Ontario is moving ahead with a major restoration and redevelopment effort at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, committing $4.75 million to repair extensive storm damage and turn the popular Mattawa-area destination into a four-season tourism draw.
The provincial government announced the investment Friday, describing the project as both an economic boost for nearby communities and a long-term plan to modernize a park severely hit by a destructive downburst storm in June. The site has remained closed since the event, which toppled thousands of trees, damaged infrastructure and forced the evacuation of roughly 300 visitors.
“The storm was one of the most severe weather events Ontario Parks has ever faced, flattening thousands of trees and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of campers. In the midst of that devastation, park staff, first responders and local partners worked tirelessly to keep people safe and begin clean-up efforts,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “As we move forward, we’re making this strategic investment to turn the park into a year-round destination to attract visitors, support local jobs and build a strong, resilient local economy.”
Cleanup efforts began shortly after the storm, with crews removing hazardous trees, restoring electrical service and repairing damaged buildings. The storm also hit the Canadian Ecology Centre (CEC), a long-standing environmental education hub located within the park. The province says it will improve public access to the centre’s meeting spaces and cabins as part of the broader revitalization.
Several new features are planned, including a visitor hub with educational exhibits, a park store and expanded equipment rentals. The operating season will also shift to year-round, supported by new winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing—an attempt to strengthen local tourism during the traditionally slower winter months.
Local leaders say the investment will help communities still recovering from the sudden closure during peak summer season.
“As Mayor of Calvin Township, I’m grateful for Ontario’s investment to restore Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park — a jewel right here in our community. The June storm caused serious damage, but thanks to our fire departments, volunteers from nearby towns, OPP, and provincial agencies, nearly 300 people were rescued safely. Their bravery and dedication prevented loss of life,” said Richard Gould, Mayor of Calvin Township. “We appreciate the province’s support in removing hazards, replanting trees, restoring power, and building a new visitors centre. With year-round access coming, we look forward to welcoming visitors back to experience Calvin’s stunning natural beauty.”
Mattawa officials echoed that view.
“Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, which houses the Canadian Ecology Centre, is a landmark that has attracted local, provincial, national and international visitors. The damage caused by the severe storm has been devastating. The province’s investment for a year-round facility is fantastic news for the park and the Mattawa area,” said Raymond A. Bélanger, Mayor of the Town of Mattawa.
The revitalization also includes reforestation work. Ontario Parks has already planted 500 native trees through the Species Conservation Program in collaboration with Forests Canada, forming the first phase of ecological restoration.
“Forests Canada is proud to help in the reforestation of Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park following the devastating storm this past June,” said Jess Kaknevicius, CEO of Forests Canada. “Provincial parks have so much to offer – not just for our physical and mental health, but to the wildlife that call them home – and it is all of our responsibility to help ensure that these beautiful, natural environments can thrive for generations to come.”
Provincial officials say the recovery reflects broader investments in Ontario Parks, which this year included boundary expansions, hundreds of new campsites and electrical upgrades across the system. Partnerships with forestry agencies and emergency responders were also key to the early response efforts.
“The June storm left a devastating mark on Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, but thanks to the swift collaboration between Ontario Parks, Algonquin Forestry Authority and a local, skilled workforce, we were able to begin recovery efforts within days,” said Tracey Bradley, General Manager of the Algonquin Forestry Authority.
Work on the park is expected to continue into 2026 and beyond. For some stakeholders, the investment signals a renewed commitment to both environmental stewardship and northern economic development.
“Once revitalized, the park will offer year-round activities and once again be a contributing factor to the local economy,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing.