Arrowhead Provincial Park Info Guide

ARROWHEAD INFORMATION GUIDE

Welcome to Arrowhead and the Muskoka area! I would like to encourage everyone to explore the park to its fullest, whether it is your first time here, or your 100th. Arrowhead offers all you could need to get outside and make memories that will last a lifetime! We’ve got it all at Arrowhead; family-friendly beaches, medium sized lakes for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, hiking and biking trails, and secluded campsites supported by modern amenities.

Arrowhead Provincial Park is a four-season destination featuring year-round camping, rustic cabins, and a vibrant winter program highlighting our beautiful cross-country skiing and ice-skating trails.

I would encourage everyone to visit the Visitor Centre/Park Store for one-stop shopping for park information, supplemental permits, watercraft rentals, and park merchandise. This centralized

Reservations: ontarioparks.com/reservations

1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275)

location, combined with pre-registration, has reduced the requirement of waiting in lines, and gives park visitors more time to explore and enjoy Arrowhead's ambiance.

If you have any questions, comments, or require assistance during your stay, please don't hesitate to speak with a staff member. We are here to ensure your park visit is pleasant and enjoyable. Thank you again for visiting Arrowhead Provincial Park and have a safe and enjoyable stay!

Jason Crozier, Park Superintendent

WHAT’S INSIDE

Photo: Evan Holt

Land Acknowledgement

We would like to respectfully acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, specifically the Chippewa, Ojibwa, and Potawatomi peoples, under the terms of the Robinson-Huron Treaty #61 of 1850, and the Williams Treaties of 1923. We are grateful to be here. We hope you are, too.

Together, we honour all Indigenous peoples- First Nations, Métis, and Inuit- for their cultures, their languages, their wise teachings, and ways of being, their stewardship and protection of the lands and waters – and life – that have shaped this country since time began.

Together, we commit to acknowledge, to learn, to educate, to create opportunity and to honour sacred places, and to take actions toward real Truth and Reconciliation in support of our commitment to wellness for all, and to walking the path together in respect, peace, and harmony for future generations.

G’chi miigwech. Thank you very much.

M.N.R.F. #52077 (25 K. P.R., 07 02 28)

ISSN 1713-9708

ISBN 978-1-4606-5760-7 (2024 ed.)

© 2024 Government of Ontario

Printed in Ontario, Canada

PARK INFORMATION

Phone Number...............................

705-789-5105

451 Arrowhead Park Road, Huntsville, ON P1H 2J4 Reservations

ontarioparks.com/reservations

1-888- ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275)

History of Arrowhead PP

Arrowhead Provincial Park first opened for camping in 1966 but wasn’t officially a Provincial Park until 1971. The park is approximately 1237 hectares and contains Arrowhead Lake and Mayflower Lake. In the summer, the park offers three campgrounds with over 382 campsites, of which 201 of them are electrically serviced. If “roughing it” isn’t your cup of tea, we also have 13 cabins for a unique experience in and of itself.

Today when you think of Arrowhead, you may think about family traditions, cool summer nights, making s’mores around the campfire, or the snowy days skiing and enjoying the trails. But have you ever thought about how the park came to be? There is history everywhere you look at Arrowhead!

Just after Canada became a self-governing Dominion in 1867, the land that encompasses Arrowhead Provincial Park, located in Chaffey Township, was surveyed by a man named Walter Beatty. The land was advertised as great for farming and was opened to settlers under the “Free Grants and Homestead Act” where they would receive 100-acres for free, if they performed tasks required by the government. Most of the settlers quickly realized that this land was not adequate for agricultural use because of the rock beneath the surface and appealed much more to the logging industry. Under this act, settlers like Louis Roe and C.E. Stubb, for which Roe Campground and Stubb’s Falls are named after, settled on their designated land, and created homesteads. There are several throughout the park, some remnants of which may be seen on the Homesteader and Beaver Meadow trails.

This history of many families is within our boundaries, so please stay on the trail, respect the land, and take only pictures when you leave!

Ontario Parks

Arrowhead

The Visitor Centre/ Park Store: Your Hub for Everything Arrowhead!

You may have noticed on your way in that our old Park Office building is closed. Over the past couple of years, we’ve made some changes to streamline your experience, including instituting paperless camping, accommodation, and day-use permits, and shifting all gatehouse operations to our Visitor Centre/ Park Store to reduce vehicle idling and congestion on our park roads.

How do I get to the Visitor Centre/ Park Store?

The Visitor Centre/ Park Store is located 3km inside the park boundary. Follow the main park road past the old Permit Office, over the Arrowhead Lake bridge, and take the second left-hand turn after the bridge. Take the slight left to access ample parking. We are undergoing signage changes, but signs directing you to the Visitor Centre or Park Store will get you to the right place!

What does paperless permits mean, anyway?

Paperless permits means that you are no longer required to display a paper-copy of your valid permit. It’s important to note that paperless does not mean permit-less; you are still required to carry proof of your valid camping, roofed accommodation, or day-use permit. If you do not already have a permit, please reserve your permit online, through the Call Centre, or head straight to the Visitor Centre/ Park Store to purchase one, and don’t forget- you must also register your license plate to your permit.

