If you’re on the hunt for peaceful and serene, outdoor getaways, Killbear Provincial Park is worth the trip. While its sweeping vistas and rugged beauty make it a must-visit, one particular wonder stands out: a single, wind-sculpted tree that has inspired countless works of art.
You’ll find Killbear Provincial Park about three hours away from Toronto. According to Ontario Parks, expect kilometres of “rugged, rocky shoreline mixed with numerous sand beaches.”
Though this is definitely a day-trip hot spot in the summer, Destination Ontario recommends making it a longer trip and camping for a few days.
Camping at Killbear
Winter camping is available whether you choose to do car camping at one of its seven campgrounds, radio-free camping at Granite Saddle, Harold Point, Lighthouse Point and Georgian, or roofed accommodations.
Pricing varies depending on your camping experience but a single site starts at $47.50.
It’s important to note that the park does close for the season on March 17, 2025, and reopens again on May 9, 2025. So if you’d like to go camping, check out its availability online ASAP.
But to enjoy the outdoors, you don’t need to dedicate an entire weekend of camping, you can do so by embarking along one of its trails.
Hiking trails at Killbear
There are actually four trails that range from easy to moderate and guides you through different types of forests:
- Twin Points Trail – 1.6 km loop (40 minutes) easy.
- Lookout Point Trail – 3.5 km loop (1.5 hours) moderate
- Lighthouse Point Trail – 800 m loop (25 minutes) easy to moderate
- Recreational Trail – 6 km linear (3 hours) easy to moderate
The shorter route, Lighthouse Point Trail is an 800 m loop that takes you to the tip of Killbear Point. Here is where you’ll catch a spectacular view of Georgian Bay and interesting rockscapes, according to Ontario Parks.
Killbear’s famous tree
According to Destination Ontario, just along its shore, atop a rocky platform is a “windswept isolated white pine tree” which is known as “The Killbear Tree.”
“This picturesque tree is reminiscent of famous Group of Seven and Tom Thomson paintings,” shares the site.
Standing alone against the elements, this resilient tree has weathered everything nature throws its way. To some, its twisted form is a symbol of strength; to others, it’s a work of art.
Or it’s just a crooked tree.
If you do find yourself out there, be careful as conditions could be slippery and dangerous. Watch your footing! Nonetheless, it serves as a pretty cool picture and a memorable adventure.
Killbear Provincial Park
Where: 35 Eddie Ramsay Parkway, Nobel, ON
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