts are great for families and groups of friends.
Where the spunk comes in is in some of these fancier glamping yurts where they're often decorated to evoke a bit of that Mongolian heritage with a mish-mash of old furniture, antique rugs, colourful fabrics, and decor of an eclectic collector. This is exactly how I remember our first yurt experience was like in Ireland.
Think upgraded car camping where this camping must haves list still comes in handy.
When is the best time to stay in a yurt?
The beauty of staying going yurt camping (can we call it yurting?) is that you can do it all year round. Since these are fixed accommodations, you don't need to worry about setting anything up in sub-optimal weather conditions.
In many ways, yurts are perfect for Canadian winters because it offers you full weather protection and can be outfitted with heaters to keep you warm, while being situated perfectly in the middle of the snowy outdoors for activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. I love the thought of cozying up to the firewood stove and using the opportunity to disconnect from the busy city life.
On the other hand, summer is also great because you get access to all the things in either provincial parks or private properties that make camping such a great activity in the months of May to September. Think hiking, canoeing, swimming, s'mores, grilling, cycling, and so much more.
The only consideration you need to make is that provincial and national parks don't necessarily operate their yurts all year round so pay close attention to those operating dates.
Complete list of Yurts in Ontario
Yurts seem like such a niche and specialized type of accommodation but you'd be surprised to find such a wide variety and selection of yurts for rent in the province of Ontario. A challenge that I had as a travel planning is that there's no consolidated resource that lists out all of the places in an organized way especially with the yurts in the Provincial and National Parks.
The best thing is that no matter whether you live in Toronto or Sault Ste. Marie, there's a yurt near you. To see this visually, make sure you jump to the map of yurts in Ontario to see which is the most suitable for you.
It would've become easily overwhelming to include all types of alternate camping accommodations here such as cabins, cottages, bubble tents, and tipis, so I've focused on cataloguing yurts in Ontario only.
Provincial Parks
The largest selection of yurts are available through Ontario's provincial parks. These yurts are usually mixed into the campground site for tents. These yurts typically feature a propane BBQ and are furnished inside but will be a bit more bare than the private yurt rentals. That said, you'll have everything you need and they are kept in good condition.
Since there are no adjoining bathroom facilities, you'll be relying on nearby comfort stations like you would if you were to go car camping.
All of these yurts are bookable through the Ontario Parks reservation page. Pay close attention to when they're bookable because holidays and summer weekends get booked out very quickly.
Algonquin Provincial Park – Mew Lake
The famed Algonquin Provincial Park has two different campgrounds with yurts and one of them is at Mew Lake. This is one of the campgrounds that is great all year round because an ice rink is maintained there and has lots of snowshoeing trails to choose from. Unique to this site are that there is one that is dog-friendly.
Try to book Site 39 if it's available as it has a large deck for lounging and is the only one that has this feature.
1 night bookings are allowed here.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Box 219, Whitney, Ontario, K0J 2M0, Canada
Closest City: Huntsville
Number at Park: 7
Site Numbers: 34, 36, 38, 39, 49, 54, 62
Operating Dates: Year round
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Mew Lake Yurts
Amenities: Each yurt is equipped with two sets of futon bunk beds and sleeps up to six. Inside the yurt, campers will also find dishes (from May 1 to Thanksgiving) table and chairs, and a broom and dustpan. The yurt has electrical heat, fluorescent lighting, and one electrical outlet. Outside, yurt sites are equipped with a picnic table, BBQ (Note: BBQ only available from May 1st to Thanksgiving) and fire pit.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, cookware and dishes.
Restrictions: Only site 62 is dog-friendly (maximum of 2 dogs is permitted regardless size of the dogs)
Parking: One vehicle is included in your campsite permit but there is space for 2. Additional vehicle required purchase of permit. Offsite parking for 1 is available.
Algonquin Provincial Park – Achray
The second campground is closer to the West Gate of Algonquin. There is only one yurt at Achray which means it books out pretty quickly. This yurt is located on the far left end of the campground which means its quite secluded and also has the advantage of being lake-side. Note that this yurt is only available in the summer months.
To access this campsite, there's a 50km gravel road that you'll need to take.
1 night bookings are allowed here.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 5396 Barron Canyon Road, Pembroke, Ontario, K0J 2M0, Canada
Closest City: Pembroke
Number at Park: 1
Site Number: 41
Reservable Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 22, 2022
Operating Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 23, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: No
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Archay Yurts
Amenities: It is equipped with two sets of futon bunk beds and sleeps up to six. Inside the yurt campers will also find a table and chairs, and a broom and dustpan. Outside, the yurt is equipped with a picnic table, propane barbeque and fire pit.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, cookware and dishes.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed.
