Fitzroy Provincial Park

About Fitzroy Provincial Park

Fitzroy Provincial Park sits at the confluence of the Carp River and the Ottawa River, roughly 50 km west of downtown Ottawa — about a 40-minute drive. It's one of the closest provincial parks to the city, making it a go-to for weekend camping trips without a long haul.

The park covers a mix of white pine forest, century-old trees, and a rare stand of 300-year-old bur oaks along the Carp River. Over 120 bird species have been documented here, including Ospreys, Barred Owls, and Wood Ducks.

Camping

The park has 235 campsites across two campgrounds:

Pine Grove Campground

• Shaded sites under mature pines
• Electrical hookups available
• Comfort station with showers and laundry

Two Rivers Campground

• Waterfront sites along the Carp River and Ottawa River
• Electrical hookups available
• Family-friendly camper's beach nearby
• Park store on site

There's also a separate area for group camping and day-use picnicking. Over 200 sites have room for trailers.

Things to Do

Swimming

Two sandy beaches — the main beach in the day-use area and a smaller camper's beach in Two Rivers Campground that's well suited for young children. No lifeguards on duty.

Hiking

Two trails showcase the park's unique geology:

• Carp Trail (1 km loop) — A boardwalk walk along the Carp River through mature mixed forest. Good for birding
• Terrace Trail (2 km loop) — Glacial landforms, massive boulders, shale pillars, and seasonal waterfalls in spring and early summer

Paddling & Fishing

A boat launch provides access to the Ottawa River. Fishing opportunities include walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, pike, and panfish.

Winter

The park's 20 km of cross-country ski trails are groomed by the West Carleton Nordic Ski Club during winter months.

Visitor Information

• Season: Mid-May to mid-October
• Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM daily
• Fees: Non-electrical sites from ~$39/night, electrical sites from ~$44/night
• Reservations: Book online at Ontario Parks — popular summer weekends fill up fast
• Facilities: Comfort stations with showers, laundry, dump station, park store (firewood, ice, supplies), playground
• Pets: Allowed on leash (not permitted on beaches)

Getting There

• From Ottawa: Head west on Highway 417, exit at March Road or Galetta Side Road toward Fitzroy Harbour. About 50 km / 40 minutes from downtown
• Address: 5201 Canon Smith Drive, Fitzroy Harbour, ON K0A 1X0