No. The Canadian Forest Service is monitoring the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer which is killing hardwood trees in the Sandbanks area.
Bringing in firewood from infected areas is prohibited.
You can purchase firewood either at the Sandbanks Woodyard by the Outlet River, at
Currah's, or at a number of commercial vendors near the Park. The Woodyard charges $7.50 for firewood
and $5.50 for kindling.
Can I use any wood lying aound the Park for my campfires?
No. Many animals live in and feed on dead and decaying wood. The wood itself breaks down, returning valuable nutrients to Sandbanks' sandy nutrient-poor soils. Even small sticks are important!
Removal of dead wood is a chargeable offence.
Is the water safe for swimming?
Water is analyzed weekly at several locations along the beaches. If any bacterial issues are found, then the beach will be visibly posted,
It's unusual that all three beaches would be posted at the same time. Visitors are encouraged to
explore the Park's many other attractions, such as trails and bicycle paths.
In 2017, the Outlet Beach was awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation for
achieving high standards in 33 criteria including water quality, environmental education, environmental management, safety and services.
Can I bring my bicycle?
Bicycles are allowed on Park roads, the Woodlands Trail, the Lakeview Trail and the MacDonald Trail.
The Friends have purchased bicycle racks throughout the Park to encourage less motorized traffic.
Please be especially careful when driving along County Road 12, as the older sections have no shoulder, and traffic can often be very busy during the summer.
Can I use an electric bike/trike on the Park trails?
Yes. But please be aware of the safety of other trail users, either walking or on pedal-powered bikes.
Only one, two or three wheeled electric vehicles are permitted on the trails; no four-wheelers. Let me know when you plan to arrive with your
electric unicycle... I really want some photos!
Can I ride my FatBike over the dunes?
No.
What are the regulations for using watercraft at the beach?
All personal watercraft must remain at least 400 metres off the beach at all times.
Can I rent a canoe or kayak?
Yes. The Woodyard within the park on the Outlet Rivers rents canoes, kayaks and paddleboards and is open daily
during the summer season between 10h00 and 20h00. Reservations are not required... all rentals are first-come, first-served.
Pontoon boats and fishing skiffs can be rented at several commercial locations, both on East and West Lakes.
Yes... but only propane. Please respect the comfort of other beach-goers. Charcoal Barbecues are no longer allowed.
Can I use a metal detector in the Park?
Yes... but you must have a regular park (camping or day use) permit to be in the Park,
as well as a letter from the Park Superintendent, allowing you to metal detect in the park (no cost for this).
Any found personal items must be returned to the lost and found at the Park main office to be claimed.
If not claimed the finder can request it. Anything found that might be of historical interest/artefact must be provided to Park Staff.
Can I fly my micro-drone in the Park?
You must obtain prior written permission from the Park Superintendent. Low-level flying over beach crowds is strictly prohibited.
Is there a Lost and Found?
Any items found in the Park and turned in will be at the Outlet Beach Office, just south of the main entrance.
What does it mean when there's a fire ban?
Fire bans sometimes occur in late summer when conditions are dry.
Bans may be full (all open fires prohibited) or partial (fires restricted to evenings) But even during such fire bans, cooking is permitted on barbecues and stoves.
You will be notified if there is a fire ban in place when you check-in; additionally, signs will be posted throught the Park.
Does the Park supply wheelchairs?
Yes, the Park has two specially designed beach wheelchairs with large wheels that are ideal for use on the beach sands.
They can be reserved at the Woodyard on the Outlet River.
How do I find out about Park and Friends activities?
Weekly event fliers are posted on bulletin boards throughout the Park.
Most internal events are free or by donation for campers. If you are a day visitor, you will require a Park Pass, otherwise your vehicle may be ticketed.
County and local events can be found in at Prince Edward County Guide,
in the local papers, available throughout the County
No. Alcohol may only be consumed on a registered campsite. There is a total ban on alcohol on the May long weekend every year.
Where can I buy beer, wine and spirits?
The closest full-service LCBO is in Picton at 2 Lake Street, the corner of County Road 10 (which leads to the Park) and Picton Main Street.
The Beer Store is at the other end of town at 412 Main Street East, on Hwy 49 north.
The Tambo One Stop and Snack Bar is the closest outlet, with some beers and wine; it's at 1368 County Road 12 at West Lake.
Does the Park have picnic areas/shelters?
Yes... these shelters at both the amphitheatre in the Outlet Sector and at Dunes Beach are ideal for family gatherings, and can be reserved in advance.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Absolutely. All water from campsite taps is perfectly safe. We encourage visitors to refill reusable containers rather than using commercially available plastic
water bottles whose caps end up polluting our beaches and waterways. Look for the Friends' Water Station at events throughout the Park!
How Do I Become A Park Host?
You don't. Sandbanks Park does not offer that program.
Complaints about washrooms, trash, garbage
The Park has over 750,000 day-visits per year. Unfortunately, quite a few inconsiderate people insist on leaving their garbage behind, spoiling this beautiful spot for others.
Park Staff empty trash barrels and maintain beach surfaces daily.
Should you find any Park operational issues, including dumped garbage or washroom problems that need immediate attention, please email Park Superintendent Curt Morris
We are a volunteer organization that supports Ontario Parks in many activities,including our annual Big Beach Cleanup in conjunction with other county service organizations. Want to volunteer? ...
Please Notify Me About Any Upcoming Volunteer Events.
Remember the motto "Take only photographs, leave only footprints." This beautiful Park is a legacy for all Canadians, their children and grandchildren to enjoy.
Can't find the answer to your question?
Please send us an email. If we don't know the answer, we know who will!
Visit the main Park Office, or call 613.393.3319
Note: The Friends of Sandbanks do not make reservations for campsites! Please use the Park Reservation site for all campsite bookings.