Parking: One spot available and permit for one vehicle included with booking. Offsite parking for 2 is available.
Bon Echo Provincial Park
This is a popular park for those that go camping. The yurts here are split between the Sawmill Bay area of Mazinaw Lake Campground and a more secluded area exclusive for yurts at the South Beach. All yurts have quick access to the lake.
As an alternative, Bon Echo also has several cabins you can book as well.
Dogs are allowed at site #153.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 16151 ON-41, Cloyne, ON K0H 1K0
Closest City: Belleville (but really in the Kawartha Lakes region)
Number at Park: 8
Site Numbers: 148, 153, 158, 160, 701, 702, 703, 704
Reservable Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 15, 2022
Operating Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 16, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes (except 158, 160)
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Bon Echo Provincial Park
Amenities: Each yurt is equipped with two sets of bunk beds (double lower, single upper) and sleeps up to six. Inside the yurt, there is a table and chairs. Outside, you will find a propane barbeque (propane is provided), picnic table and firepit. Yurts have electricity, electric heat and are barrier-free.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, food, pots, pans, dishes, cutlery and all other personal items.
Restrictions: Pets including dogs are not permitted in the yurt nor on the site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is not permitted. Minimum 2 nights required.
Parking: One spot available and parking for one vehicle is included. The two yurts at Sawmill Bay Campsites have 2 offsite parking spots available. Additional vehicle required purchase of permit.
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
This is probably the closest provincial park to Toronto. They offer 3 yurts as part of the Savannah Loop.
I'd say out of all of the yurts offered by Ontario Parks, this one might be the least ideal primarily because privacy is very poor and some are in full sun but you can't beat the convenience.
This park features great hiking trails, a play barn, disc golf, outdoor swimming pool, and picnic shelters which makes this place a great place for families and that easy weekend getaway.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 3201 Upper Middle Road West, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 4Z3, Canada
Closest City: Oakville
Number at Park: 3
Site Numbers: 201, 236, 239
Reservable Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 22, 2022
Operating Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 23, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Amenities: The comfort station and water taps are located nearby. Each yurt is equipped with two sets of bunk beds and sleeps up to six people. Inside the yurt you will find a table and chairs, a broom and dust pan. Outside you will find a deck with a propane bbq, picnic table and fire pit. Each yurt has electric heating, lights and electricity.
What to bring: Visitors are asked to bring their own bedding, cookware, dishes, food and other personal items.
Restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is also not permitted. Minimum 2 nights required.
Parking: Parking for one vehicle is included with the rental. There is space for two but additional car will require a permit.
Charleston Lake Provincial Park
Charleston Lake has four yurts located in Shady Ridge Campground which can accommodate up to six people per yurt.
What I like about these yurts is that some nestled right in the first with quite a bit of privacy as there is a wooden boardwalk before you get to your unit. The yurt is also not far from the beach.
I can't explain it but it does look like dogs are allowed at 315C although I am not sure if that is a typo in their system.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 148 Woodvale Road, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0
Closest City: Kingston
Number at Park: 4
Site Numbers: 313, 315A, 315B, 315C
Reservable Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 10, 2022
Operating Dates: May 13, 2022 to October 11, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Charleston Lake Provincial Park
Amenities: Each yurt comes equipped with two futon bunk beds, a table and chairs, garbage/recycling containers, propane BBQ, picnic table and fire grill. A communal treated drinking water tap is on-site, toilets and a comfort station are close by as is the Shady Ridge beach. Sites 313, 315A, 315B, 315C offer barrier-free access. The yurts at Charleston Lake have electricity and electric heat.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding as it is not included, cookware and dishes.
Restrictions: Please note that domestic animals (pets) are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is not permitted. However, dogs are allowed at 315C. Minimum 2 nights required.
Parking: There is space for one car. Parking for one vehicle is included with the rental.
Killarney Provincial Park
The George Lake Campground is open all year and so are the 6 yurts that are found at Campground A.
If you can, look for yurts Y3, Y4, Y5, and Y6 which have a roof over the outdoor dining area. Keep in mind that there is a short walk from the parking lot to the yurt and why they include a wagon to transport your gear. The walk is 50m – 150m in the summer and 500m in the winter.
Y6 is dog-friendly (maximum of 2 dogs regardless of size).
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 960 Highway #637, Killarney, ON, P0M 2A0
Closest City: Sudbury
Number at Park: 6
Site Numbers: Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6
Operating Dates: Year round
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Killarney Provincial Park
Amenities:
- All six yurts are available year round. Each yurt sleep six people on two sets of bunk beds; each a double lower mattress and twin upper mattress. Inside, your yurt has lighting, electric heat and a power outlet.
