Guide to Achray Campground in Algonquin Park

This was one of my favourite experiences of last summer, camping at Algonquin Park’s Achray Campground. It’s the perfect spot to experience water adventures and stunning views of Barron Canyon. Here’s everything you need to know before heading there this summer.

How To Get To Achray Campground

From Ottawa, it’s about 3 hours by the 417 and highway 17. You could come here on a day trip but with so many activities, I recommend booking a campsite and spending more time to experience everything at your own pace. I recommend two nights here.

Accommodation Options at Achray Campground

Campsite

This is where we stayed. It’s easy access and there are campsites by the water that you can reserve. You’ll be able to fall asleep to the sound of loons on the lake.

The campsites are all along Grand Lake. Some have better access to the water but everyone can access the water from the beach. It’s a beautiful spot for swimming or getting out on the water on a paddle board, kayak or canoe. 

Backcountry Camping

There are lots of campsites along the water for backcountry camping at Achray. You can access the backcountry campsites by canoe. 

How To Book Camping at Achray Campground

You’ll need to reserve through Ontario Parks here. These spots fill up quickly so make sure to book in advance. 

Things To Do At Achray Campground in Algonquin Park

Hikes Near Achray Campground

Barron Canyon

Barron Canyon Trail is a 1.5km loop that takes you along the top of the canyon. Barron Canyon is 100 m deep and you’ll be able to see its beauty from above. This was my favourite way to experience Barron Canyon. 

Jack Pine Trail

Head to the spot that was the inspiration for Tom Thomson of the Group of Seven’s The Jack Pine painting. It’s an easy 1.6km trail. 

Berm Lake Trail

This 4.5 km loop trail will take you through pine and oak forests around Berm Lake. 

Canoe/Kayak Through Barron Canyon 

Rent a canoe or kayak at Algonquin Outfitters (525 Barron Canyon Road). We stopped here on our way to the campground. Choose the day(s) you need a canoe and they’ll drop it off at your starting location and pick it up as well. 

You can access Barron Canyon by canoe from Brigham Lake Parking Lot or  the Barron River Parking Lot. Algonquin Outfitters dropped our canoe off at “Squirrel Depot.” Keep in mind you will need to portage during this trip. When you reserve your canoe, they’ll give you a map of where to start your journey with the canoe, where to portage and where the canyon is. 

It took us about 4 hours to make it to Barron Canyon and back. You’ll feel pretty small as you approach the canyon. It’s the perfect spot to stop for lunch and admire the beauty. Do the hike beforehand and you’ll be able to see where you were standing from below.  

Make sure to have a day pack with sunscreen, food, etc. 

High Falls

Enjoy nature’s water slide at high falls. You can visit High Falls by canoe or by walking the “cheater trail.” I assumed the cheater trail would mean quick access to High Falls but it will take about 4.5km to make it there. You’ll see a sign on Barron Canyon road and there’s a parking lot at the start of the trail. 

The trail is quite rocky so I recommend wearing good shoes to get here. Bring a day pack with everything you need. There were lots of families with small children walking along this trail. Make sure you have bug spray for this trail too. 

Helpful Notes on Achray Campground:

• Use the time to full disconnected because there probably won’t be service
• Bring all the groceries you need because there is limited items at the camp office/store
• You need to buy firewood from the camp office/store

You may also be interested in camping at Canisbay Lake in Algonquin Park, perfect for hikes and wildlife.