FAQs

These web pages are written and maintained by Friends of Sandbanks, a not-for-profit, volunteer group.

Visit the Ontario Parks pages for official information.

How do I reserve a campsite at Sandbanks?

Has Sandbanks got a Group campsite?

What are regulations concerning dogs at Sandbanks?

Why should we not bring our own firewood?

Is the water safe for swimming?

Where are the beaches in the park?

How are the beaches maintained?

Can I bring my bicycle to the beach?

What are the regulations regarding surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, canoes, kayaks and motorized water craft at Sandbanks?

What does a fire ban mean to me?

How do I find out about park activities and local events?

Why is there so much poison ivy in the park?

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Voyez la page Parks Ontario pour les renseignements en français.

How do I reserve a campsite at Sandbanks?

Click on the Ontario Parks logo on the sidebar and follow instructions to Sandbanks reservation pages.

Has Sandbanks got a Group campsite?

The two group sites are shown on the Outlet River Campground B map and are located on East Lake. Group reservations must be made directly with park staff. Please contact Sandbanks directly for more information and group site availability at 613-393-3319

What are regulations concerning dogs at Sandbanks?

Dogs must be on a leash of no more than 6 feet at all times. Sandbanks Park has allocated two doggie beaches, the only beach areas where they are allowed. One is at the mouth of the Outlet River and the other the most southerly end of Sandbanks Beach. Check the park maps for locations.

Why should we not bring our own firewood?

The Canadian Forest Service is concerned with the potential spread of the Emerald Ash borer, an invasive insect which is killing hardwood trees to both the east and the west of Sandbanks Park.   Transport of firewood from infected areas is prohibited and as a general precaution it is best that firewood be locally purchased. Many locals sell local firewood near the park and wood is also sold at Sandbanks Woodlot beside the Outlet River.

Is the water safe for swimming?

The water is analysed regularly for quality by the health unit and if found unsafe, the beach involved is posted. This only happens infrequently and seldom involves more than one of the three beaches. For more information about the beach areas, go to the pages on the beaches.

Where are the beaches in the park?

See our page with the maps to find your way around. The Sandbanks tabloid is available at the park to help you find your way around once there.

How are the beaches maintained?

The beaches are raked regularly throughout the summer to remove any algae or fish that have washed up. Recycling and garbage pails are readily accessible and are emptied frequently.

Can I bring my bicycle to the beach?

The only places that bicycles are allowed off road anywhere in Sandbanks, is along the Woodlands Trail and the path alongside the Outlet road. The Friends have purchased racks where bicycles can be locked safely. These are spread throughout the park to encourage less automobile driving, once in the park.

What are the regulations regarding surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, canoes, kayaks and motorized water craft at Sandbanks?

All such sports equipment must stay a minimum of 400 m. off the shore for the protection of swimmers and can only be launched at designated areas. The main area is at the mouth of the Outlet River. For further information contact park staff.

What does a fire ban mean to me?

When extremely dry and windy conditions result in conditions where forest fires can be easily lit and hard to put out, fire bans are imposed.   Bans may be full (all open fires prohibited) or partial (fires restricted to evenings).   Even during fire bans cooking can occur on stoves and bar-b-ques. If there is a ban you will be notified as you check in to camp, as well as there will be signs placed throughout the park.

How do I find out about park activities and local events?

Park staff put up weekly event calendars during the summer on bulletin boards throughout the park. Go to the Nature Centre (Open daily except Wednesdays during the summer. Open weekend afternoons  starting in late spring and again until Thanksgiving) for more details and to get information regarding local events outside the park.

Why is there so much poison ivy in the park?

There are few plants as well suited for growing in dry sandy, alkaline conditions especially considering its  underground growth habit. It is removed from campsites, designated trails and along roadsides, but left in other places as an important dune stabilizer and as food for wildlife.  Learn to identify it at the Nature Centre.