- Outside you will find a propane barbecue, two picnic tables and a fire pit. Yurts 3, 4, 5, and 6 also have an outdoor dining area with roof. A metal bear proof food storage locker is available at each yurt
What to bring: Campers should bring their own bedding, cookstove, cookware, dishes, food and other personal items.
Restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. The only exception seems to be with Y6 where pets are allowed. Cooking in yurts is not permitted. Minimum 2 nights required.
Parking: Parking is available nearby (offsite) but not on the yurt site. A wagon is available to transport your gear to the yurt. Parking for one vehicle is included in your rental fee.
Special notes:
- Office hours during the year:
- Summer: 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Shoulder Season: 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Winter Season (November through April): 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- In the winter season, campers must book at least three days in advance.
- If you arrive after office hours or on days when staff are not available, an incoming yurt reservation package will be left for you in the Self Serve Reservation Kiosk.
MacGregor Point Provincial Park
At 16 yurts, MacGregor Point Provincial Park is one that you might not've heard of but if you're looking to go yurting, you might have the best chances of snagging one here. They are also available all-year round.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 1593 Bruce County Rd 33, Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C5
Closest City: Owen Sound
Number at Park: 16
Site Numbers: 46, 48, 50, 53, 55, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 77, 90, 92
Operating Dates: Year round
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: MacGregor Point Provincial Park
Amenities: Each yurt sleeps six people on two sets of double/single bunk beds. Inside the yurt campers will also find a table and chairs, lighting, electric heat and an electrical outlet.Outside visitors are provided with a firepit, kitchen shelter, picnic tables, and propane barbeque with side burner. A comfort station with drinking water, flush toilets and showers is available year round.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, cookware, dishes, food and other personal items.
Restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is also not permitted.
Parking: Most yurts only have one spot but there are a few that have two spots. Parking for one vehicle is included in your rental fee. There is 1 offsite parking spot available for each yurt but will require a permit
Pancake Bay Provincial Park
The yurts at Pancake Bay offer amazing views of Lake Superior as they are almost all located by the shoreline.
For more privacy, better access to the lake and a comfort station that's more-or-less for the yurts, I recommend 701, 702, or 703.
A unique amenity feature of the yurt is that you get a mini-fridge in your unit.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 12650 Hwy 17 North, Batchawana Bay, Ontario, P0S 1A0
Closest City: Sault Ste. Marie
Number at Park: 5
Site Numbers: 124, 365, 701, 702, 703
Reservable Dates: May 6, 2022 to October 10, 2022
Operating Dates: May 6, 2022 to October 11, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Amenities: A mini comfort station is on site with toilet, shower facilities and hot water. There are also two yurts within the main campground. All are a short walk from the beach. Each yurt is equipped with two sets of futon bunk beds and sleeps up to six. Inside the yurt campers will also find a table and chairs, mini fridge, shelving unit, and a broom and dustpan. Outside, yurt sites are equipped with a propane BBQ, picnic table and fire pit. Yurts offer barrier-free access.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, cookware and dishes.
Restrictions: No pets or smoking in or on-site. Cooking in the yurt is also not permitted.
Parking: Two spots available and parking for one vehicle is included in your rental fee. 2 off-site parking spots also available. Additional cars require permits.
Pinery Provincial Park
One of the defining features of this park and campground are the large decks that are built into the yurt space. The interiors are also quite spacious.
There are 12 yurts, 1 soft sided shelter (deluxe yurt), and 1 rustic cabin. Yurts 474 and 481 are barrier free.
A few special units also have fireplaces – 487, 480D, 477. Otherwise it's electric heating.
487 and 489 are also more fully furnished with microwaves, mini fridges.
One of the downsides to this park is how tightly clustered the yurts are so you'll just feel like you're part of the mix when it comes to all the other campers. Lastly, beware poison ivy in the area.
Make sure to read the full Pinery Provincial Park guide and review if you plan on coming here.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 9526 Lakeshore Road Hwy 21, Grand Bend, N0M 1T0
Closest City: Grand Bend, London, and Sarnia
Number at Park: 12
Site Numbers: 474, 475, 476, 477, 478, 479, 480, 480A, 480B, 480C, 480D, 481
Operating Dates: All year round
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Electricity?: Yes
Price: $86/night + $9.73 reservation fee
Website: Pinery Provincial Park
Amenities: Twelve yurts are available in Area 1 of Riverside Campground. Inside each yurt, visitors will find two bunk beds to accommodate six people, a table and four chairs, electric lighting and a heater for cool weather camping. In addition, you will find a gas barbecue outside for cooking, a fire pit and a picnic table on the site. A comfort station with flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities is located nearby.
What to bring: Bring your own bedding, cookware, dishes, food and other personal items.
