South Algonquin RV Resort Review: A CreakingON Guide for RV Travellers
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A Lakeside Escape Near Algonquin’s Southern Gate
As the RV season winds down into the chilly, dark winter nights, we cherish one last chance to enjoy mornings by the lake, evenings around the campfire, and a few more nights to wrap up our first season in our No Boundaries No-Bo 19.4 travel trailer.
When it comes to fall colours in Ontario, one location stands out: Algonquin Provincial Park. As the fall colours fade and the Highway 60 corridor through the park becomes busy with leaf-peepers, we opted to focus on the southernmost access point to the park. Coincidentally, the South Algonquin RV Resort is just minutes from the park entrance, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Below is a recap of our experience RV camping near Algonquin Park at South Algonquin RV Resort, covering everything you need to know if you plan to visit.
Getting here and setting up
Our visit was late in the season and mid-week, so traffic was light, and the drive was relaxed. While the roads are in excellent condition, they are narrow, winding, with a few hills and small communities; the drive took longer than Google Maps predicted.
Once checked in, the staff assisted us to our site and guided us through the parking process, as well as dropping off our wood for the campfire.
We loved our campsite at South Algonquin RV Resort.
Our site
Like many Ontario RV resorts on a lake, most of the sites along the waterfront are occupied by seasonal users; in fact, the site we were on was the only one available by the water at this time. It was a bit tricky to back into, and we had to level it slightly, but it offered lake views from the trailer and the fire pit, a small dock that seemed to always catch the sun, and easy access to launch our kayak. What more can you ask for? Very nice.
Our site provided electrical, water, and grey tank hookups. Regarding privacy, we have visited several privately owned RV parks in Ontario and have yet to encounter one with good privacy; South Algonquin RV is no different. There we were, trailers on both sides, but another advantage of visiting in October was that there was hardly anyone around, so privacy was not a concern.
The experience
We had a very lovely and relaxing time at South Algonquin RV Resort, thanks to our waterfront site location, the friendly and helpful staff, and the fact that we had the place particularly to ourselves. With the overnight temperatures dropping to -6 Celsius, we didn't get a chance to use many of the resort’s amenities. The beach looked very nice; there is a volleyball court and horseshoe pits, making it perfect for family-friendly RV camping in Ontario. We did manage to get the kayak out on the lake for a paddle, but spent most of the day lounging on the dock, which was always in the sun, and evenings by the fire. Thumbs up to the nice and dry firewood.
Relaxing by the water at South Algonquin RV Resort.
Outside the RV park, we explored Algonquin Park’s southern gate. We hiked the High Falls trail in the morning. With low water levels in the area, the falls were not that high, but the hike was very nice. In the afternoon, I headed back into the park to try the 13-kilometre out-and-back bike trail. The bike trail is wide enough to drive a truck on, so it's not very technically challenging. However, it does roll up and down hills and brings you to a lovely backcountry lake.
We did not try it, but if you are into horseback riding, South Algonquin Trails, located across the road from the RV resort, offers horseback rides in Algonquin Park.
South Algonquin RV Resort is located on beautiful Benoir Lake, which we wish we had more time to explore.
Hiking High Falls trail in Algonquin Park.
Riding one of only two official bike trails in Algonquin Park.
Why Choose South Algonquin RV Resort?
Located on the shores of Benoir Lake in Harcourt, Ontario, South Algonquin RV Resort offers a balance of natural beauty and modern convenience. For RVers planning a trip near Algonquin Park’s southern gate, this campground is a strong contender.
Quick Overview of South Algonquin RV Resort
Location: Harcourt, Ontario (Benoir Lake)
Season: Year round
Sites: Seasonal + nightly RV sites, plus cottages
Hookups: Water, electricity, grey water, propane available
Reservations: Online via Campspot
Best For: Families, couples, outdoor adventurers, and seasonal campers
Atmosphere and Campground Layout
Expect a wooded, lakeside setting typical of Ontario’s cottage country. The campground has a mix of waterfront sites with open views and wooded interior sites offering more shade and privacy.
RV Site Quality
Site Size: Fits a variety of rigs; confirm for extra-long setups
Surface Type: Natural ground cover
Shade: Many tree-covered sites
Privacy: Poor but not unusual for RV parks where usable parking space is maximized.
Access: for trailers and motorhomes; please check availability for larger vehicles, such as big rigs.
Hookups and On-Site Amenities
Water/Electric: Water to trailers available May–October; electric hookups available (confirm 30/50 amp)
Sewer/Dump Station: There are no full hook-up sites. Some sites, like the one we were on, have a grey tank hookup. Tank pumpout service is available if needed. There is one dump spot, and the staff is happy to assist with dumping your tanks.
Comfort Station: Restrooms and showers on-site
Laundry: Available
Cell service / Internet: Poor
Resort Extras:
• Sandy beach
• Canoe & kayak rentals
• Playground
• Snack bar & camp store
• Propane refills
• Boat slips and launch access
Things to Do at and Around South Algonquin
On-Site: Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming
Nearby: Algonquin Park (via southern gate), ATV and snowmobile trails, fall colours in Haliburton Highlands, hiking, horseback riding
Winter: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling
Best Time to Visit
Summer (May–Oct): Full amenities, warm lake swimming
Fall: Stunning foliage, quieter campground atmosphere
Winter: Snowmobiling, skiing, and cozy cottage stays
Related reading:RV Camping Ontario: North Shore of Lake Superior
Who Will Love This Campground?
Families with kids
Couples seeking lakeside relaxation
Adventure seekers (ATV, paddling, snowmobiling)
Seasonal campers looking for extended stays
Evenings by the fire at South Algonquin RV Resort.
Is South Algonquin Worth a Stay?
If your RV adventures bring you near Algonquin Park, South Algonquin RV Resort is a strong choice. The lakefront setting, family-friendly amenities, and proximity to outdoor activities make it a great base and one of the best RV campgrounds in Haliburton Highlands. Just confirm site size, hookups, and internet before booking, especially for longer rigs or remote workers.
Practical Details
Address: 4445 Elephant Lake Rd, Harcourt, ON K0L 1X0
Phone: 519-964-0357
Email: southalgonquin@rootsrv.ca
Website: rootsrv.ca/south-algonquin
Reservations: Via Campspot (link on official website)
Rates: Seasonal and nightly (check website for up-to-date pricing)
