Tips on Algonquin Provincial Park Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Algonquin Provincial Park Warnings and Dangers

Black Flies and Mosquitos

Bug season is mid-May through late July. They usually come out later in the day and last well through the early evening. Black flies are smart enough to crawl under your clothing and then bite you. You’ll want to wear clothing that you can button up tightly or with tight cuffs. You may also consider a net.  Black flies are attracted to dark clothing so make sure you wear bright colors.

Bears, Moose and Leaches – Oh, My!

Bears in this area are looking for food and it’s suggested that you seal your food in several air-tight bags then hang them from a tree branch 10-20 feet high. Bears typically stay away from people if they know they’re around so make your presence known. Moose will cross highway 60 and several are typically killed nightly, so obey the speed limit and be alert. Leaches are in the water and it’s advised to thoroughly inspect your body for them after emerging from the lake.

Poison Sumac

Sumac is in the same category as poison ivy and even causes the same rash. It can be found in different areas around the campsite in very wet areas.  There are several varieties of sumac. The non-poison kind has saw-toothed leaves and the fruit growing on it stands upright. Poison sumac has smooth-edged leaves and the fruit hangs downward.  Also, the stems coming off the main branch on sumac are red.

When it Rains, it Pours

There are summer thunderstorms in the afternoon. The storm starts out as a rain shower, then quickly become torrential rain with thunder and lighting. If this happens get out of the water immediately. It’s best just to wait out the storm because they come and go very quickly so it’s not like your whole day will be ruined.

No Alcohol Outside Your Campsite

You can be fined and even evicted if you’re caught with a cocktail outside the campsite. When you are visiting a new area, make sure to read all the rules. You may not agree, but they exist for a reason.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about areas to avoid in Algonquin Provincial Park.