Restrictions: Pets aren't allowed in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities except for Yurt 480C . Cooking in yurts is also not permitted. Minimum 2 nights required between May 18, 2020 and Oct 12, 2020.
Parking: There is enough space for 2 cars but only parking for one vehicle is included in your rental fee. Off-site parking is also available with unlimited spaces. These require additional permits.
Silent Lake Provincial Park
There are 8 yurts at Silent Lake and they are split between the Granite Ridge and Pincer Bay campgrounds.
What's great about these yurts is that every single one have a fireplace installed. Some are wood stoves and some are electric.
For those planning on coming here in the winter, Sites 5, 9, 16, and 38 include firewood for the woodstove in the winter.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 1589 Silent Lake Park Road, Bancroft, K0L 1C0
Closest City: Bancroft
Number at Park: 8
Site Numbers: 5, 9, 16, 38, 97, 99, 103, 106
Reservable Dates: May 14, 2021 to March 26, 2022, May 19, 2022 to September 17, 2022
Operating Dates: May 14, 2021 to March 27, 2022, May 19, 2022 to September 18, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Website: Silent Lake Provincial Park
Amenities: Interior – two bunk beds, small table and chairs, fireplace, broom and dust pan. Exterior – propane BBQ, firepit & picnic table.
What to bring: Bring bedding, cookware, dishes, lighting (flashlights/lanterns), drinking water container, dishpan and container for waste water from dish washing, matches, food, drinking water. Additional items recommended for winter: appropriate cold weather gear for winter, snowshoes, cross country skis, sled for carrying supplies and additional food supplies in case of inclement weather and road closures.
Restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is also not permitted. 2 night minimum required.
Parking: 2 spots available at the yurt but only one one vehicle is included in your rental fee. 1 off-site spot available. Additional cars require permit
Windy Lake Provincial Park
Windy Lake features four yurts each of which are tucked away with existing campsites at the Windy Lake Campground.
Something to keep in mind is that the comfort stations aren't open in the winter and that you'll need to ski or walk to the yurt.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Hwy 144, Levack, Ontario, P0M 2C0
Closest City: Sudbury
Number at Park: 4
Site Numbers: 24, 27, 30, 31
Reservable Dates: January 7, 2022 to March 19, 2022, and May 20, 2022 to September 4, 2022
Operating Dates: January 7, 2022 to March 20, 2022, and May 20, 2022 to September 5, 2022
Check-In/Check-Out Time: 3pm/11am
Sleeps: 6
Website: Windy Lake Provincial Park
Amenities: Each yurt sleeps six people (on two sets of double/single bunk beds) and comes with a table and chairs, lighting, electric heat and an electrical outlet. Each site also has a large deck, firepit, picnic table, and propane barbeque (propane included) with side burner. A privy is located in close proximity to all the yurts and is heated during the winter months. The yurts at Windy Lake are available in the summer and winter months.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own bedding, cookware and dishes.
Restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the yurt or on site and smoking is prohibited in all facilities. Cooking in yurts is also not permitted.
Parking: There are two spots for cars but only one vehicle is included in your rental fee. There's also 1 off-site parking spot available.
National Parks
Bruce Peninsula National Park
This might've been the first experimental yurts as part of Canada's National Parks program which is why you'll find 10 of them at Cyprus Lake. What better way to do it in the picturesque Bruce Peninsula and incredibly close to The Grotto and can be part of your weekend in Tobermory.
These yurts are very similar to the ones found in Ontario's provincial park but they're a bit of an upgrade as you'll see from the photos. I love that their decks are massive and you'll see that the interior design is well done as well with the use of a pull-down “Murphy-style” bed.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Rd, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0
Closest City: Tobermory
Number at Park: 10
Reservation Dates Open: February 8, 2022 at 8 am EST
Operating Dates: April 30 to October 30, 2022
Sleeps: 5
Electricity?: Yes
Price:
- $122.65 – Per yurt, per night (includes parking for 1 vehicle).
- $11.50 (online) or $ 13.50 (over the phone) – Non-refundable reservation fee (per yurt).
- $11.95 – Overnight parking fee for additional vehicle, per night.
- $250.00 – Cleaning fee if there has been smoking, cooking or pets inside the yurt.
- $6.80 – Cost per bag of firewood.
Website: Yurt camping at Cyprus Lake
Amenities: Double bed with mattress and either a bunk bed or a futon, table and chairs, shelving unit, cupboard, woodstove for heating, fire extinguisher with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, broom and dustpan. Outdoors you have a deck with patio table, chairs and firepit, cooking station, propane bbq, food storage locker, wagon/sled to transport gear, and shared picnic shelter with other yurts.
What to bring: Visitors should bring their own sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, food/drink in a cooler, water container, cooking gear, indoor shoes, flashlights, insect repellent, and matches/lighter.
