The Victoria Day Long Weekend is typically the kick off for the camping season. Although the weather tends to be unpredictable, it is a fun time to be outdoors with people you love. My family and I had a fantastic time setting up our gear for the first time this season. Were you out exploring?
Norfolk County is a fabulous location for camping. From sandy sites with beach access (Sand Hill Park) to wooded areas (Woodland RV Park), this county offers a wide variety of camping styles for the whole family. From Conservation Areas to Provincial Parks to private campgrounds such as Shore Acres Park, there are many great opportunities for adventure!
LIVE Tuesday May 30th at 1:30pm from Whistling Gardens in Wilsonville
Camping to me is a getaway from the hustle and bustle and it is a time to connect with ourselves and people we love hanging out with. It is a time to explore, move, breath fresh air and try exciting outdoor activities. Camping is a time to enjoy birding, fishing, canoeing and swimming. Try Long Point Provincial Park to camp just steps from the beach or Deer Creek Conservation area for amazing fishing and hiking.
The provincial parks and conservations areas (operated by the Long Point Region Conservation Authority) also offer day passes. If camping is not on your radar, plan to stay at a local B&B, cottage or hotel and make your way into nature for the day.
Kayak fishing with BAER Fishing Adventures
While in Norfolk (camping or not), there are loads of activities to keep you busy. Interested in fishing? Barna at BAER Fishing Adventures has kayak angling experiences for you. Learn to fish session for beginners is simply the best way to introduce the whole family to this super fun outdoor activity. For the more adventurous, kayak fishing will create memories that will last forever. Learn from pros and discover hidden gems in Norfolk.
Zip Line and Canopy Tour at Long Point Eco Adventures
A stop at Long Point Eco-Adventures for a zipline and canopy tour is a great addition to your camping trip! The thrill will be unforgettable and the views overlooking Long Point Bay will absolutely blow you away. This location has just been recognized as one of the best glamping holidays resorts in North America, according to Adventures All Around travel blog. Check out their innovative accommodations as you make your camping plans.
If walking is your activity of choice, perhaps a stop at Whistling Gardens is exactly what you are after to keep active. This amazing location can be found in Wilsonville, just north of Waterford. It is an internationally recognized horticultural destination attraction. They host North America’s largest public peony collection and they are about ready to bloom! Visit the Peony Festival from May 28 to June 30 and expect to see more than one thousand varieties while you walk around the property.
I will be live broadcasting from Whistling Gardens on Tuesday May 30th at 1:30pm. Tune in to Norfolk County Tourism to get a sneak peek… I promise something spectacular!!
Norfolk County is known for its beaches and water activities. Before the boating and watersport season starts, stop by the Boat Safety Day in Port Dover this Saturday May 27th. Meet at the Norfolk County Port Dover Harbour Marina between 10am and 1pm to learn more about boating and how to enjoy a summer on the water safely. If you have an interest in kayaking and paddle sports, a paddling outfitter will also be on site to talk about paddle safety as well as kayaks currently on the market. If weather permits there will be demonstrations of kayaks and techniques.
Have fun exploring what Norfolk County has to offer!
Get out and explore Norfolk County. I encourage you to post your pictures of being active in Norfolk on social medias using the hashtag #GoNorfolk! Empower others to get moving in Ontario’s Garden.
About the blogger
Amélie Chanda is a Norfolk County based wellness coach with a passion for active living. She works with individuals and organizations that are ready to make a commitment to a healthy life. She provides support, tools and motivation to help her clients reach their health goals. In 2017 she launched the #GoNorfolk community initiative to empower people to get off the couch and to explore Norfolk County. She is now the Active Living Ambassador for Norfolk County.
Camping in the off-season is a wonderful experience. The crowds have thinned and access to many campgrounds, trails, and parks is much easier. We have been the only campers in a National Park campground on a weeknight in December!