Backcountry camping

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Stormhaven and High Dump are the two backcountry camping areas in Bruce Peninsula National Park. Located along the Bruce Trail on the scenic Georgian Bay shoreline, they offer a tranquil camping experience in a beautiful and remote setting.

Reservations can be made on-line
or by calling 1-877-RESERVE (877-737-3783).

A yellow tent on a wooden platform surrounded by forest
Backcountry Camping at Stormhaven campsite
© W. Waterton
  • Campers must check-in in person at the Cyprus Lake Campground Office or the Emmett Lake kiosk on the day of your arrival. You may pay any additional vehicle and day use fees at that time and will be issued your camping permits for use on your campsite and in your vehicle.
  • Once permits are issued, no cancellations are allowed.
  • Campers will need to agree to terms and conditions prior to their stay.

During the winter camping season (Nov. 1 – April 30) you are required to check-in at the Cyprus Campground Office to pay fees and ensure space is available.

How to Get There

Map of backcountry camping at Bruce Peninsula National Park

Backcountry campsites are reached by backpacking on the Bruce Trail. The nearest areas to park your car and hike from are:

  • Cyprus Lake – Parking lot 2 
  • Halfway Log Dump (Emmett Lake Road) Not accessible during winter months
  • Crane Lake Road (Bruce Trail access) Not accessible during winter months
    • Plan ahead: Spring runoff and heavy rains may submerge portions of Crane Lake Road.

UTM Coordinates are:

Stormhaven: E460815 N5009640
High Dump: E468097 N5009034

What to Expect

  • Each campground has 9 campsites equipped with a wood tent platform.
  • A maximum of 4 people are permitted on each campsite.
  • Platforms require use of free standing tent.
  • There is a shared composting toilet.
  • Bring a cook stove. No open fires allowed.

Please Leave No Trace

  • Pack out your garbage.
  • Hang food and all scented items on poles to deter bears.
  • Campfires are not permitted.
  • Wash with biodegradable soap 30m back from the shoreline.
  • Respect other campers.

Your Safety

  • Drinking water is not available. Carry your water in or be prepared to filter or boil bay water for drinking.
  • Decide your hiking route ahead of time. Stormhaven requires leaving at least 3 hours before sunset and High Dump requires leaving at least 6 hours before sunset.
  • Be careful hiking; this section of the Bruce Trail is rugged and slow-going. Rocks are very slippery when wet.
  • Share your trip plan with family or friends.
  • Pack and plan according to the time of year and weather conditions keeping in mind when the sun sets.

Fees

You can learn more about specific fees on the parks Fees Page. 

  • Camping permit (per person per night).
  • Overnight parking fee for vehicle. 
  • Admission fee.
  • Reservation fee.

For more information:

Email
Phone: (519) 596-2233

Related links

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