Restrictions: No smoking and no pets at the campground. Cooking not allowed inside. Firewood must also be purchased from the park as no outside wood is allowed. 2 nights minimum and maximum stay of 14 consecutive days (with 48 hour break between bookings). No candles allowed in the yurt.
Parking: Maximum of 2 vehicles (second vehicle required to purchase additional vehicle permit). Parking for 1 included with booking.
oTENTik
While technically these aren't yurts, I wanted to put this here as an exception because there aren't that many National Parks in Ontario but I have to credit them for coming up with this special program.
oTENTik is a special Parks Canada program where they offer unique accommodations in National Parks all over the country. These are meant to be an easy, comfortable, and relaxing way to go camping.
Without going into detail about each one, I wanted to link to all of the National Parks (and a few historic sites) that have the oTENTiks.
- Point Pelee National Park
- Pukaskwa National Park
- Georgian Bay Islands National Park
- Thousand Islands National Park
- Rouge National Urban Park
- Rideau Canal National Historic Site
- Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site
You'll notice that the only National Park missing is Bruce Peninsula National Park but that's because they already had yurts to begin with.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Operating Dates: Some are open all year round such as at Point Pelee but others are from May to October.
Price: The price also varies but for instance it's $122.64 per night at Point Pelee but Georgian Bay Islands National Park, it's $120, and Thousand Islands is $102.20asdf
Website: oTENTik
Comparing Provincial and National Park Yurts
This handy table below compares all the bookable yurts and some of the nuances that are hard to see until you put it all together.
Park | Yurts | Capacity | Open Dates | Heating | Dogs? | On-Site Parking | One night allowed? | Drive from TO |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Algonquin - Mew Lake | 7 | 6 | Year round | Yes, electric | No except #62 | 2 | Yes | 3 hrs 13 mins |
Algonquin - Achray | 1 | 6 | Apr 24 - Oct 25, 2020 | No | No | 1 | Yes | 5 hrs 44 mins |
Bon Echo | 8 | 6 | May 8 - Oct 18, 2020 | No | No except #153 | 1 | No | 2 hrs 55 mins |
Bronte Creek | 3 | 6 | May 8 - Oct 25, 2020 | No | No | 2 | No | 0 hrs 31 mins |
Charleston Lake | 4 | 6 | May 8 - Oct 13, 2020 | No | No except #315C | 1 | No | 3 hrs 7 mins |
Killarney | 6 | 6 | Year round | Yes, electric | No | 0 | No | 4 hrs 10 mins |
MacGregor Point | 16 | 6 | Year round | Yes, electric | No | 1 (some have 2) | Yes | 2 hrs 47 mins |
Pancake Bay | 5 | 6 | May 1 - Oct 13, 2020 | No | No | 2 | Yes | 8 hrs 4 mins |
Pinery | 12 | 6 | Year round | Yes, electric | No | 2 | No | 2 hrs 38 mins |
Silent Lake | 8 | 6 | May 8 - Oct 13, 2020, and Dec 11, 2020 - Mar 28, 2021 | Yes, electric or wood | No | 2 | No | 4 hrs 35 mins |
Windy Lake | 4 | 6 | May 15 - Sep 7, 2020 and Jan 1, 2021 - Mar 21, 2021 | Yes, electric | No | 2 | Yes | 4 hrs 35 mins |
Bruce Peninsula | 10 | 5 | May 15, 2020 - Oct 30, 2020 | Yes, wood | No | 2 | No | 3 hrs 26 mins |
Private Glamping Yurts
Many enterprising individuals have set up yurts on private property for rent. This is all part of the rise of the glamping market. The key to yurts is that anyone can buy them and set them up.
Here is a collection of some of the most popular yurts for rent on platforms such as Airbnb and Glamping Hub.
Wyldwood Sojourn
Nestled in a private forest and on a limestone ridge, this is an authentic Mongolian yurt that's designed to be a meditative space. Insulated with yak wool, raised on an insulated floor, and furnished with traditional crafts, this makes for a great weekend getaway for those that want to get off-the-grid. Next door is also a smaller meditative yurt that you can use.
The yurt includes a wood stove, outhouse, and basic facilities. This means that you won't have access to showers, laundry, or kitchen facilities. Instead, come here to rejuvenate your well-being in a space that fosters art, creativity, calm, and nature.
Nearby are seasonal waterfalls and the Salmon River.
