Why is there only one date available from Ottawa?

Our Ottawa - Algonquin route does not see enough demand to make it a regular service, like routes from other cities at this time. However, we realize that other parks, such as Gatineau Park, may be more suitable destinations for Ottawa residents, and we are looking at starting regular bus connections to these park instead.

Are there overnight options for non-campers?

Yes! However, due to their popularity, you need to make reservations well in advance.

Wolf Den Bunkhouse (705) 635-9336 is an extremely popular option as they offer cozy cabins, private and semi-private rooms. While technically they are located about 6km from park's entrance, the natural setting is very similar, with many hiking trails and canoe rentals available within walking distance (give them a call to inquire). Oxtongue Lake Algonquin Outfitters base is about 10min walk down Hwy 60.

While Wolf Den is the only location where Parkbus currently stops, Algonquin Lakeside Inn, Blue Spruce Inn as well as Blue Spruce resort are located within walking distance.

If you are looking for roofed accommodation inside the park, there are 3 high-end resorts, including Killarney Lodge, Arowhon Pines Resort, and Bartlett Lodge. While we do not stop right at their properties, they can normally offer a shuttle service to and from Lake of Two Rivers Store, or Portage Store - two of our official stops.

Can Parkbus offer extra stops on demand?

Unfortunately we cannot do it for many reasons, including safety, liability and our agreements with the park and our partners. However, we are constantly reviewing our operations, and if you have any suggestions or ideas, including new stops for the future, do get in touch!

Are there places to buy food / camping equipment?

If you are staying at Lake of Two Rivers, or Mew Lake campground: Lake of Two Rivers Store is one of our stops, and offers basic grocery items (mostly non-perishables) and camping supplies. The adjacent restaurant also sells fast-food type items, such as hamburgers, ice cream, fries, pizza, etc.

If you are starting or ending a canoe trip at Canoe Lake, Portage Store offers similar products and services. Do give them a call in advance to make sure they have what you need, there are no other options around!

Is there cellphone reception in the park?

While spotty and unreliable, it has been (un)fortunately improving over the last few years. You will get best reception, and sometimes even 3G/LTE on top of hills, or in middle of some larger lakes. Ultimately, it depends on your operator - in the same place, one cellphone can have 3G connectivity, while another would be getting no service at all.

Can I bring pets on the bus?

Pets are not allowed on Ottawa - Algonquin bus as per request from the bus operator. Pets are generally allowed on most other Parkbus buses in Ontario. Service dogs are allowed without restrictions.

Are there bears? How do we hide our food overnight without a car?

There are bears in the park, although they generally avoid humans, and your chances of seeing one are extremely slim. Check out official Ontario Government publication (BearWise) on avoiding bear encounters.

Bears, raccoons, chipmunks and other wildlife are attracted to human food, and you must take precautions. If you are staying at Lake of Two Rivers, Mew Lake or Pog Lake Campgrounds, park staff offers use of food lockers free of charge to Parkbus passengers. Lockers are placed in several locations around campgrounds (usually next to comfort station), and require a key which can be obtained at park office with $25 refundable cash deposit.

How do we pay day use / camping / backcountry fees?

Note that Algonquin Park is a provincial park run by Ontario Parks, and does not offer free admission like National Parks (Parks Canada) do for 2017.

If you are staying at Lake of Two Rivers, Mew Lake, or Pog Lake campgrounds, you can pay fees directly at campground offices when you arrive.

If you are backpacking Highland trail, you will pay the fee and obtain your backcountry permit at Mew Lake campground office (800m from Lake of Two Rivers store drop-off)

If you are going on a canoe trip, you must obtain your backcountry permit either at Canoe Lake (if you are starting at Canoe or Smoke Lake) or at Lake Opeongo - both locations have park offices.

How much luggage can we bring on the bus? What about bikes?

We run a mid-size coach bus on this route, which means that while there is space for backpacks, suitcases and coolers, we will not able to fit bikes.

Fireworks, firewood, and firearms are NOT permitted on board or in the luggage compartment.

Is there bathroom on board? Do you make a stop on the way?

For Ottawa - Algonquin route, we may not have a bathroom on board. However, the bus does make at least one stop on the way for passengers to use the bathroom at a rest stop, and more stops can be requested.