Do I need to register my license plate?

Your license plate must be registered to your reservation/permit for your permit to be valid. This can be completed on your Ontario Parks account by clicking the green “Pre-Register” button on your online reservation, by calling the Call Centre (1-888668-7275), or by stopping by the Visitor Centre/ Park Store and having one of our Visitor Centre Attendants assist you. Now, instead of our Park Wardens seeing your permit on your dash or site post, they check to see if your license plate is registered.

If you have registered the correct license plate to your valid permit, you may proceed directly to your destination within the park and start enjoying your time at Arrowhead right away! If you need to register an additional vehicle to your site, or wish to speak with a staff member, please head to the Visitor Centre/ Park Store, and our friendly staff will be happy to offer you the same Arrowhead welcome you’ve come to trust.

What if I have a season’s pass?

A season’s pass does not guarantee you entry at Arrowhead, and simply displaying your hanger permit does not constitute having a valid permit. You must reserve or purchase a valid Daily Vehicle Permit for each day of entry and enter your season’s pass number to void the payment. This can be completed through the online reservations system (reservations. ontarioparks.com), through the Call Centre, or inperson (assuming space is available) at the Visitor Centre/ Park Store.

I want to end my stay early- what do I do?

If you decide to leave your camping or roofed accommodation stay early, bring electronic proof of your permit to the Visitor Centre/ Park Store by 12:00pm and you will receive a full refund on all unused nights (less the reservation fee). If the change is completed after 12:00pm, you will be charged the applicable camping fee for that night and receive a refund for all other remaining nights (less the reservation fee).

Reservations: 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275), RESERVATIONS.ONTARIOPARKS.COM

I arrived after the Visitor Centre/ Park Store has closed- what do I do?

Don’t worry! If you have a reservation, please go ahead, and find your site. Maps are available outside for your convenience. You will be checkedin automatically the following morning, and you no longer need to display a paper-copy of your permit. If you do not have a reservation, and/or need to register your license plate to your reservation, please make your reservation online and pre-register your vehicle at that time or visit the Visitor Centre/ Park Store first-thing in the morning. Additional vehicles will need to be purchased and registered in the morning at the Park Store/ Visitor Centre.

Park Store

Our Visitor Centre building also houses our stellar Park Store, filled to the brim with exciting Arrowhead swag, camping gear and toiletries, snacks and drinks, books and activities, and limited grocery items, including the s’more essentials, of course! Firewood and ice are also available here, and our friendly staff are more than happy to set you up for a comfortable, relaxing, and memorable time at Arrowhead!

Rentals

In the spring, summer, and fall we offer canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for rent, weather dependent. You are provided with paddles, lifejackets (PFDs), and safety kits according to the equipment you rent. Every person using the equipment must wear a PFD when renting our watercraft, and we offer free PFD rentals, even if you’re using your own equipment. If you brought your own PFD and are renting our equipment, please ensure our staff see your PFD at the time of rental.

Summer rentals may be reserved in-person up to 24-hrs in advance. When you’re done enjoying your allotted time, please return your watercraft to its rack and lock it, and return all equipment, including keys, to a Visitor Centre Attendant.

Late and damage fees may apply, so be sure to watch the time, and be gentle with the equipment! Rentals are inspected daily.

2 Hours ............................................................ $20

4

DISCOVERY

STOP! Answer these questions to have your camping experience changed forever!

Yes or no, do you like:

Exploring

Feeling at peace in nature

Animals History

Art Campfires

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to give a Discovery program a try!

Our park Discovery staff create interactive and engaging programs that are great for all ages. From art or exploring programs, to campfires and nature wellness, each program shares the stories of the exceptional plants, animals, and history the park protects.

Ask park staff for more information about the activities happening during your visit.

The Trails of Arrowhead

While visiting Arrowhead, you may want to take advantage of one of the many hiking or hiking/cycling trails. If you hit the trails, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Trail Etiquette

If you take your dog hiking, please ensure they stay under control on a leash no more than 2m in length and remember to clean up after them. Waste bags are to be disposed of in the provided waste receptacles, even if your bags are biodegradablenobody wants to see your pet’s waste hanging from a tree branch or tossed aside.

If you smoke, please make sure your cigarette is completely extinguished when you are finished and dispose of the butt in one of the many waste receptacles throughout the park. They are harmful to the ecosystem and the many creatures that call Arrowhead home.

Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints!

Trail Safety

Use the map found in the centre of the guide (pg. 12-13) to help you locate trailheads and waypoints on our trails. Do not use trails that are closed- even if they look safe, there is a good reason it is closed. We recommend taking a daypack with a compass, this guide, whistle, rain gear, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Cell phones may or may not have service on our trails.

• Drink water before the hike and take water and snacks with you on the trail

• Wear appropriate footwear that fits well and gives adequate support

• Use high-tech fabrics to stay warmer, drier, and safer

• Know your limits! If you do not hike or walk on uneven terrain often, begin with an easier, shorter trail, such as Stubb’s Falls.