Note that $15 firewood donations are recommended for the winter. You should also have some experience in maintaining a wood fire overnight if you're coming here in the winter. Lastly, there is no electricity inside the yurt.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: Belleville
Sleeps: 3
Price: Roughly $68 for one night after cleaning fees (25% off if you stay a week and a 40% monthly discount)
Amenities: 1 double bed and 1 single cot with thick foam mattress. Wood stove, solar lights, mineral well water, cutlery, dishes. Wifi is available. Outside of the yurt is an outhouse and a rainfall shower in the forest. In some instances in the winter, the host does allow guests to shower in her house. Small meditative yurt is also available for use.
What to bring: Sleeping bag, cooler, and candles. Recommended to bring stew and soup for food to use with the wood stove.
A Yurt in the Forest
Located roughly 30 minutes away from Algonquin Provincial Park, you'll find this yurt available for rent all year round. This is a relaxing retreat that combines comfortable accommodations with those wanting to connect with the outdoors.
The interior of the yurt is furnished with one proper double bed and another double futon and wood fireplace keeps it warm in the winter.
A few notes to make are that you will only have access to an outhouse during your stay here. Wifi is available but not from inside the yurt itself and only phones can be charged in the yurt which means you should bring your own power bank.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: Barry's Bay
Sleeps: 4
Price: Roughly $74 for one night after cleaning and reservation fees (15% off if you stay a week and a 30% monthly discount)
Amenities: 1 proper double bed and 1 double bed futon (with bedding), wood stove, outlet for phones, one electrical light, outhouse, and firepit in the yard. Firewood and kindling are also required.
What to bring: Cooler and candles. Recommended to bring stew and soup for food to use with the wood stove.
Nature's Harmony Eco-Lodge
If you're looking for more of a resort in Ontario, this is a great option that offers a traditional Mongolian yurt. Hand-made in Mongolia and assembled at the resort, it's located in a secluded setting with fabulous views of the Laurentian Mountains.
We had a chance to visit here in the summer. Make sure to read our Nature's Harmony Review and our Mongolian yurt experience.
Inside the yurt are basic furnishings but has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.
This is a little different from the others in that the yurt is actually part of a large resort that also has camping, cabin, chalet, and glamping in its portfolio. As a result, they also offer a wide selection of activities all year round.
In the winter, they have a groomed trail system for cross-country and snowshoeing. They also have tubing runs, tobogganing hills, and something called kicksledding. To relax, they offer hot chocolate and sauna.
In the spring, summer, and fall, you can bring your bike or go hiking on their trails located in their 485 acres of property. They're adjacent to Bang's Bay which allows for swimming, canoeing, stand-up paddleboard, or float in a tube. They also have an abundance of wild raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for picking. With the Laurentian Mountains as a back drop, this is also a great place to see the leaves change.
In the winter months, guests can enjoy our extensive groomed trail system for cross-country skiing or explore our many designated trails for snowshoeing. For an adrenaline ride, guests can slide down our tubing runs or enjoy tobogganing on a groomed sliding hill. For a new adventure – guests are welcome to try out kicksledding. At the end of the day, guests can relax and unwind with a hot cup of cocoa by the fire or enjoy a hot sauna.
Note that cross-country skis, snowshoes and kicksleds are available for rent. Everything else is included with your rate. Also, there is little to no cellphone signal and there is no electricity to the yurt so make sure to bring your own power bank. As you can tell, there's plenty to do here!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: North Bay
Sleeps: 4
Price: $115 per night
Amenities: Inside the yurt you'll find a small wood stove, double bed, futon, small table, chairs, and shelving. There is a compost toilet outdoors. Basic kitchen necessities such as plates, cups cutlery, pots, and kettle are provided. There is a BBQ outside and water is provided for both drinking and washing. Firewood is included. Outdoors there is a large fire pit area and a screened in gazebo for the summer months. In terms of bedding, they include bottom sheets, pillows, and pillow covers. There is no running water but they do offer an eco-shower which is essentially a hand-pump cold water shower. In the winter, they offer a warm shower which is best paired with the sauna.
What to bring: Sleeping bags or comforters, cooler and lantern, flashlights or headlamps for additional lighting at night time. Recommended to bring stew and soup for food to use with the wood stove. If you'd prefer not to bring your own bedding, they can arrange complete bedding as a special request.
The Buffalo Farm
A 2-storey yurt? No way!
Yes, this is the largest yurt in Ontario and definitely the only 2 floor yurt in Canada. Located just on the outskirts of Algonquin Provincial Park and on the banks of Amable du Fond River, this is a one-of-a-kind wilderness retreat with panoramic views of a pasture of grazing buffalos.
This is truly a unique yurt, hand-built with a timber frame and with renewable materials from the land, and with raw finish touch.
Capable of handing groups up to 12, come here for special retreats, wilderness photography, special events, or just hang out with friends and family with their cabana, swim platform, fire pit, and hibachi grill.
