Ontario Investing $4.75 Million to Transform Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park into a Year-Round Destination

November 21, 2025

Province is revitalizing storm-damaged park to boost tourism, create jobs and help more people enjoy the outdoors

November 21, 2025

MATTAWA — The Ontario government is investing $4.75 million to rebuild and upgrade Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park after extensive storm damage forced its closure in June 2025. In addition to restoration efforts, the province is transforming the park into an all-season destination with new amenities and winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. This funding delivers on the government’s plan to protect Ontario by attracting visitors, creating local jobs and expanding opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors.

“The storm was one of the most severe weather events Ontario Parks has ever faced, flattening thousands of trees and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of campers. In the midst of that devastation, park staff, first responders and local partners worked tirelessly to keep people safe and begin clean-up efforts,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “As we move forward, we’re making this strategic investment to turn the park into a year-round destination to attract visitors, support local jobs and build a strong, resilient local economy.”

The storm knocked down tens of thousands of trees and damaged park infrastructure, as well as the Canadian Ecology Centre (CEC), a non-profit environmental education and research facility located within the park. Since then, Ontario Parks prioritized work that ensured safe access to the park and prepared for its reopening. This work included removing hazardous trees, restoring electrical service and repairing damaged buildings and other infrastructure.

As part of the revitalization, the province is planning a number of changes to the park, including a new visitor hub with educational exhibits, a park store and equipment rentals. In addition, the park’s operating season will be extended to all year-round and will offer winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These changes will help nearby communities recover from the financial impact of the park’s closure by engaging local contractors, creating jobs and encouraging tourism to the area.

Ontario Parks has already planted 500 native trees through the Species Conservation Program in partnership with Forests Canada to help restore biodiversity and strengthen the park’s long-term resilience. This first phase of reforestation will help rebuild habitat for species at risk and improve ecological health, with more restoration to follow.

Ontario’s ongoing work to rebuild and revitalize Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park follows a year of record investments in Ontario Parks, including the expansion of boundaries at 19 provincial parks and conservation reserves, and the addition of up to 300 new campsites as well as electrical upgrades to 800 campsites at some of the province’s most popular parks. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this historic investment will make it easier for more people to camp at world-class Ontario Parks destinations while boosting domestic and international tourism that supports local businesses and jobs.

Quick Facts

Established in 1967, Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park spans over 6,300 acres (2,550 hectares) along the historic Mattawa River, part of the Canadian Heritage River System.
Following a powerful downburst storm on June 21, 2025, emergency responders and park staff safely evacuated approximately 300 campers. Cleanup crews, including the Algonquin Forestry Authority, began recovery efforts within days.
Work is already underway, with phased improvements continuing into 2026 and beyond.
Since 1999, the CEC has hosted thousands of students, educators and researchers for hands-on environmental education and professional development.
As part of revitalization efforts, the province is taking steps to make it easier for park visitors to access the CEC’s facilities, including meeting spaces and 34 cabins, which the CEC previously rented to the public.
The Species Conservation Program provides up to $20 million annually to support on-the-ground projects that help preserve species at risk and their habitats.

Quotes

“As Mayor of Calvin Township, I’m grateful for Ontario’s investment to restore Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park — a jewel right here in our community. The June storm caused serious damage, but thanks to our fire departments, volunteers from nearby towns, OPP, and provincial agencies, nearly 300 people were rescued safely. Their bravery and dedication prevented loss of life. We appreciate the province’s support in removing hazards, replanting trees, restoring power, and building a new visitors centre. With year-round access coming, we look forward to welcoming visitors back to experience Calvin’s stunning natural beauty.”

– Richard Gould
Mayor, Calvin Township

“Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, which houses the Canadian Ecology Centre, is a landmark that has attracted local, provincial, national and international visitors. The damage caused by the severe storm has been devastating. The province’s investment for a year-round facility is fantastic news for the park and the Mattawa area.”

– Raymond A. Bélanger
Mayor, Town of Mattawa

“Ontario Parks has provided the Canadian Ecology Centre the opportunity to continue delivering its original mandate of experiential environmental and outdoor education programming. This investment is a vital step forward — helping to breathe new life into the site. We look forward to the park’s reopening and the renewed opportunities it will bring for learning and connection with nature.”

– Bill Steer
Founder and General Manager, Canadian Ecology Centre

“Forests Canada is proud to help in the reforestation of Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park following the devastating storm this past June. Provincial parks have so much to offer – not just for our physical and mental health, but to the wildlife that call them home – and it is all of our responsibility to help ensure that these beautiful, natural environments can thrive for generations to come.”

– Jess Kaknevicius
CEO, Forests Canada

“The June storm left a devastating mark on Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, but thanks to the swift collaboration between Ontario Parks, Algonquin Forestry Authority and a local, skilled workforce, we were able to begin recovery efforts within days. The team worked tirelessly to remove hazardous trees and clear access routes, helping to restore safety and stability to this cherished landscape. We’re proud to support the park’s transformation into a resilient, four-season destination that celebrates Ontario’s natural heritage.”

– Tracey Bradley
General Manager, Algonquin Forestry Authority

“Our government is proud to have played a key role in responding to the severe storm at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park including through Ontario Corps. Strengthening our preparedness for future storms and emergencies helps to reinforce the resilience of our communities. As challenges become more complex and interconnected, our commitment is to continue to evolve, adapt, and build a stronger, more prosperous Ontario.”

– Jill Dunlop
Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response

“For generations, families have enjoyed all that Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park has to offer. I want to thank the emergency responders including Ministry of Natural Resources fire crews, Ontario Parks staff, the forestry sector, and the many other partners who have been a part of the park’s recovery and restoration. Although the summer storm caused devastating damage, our government has a plan for the next chapter for Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park so that lasting memories can continue to be made by all visitors.”

– Mike Harris
Minister of Natural Resources

“The Algonquin Forestry Authority played a vital role in the early recovery work at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, and we are grateful for their dedication. Ontario is proud to manage some of the most sustainable forests in the world, and this project shows what we can accomplish when our forestry teams, Ontario Parks and local conservation authorities work together. These partnerships ensure the work is coordinated, effective and rooted in sustainable forest management.”

– Kevin Holland
Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products

“The storm that Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park experienced this summer was intense and has left a lasting, devastating impact on the natural environment. As a result, the park’s closure has negatively impacted the staff of Ontario Parks and the people who visit this area for camping and outdoor excursions. We’re proud that the Ontario government is responding with an investment of $4.75 million to help regenerate this site. The cleanup work has been extensive, and as we can see today, there is still plenty more to be completed. Once revitalized, the park will offer year-round activities and once again be a contributing factor to the local economy.”

– Vic Fedeli
MPP for Nipissing

Ontario Investing $4.75 Million to Transform Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park into a Year-Round Destination

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