Pinery Provincial Park is the big Lake Huron day out from Stratford, a provincial park of about 2,532 hectares near Grand Bend, roughly an hour's drive to the west. Its signature feature is about 10 km of sand beach on the lake, backed by dunes and by one of the rarest habitats in Ontario, oak savanna. The park protects Oak Savanna and Coastal Dune ecosystems and reports more than 800 vascular plant species and more than 300 bird species, which makes it one of the best places in the region for wildlife. There are 10 walking trails, a 14 km bike trail and, in winter, 38 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. You can rent canoes, kayaks and other small craft to explore the Old Ausable Channel, a provincially significant wetland that runs behind the dunes, and there are about 1,010 campsites for those who want to stay. The park has been open since 1957 and is open all year, with beaches and swimming in summer and skiing and snowshoeing in winter. For a visitor based in Stratford it is a straightforward way to add a lake, a long beach and a sunset to a theatre trip, and a good option when the Festival is not running and you want something big, open and outdoors.
What to do
In summer, spend the day on the beach and walk the dune boardwalks, then paddle a rented canoe or kayak along the Old Ausable Channel in the late afternoon. In shoulder seasons, walk one or two of the trails through the oak savanna, which is the park's most distinctive landscape, and visit the Visitor Centre. In winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing. Birdwatchers can have a very productive day, particularly in spring and autumn migration.
Seasons and planning
The park is open all year, but the experience changes with the seasons. Swimming and beach days belong to summer, canoe and kayak hire follows the warm months, and winter is for skiing and snowshoeing. Day-use reservations can be made online, and in peak summer weekends it is wise to book in advance because the park can fill.
The Park Store has been open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and the Visitor Centre on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm, but hours change, so confirm them on the Ontario Parks page before you drive. Bring sun protection, water, insect repellent and shoes you can walk on sand in, and carry out all your rubbish.
Fitting it in
Allow a full day, since the drive is about an hour each way. A car is essential, and the route west from Stratford takes you through farm country toward Grand Bend and the lake. Many visitors combine Pinery with an evening in Grand Bend for dinner before heading back, though it is a long day if you also have a show.
If you are staying a few days, give it a day of its own away from the theatres, and consider a night or two of camping or a roofed accommodation if you want to enjoy the sunset on the lake.
Families with children will find the beach and the shallow water ideal, and visitors with dogs should check where pets are allowed on the beach and trails before they set out.
What to expect
The experience
A provincial park on Lake Huron with about 10 km of beach, oak savanna trails, canoe hire and camping.
Best time
Summer for the beach and paddling; autumn and spring for birds and trails; winter for skiing and snowshoeing.
How long
Allow a full day, with about an hour's drive each way from Stratford.
Tips
Reserve day use online in peak season, check the Visitor Centre hours, and bring sun protection and insect repellent.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beach lovers and nature fans who want a full day on Lake Huron while staying in Stratford.
- Families
- A long sandy beach, shallow water and gentle trails make it a strong family choice in summer.
- Couples
- Paddle the Old Ausable Channel in the afternoon and watch the sunset over the lake.
- Pair with
- Grand Bend for dinner, and a Stratford theatre evening on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Pinery from Stratford?+
It is near Grand Bend on Lake Huron, roughly an hour's drive west of Stratford. Check your route and traffic on the day.
What is there to do?+
Swim and walk on about 10 km of beach, hike 10 walking trails, cycle a 14 km bike trail and paddle the Old Ausable Channel.
Is Pinery open in winter?+
Yes, the park is open all year, with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing in winter.
Do I need to reserve?+
Day-use reservations can be made online, and booking ahead is wise on peak summer weekends.
Can I camp?+
Yes, there are about 1,010 campsites, plus roofed accommodation. Book well in advance for summer.
