Getting to Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Georgian Bay Islands National Park sits in ON, Canada, with Penetanguishene the nearest town of any size — about 11.3 km (7.1 mi) out, or roughly 19 min of driving.
Drive times from Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Georgian Bay Islands National Park sits close enough to Rouge National Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, and Thousand Islands National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Rouge National Park | 117 km (72.8 mi) | 2 hr 10 min |
| Bruce Peninsula National Park | 143 km (88.8 mi) | 2 hr 33 min |
| Thousand Islands National Park | 316 km (196 mi) | 5 hr 6 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Penetanguishene | 11.3 km (7.1 mi) | 19 min |
| Midland | 14.5 km (9 mi) | 24 min |
| Gravenhurst | 39.9 km (24.8 mi) | 55 min |
| Wasaga Beach | 42 km (26.1 mi) | 57 min |
| Orillia | 46.6 km (28.9 mi) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Bracebridge | 46.8 km (29.1 mi) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Collingwood | 51.9 km (32.3 mi) | 1 hr 8 min |
| Parry Sound | 53.6 km (33.3 mi) | 1 hr 9 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Georgian Bay Islands National Park?
Penetanguishene, about 11.3 km (7.1 mi) away — roughly 19 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Georgian Bay Islands National Park?
The practical bases are Penetanguishene, Midland, and Gravenhurst — all within a reasonable drive of the park.