• Mosquitoes and black flies can be abundant and are attracted to our body warmth and breath. Try wearing protective, lighter-coloured clothing, avoid perfumed soaps or sprays, and use insect repellent as directed. The later summer months, windy days, and mid-day hours tend to provide the most reprieve from bugs. Remember, it’s their home, we’re just visiting, so no, we can’t do anything about them!

Mountain Biking at Arrowhead

Arrowhead has two mountain biking trails to enjoy. The Arrowhead Lake hiking/cycling trail (moderate skill level) begins at the Beach 2 parking lot behind the Visitor Centre/ Park Store and will lead you on a 5.1km trek around Arrowhead’s largest lake. Another route to take is the Lookout hiking/cycling trail (moderate-difficult skill level). It starts and ends at the parking lot across from the old Permit Office and is ~3km in length. Maps for these trails can be found on pg.12-13 of this guide. Get out and ride!

Fishing Arrowhead’s Lakes

Arrowhead has two lakes that provide fishing opportunities. The smaller of the lakes is Mayflower Lake, located across from the old Permit Office. This lake is stocked with Speckled Trout that vary in size from fry to several pounds. Arrowhead Lake is the larger lake, and is located in the heart of the park. It contains large and smallmouth bass, and well as perch and sunfish, and maybe even a few speckled trout. You can fish from shore or in a canoe on both lakes. Please remember: No motorized watercraft are allowed in Arrowhead Provincial Park (including electric trolling motors), and a fishing license is required under most circumstances.

Possession Limits Rainbow Trout Speckled Trout Large & Smallmouth Bass

Sport

Open Season All Year

Jan. 1 - Sept. 30 June 26 - Nov. 30

Paddling Arrowhead

Can you imagine yourself paddling in the early morning mist on Arrowhead Lake- sun peaking over the hills, a loon silently swimming nearby? Paddling by canoe or kayak is an excellent way to explore the aquatic side of Arrowhead. Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent at the Visitor Centre/ Park Store during the spring, summer, and fall, weather dependent.

Mayflower and Arrowhead Lake

Both are protected from strong winds, so wave action is generally minor. Both offer lovely shorelines to explore and good wildlife viewing opportunities.

Little East River to Stubb’s Falls

Many people enjoy paddling slowly down the river. Along the way, look for signs of beavers and aquatic plants such Arrowhead and Cardinal flowers. Access the Little East River at the Arrowhead Lake bridge. Pull out for Stubb’s Falls on the right side of the river before the foot bridge. Several lift-overs may be necessary due to lower water levels later in the

season. Distance-2km. Round-trip paddling time-1.5 hrs.

Stubb’s Falls to Big Bend Lookout

From Stubb’s Falls you can then portage around the falls and continue down the Little East River. When you reach the Big East River, head up stream (left) to get a bottom view of the Big Bend Lookout. This route is navigable in spring and early summer only. If in doubt, check with staff about current water levels. Distance from falls – 8 km. Round-trip paddling time – 6 to 8 hrs.

Paddling Safety and Notices

• Some routes are only navigable in spring and early summer

Do you love spending time in nature? Do you care about making people happy and healthy? Interested working in a provincial park for the summer?

Visit OntarioParks.com/careers for more information.

Apply early for the best chance to join us next season.

Water Safety—It’s Your Responsibility

1. There are no lifeguards on our beaches. Water safety is your responsibility at all times.

2. Take the steps to be safe around water. Learning how to swim and water survival techniques help keep us all safe.

3. Always supervise children and non-swimmers by watching them when they are in or around the water.

4. Ensure children and non-swimmers wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or lifejacket in or around the water.

5. Swim only in designated swimming areas. When the water is rough, or conditions are not clear –STAY OUT! Never swim alone. You should always swim with a buddy.

6. Using a floatie? Offshore winds often blow inflatables out into dangerous waters. Ensure inflatable rafts or toys are used in shallow water areas only and pay attention to changing wind conditions.

7. Be responsible. Avoid substance use when involved in water-related recreational activities.

8. Protect your neck. Never dive into shallow or murky water.

9. If you suspect a drowning or any other type of water emergency, call 911 and contact the park immediately.

Water Quality and Beach Postings

Ontario Parks Recreational Water Posting Fact Sheet

Recreational water quality is routinely monitored at Ontario Parks designated beaches. Water samples are tested at Public Health Ontario Laboratories for Escherichia coli (E. coli), an organism found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals.

Water Quality Factors

Recreational water quality is influenced by a number of factors and can change between sampling periods. Influences include:

• Heavy Rainfall

• Large numbers of waterfowl

• High winds or wave activity

• Large number of swimmers

Visitors should avoid swimming if any of these conditions are present.

Recreational Water Posting

Ontario Parks staff post signage at beaches when E. coli levels in the water exceed provincial standards. Signage is placed to warn bathers that the recreational water may be unsafe for swimming. Swimming in recreational water that is posted for elevated bacterial levels may cause:

• Skin infections/rash

• Ear, eye, nose, and throat infections

Ask us about our free lending program. OntarioParks.com/pfdlending. NEED

• Gastrointestinal illness (if water is consumed)

Postings are based on E. coli counts in recreational water samples taken within the past 24 hours, and are removed when test results show bacterial levels are acceptable.

