Marvel at the stars this August when the Persied Meteor Shower is at its height and when the late summer skies offer a clearer glimpse of the heavens. Here are just a few of the great spots to look up in wonder just north of Toronto:

Brennans Hill Camping and Cabins – South River

With a big open sky area at the camp pavilion, staff shut off any lights on clear nights for star watching. Bring a blanket and telescope and marvel at the stars above!

Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat – South River

Deer Lake Wilderness is a four-season getaway destination north of Muskoka, a short distance from Algonquin and just minutes from Mikisew Provincial Park. The Stargazer Geodome is one of just four rental accommodations on the property. The private, off-grid unit offers ample opportunity to admire the dark skies of Almaguin Highlands.

Four Corners Algonquin – Whitney

Nestled in an old quarry on the East Gate of Algonquin Park, this glamping site is hosting a Perseid Meteor Viewing Event on Friday August 9. Led by astronomy educator Gary Boyle, guests can explore the origins of the universe and witness up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. Even without experts on hand, the campsite is an amazing place for night skies and it is hard to beat being curled up in a bubble tent watching fireflies and shooting stars from the comfort of your own bed!

Muskoka Waterfront Retreat – Dwight

A rustic, natural escape meets state-of-the-art technology at Muskoka Waterfront Retreat, where a private waterfront beach and 3.5 acres of open space make for a soothing respite. Stay in one of eight standalone cabins or 12 individual suites. Meet up with friends in the cozy dining hall, take a free kayak or canoe out for a paddle along the Oxtongue River, or hike in one of the nearby provincial parks.
The Under the Night Sky program invites guests to explore the universe with a field telescope under the direction of a naturalist.

Pitstop 518 – Kearney

Authentic Mongolian Yurts, a private wildflower meadow and amazing dark skies makes this a stargazer’s dream destination. This pet-friendly, year-round location is the perfect place to unwind and look to the skies.

Torrance Barens Dark Sky Preserve – Torrance

In 1999 the section of land between Gravenhurst and Bala was the first in Canada to receive an official designation as a Dark Sky Preserve. It covers 5,000 acres and is one of the most remarkable geological areas in Muskoka. The landscape features low ridges of Precambrian bedrock, separated by wetland and peat-filled hollows, giving it a lunar appearance. It is one of the best areas for stargazing or catching the Northern Lights.

Ontario Parks and Parks Canada

The Ontario Parks of Algonquin Park, Arrowhead, Grundy Lake, Killbear, The Massasauga, Oastler Lake, Six Mile Lake, Sturgeon Bay, Restoule, and Parks Canada’s Beausoleil Island are all situated away from bright city lights and make ideal places for viewing the Milky Way, Aurora Borealis and constellations on clear nights.

To plan your stay in the great Canadian wilderness just north of Toronto, click here.

Featured photo by Robin Tapley in Algonquin Park.