From February 1 to April 10, 2025, the visitor center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. From April 11 to April 30, 2025, it is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. From May 1 to May 19, 2025, hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. From May 20 to September 1, 2025, it’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. From September 2 to October 31, 2025, it operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
At Point Pelee National Park, the daily entrance fees are $9 for adults, $7.75 for seniors, and free for youth. Family/group rates are $17.50. Annual passes are $43.50 for adults, $38.25 for seniors, and $87.25 for families/groups. Youth admission is free.
By Car: Driving is the most convenient way to reach Point Pelee. From Toronto, take Highway 401 westbound towards Windsor. Exit onto Highway 77 southbound towards Leamington. Follow signs for Point Pelee National Park. The park entrance is located at the end of Point Pelee Drive.
By Public Transit: While there isn’t direct public transit to Point Pelee, you can take a bus or train to nearby towns such as Windsor or Leamington and then arrange for a taxi or ride‑sharing service to take you to the park. Some tour companies also offer transportation from major cities like Toronto or Detroit to Point Pelee.
By Air: Canadian airports Windsor International Airport (YQG) and London International Airport (XYU), as well as Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) in the U.S.A., are the closest major airports. You can rent a car from either airport and drive to Point Pelee National Park. Alternatively, you can arrange ground transportation or take a connecting flight to smaller regional airports near Leamington.
Point Pelee National Park offers parking for over 700 vehicles at the Visitor Centre, Marsh Boardwalk, DeLaurier, and all picnic and beach sites. No specific size restrictions for RVs or motorcycles are mentioned. Parking is included in the park admission fee, except at Camp Henry which requires an overnight permit. No overnight parking elsewhere.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Ready to explore one of Canada’s treasures? Head to Point Pelee National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, right on the southern tip of Ontario. In fact, it’s the southernmost point in all of Canada.
Visit the iconic Tip, the southernmost point of mainland Canada, where Lake Erie’s waters meet in stunning views. Families will love exploring the Marsh Boardwalk, a 1.2‑kilometer loop offering up‑close views of cattails and wetland wildlife. For birding enthusiasts, the park is a top destination, especially during the spring Festival of Birds and fall monarch butterfly migration, where thousands of butterflies make their way south. Dark Sky Nights provide an enchanting opportunity to stargaze.
Stay in a cozy nearby cottage, oTENTik, or campground to fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder. Book your family’s Point Pelee National Park adventure today on Lake.com!
- Area (km²)
- 9.33
- Annual visitors
- 494 000
- Established year
- 1918
Top 3 Facts about Point Pelee National Park
The marshes in this park began forming about 3,200 years ago, and they have a closed drainage system due to two barriers that usually prevent the free exchange of water, except when lake levels are higher, causing the marsh water levels to fluctuate with the lake’s water levels.
Bird Migration Hotspot
The park is a crucial stopover point for migrating birds, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Over 370 bird species have been recorded here, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. During peak migration seasons, visitors can witness spectacular avian displays as birds rest and refuel before continuing their journey across the Great Lakes for destinations throughout North America.
Carolinian Forest Ecosystem
Point Pelee is home to one of Canada’s rarest and most diverse ecosystems – the Carolinian forest zone. This zone features a mix of deciduous trees, such as tulip trees, sassafras, and American sycamores, which are more commonly found further south in the United States. The park’s unique climate and geography support a variety of plant and animal species not found elsewhere in Canada.
Family programs
- Self-guided Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the park’s website for up‑to‑date information on hours of operation, admission fees, and any special events or programs in. the provincial park. Consider visiting during the offseason or weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak migration seasons.
Pack Appropriately
Pack Binoculars and Cameras
Point Pelee is a birdwatcher’s paradise, so bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens to observe and capture the diverse bird species that inhabit the park. Don’t forget to bring a wide‑angle lens to capture scenic landscapes and close‑up flora and fauna shots.
Respect Wildlife
Practice Leave No Trace principles by staying on designated trails, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding disturbing wildlife or their habitats. Keep a safe distance from animals and refrain from feeding them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and health.
Stay Informed
Take Advantage of Guided Programs
Joining guided hikes, birding tours, or educational programs led by park staff is a great way to enhance your visit and learn more about the park’s ecology, history, and wildlife. Check the park’s schedule for available programs and activities during your visit.
Seasons
Spring is an excellent time to visit Point Pelee National Park, especially during April and May. This season is known for the peak of bird migration, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can witness various migratory birds stopping at the park, including warblers, thrushes, and waterfowl. Hiking and cycling along the park’s trails offer opportunities to observe blooming wildflowers and budding trees. Additionally, visitors can enjoy guided birding tours and educational programs offered by park staff.
Summer is a popular time to visit Point Pelee National Park, particularly from June to August. During this season, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking at the park’s sandy beaches along Lake Erie. The warm weather also makes it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing on the lake. Hiking and cycling trails continue to offer opportunities for outdoor exploration, with lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors can participate in interpretive programs, sunset strolls, and guided canoe excursions organized by park staff. It makes for a great day drip.
Fall is a stunning time to experience Point Pelee National Park, especially in September and October. The park transforms with vibrant fall foliage as the temperatures cool, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling trails become even more scenic, offering breathtaking views of colorful leaves reflecting off the park’s marshes and ponds. Birdwatchers can still enjoy late‑season migrations and the arrival of raptors such as hawks and eagles. Visitors can also participate in guided hikes, photography workshops, and fall birding festivals organized by the park.
Winter at Point Pelee National Park offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, particularly from December to February. While some facilities may be closed during this season, visitors can still enjoy cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing along designated trails within the park. The park’s landscapes have a different charm, with frozen marshes and snow‑covered forests creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Birdwatchers may still spot resident species such as owls and woodpeckers, adding to the unique winter experience. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife tracking, nature walks, and stargazing opportunities on clear, crisp nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Point Pelee National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Leamington, Ontario, as it is the closest city to the park and offers several hotels and motels, such as the Best Western Plus Leamington Hotel & Conference Centre and the Quality Inn Leamington. Other nearby options include motels in Kingsville, but Leamington is more convenient.
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Yes, there are child-friendly hiking trails. The trails are relatively flat and easy to navigate, with widths of 1.5 meters and surfaces made of crushed gravel and boardwalks, making them suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Trails like the Marsh Boardwalk and Tip Trail are particularly family-friendly.
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Yes, you need to keep your dog on a leash at all times. Your dog must be under physical control and not become a nuisance. Leaving your dog unattended or letting it disturb wildlife or visitors is not allowed.
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Yes, parking is included with your admission fee. You don’t need to display any additional permit, except at Camp Henry. Parking is available at various facilities such as the Visitor Centre, Marsh Boardwalk, and beach areas.
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Explore the Marsh Boardwalk, a 1 km floating boardwalk through stunning wetlands, and climb the 2-storey observation tower for a bird’s-eye view. Enjoy bird watching with over 390 species recorded, and participate in activities like hiking, cycling, or canoeing and kayaking in the internationally recognized wetlands. If visiting in the evening, experience the Dark Sky Nights and observe the stars in the dark sky preserve.