Beach Closures

Ontario Parks staff may physically close beaches using caution tape and informational signage in the instance that a health hazard exists that could present a health and safety risk to visitors (bluegreen algae for example).

How You Can Help

Ontario Parks visitors can help maintain our recreational water quality by following these simple guidelines:

• Do not feed birds or other wildlife

• Leave nothing behind– dispose of all garbage/ food waste

• Use designated pet beaches when swimming with your dog– pets are not permitted on Ontario Parks public beaches

• Use swim diapers for young children

• Do not use any shampoos or soaps in lakes (even those that claim to be biodegradable)

How to leave your campsite better than you found it

Ensure our parks remain protected and beautiful by leaving your campsite better than you found it.

Here’s how you can help:

• Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you found them

• Purchase firewood locally and dispose of your firewood bags with your regular campsite garbage. Don’t gather sticks, logs, bark, or branches from around your campsite

• Dispose of dish water at the trailer sanitation station, or by pouring it down the vault toilets (outhouses)

• If you’re camping with a pet, keep them on a leash and always clean up after them

• Keep your campsite clean and remove all waste, garbage, and recycling. Large waste receptacles are available at the Visitor Centre/Park Store, Lumby Campground entrance, on the main road before entering Roe Campground, as well as at the trailer sanitation station

• Scan your campsite for any lost items and remove any ropes from trees prior to departing

• Make sure your campfire is completely out with no smoldering

Thank you for doing your part to protect Arrowhead!

DO NOT LITTER!

Park visitors! Help keep our parks clean by disposing garbage correctly.

Dispose garbage at designated garbage and recycling areas. If you find a full container, don’t leave it where wildlife can access it. Find a different container with room or contact park staff for advice.

We appreciate your efforts to help protect these beautiful spaces.

Arrowhead’s Wildlife

Welcome (back) to Arrowhead! Many species call Arrowhead home, and you may be wondering who you might encounter during your time with us. Both large and small, these species make their habitats in our trees, forest floors, waterways, and wetlands. Your best chance at catching a glimpse of these critters is out on our trails, away from the hustle and bustle of the campgrounds.

Arrowhead is home to squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, foxes, beavers, many species of songbirds and waterfowl, fish, turtles, frogs and toads, whitetailed deer, black bears, and moose, among others. It is unlikely you will encounter some of the larger wildlife (deer, bears, moose) in your travels as they generally know you are coming well before you’re aware that they are there. It is important that our wildlife stay wild, both for their safety, and yours. Here’s what you can do to help keep Arrowhead’s wildlife (and yourself) safe:

• Always keep pets in control

• Always follow traffic signs and obey speed limits

• Always practice leave-no-trace camping and hiking

• Always keep your campsite and/or picnic area free of wildlife attractants

• Always keep your distance. As nice as that photo or experience may be, the impact for that animal could be life-threatening

• Never feed wildlife

• Never use shampoos or soaps in lake water

As a reminder, Arrowhead is a “Bare Campsite” park, meaning that your campsite must be kept free of animal attractants. Here’s a few examples of items that have brought bears onto campsites here at Arrowhead that you may not have thought of:

• Medicines

• Dishwater emptied around the perimeter of campsites

• Camp stoves and BBQ

• Water bottles and drink cans (open or closed)

• Toothpaste spit into the bush

• Deodorant, lotions, and other toiletries left in a tent

If you’re not sure if your site is bear-proofed, our Park Wardens are happy to educate you!

Discourage uninvited guests

Bears are a�racted to anything that looks or smells like food. Items like unwashed utensils, food packaging, toiletries and trash are tasty treats for bears.

Be Bear Wise when camping: Don’t leave food or scented items una�ended on your campsite.

Pack and store these items in your vehicle, out of sight, with windows closed.

Clean food prepara�on areas promptly a�er use.

Rou�nely take your garbage to the park’s waste depot.

Let's all be Bear W ise.

Always call 911 in an emergency Call 1-866-514-2327 to report a sighting

ontario.ca/bearwise

On Patrol– The Park Rules

What is a Park Warden?

Arrowhead Provincial Park Wardens are the front-line workers responsible for educating and enforcing the rules and regulations within the park, while ensuring the safety of our visitors. You will frequently find them patrolling campgrounds, trails, and beaches, or just saying hello to visitors at Discovery events! Within a Provincial Park, a Park Warden has all the power and authority of a member of the Ontario Provincial Police.

Need a Warden?

In case of an emergency, please call 911. If you wish to speak with an enforcement officer, please contact any park staff or call/text 705-571-2029. Complaints are confidential and will be investigated as soon as possible.

Remember! This phone line is dedicated to those who need a Park Warden’s help. Park information is available over-the-phone by calling the Park phone number only. We appreciate your help in keeping Arrowhead safe!

