Backcountry Bound: Matching Your Gear to Your Destination
The Countdown is On: Is Your May Long Weekend Gear Ready?
With Ontario Parks officially opening their gates on May 8, 2026, the window to prepare for that first trip to Killarney, Bon Echo, or Killbear is closing fast. Whether you are a seasoned backcountry pro or planning your first family escape, the biggest barrier is often the “stuff.”
If your guest list for the May Long Weekend is longer than your boat rack—or your tent has seen better decades—we’ve teamed up to bridge the gap.
The Right Boat for the Right Water
You don’t need to own a fleet of boats to lead a legendary camping trip. Through our outfitting services, you can pick up professional-grade equipment in Paris to take wherever your adventure leads. But before you book, choose the right tool for the job:
- The Lightweight Edge (TuffStuff): If your plans involve the rugged portages of Algonquin or the steep climbs of Killarney, weight is your enemy. We have a limited number of lightweight TuffStuff boats available. These high-performance composite canoes are a game-changer for long carries. Contact us directly for details and to check availability.
- The River Workhorse (SP3): If you aren’t planning on carrying your boat over land and want something that can handle the “knocks” of a moving river, our SP3 models are the answer. These nearly indestructible 3-layer boats are the gold standard for river tripping and whitewater.
Complete Your Kit with Thames Valley Outfitters
A great trip requires more than just a boat. To ensure you have everything from high-quality tents to reliable stoves, we recommend working with our partners at Thames Valley Outfitters.
They specialize in the “everything else” of camping. By combining our specialized boat fleet with their premium camping gear rentals, you can effectively outsource the entire logistical headache of a backcountry trip. You provide the vehicle and the destination; we provide the professional gear that gets you there and back safely.
Why May 8th is the Date to Watch
May 8th is when full services, staff, and most campgrounds officially come online across Ontario. If you’re planning to hit the backcountry for the Victoria Day long weekend, now is the time to:
- Check your permits: Backcountry spots often have last-minute openings even when the main campgrounds are full.
- Audit your gear: Don’t wait until you’re at the trailhead to find out your stove is missing a seal.
- Reserve your boats: With a limited number of TuffStuff boats in the fleet, these are usually the first to go for the May openings.