Samuel de Champlain PP Receiving $4.75 Million To Repair Storm Damage
Ontario’s Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park was hit by a massive wind storm on June 21, 2025 which immediately closed the park for the entire year. Emergency responders and park staff safely evacuated approximately 300 campers. The Government of Ontario has pledged $4.75 to not only repair some of the damage that took place, but to extend the operating season of the park so that it operates all year long.
“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. 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.”
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. Work is already underway, with phased improvements continuing into 2026 and beyond.
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.
