If you don't feel like driving a long distance up north but want to experience camping in the great outdoors you might be surprised to learn that you can camp right here in the Greater Toronto Area. There are a number of excellent facilities to choose from each offering their own unique attractions, facilities and camping experience. While there is just one campground in the city itself there are many other options just outside the city in the suburbs.

The campground within the actual City of Toronto is the Glen Rouge Campground located in the northeast part of Scarborough. This campground is situated in Rouge Park, Canada's largest urban park. A vast trail system brimming with plant and animal life awaits your discovery. Keep a watchful eye and you just might spot a red fox, a white tailed deer, or a wild turkey hiding in the the shade of a tall stand of pine, hemlock and maple trees. If you are not a tent person you can also set up an RV trailer at one of 87 fully serviced sites. Some of these campsites are nestled along the scenic Rouge River for those who want to be close to the water. To make a reservation at Glen Rouge Campground call 416-338-2267.

The Toronto Suburbs offer many excellent camping options. Albion Hills Campground located in the Town of Caledon is situated within the vast Albion Hills Conservation Area. The setting is picturesque along the banks of the Humber River. Here campers can enjoy a swim, a paddle on the lake, fishing, and wonderful hiking and mountain biking on the 26 kilometres of trails. There are 234 serviced and un-serviced campsites at Albion Hills including pull-through sites for R.V.'s. Every campsite has its own picnic table and a firepit. For campsite reservations call 1-800-838-9921. 

The Indian Line Campground located in the Toronto Suburb of Brampton has a combined 240 serviced and un-serviced campsites. This campground is perfect for young families as it includes a children's play area and even has a swimming pool. You can also swim, fish and canoe in the lake. For more information call the Indian Line Campground toll free at 1-800-304-9728

Sibbald Point Provincial Park located at the north end of York Region, in the Town of Georgina on the shores of Lake Simcoe is just one hour from the City of Toronto. There are 604 campsites to choose from here. The beautiful sandy beach is the main attraction here. If you do not want to stay overnight this is also a perfect spot for a day picnic.Eildon Hall Museum and two large sports fields are additional attractions here. Reserve your campsite by calling 905-722-8061,

Bronte Creek Provincial Park is located in Halton Region between the municapalities of Oakville and Burlington. Attractions include a children's farm and play barn, and a nature centre with special events. There are 144 campsites to choose from at Bronte Creek. Hiking and cycling on park trails are popular activities. To book a campsite call 905-827-6911.

Darlington Provincial Park located in Durham Region just east of Oshawa is known for excellent bird watching. There are 315 campsites. The Park Store sells groceries, snacks, ice cream, camping supplies and park souvenirs. Reservations can be made by calling the park directly at (905) 436-2036.