Winter Camping at Algonquin Park: Why Mew Lake Is My Favourite Cold‑Weather Campground

Algonquin Provincial Park in winter feels like a completely different place, quieter, slower, and honestly a little bit magical.

I’ve camped at Algonquin in the winter many times now, and every single trip has reinforced the same feeling: if you’re curious about winter camping but want a location that feels approachable, scenic, and full of things to do, Mew Lake Campground is it.

This post is very similar to the way I shared MacGregor Point, not a technical breakdown, but a real‑life look at why this campground works so well for winter adventures, especially if you’re camping with kids or easing into cold‑weather camping.

Why Choose Mew Lake for Winter Camping

Mew Lake is one of the campgrounds in Algonquin that stays open year‑round, and there’s a reason it’s so popular in winter.

What makes it special:

• Easy access right off Highway 60

• Maintained facilities in winter

• Central location to trails and activities

• A rare mix of comfort and backcountry‑style quiet

  
  

You get the feeling of being deep in Algonquin without needing to travel far or commit to extreme conditions.

The Skating Rink at Mew Lake Campground

If there’s one thing that makes Mew Lake stand out from other winter campgrounds in Ontario, it’s the outdoor skating rink right in the campground.

Yes, an actual rink.

On cold, clear days, skating here feels surreal. Snow‑covered trees, crisp air, and the sound of skates on ice instead of highway noise or crowds.

Why this is a huge win:

• Built‑in activity steps from your campsite

• Perfect for kids (and adults) who need movement

• No planning or driving required

  
  

We’ve skated in the afternoon, gone back to camp for hot chocolate, and then returned again before dinner. It adds so much value to a winter camping trip and takes pressure off “entertaining” kids.

Pro tip: Bring helmets for kids and a thermos, it’s easy to lose track of time out there.

Winter Trails Right From Camp

Another reason Mew Lake is my go‑to winter campground is how many trail options are close by.

Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail

If you’re camping at Mew Lake in winter, the Spruce Bog Trail is a must.

Why I love it:

• Short and accessible

• Beautiful in every season, but especially winter

• Boardwalk sections make it feel manageable even with snow

  
  

It’s perfect for:

• A slower morning walk

• First winter hike with kids

• Anyone easing into cold‑weather hiking

  
  

The snow‑covered bog, frosted trees, and quiet make it feel incredibly peaceful.

Access to Highway 60 Corridor Trails

From Mew Lake, you’re minutes away from:

• Lookout Trail

• Track & Tower Trail

• Hemlock Bluff

• Whiskey Rapids (depending on conditions)

  
  

This flexibility is huge in winter. You can choose shorter, safer hikes on colder days and save longer routes for milder weather.

The Algonquin Visitor Centre in Winter

One of the most underrated winter camping perks at Algonquin is the Visitor Centre.

When you’re camping in cold weather, having a warm, educational, indoor space nearby makes a big difference.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Warm‑up spot on cold days

• Educational exhibits about Algonquin wildlife and ecology

• Washrooms and a break from the elements

  
  

For kids especially, this adds balance, not every moment needs to be outside pushing limits.

What Winter Camping at Mew Lake Actually Feels Like

Winter camping here feels:

• Calm

• Organized

• Adventurous without being overwhelming

  
  

You still need to be prepared, good sleep systems, warm layers, realistic expectations but Mew Lake removes many of the barriers that make winter camping feel intimidating.

It’s one of those places where:

• You can try winter camping for the first time

• Or return year after year and never get bored

  
  

Who Mew Lake Is Best For

Mew Lake is a great choice if:

• You’re new to winter camping

• You’re camping with kids

• You want access to activities without long drives

• You enjoy hiking, skating, and slow winter days

  
  

If you’re looking for solitude without total isolation, this campground strikes the perfect balance.

Tips for Winter Camping at Mew Lake

A few things I’ve learned after multiple winter trips:

• Book early, winter sites still fill up

• Pack traction for icy campground roads

• Bring sleds for hauling gear

• Plan simple meals

• Build downtime into your days

  
  

Winter camping doesn’t need to be packed with activities some of our best moments here have been quiet ones.

Final Thoughts

Mew Lake remains my favourite park for cold‑weather camping adventures.

Between the skating rink, accessible trails, Visitor Centre, and overall layout, it offers something rare: winter camping that feels doable, enjoyable, and genuinely fun.

If you’ve been curious about winter camping but unsure where to start, this is a place I wholeheartedly recommend.

👉 If you’re planning your first cold‑weather trip, pair this with my winter camping with kids guide and winter camping gear checklist for a smoother experience.

With love,

The Duquette’s