If you see a Warden, feel free to say hello! They may just have a sticker for you!

Vehicles on Your Campsite

One vehicle is included in the purchase of your campsite permit – all other vehicles must purchase an “Additional Vehicle Permit” when they arrive at the Visitor Centre/ Park Store. At Arrowhead, one additional vehicle may be parked on a campsite (if there’s enough room) for a total of two vehicles on a campsite. All other vehicles must be parked in separate designated parking areas away from your campsite.

About Your Campsite

Campsites must be vacated by 2 p.m. and roofed accommodations by 10:00 a.m. on the day of permit expiry. Failure to do so is an offence and you may be fined. Campsite turnover is at 2:00pm and roofed accommodations are ready by 4:00 p.m. Limit of 3 shelters (only 1 of which may be a trailer/RV) plus a

dining shelter on a campsite.

A maximum of 6 people/ campsite (5/ cabin) are allowed. Please plan accordingly. Fires are only permitted in the firepit provided on your campsite. Do not move any firepits.

Removal of vegetation living or dead to start a fire is an evict-able offence. Please respect the park environment and help us keep the park looking natural.

Radio-Free Areas

Radios, CD players, speakers, and other amplified devices are prohibited on campsites 200-260 (Roads 1 to 4) in East River Campground. The same applies to South Lumby Campground (sites 101-163). In these areas, you may only use your radios and other devices with headphones.

Generators

Generators are allowed to run between 8:00am4:00pm only. Generators being used should be considered quiet generators with a rating of less than 67dB rating. Excessive noise regulations apply.

Pets

Additional information regarding pets at Arrowhead is available on pg. 20 of this guide.

Other common offences are laid out on pg. 11 of this guide.

Recreational use of drones in provincial parks is not permitted.

Visit OntarioParks.com to learn about applying for authorization for commercial or research purposes.

Summary of Provincial Park Offences

There is one basic rule in Ontario Parks: Have respect and consideration for your fellow visitors and the park environment. The following table lists some of the more common laws enforced in provincial parks. Under the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, the registered permit holder is responsible for the conduct of all campsite occupants and could be charged with an offence based on the actions of the occupants of the registered campsite. The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006 and other legislation governing behaviour in provincial parks can be reviewed at provincial park offices and on the e-Laws website at www.ontario.ca/laws. These laws are enforced by provincial park wardens who have all the power and authority of a member of the Ontario Provincial Police within a provincial park. Many of the listed offences could result in eviction from a provincial park. Evicted visitors are prohibited from re-entering any provincial park for a period of 72 hours. Minimum fines listed below include court costs and the victim fine surcharge.

Liquor and Cannabis

• Having liquor in open container in unauthorized place

• Consuming liquor in unauthorized place

• Driving or having care or control of a motor vehicle with open or unsealed container of liquor

• Person under 19 years having liquor

• Being intoxicated in a public place

• Person under 19 years – possess cannabis

• Driving or having care or control of a vehicle or boat with cannabis in open original packaging, open baggage, or readily available

Rowdyism / Noise

• Use discriminatory, harassing, abusive or insulting language or gestures

• Make excessive noise

• Disturb other persons

• Operate audio device in prohibited area

Storing Wildlife Attractants

• Unlawfully store wildlife attractants

Refuse

Litter or cause litter

• Fail to keep campsite / facility clean

• Fail to restore campsite / facility to original condition

Vehicles

• Unlawfully take motor vehicle into park or possess or operate it

• Operate vehicle off roadway

• Drive without seatbelt

• Drive while passenger under 16 fails to wear seatbelt

• Speeding – more than 20 km/h

• Disobey stop sign

• Operate all-terrain vehicle

Parking

• Park vehicle in area not designated

• Park vehicle in prohibited area

• Fail to display permit on parked vehicle

Pets

• Permit domestic animal to be without leash

• Permit domestic animal to make excessive noise

• Permit domestic animal to be in designated swimming area or on a beach

• Permit domestic animal to disturb people

• Permit domestic animal to harass or chase wildlife

• Permit domestic animal to be in a posted prohibited area

Environmental Protection

• Damage / deface / remove Crown property

Disturb / harm / remove natural object

• Disturb / cut / remove / harm plant or tree

• Kill plant or tree

• Disturb / kill / remove / harm / harass animal

Camping Permit

• Fail to vacate and remove property from campsite on permit expiry

• Unlawfully occupy campsite

• Camp over time limit

Camping Equipment / Persons

• Place more than 3 pieces of shelter equipment on campsite

• Place more than one tent trailer, travel trailer or self-propelled camping unit on campsite

• Excessive number of persons occupying campground campsite / interior campsite

Campfires

• Start or tend fire other than in fireplace or designated place

• Start or tend fire where notice of fire hazard is posted

Fireworks

• Possess fireworks

• Ignite fireworks

Hours of Closing

• Enter park after closing

• Remain in park after closing

$ 125.00

$ 125.00

$ 215.00

$ 125.00

$ 65.00

$ 125.00

$ 215.00

$ 180.00

$ 180.00

$ 180.00

$ 95.00

$ 155.00

$155.00

$ 155.00

$ 155.00

$ 240.00

$ 240.00 (plus 2 demerit points)

$125.00

$110.00 (plus 3 demerit points)

$155.00

$ 30.00

If you are 19 years of age or older, you are permitted to possess or consume liquor (beer, wine, spirits) only on a registered campsite.

