Family Vacations In Algoma Country

This region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and the chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re exploring lush forests, paddling serene lakes, or simply stargazing under a blanket of stars, Algoma Country has something for every family member. Get ready to experience the wonder of nature, wildlife, and quality time together over four seasons in Northern Ontario during family vacations in Algoma Country.

Ten Reasons Why You’ll Love Algoma

1. Disconnecting

It feels great to put away the electronics. There will be no tablets, no phones, no video games. Trust us, there are many things to do outdoors, the kids won’t miss their phones and games. At the end of a fun-filled day in the fresh air and nature, try relaxing with card, board or dice games to wind down.

2. Seeing Wildlife Big And Small

Wildlife is abundant here, thanks to the vast tracks of forested areas in Algoma. The region is home to over 95 species of birds, diverse insects, small and large animals. There are butterflies, bees and beetles, owls, eagles, blue jays or sparrows, squirrels and chipmunks, beaver, otters, deer, moose or even a black bear. You may not see every bird or animal that calls Algoma home, but you’ll likely see animal activity every day in some way whether it’s spying on a chipmunk scurrying to collect food, or tracks on the ground. Before you go, use iNaturalist to help you make a list of wildlife you may see during your trip!

3. Playing In The Water

We give a whole new meaning to “go jump in the lake” with all the bodies of water here! The region is poised on Lake Huron and Lake Superior.  With hundreds of lakes, you’ll find many great swimming holes, some with rocky formations, and some with soft sandy beaches. Perfect for building sandcastles, making sand sculptures or playing games like frisbee and beach volleyball. Many places to stay in the region are located on a lake or within close driving distance of lakes and beaches. Water is generally cool to swim in feeling refreshing on a hot summer’s day!

Photo credit: James Smedley

4. Dark Sky Adventures And Campfires

Do you live in a place where the night sky is disrupted by light pollution? You’ll love the dark-sky adventures in Algoma. View billions of stars, comets, planets, and the Milky Way. There are chances to see the Northern Lights as well. Since we’re talking about dark sky adventures, this is a good time to bring up campfires and s’mores making. Or roasting hot dogs. Have you ever made a Campfire S’mores Banana Boat? No matter what it is, you’ll love to cook it over a roaring campfire using a stick! Make an Algoma favourite: a shore lunch. Most cottage resorts, lodges, and campgrounds have personal fire pits for your family to enjoy.

5. Four Seasons Of Adventure

Algoma Country has four seasons of adventure to plan a family vacation in the spring, summer, fall and winter. Winter is a great time to head north to ski and snowboard, snowshoe, fat bike or experience a winter festival or carnival.

Photo credit: Colin Field

6. Exploring Nature’s Treasures

Letting the kids romp through nature gets them to see what nature creates. They’ll love picking up oddly shaped rocks and stones to study or skip in the water. Kids love kicking up fallen leaves and guessing what types of trees they fell from. They will love pointing out colourful wildflowers, mushrooms and toadstools. A walk through the forest or along a beach means lots of treasures to find.

7. Paddling The Lake

A great way to experience the lake is by paddle! Canoe, kayak, SUP, or paddleboat. Whatever you choose, your kids will love dipping their paddles into the cool refreshing waters, wondering what is lurking below. Pack a picnic and find a secluded spot to enjoy lunch and a swim.

8. Learning Something New

There is always something new to learn when vacationing in the outdoors. Learning to fish is one of our top recommendations because fishing is fun for all ages. Happiness is catching a fish for the first time!

Photo credit: Colin Field

9. Visiting Attractions And Foodie Stops

Reaching the family vacation destination in Algoma Country always includes a road trip. Unique roadside attractions to take selfies, historic sites, museums, and gift shops for souvenirs. Or, most importantly, stop for ice cream! No matter what you choose, plan to stop to see something new.

10. Spending Time As A Family

By far, the most important reason you’ll love Algoma is the memories you make while you’re here. These will last a lifetime.

Photo credit: James Smedley Outdoors

Here Are Some Answers To Questions You May Have:

Q: What types of accommodations should we pick?

A: There are many places to stay in the region, like hotels and motels, campgrounds with tent or RV sites, cottage resorts, lodges with meal plans, cozy bed and breakfasts and for the truly remote adventure, an outpost. You’ll find accommodations with self-catering kitchens where you prepare meals yourself and all-inclusive family vacations where meals are cooked for you as part of a package. Some places to stay may have children’s playgrounds as well.

Q: Are there guided tours?

A: Yes. There are tours with guides who will take you on a walk in the woods, paddling a lake or river, Indigenous cultural tours, art tours, or motorsports if your family likes ATVing and snowmobiling.

Q: Where can we find hiking trails?

A: Find hiking trails on our Outdoor Adventure map highlighting trails in communities. The Ontario provincial parks here have many trails that can be easy, intermediate or challenging. Ontario Parks require a day-use permit if you’re looking to do a day hike.

Q: Where can we eat in Algoma?

A: There are many restaurants, eateries and cafes in Algoma. You’ll find your favourite Canadian dishes and a range of ethnic foods. Nearly every community have stores for groceries and food items. Or you’ll find general stores and trading posts.

Q: What kinds of rentals can we find?

A: Many different types of places to stay or outfitters may provide kayaks, canoes, or paddleboats as part of your stay, or there is an additional charge to rent. You can find rentals for boats and motors, too.

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