solosal wrote:

Is anyone else having mixed feelings about this?  Having been to other parks where you pick your site beforehand I don't know how I feel about this.  I've spent some interesting moments in Algonquin debating in my mind is this the right spot for tonight?  I've often factored the weather forecast, KMs put on, and KMs yet to go, water access, usable tent bed etc.  The reservation of the spot you will rest your head that night will be predetermined maybe 5 months in advance.  Where's the fun in that?  I've been to most sites on all the backpacking trails and I know some are more desirable than others.  Sometimes you get what you get and you don't get upset!  How will this impact those more sought after sites?  Will they get closed because of overuse?  On the plus side I will take advantage of the income tax claim of taking a "staycation" in Ontario for the tax season of 2022.  Bring on the camping!!

I also have mixed feelings about this. There's a certain excitement behind not knowing which exact site you will end up at. On the other hand, sites I have booked at other parks in the past such as Killarney or Pukaskwa require a specific site selection and there is a comfort factor knowing you have the spot of your choice.

However, the near north trails are all so booked up now that it will become even more difficult to secure the more desirable spots. It has become a sad booking race to get much of anything on the Algonquin trails now. I believe overuse in the past couple of years especially is already causing issues (as you also pointed out in another thread), and I too question how specific site selections may further impact this. I am thankful to have enjoyed the trails during quieter times...

Thanks for pointing out the staycation tax credit as I was unaware of it!