Drivers are responsible for ensuring that liquor is properly stored while in a vehicle. Liquor must be in a container that is unopened and the seal unbroken or is packed away and not accessible to any person in the vehicle.

No person under 19 years of age can possess or consume cannabis.

Drivers are responsible for ensuring that cannabis is properly stored while in a vehicle or boat. Cannabis must be in its original packaging that has not been opened or cannabis must be packed in baggage that is fastened closed or is not otherwise readily available to any person in the vehicle or boat.

Provincial parks are established to provide a setting for peaceful and natural experiences. Rowdy behaviour, which includes excessive noise, or obscene language or gestures, is not permitted. You cannot disturb any other person or interfere with their enjoyment of the park any time of the day or night.

Operation of an audio device (such as a radio, stereo, TV, etc.) in a radio-free area is prohibited.

Do not maintain or store potential wildlife attractants, including food or beverages, food preparation or storage equipment, cooking devices or utensils, garbage or recycling products, scented products or any other item in a manner that is likely to attract wildlife.

Deposit all garbage and litter in the containers provided to discourage wildlife from becoming pests. Campsites and/or facilities must be kept clean at all times to eliminate potential hazards to parks visitors and minimize humanwildlife conflict.

Each vehicle in the park must have a valid provincial park permit.

Motor vehicles may be operated on park roads only. Park roads are regulated by the Highway Traffic Act. All rules of the road apply inside the parks as they do outside. Bicycles are only allowed on park roads and on designated bike trails.

Off-road vehicles are not permitted in provincial parks because of the environmental damage they may cause.

All vehicles must park in a designated area and must have a valid park permit.

Where a physical park permit is issued, it must be prominently displayed on your vehicle.

$ 95.00

$ 155.00

$ 155.00

$ 155.00

$ 180.00

$ 180.00

$ 95.00

$ 155.00

$ 95.00

$ 95.00

$ 180.00

$ 125.00

$ 180.00

For the protection of wildlife and other park visitors, your pet must be under control and on a leash not exceeding 2 metres at all times. You must ensure your pet does not damage or interfere with vegetation or wildlife. You must also ensure your pet does not interfere with others’ enjoyment of the park. Pets are not permitted in the swimming area, on the beach or in a posted prohibited area at any time.

To maintain the park as a natural setting, the removal of natural objects is prohibited. All vegetation, wildlife and natural features are protected in provincial parks. Cutting any live growth or damaging any natural or other object is prohibited. You may not take any fallen or dead wood from a provincial park for the purpose of a campfire or other such intent.

You are required to vacate and remove all property from your campground campsite or interior campsite by 2:00 p.m. on the date your permit expires so that others may have access to it. The maximum length of stay on a provincial park campground campsite is 23 consecutive nights and 16 consecutive nights on an interior campsite to ensure park visitors have an equal opportunity to enjoy our campsites and limit environmental impact.

Without a limit on the amount of camping gear allowed, campsites would quickly deteriorate, becoming larger, eventually destroying the surrounding vegetation. The maximum number of campers allowed per campground campsite is six persons and the maximum number of campers allowed on an interior campsite is nine persons.

Fireplaces are designated by park staff for safety reasons. Restricting fires to these locations greatly reduces the risk of forest fires. For the prevention of forest fires, a park superintendent may give notice of a fire hazard and implement a fire ban. At any time during a fire ban no person is permitted to have a fire unless otherwise stated by the park superintendent.

Possession or use of fireworks is prohibited in provincial parks at all times. They constitute a fire hazard and disturb wildlife and visitors who wish to enjoy the park in a peaceful manner.

$ 155.00 Only registered campers are allowed in a provincial park during the posted hours of closing.

Fines are subject to change. This is not a complete listing of offences; please refer to the specific legislation.

The minimum fine amount includes the applicable set fine, plus $5.00 court costs, plus the applicable victim fine surcharge.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

***911 is for EMERGENCIES ONLY*** Fire, Police and Ambulance.....................911

705-571-2029

DO NOT call the Park Warden for park information. You will be asked to call the main park phone number.

ARROWHEADPARKRD

Ticks & Lyme Disease

Do ticks and Lyme disease make you wary of going outdoors? By being aware of ticks and understanding the role they play in spreading Lyme and other diseases you are taking the first step to protect yourself and your loved ones.

There are many different species of ticks and not all of them carry Lyme disease. The most common tick you may encounter is the American Dog Tick, which does not carry Lyme disease. The only tick that carries Lyme disease in Ontario is the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick, Ixodes Scapularis. Both ticks can be found in wooded areas or tall grass habitats. In Ontario, Blacklegged ticks are most commonly found in rural areas along the north shores of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River. Blacklegged ticks are known to feed on migratory birds and as a result, they can be transported throughout the province. Therefore, while the potential is lower the further north you go, it is possible for people to encounter Blacklegged ticks, or to be infected with Lyme disease from the bite of an infected Blacklegged tick, almost anywhere in the province.