There are plenty of activities to do outside of the yurt. There's Algonquin and Samuel de Champlain provincial parks which means you can go hiking, canoeing, bird watching, and seeing the autumn colours.
As an additional note, there is no interior heating aside from the wood burning stove so on cold nights you'll need extra layers. There is also no shower options here.
Lastly, there is no electricity in the yurt but if you need to, the host will offer their garage to charge phones and store food in fridges.
Note: In order to hold weekends for group bookings, all 2020 weekends are currently blocked on the Airbnb calendar. However, if you want to book a weekend for four or more, send them a message Airbnb or call them at 705-744-7619.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: North Bay
Sleeps: 12
Price: Roughly $194 for one night for one person after cleaning and reservation fees (lower prices for weekdays). The prices go up $40 per person and the reservation fee incrementally increases as it's roughly 14% of the rate + $50 cleaning fee. Weekends are only available to groups of 4 or more.
Operating Dates: April to December
Amenities: 1 double bed, 1 sofa bed, 4 floor mattresses, clean and warm bedding (duvets, blankets, pillows), toilet paper, mosquito nets, screened cabana and dock, drinking well water, canoe with life jackets, hibachi charcoal bbq, outdoor fire pit, picnic table and chairs, and food barrels. Adequate wood is provided for the indoor stove and fire pit. The bathroom comes in the form of an outhouse.
What to bring: Additional firewood, charcoal, additional kitchenware beyond the basic (pots, pans, cutlery, crockery), battery-operated lights, insect repellent. Recommended to bring easy slip-on shoes when heading to the outhouse.
Yurt It Up North
So far, all of the yurts featured have leaned towards the most rustic side. This yurt is as feature packed as you'll find in this list of Ontario yurts. At the same time, this is the furthest up north as it's a two hours drive east from Thunder Bay International Airport.
Overlooking Lake Superior, this is a luxury yurt camping experience in Ontario that includes the comfort amenities that haven't been part of the package for the others. Instead of a basic outhouse you get a full restroom. With the provided robes and towels, you'll be able to rejuvenate your skin with their sauna that also has a built-in shower. The custom yurt is incredibly spacious with not only a fireplace but also wifi, TV, DVD player, and refrigerator, microwave, stove, and coffee maker.
If that wasn't enough, breakfast included every morning and you'll also find fruit parfait in the fridge, homemade cake, and a gift box.
There's plenty of things to do from Rossport including kayaking, the Cascade Isle Trails, ice fishing, boat tours, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, diving, local artisans, and more.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: Thunder Bay
Sleeps: 4
Price: Roughly $399 for two nights after cleaning and reservation fees (20% off if you stay a week and a 30% monthly discount). Minimum 2 nights required.
Amenities: 1 queen bed and sofa bed, private washroom, sauna with built-in shower, fire pit, hammock, gazebo, bbq grill, indoor fireplace, wifi and built-in kitchen. Breakfast is also included by the host.
What to bring: Everything is included. Otherwise, I recommend that you bring food to cook.
Forest Yurt in Madoc
For another unique yurt experience, check out this one located in Madoc which is north of Belleville. It's got the comfort elements inside while still keeping things simple and serene. With a private forest at your disposal, fire pit, star-gazing opportunities and close proximity to supplies, you'll be amazed at just what a few days here will do as a weekend vacation from the city.
The yurt itself will look familiar but has a few unique qualities to it. For one, the photos will show you just how spacious this yurt is. It's renovated to have more of that cottage feel as opposed to the whimsical or traditional Mongolian. You'll also find that there's an indoor eco-toilet instead of a separate outhouse. Inside you'll also have access to a mini fridge, coffee press, toaster, and stovetop which makes a pretty fully-fledged kitchen. There's also electricity in the yurt so you can bring your own electronics as well.
Stays in all seasons are welcome here. In the summer time, you can walk over to the nearby cheese factory for ice cream and lunch and you can go out for walks or bike rides in the country side. There aren't any major parks here though so you'll be restricted to the roads. On property, there's a game of cornhole as well. In the winter, they supply 2 pairs of snowshoes.
What this yurt doesn't have is a shower built-in but you can use the host's house for shower (if you stay 2 nights or more). This means there is no running water in the yurt. There is also no wifi but cellular reception is said to be good.
For the winter, there's the wood stove for heat and in the summer, there's of course no air condition.
Note that the parking area is a few minutes away from the yurt. It is also not wheelchair accessible.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: Belleville
Sleeps: 2
Price: Roughly $234 for two nights after cleaning and reservation fees (12% off if you stay a week and a 31% monthly discount). Minimum 2 nights required.
