I drove 13 hours to fish Missinaibi Provincial Park. Here are 7 reasons why it was worth it

#6  The campground is small and spartan, but that’s part of its charm

Missinaibi has 35 road-access sites (upper map), plus another 25 boat-in sites (lower map), and is open from May to September. The park doesn’t have some of the niceties found closer to cities, but that’s part of what makes the experience special. And Missinaibi is completely and gloriously out of cellphone and internet range, which is a big win in my book.

Available amenities do include water taps and vault privies, plus bear-proof food boxes on every site, and an excellent boat ramp and docks (above). There are no electrical hook-ups or comfort stations (so no hot water or showers), but many sites are trailer- and RV-friendly. There’s also a small park store selling ice and a few camping essentials, so you don’t have to drive 90 minutes back to Chapleau if you forget the bug spray. Also, do not forget the bug spray.

#7  Simply put, Missinaibi is a gem

There’s a reason most of the groups I saw at this park were either hardcore anglers or retired folks, set up for a long stay (some with the grandkids). Big Miss is a long way from, well, almost everywhere. But there’s also a reason many of those same visitors have been coming for years and, in a few cases, decades. Missinaibi is one of the few places you can drive to that still has the feel—not to mention the fishing—of a true northern wilderness. That’s why I’m already booked again for next year.

Many thanks to the park staff for making me feel so welcome, and to especially Assistant Park Planner Danielle Ščepanović, who was a fountain of park knowledge and lore, and shared some of her great scenery photos.

Learn more about Missinaibi at www.ontarioparks.com/park/missinaibi.

Ontario Parks campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance via https://reservations.ontarioparks.com.