Ticks feed slowly, and an infected tick must feed on a person for at least 24 hours to infect them with the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Because of this delay, prompt detection and removal of ticks is one of the key methods of preventing Lyme disease. If you become infected from a tick bite, symptoms usually begin within 1 - 2 weeks, but can take as long as one month to begin. The “classic” symptom is a bulls-eye rash that can develop anywhere on the body; however, this rash may not occur in all cases. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, stiff neck, jaw pain, and sore muscles. If untreated, problems with the heart, nervous system, and joints can occur months or years later. Lyme disease is easily treated in the early stages so seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

When you are out in tick habitat you can better protect yourself by taking a few precautions:

• Wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into your socks.

• Wear light coloured clothing so you can detect

ticks before they attach.

• Use insect repellent containing “Deet” (please follow manufacturer’s directions). Apply it to your exposed skin and outer clothing.

• Conduct a tick check when you come in from outdoors. Look on your clothes, body, and pets. Pay close attention to your groin, scalp, and armpits.

• If you find a tick on your body, properly remove it and place it in a container. Visit www.etick.ca for tick identification. Additionally, you may contact your family doctor for questions on Lyme disease and follow-up.

By following these simple suggestions, you can have a safe and enjoyable time exploring Arrowhead Provincial Park.

For more information, please consult the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care’s website: ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease

Found a Tick?

DO

4 Use fine point tweezers

4 Grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible

4 Gently pull the tick straight out

4 Disinfect the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water

4 Save tick (alive if possible) in a jar, with a piece of damp paper towel for identification (www.etick.ca)

4 Watch for symptoms and seek medical

attention if you feel unwell, if the tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, or if you cannot safely remove the tick.

DON’T

6 Grasp around bloated belly and squeeze the tick

6 Use a match, heat or chemicals to try and remove it

6 Twist the tick when pulling it out

These Blacklegged Ticks Ixodes scapularis, are found on a wide range of hosts including mammals, birds and reptiles.

Blacklegged Ticks Ixodes scapularis are known to transmit Lyme disease Borrelia burgdorferi, to humans

mouth parts into the skin of a host, and slowly take in

Blacklegged Tick Ixodes scapularis on a blade of grass.

When Weather Strikes!

No one plans for a storm to hit during their trip, however it’s important to know what to do if a storm rolls in.

When in a campground: make a lightning safety plan; be aware of your surroundings, look for shelter, and steer clear of tall objects. If you’re staying in a tent or tent-trailer, the safest option is your hardtopped vehicle with the windows rolled up. Avoid touching metal inside the vehicle. Do not take shelter in a picnic shelter or vault privy as these structures are not equipped to handle lightning strikes.

If you’re on the water: if you’re swimming or paddling, get to shore immediately and seek shelter. Water can be unpredictable, and lightning can spread across the surface.

After the storm: wait 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning or rumble of thunder before resuming activities.

Environment Canada issues Severe Weather Watches as a heads-up that severe weather is likely to develop within two to six hours. A Severe Weather Warning is issued as severe weather is occurring or just about to occur.

A good way to stay current with the latest weather forecasts and warnings is to listen to Environment Canada’s Weatheradio broadcasts. Compact, battery powered Weatheradio receivers are available in most

electronics stores. Weather forecasts are updated daily at the Visitor Centre/ Park Store as well.

Environment Canada’s Weatheradio website at: http://www.msc.ec.gc.ca/msb/weatheradio/fact_ sheet_e.cfm has a full list of transmitter locations.

Environment Canada’s 24 Hour Weatheradio Broadcast Frequencies:

North Bay 162.475 MHz

Orillia 162.400 MHz

Algonquin PP 162.400 MHz

Rosseau 162.550 MHz

If You or Your Child Become Lost

Remain calm and notify any park staff. Park staff are trained to work as a team in the event of a missing person. They will likely have a radio and will notify other park staff and Park Wardens to commence a search. It is important that one person remain on the campsite/ vehicle in-case the person returns. It is also important that one person remains with park staff so that radio communications can be maintained throughout the search.

What you need to tell park staff: Your name and campsite number; the missing persons name and age; what they are wearing; who they were with last; their last known location; relevant illnesses or injuries; what they might be interested in (i.e.: going on trails; following animal tracks, playing in the water etc.).

Winter at Arrowhead

Arrowhead offers the most diverse and well-rounded winter activities program in all of Ontario Parks! Cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing and hiking are among the most popular winter activities. Add in camping or cabin stays and access to our cozy Grand Room, complete with a beautiful stone fireplace and ample seating, Arrowhead is sure to blow your socks off (and if we do, we carry Arrowhead-branded socks in the store for your convenience)!