Amenities: 1 double bed with bedding. The unit also includes cookware, dishes, and utensils along with toaster, mini fridge, kettle, coffee press, and water cooler. For cooking, there's the indoor stovetop and also a propane BBQ. The ground outdoors has a covered seating area with chairs, fire pit and cornhole.
What to bring: Firewood is not supplied so you will need to bring your own. You will need to bring food of course to cook.
Salmon River Wilderness Camp
While not quite a camp in the traditional sense, this is a private property yurt experience in the lakes region of Eastern Ontario and very close to Puzzle Lake Provincial Park.
Highlights of this yurt is that it's steps away from the Salmon River and Cade Lake which means you'll be able to plan days of swimming, canoeing, and hiking as part of your stay. It's proximity to Lennox & Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area is another advantage of these accommodations.
The yurt itself is thoughtfully decorated to give it a rustic vibe. It's got elements of a cottage without all of the luxuries, making it a comfortable camping experience.
As with many of the others, there is no running water here, electricity or shower facilities so keep that in mind.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Closest City: Napanee
Sleeps: 2
Price: Roughly $113 for one night after cleaning and reservation fees (20% off if you stay a week and a 40% monthly discount).
Amenities: 1 double bed with futon mattress, fitted sheet, wool blanket, and two pillows with pillowcase. For cooking you have a tabletop propane barbeque grill, utensils and tableware for 2, a French press, condiments, and basin for washing dishes. Inside you'll also find a wood stove for heating, a glass lantern with candles, table top lamp that plugs into a regular electrical outlet (you have to bring your own power box), wash stand, dresser, board games, dining table with chairs, and broom with dustpan. The bathroom comes in the form of an outhouse with toilet paper. You'll be able to take a 2-person canoe out. Outside of the yurt, you also have a screened gazebo with picnic table and fire pit.
What to bring: Your own food and water, bedding (sleeping bags recommended), towels, toiletries, flashlights, bathing suits, and insect repellent. Bring your own power box if you want to use their electric lamp or stick to a power bank if you just want to charge your phone. Firewood can be purchased for an additional $10 to use in the fire pit but firewood is provided for heating the yurt.
Maps of Yurts in Ontario
I've put together a handy map of all the yurts that you'll find in Ontario. Green ones are the public yurts in Provincial and National Parks and the purple ones are the private ones.
If you want a copy, simply maximize the map to open it up in Google Maps, and make a copy on your account. This way, you'll be able to access this map on your desktop or smartphone with the Google Maps app.
Advantage of Park Yurts
Almost all the yurts in the Provincial Parks or National Parks are very similar. They're designed to be a bit more bare-bones and spartan because of the volume of people that go through them each year. While it may seem like a disadvantage to a park yurt in Ontario, there are a couple of key advantages to consider:
- They're cheap – No matter which one you pick, the pricing is fixed and no-BS.
- Comfort stations – Whether you love them or hate them, you know you get a base level of amenities from the provincial and national parks which isn't always the case with the private rental yurts.
- Parks are packed with outdoor activities – You're already in a park which means that you have direct access to lakes, rivers, trails, special programs, and more.
Advantage of Private Yurts
The private yurts for rent are enticing because they have a lot more character and each is incredibly unique. Here's why I would choose a private yurt:
- Easier to book – Booking park yurts is incredibly competitive because people are waiting for for reservations to open and that's when key dates get snatched up. Less people are on the look out for private yurts so this could give you an advantage.
- Unique features and character – Every single one is different and there might be one on this list that has everything you're looking for.
- Better furnished – The park yurts are pretty basic and requires to bring almost all the gear you would need to bring for car camping. With these private yurts, you get so much more included and much closer to a cottage.
- One-to-one service – All the hosts are pretty amazing so you a much more tailored experience and you have a direct point of contact if you need something.
Tips on Booking Yurts in Ontario
Here is a compilation of tips that you should consider when deciding which yurt you want to stay in and how to plan your trip.
- Book early – Yurts are becoming a very popular form of accommodation in Ontario and the ones located in the parks disappear once reservations open up. Keep an eye out on reservation opening dates and book as soon as you're ready. Summer weekends are especially competitive.
- Know your requirements – As you sift through all of the yurt options you'll notice that they are slightly different. Some offer shower facilities, some don't. Some allow dogs and some have electricity, but some have neither. Know what you want and choose wisely.
- Pick your season – Yurting is a different experience depending on what season you go. I am biased towards the winter season because insulated yurts are designed to keep you cozy and warm. I love being able to fire up the wood stove. That said, summer has all of the wilderness activities open to you. You decide!
- Get your gear ready – This might be jumping the gun but if you're booking a yurt, you'll need to get your gear in order including buying portable power station, power bank, and good sleeping bag/quilt among other camping essentials.
All images courtesy of Ontario Parks, Parks Canada, and Airbnb hosts
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