What is the booking link for Ontario Parks?

For ease of booking, make sure you make an Ontario Parks account ahead of time, and that you are logged in before 7am. Ontario Parks Reservations
For our August Trip dates bookings open on: March 4th, 2023 at 7AM EST.
For our September Trip dates bookings open on: April 1st, 2023 at 7AM EST.
For our October Trip dates bookings open on: May 7th, 2023 at 7AM EST.

What happens if the bus is not 60% full?

If the bus is not 60% full there and back, we unfortunately will have to cancel the route due to the high operational costs of traveling to Killarney. Tickets will be fully refunded if this is the case. Riders will be notified at minimum 2 weeks before the trips.

What can I do on a day trip from from George Lake Campground?

Killarney Provincial Park offers day-use hiking trails easily accessible from George Lake Campground for those taking a day trip to Killarney: Cranberry Bog Trail, Granite Ridge Trail and, the La Cloche Silhouette loop is accessible from George Lake to spend some time exploring. You can also bring a bike and use the biking trails, or enjoy the beach for the day. See sections below for more information.

Can I do the La Cloche Silhouette loop?

This challenging yet rewarding trail covers a total distance of 78 kilometers; passing over ridges, through valley bottoms and alongside picturesque crystal clear lakes. It is also Killarney Provincial Park’s only multi-day backpacking route. Due to its length you need 7 to 10 days to complete this option, therefore it is not an option available for those using our route this year as we are only offering two pilot weekends. As noted above, you can explore some of it on your own completing shorted out and back options for day trips.

Are rentals available at George Lake Campground?

Killarney Outfitters has canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and camping equipment available for rent, which can be dropped off at George Lake main canoe beach. It is best to contact Killarney Outfitters in advance and reserve - 705-287-2828.

Are there bear-proof boxes available at George Lake Campground?

George Lake Campground does have a limited number of bear proof boxes available on-site, but they must be reserved in advance by calling the park at 705-287-2900. Ontario Parks staff may be able to deliver the box directly to your campsite.

How do I get to the park from the town, or the other way around?

Unfortunately there is no shuttle service between the town of Killarney and George Lake Campground. If you are bringing your own bike, Town is a 10km ride away to explore.

Can I buy any food or supplies at George Lake Campground?

Unfortunately there is no place to buy any food or supplies at George Lake Campground. All visitors must arrive self reliant for the duration of their stay. There is only a small park office store selling small items and souvenirs.

Are there overnight options for non-campers?

There are a few yurts in the park, however, they must generally get fully booked months in advance. The Town of Killarney has many roofed accommodation options, but it is located about 6km from key park destinations - which means you must either hike that distance whenever you need to get to park, or organize your own shuttle, or use a bike (2 bikes per bus are allowed, but you must call in advance to confirm availability).

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 you going to add more dates than shown on the website?

Although we'd love to add more dates to one of our favourite parks in Ontario, we cannot do it for 2 reasons: due to distances involved, the costs of operating Toronto -> Killarney bus are very high. And unfortunately we do not have as many people as we'd like on board because it can be so difficult to find a place to stay in the park - spaces are very limited.

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. Payphones are located by park's office and you can always call Parkbus for free!

Can I bring pets on the bus?

Pets are not allowed on this route.

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

There are bears in the park. 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 George Lake Campground, notify the park that you are arriving by Parkbus, and they will deliver a food storage container to your campsite. You must store all your food, garbage, and anything that smells inside food storage containers - the campground is regularly visited by wildlife.

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

We run 56 seater passenger buses on this route, and generally you can bring suitcases, backpacks, coolers, and other camping equipment. We allow up to 2 bikes per bus, on first-come, first-served basis where you have to call us in advance and reserve your spots.

Folding bikes, and folding/inflatable kayaks do not require pre-approval as long as they do not take more space than a large suitcase would - if you are not sure, give us a call! Regular canoes and kayaks are NOT allowed as they will not fit.

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?

There are bathrooms on board most buses. We also make at least one 15 min stop about half way into the journey to allow passengers a quick visit to fast food, washrooms, etc on the way.