So I'm up in Atikokan last week checking out our September trip entry point on some Crown Land north of Atikokan and I like what I see.  I tap some locals for fishing information and it sounds very promising.  We were in some Crown Land last summer and we had a great trip so we decided that it might be worth while looking into some other areas.  So, on my way out of town I stop at Walts and ask if I could pre-purchase camping permits so as to avoid a stop next month.  

"Sure", he says, "No problem.  For when and where?"  So I give him the location (Seine River Tributary NE of Marmion) and then he asks for my ID.  Upon seeing my MN drivers license, he asks which resort is outfitting me or which guide I was using.  "No one" I say, "we outfit ourselves and are just going to park here, carry it in and make our way north."  His eyebrows raise and he then informs me that I cannot get a Crown Land camping permit unless I am being outfitted because this is a "Green Zone."  So I ask to see a map of this "green zone", which encompasses nearly all of NW Ontario.

Here's the scoop, which was confirmed by a subsequent phone call to the MNR.  Apparently, overnight camping on Crown Land in the "Green Zone" (which, by the way, is nearly everything North of Atikokan (White Otter included)) is now prohibited for non-residents UNLESS you are 100% outfitted by a guide/resort.  I was "strongly encouraged" to use the Provincial Park system - so while I love the Q, I fell in love with Crown Land over the past 2 years as well.  So, looks like I'm back to Quetico after a 3 year hiatus.

Not a big deal but just thought the other Crown Land campers here might appreciate the information.  Jeesh.  

Of course I understand the "logic" / reasoning behind it being that the MNR has more financial interest the PP system and if they can't get their bucks worth, at least the resorters / guides will get a taste.  I'm not complaining. . . Just a little surprised - well, not that surprised either I suppose.  anyway, just FYI.

Kingfisher wrote on Jul 20^th, 2007 at 9:21pm:


Perhaps, but then we would have to renegotiate our sponsorship contract - legal nightmare I'm afraid.   

I've rented life jackets for a discount before but apperently the anti has been raised this year.  In fact, I'm sure the outfitters and guides appreciate this new situation and I can appreciate it as well.  Canoe Camping in Canada is a privelgde and I'm not one to take it for granted.

This link was posted on the CanoeCountry forum and perked my interest.  No detail is given though as to regulations or mention of the "green" zone.  

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"We would drive into the heart of Canadian Shield muskie country, framed by Eagle Lake, Lake of the Woods and Rainy River. Instead of spending more than $1,000 on a guide, lodging, home-cooked meals and possibly float-plane fees, we'd just haul a canoe into Canada's lightly regulated and largely pristine "Crown lands" and camp along the shore, a la the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or its Canadian twin, Quetico Provincial Park. "

Thanks CK
Planning a trip next year for the Grass River, dont  need a surprise.

CB