Ice Skating

Arrowhead is home to one of the finest ice trails in all of Ontario. This 1.3km trail weaves in and out of the Muskoka landscape and is a winter destination hotspot for travelers and adventure-seekers alike. CSA-approved helmets are strongly recommended and are available for rent. Maintenance periods may occur during operating hours to ensure the ice remains in good condition throughout the day. Our renowned ice trail is truly a bucket-list-worthy adventure!

Cross-Country Skiing

Skiers enjoy a wide assortment of trails ranging from our beginner Bunny trail to our hardest Homesteader skate ski trail, with many intermediate trail options, too. A few of our ski trails incorporate campground roads such as Roe (easy), East River (easy), Arrowhead Lake (intermediate), and Lumby (intermediate). Our beautiful Beaver Meadow (intermediate) trail branches off from the Arrowhead Lake trail, and our Lookout (intermediate) trail features undulating hills and meanders through a mixed forest, rewarding the skier with a magnificent view. Finally, we have our 800m Sprint trail that the Huntsville High School Nordic Team loves to practice their hill climbs on!

With 28km of classic ski trails and 16km of skate ski trails, Arrowhead is sure to meet the needs of every skier. See you on the trails!

Snowshoeing/ Hiking

Arrowhead offers 6km of marked snowshoe trails, as well as off-trail snowshoeing through mature hardwood forests. Mayflower Lake Trail (1.5-2km) offers stunning views of Mayflower Lake over moderate terrain. Hardwood Ridge (.7km) offers slightly easier terrain and navigation, winding through beautiful forest, and attaches to our final snowshoeing trail, Stubb’s Falls. Stubb’s Falls offers both easy and moderate-level opportunities, with a few different entry and exit points. The walking bridge over Stubb’s Falls is a year-round photo destination, overlooking the rushing rapids.

Equipment Rentals

Winter equipment rentals are located next to the Visitor Centre/ Park Store in a separate building called the Pavilion. Our rental fleet includes skate and classic cross-country skis, ski boots, poles, ice skates, snowshoes, and helmets.

Ice sledges and sit-skis are also available so everyone can get out and enjoy the winter fun! Skate-aids are located at the skating trailhead for novice skaters.

Behind the Scenes: Ice Skating Trail Creation

A lot goes into making the ice. It’s not just your average backyard rink you have at home! First, there needs to be a lot of snow on the ground, then it gets packed down by driving on it in circles until its completely flat. Then we need at least –20 weather to be able to put water down with our retrofitted water truck. After a few days of that, there should be enough buildup of ice to put the “water bag” across the spreader bar and lay water nice and smooth. After a few more days of that, it's time for the secret weapon, an actual hockey arena Olympia ice re-surfacer! Once a few days of laying water and resurfacing the ice is completed, it's time to open!! Now it's just a matter of maintaining the ice. An everchanging routine of ice resurfacing, laying water and plowing off the night’s snow keeps the “ice gurus” very busy people!

Fire and Ice

Fire and Ice is a magical evening skate through the forest, lit only by torch and moonlight. This special event runs from 6-9p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights from late-January through February while ice conditions and weather permit. A maintenance period is in-effect from 4:30-6p.m. on these nights. Reservations are mandatory and are available up to five days in-advance.

Behind the Scenes: Ski Trail Creation

So much work and experience go into making and maintaining our kilometers of ski trails. Arrowhead has a fleet of grooming equipment. The equipment uses the tracks of the machine to cut the snow before the tiller chews it up and flattens it into the pristine corduroy that skiers love to see. As amazing as our equipment is, a lot of operator experience is required in determining the right combination of settings on the machines, as well as understanding the snow conditions. Understanding the snow is a major part in producing top results. Snow-type is important; is the snow light and fluffy or heavy and packable? How much new snow has accumulated? Is the snow base icy, hard packed, granular, or powder? Understanding these three snow factors and how they interact with each other helps the equipment operator determine the right combination of settings on the machine and how best to groom the trails.

Winter Camping & Cabin Stays

Arrowhead offers many ways to get outside in the winter months! Enjoy a night in comfort in one of our 13 camp cabins, equipped with a propane fireplace, BBQ, microwave, kettle, and fridge. Or, you can try your hand at winter camping on one of our seven pull-through electrical campsites. Washrooms and drinking water are located near-by at the Comfort Station, and the Visitor Centre/ Park Store and famous Ice-Skating Trail are just a short jaunt away!

to help ensure everyone stays safe and can enjoy their time here:

• Dogs must be kept under control, supervised and secured by a leash not exceeding 2m at all times

• Any pet causing excessive noise or disturbing another person is an evict-able offence to the owner/handler

• Pets are not permitted on bathing beaches– this is strictly enforced

Please clean up after your pet

Pet Exercise Area (see park map on pg. 12-13)

Our Pet Exercise Area is accessed through Lumby campground. Like the rest of the park, pets must be kept on-leash and under control in this area, and in the water. Please note, this area is not fenced off.

Pet Beach Access (see park map on pg. 12-13)

These are stretches of waterfront between the designated public beaches and the Arrowhead Lake bridge. Owners may take their pets into the water in this area; however, dogs must be kept on leash, both on the beach, and in the water. Celebrate

Beside

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