Imagine having your own cabin within protected Canadian wilderness. Imagine hiking trails at your front door and an organized children’s program that turns your family into explorers of nature and history. All this and more is found under the huge pines of one of Ontario’s most popular parks – and yet, while you’re there, you’ll never hear a hint of traffic noise. All you’ll hear is the haunting call of loons and the crunch of leaves or snow under foot as you venture out into the great unknown. Welcome to your new getaway at the Canadian Ecology Centre in Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.
Found in the Mattawa region – easily one of the most scenic parts of the province – the Canadian Ecology Centre offers visitors the best of both worlds – modern conveniences in a natural setting. In 32 fully-equipped cabins, guests enjoy heating on cool days, hot showers, flush toilets, good lighting, comfortable beds, and kitchenettes, while still staying right in the heart of the park.
Pack Light
A Northern Ontario adventure doesn’t have to mean a car full of sleeping bags, pillows, and battery-powered lamps. The Canadian Ecology Centre provides nearly all the essentials, from bedding to bar fridge to towels.
Cabins can also accommodate pets, and two cabins are wheelchair accessible.
A Gathering Getaway
The Canadian Ecology Centre is the perfect place to introduce newcomers to Ontario’s outdoor adventures. And having so many cabins and organized events means that this is the spot for very special business or family gatherings. The cabins vary in size, the largest sleeping up to six. Those in larger groups can take the hassle out of grocery runs by using the Centre’s catered meal plans. Others may choose to cook for themselves, using the shared kitchen and dining cabin, which is complete with all the appliances and utensils needed to create a hearty meal after a day of burning calories on the water or trails.
For corporate retreats, the Centre has meeting space for up to 180, audiovisual equipment, and Internet access.
Wedding Weekend
What better way to celebrate a limitless love than with a wedding held beneath an expansive northern night sky lit with stars? Fans of stunning scenery and the great outdoors can book their event at the Canadian Ecology Centre. Reception facilities for up to 160 are available on site, complete with the services of the Centre’s caterer (or book your own). Book as many cabins as needed to accommodate your guests, so the party can continue far into the night.
Activities & Packages
With a park full of outdoor activities, a trip to the Canadian Ecology Centre is a perfect family getaway. For parents looking to head off on a more advanced canoe trip or to enjoy some peace and quiet on their own, the Centre offers day- and week-long nature camps for kids between 6 and 13 years of age where they learn wilderness skills and participate in a GPS treasure hunt. Samuel de Champlain Park itself is well known for having days packed with plenty of organized activities to engage kids in the park’s voyageur history and natural attractions. Worthwhile park activities include four great trails (try the Kag Trail with its lake views and towering red pine) and the chance to paddle an authentic voyageur canoe. The Canadian Ecology Centre offers winter rate packages to help make your winter adventure affordable, as well as a rate package for downhill skiing at local Antoine Mountain.
So no need to dig out your camping gear or spend ages planning your next return to nature! Just give the Canadian Ecology Centre a call to have your cabin ready and waiting for your arrival.
