Georgian Bay Islands National Park Unveils New Management Plan

By NPT Staff - December 29th, 2022

Georgian Bay Islands is a boat-based national park and Parks Canada offers a seasonal shuttle/Jennifer Bain

The management plan for Georgian Bay Islands National Park, including Beausoleil Island National Historic Site, has been released.

It replaces the 2010 plan and outlines four key strategies for the island-based Ontario park:

• Managing conservation and climate change adaptation within a broader fragmented ecosystem.

• Enabling access and enhancing a diverse and enjoyable visitor experience.

• Strengthening formal Indigenous relations — sharing heritage and culture.

• Building awareness and community support — the invaluable treasures of the park are known.

Shawn Corbiere is the park's Indigenous liaison officer/Jennifer Bain

The plan was based on input from Indigenous partners, the park’s Cultural Advisory Circle, regional residents, partners, stakeholders and visitors. Through this plan, Parks Canada says it will protect important examples of natural and cultural heritage in Canada, engage and collaborate with Indigenous peoples, and provide an opportunity for Canadians to experience and discover the environment in new and innovative ways.

Established in 1929, Georgian Bay Islands protects 63 islands and is Canada’s smallest national park with a total area of 14 square kilometres (5.4 square miles). It straddles two natural biospheres — Great Lakes Precambrian Shield and St. Lawrence Lowlands.

Beausoleil Island National Historic Site is the largest island in the park. Archaeological finds demonstrate human activity and settlements on the island dating back over 10,000 years, from the late Paleo-Indian period to the present day.

Thirty-three species of reptiles and amphibians have been found in the park, which is the most in any national park in Canada. This includes species at risk such as the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, Five-Lined Skink and Map Turtle.

The park is in the world’s largest freshwater archipelago and is only accessible by boat. It welcomes about 40,000 visitors annually and serves as a gateway to the national park system for many urban Canadians in southern Ontario.

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks