Our advice columnist Nova Explorehart is a self-proclaimed “modern-day adventurer,” having spent over a decade exploring remote backcountry trails, climbing peaks, kayaking untamed rivers and camping under the stars. Now she’s here to tackle your burning questions on anything outdoors related!

Dear Nova,

I really want to take my iSUP (inflatable SUP) on a camping adventure. We have big 11’ boards and kayak seat attachments. I’m thinking about hammocks under the stars so I can pack really light. Can you give me some suggestions for places you’d recommend in Ontario?

—The Wild Tribe Hammock Club

Hey The Wild Tribe Hammock Club,

Did I just hear hammock and SUP together? Yessss. And Ontario is basically Canada’s go-to multi-day paddling destination: blue water, pink granite, spruce forests, islands for days and enough mosquitos to keep you humble. You’ve got the right pieces—now let me help you put them together.

SUP Camping 101

First of all, what’s the difference between kayak/canoe camping and SUP camping?

• Storage: Canoes offer plenty of space and kayak offer compartments for gear. SUPs don’t have any compartments and gear must be lashed down on deck—dry bags are essential. In general, you’ll need to pack pretty light.
• Stability and Efficiency: Canoes are very stable and kayaks stay relatively balanced while covering longer distances. SUPs are stable on flatwater but wind may be a challenge.
• Portaging: Canoeing is tried-and-true and kayaking is usually done with wheels but it is a bit awkward. SUPs are much lighter and pack into a backpack. However, it can take more time and effort to inflate and deflate, and you’ll have a wet SUP to portage. For very long portages, it’s easier to carry your iSUP deflated in its backpack, then inflate again at the water’s edge. The tradeoff is the extra time and carrying a pump. For a couple hundred metres, it would be easier just to take two trips without deflating the SUP
• Travel Style: Canoes and kayaks are faster and easier to travel long distances in a day. SUPs are slower paced, require more energy and are best for shorter hops between campsites. For SUP camping, you’ll need to keep certain things in mind.

1. Gear: must be waterproofed and lashed down. If you fall, you don’t want your camp stove floating downstream.
2. Wind: You’ll sit higher on an SUP than on a kayak so wind can push you off course. Plan shorter distances.
3. Balance: Keep heavy gear low and centred. Practice paddling with weight before committing to a multi-day trip.
4. Distance and fatigue: Switch between standing, kneeling and sitting to rest.
5. Weight: Each SUP has a different maximum weight capacity (maximum weight it can carry and still float) and a practical weight capacity (lower than the maximum—how much the board can carry without it affecting its stability and speed). Overloading a board will make it slow and hard to paddle. It’s best to use about 70 to 80 per cent of a board’s maximum capacity. Now you may be wondering how to pack for a SUP camping trip. Panic no longer! Here’s a breakdown:

• Dry bags are essential! Use multiple different-sized bags to lash down easily. See here for a 10-litre dry bag and here for a 20-litre dry bag that you can purchase
• Heavy items (food, stove, water) always in the centre, close to your feet
• Lighter items (sleeping bag, clothes, etc.) in the front or back
• Emergency items in a small bag clipped to the deck where you can easily grab them In conclusion: modern inflatable SUPs are durable but can’t carry as much weight. Their stability is great for short trips. Plus, SUP camping feels like living the minimalist life, like backpacking on water.

Where, Oh Where Can My Adventure Be?

Let’s answer your main question next: where? I’ve rounded up two locations that make sense for SUP camping in Ontario. But first, you need to know something about Ontario camping: some parks only allow you to make site-specific reservations while others allow you to pick a lake/campground. Some are first-come-first served. Make sure to double check this information when reserving.

Secondly, I made an extensive essentials list for backpacking (and, let’s be honest, you’ll probably need to pack lightweight like a backpacker for this one) and outlined the difference between reservation and registration to my good friend here. Read my advice—trust me!

Now, onto the task at hand. You can pick your fav:

1. Killarney Provincial Park (Georgian Bay/La Cloche region)

Long story short: think sheltered lakes, dramatic ridges and dozens of backcountry sites. Why Killarney for a SUP camping trip? Here are a few reasons:

• Many interconnected lakes and access points: This allows you to pick more sheltered lakes when the wind is up; pick shorter paddles; minimize or plan portages. With a kayak seat, you may paddle slower, so you want good options to bail or adjust.
• Backcountry campsites well distributed: So you’re more likely to find a site with trees (for the hammock) but it’s not guaranteed. Plus, camping areas are designated so you can’t just set up anywhere!
• Outfitters in the park: If you forgot something, it’s less of a throw-you-in-the-deep problem. It’s open year-round with some campgrounds open seasonally, and campsites must be reserved in advance and you must register for a camping permit. You can get your permit upon arrival at certain locations around the park (for some entry points). Click here to find out where. There’s a ban on cans, glass bottles and chainsaws in the backcountry in Killarney and the park’s official maps can be bought here, which are highly recommended.

The majestic views will make you realize why this park is the subject of so many paintings with its quartzite ridges, turquoise lakes and sun-kissed beaches. Most campsites will have its own designated firepit (check for fire bans in advance!) and box toilet. But which campsite should you choose? I have two recommendations for you:

• George Lake campground (front-country) and launch from Bell Lake: Great place to start or finish. If you need to stage your SUP, pack lighter, test with full load or get gear at outfitters. Good beaches, relatively easy water, likely better trees near shore. To launch, you’ll may have to get your feet wet on the beach (consider getting neoprene boots or water shoes). You’ll make good progress and have time for other camping activities if the wind stays away. Otherwise, it’ll be a bit challenging unless you bring along collapsible kayak paddles (but it’s best to go when the wind isn’t so bad). On certain lakes, SUP paddlers may face unsafe conditions if wind picks up. Only main con is that you’ll encounter more people here. Also, premium price for comfort amenities but possibly less wilderness feel.
• Bell Lake interior campsites—specifically David Lake via Bell Lake route (backcountry) and launch from Bell Lake: This gives you more control over how far you want to go each day. The access is decent. Many paddle/canoe routes begin here. Just make sure to pack extra-light to avoid gear hauling. There might be fewer trees for the hammock.

2. French River Provincial Park

Think vast waterways, historic currents, thick forest, granite outcrops, quiet bays, steep cliffs, islands—you’ll get all of that. French River is less about high ridges everywhere, more about a river-maze feel. Why French River? Here’s another list:

• Sheltered waterways and adaptable routes: Unlike big open lakes, the French is a network of channels, bays and small lakes—which means you can pick routes that stay calm even if the wind picks up. You’ll move more slowly than a canoe, but the river’s layout lets you make micro-adjustments on the fly.

• Dozens of water-access campsites: With more than 290 backcountry campsites scattered along its length, you have many options—and many are tree-lined, hammock-friendly and tucked into little coves that feel like your own private island.

• History and scenery rolled into one: Paddling the French is like floating through a living history book. You’re tracing the same route fur traders, voyageurs and Indigenous peoples used for centuries—and the scenery hasn’t changed much.

• Outfitters and support: You’ll find excellent support services: shuttle operators, gear rentals, maps and even water taxi services if you want to shorten your trip or make logistics easier. It’s open seasonally (April 25 to October 19 this year), and just like Killarney, you must reserve your campsite (site-specific) in advance and obtain a permit. Portages and campsites are only accessible by water. Backcountry permits may be purchased at the French River Visitor Centre. Campsites are designed for canoe/kayak trippers—landing is usually a rocky or sandy shoreline, so you’ll be hauling drybags. An 11-foot SUP with a kayak seat works fine—just be mindful of weight distribution. Weight distribution becomes extremely critical. Hugging shorelines and planning shorter days is smart with a loaded SUP. Campsites generally include a fire ring (check fire bans first), a box privy (where terrain allows) and flat tenting areas. Hammocks are possible at many sites because of the forest cover, but some areas may lack good trees. I have two recommendations for campsites:

• Otter Bay Access to Okikendawt Island Loop (camp on island bays off Okikendawt Island or the channels behind islands): You’ll have sheltered bays and manageable sections. Good for seeing the river away from the busiest parts. If you pick campsites that are on islands or sheltered shorelines, you’ll find tree cover. Launching from Otter Bay gives you a well-known starting place. You’ll need to plan carefully: if one day’s stretch is long, it might be tiring.

• Hartley Bay to Old Voyageur Channel (camp near Ox Bay, Cross Island or the Old Voyageur Channel): Hartley Bay Marina (popular and SUP-friendly launch with parking and outfitter support) is a good launch point here. Paddle down the Western Channel. Most people aim for campsites near Ox Bay, Cross Island or the Old Voyageur Channel. This section is sheltered and full of side channels you can explore, with plenty of tree-heavy campsites for hammocks. Perfect for a two-to-four-night trip. Start early in the morning when it’s calm. Because you’re moving downstream, the current gives you a small speed boost too (yay for lazy paddling days).

Gear and Configuration: Make that 11-Foot Board Earn Its Keep

You have 11-foot boards and kayak seats. Sweet—that seat will transform your board into a low, stable tour for longer miles and naps (don’t nap until anchors are down).

Here’s a quick must-have list:

• PFD for every person: Transport Canada requires a suitable PFD onboard; many paddlers opt to wear a low-profile PFD or inflatable while underway. Also carry a whistle.
• **Buoyant heaving line (15 metres) OR wear PFD and whistle:**Part of the Small Vessel Regulations.
• Leash: Use a quick-release waist leash on big lakes; consider detaching in strong current (a board can drag you). Transport Canada recommends wearing or carrying PFD and a leash for SUP safety.
• Dry bags (2–3 sizes) plus a deck rig (bungees, straps) to secure a food bag, water, stove. Don’t put heavy gear high.
• Inflatable pump and repair kit
• Navigation: waterproof map, compass or phone with offline maps and a waterproof case. On bigger lakes, have a satellite safety device if you’ll be offshore.
• Bug protection: Plus permethrin-treated clothes if you care about your sanity.
• Night kit: Headlamp, extra batteries, small stove, first-aid, bear-safe food canister if required locally. You may need to hang your food!
• Hammock kit: Lightweight hammock with straps rated for tree trunks but also bring a tarp and stakes—some campsites are exposed granite with few trees, in which case you’ll need an alternate sleeping system.

Hammock vs Tent: Romantic vs Realistic

The hammock life is ultralight, stargazy, 10/10 Instagram-worthy and fun. The reality:

• Pros: comfy, light, Leave No Trace easier if you use straps (no ground impact), fast set up, great for bug-free breezy ridge lines.
• Cons: you need trees. Many Ontario island campsites are granite shorelines with thickets or a few skinny pines. Parks with island platforms may require tents. Also, on colder nights, hammocks can be make you freeze unless you have an under-quilt or good pad. Rule of thumb: bring a lightweight tarp and ultralight tent/bivy as backup. If you’re committed to hammock-only, pick routes with tree-lined campsites (French River inland pockets, much of Killarney interior lakes).

Safety and Etiquette—The Boring but Life-Saving Stuff

• Check the marine and weather forecast before you go.
• Never go solo on big water unless you are extremely experienced—and even then, tell someone your exact route and expected check-ins.
• Carry communication: cell coverage is spotty; consider a satellite communicator.
• Leave No Trace: pack out what you pack in; treat established fire pits and use stoves where required.
• Wildlife: secure food away from sleeping areas and follow park food storage rules. Have a SUP-er time,

Nova “Paddle” Explorehart

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READ MORE: Adventure, Advice, Ontario

Nova Explorehart

Nova is a 35-year-old seasoned outdoor enthusiast and wilderness researcher with a passion for all things wild and rugged. A self-proclaimed “modern-day adventurer,” Nova has spent over a decade exploring remote backcountry trails, climbing peaks, kayaking untamed rivers and camping under the stars.

She grew up in Squamish, British Columbia—a vibrant mountain town between ocean and alpine, where rain boots and hiking boots were her daily uniform. Childhood afternoons were spent building forts in the forest and scrambling up boulders before she even knew what “bouldering” was. She learned the art of outdoor survival through trial, error and a few bruised shins (each with a story she tells around campfires).

Nova comes from a mixed racial background—her mother is Indian while her father’s roots are mostly Irish. She grew up gardening with her mother and learning animal hunting techniques with her father. She’s now a happily married mom to two energetic kids—ages seven and 10—who can already start a fire with flint, pitch a tent in under ten minutes and have strong opinions about marshmallow roasting techniques.

Balancing motherhood and mountains are no easy feat, but she credits her kids for keeping her grounded and goofy. She also has a rescue cat named Luna, who behaves suspiciously like she’s plotting something at all times. Professionally, Nova juggles multiple roles: she’s a freelance wilderness researcher, an outdoor survival instructor and a part-time columnist for Explore Magazine. She’s been a park ranger, wildlife tracker and once worked as a snowshoe tour guide in Jasper (she still claims that was the best gig ever).

In her free time, you’ll find her sketching wildflowers in her travel journal, playing the mandolin by the fire, or experimenting with campfire baking—her signature dish is pan-fried Bannock with a wild berry compote. She’s an avid forager, amateur birdwatcher and has an inexplicable interest in cryptozoology.

Nova studied Environmental Science at Simon Fraser University and completed her Master’s in Resource, Environment and Sustainability at the University of British Columbia. Her academic work focused on alpine habitat restoration and human-wildlife interaction.

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