Camping at Big Water

Big Water Campgrounds has grown from a small campsite to one with over three hundred (300) sites. Our expansion was needed to meet the continued demand for seasonal sites. Every year a few camping spots do open up. We do maintain a waitlist for those who are interested in becoming a seasonal lot holder. Each lot is supplied with a picnic table and fire pit. Well-maintained outdoor chemical toilets are strategically located throughout. Two beaches, 2 boat launch areas where family pets are welcome to cool off. Additional facilities include 2 trailer dumping stations, 24-hour-on-demand well water, showers and laundry facilities.  Gated entry.  Firewood delivery.

Abbreviated Occupation Rules

For Visitors and Overnighters

This property is privately owned. The camper accepts camping privileges with the understanding that he does hereby release the Campground, its officers and employees of all liability for loss or damage to property and injury to his person arising out of his use of its camping facilities, and agrees to indemnify the Campground, its officers and employees, against claims resulting from loss or damage to property or injury to the person of any member of the family or guest of the registered camper arising out of the use of its camping facilities

The camper agrees to follow BWC Rules & Regulations

    • Generator Use: Low noise (less than 55DB) generators are required for seasonal sites. Hours of operation are from 8:00am to midnight. On overnight sites slightly noisier generators are allowed but do not run unnecessarily, use only as required to charge trailer batteries, etc.
    • Only authorized motorized recreational vehicles are allowed within the park. No excessively noisy vehicles.
    • All ATV’s require a legible attached ID pass while in the park.
    • A driver’s license and helmet is required to operate any motorized vehicle (gas or electric) in the park. Any exception such as underage drivers accompanied by adults from their lot to nearest exit must be authorized by park staff.
    • Non-potable water is available at the entrance to the park – 24 hours a day. Drinking water bottles are sold at the park concession.
    • Pets must be kept on a leash. Pets are not allowed on the campers’ beaches, picnic or playground areas. Pets are allowed at the boat launch areas. Owners must pick up after their pets – poop and scoop rules in effect.
    • Fires in fire places provided only. Fires not to exceed 12” above the grate. The park follows MNR rules and regulations during fire season. Fires must be attended at all times. No grate – no fire.
    • No firearms allowed in park at any time.
    • No fireworks unless authorized by park staff.
    • For emergency assistance, contact park staff at (705) 360-3100.
    • Campers must bring their garbage to the dumpster on a daily basis and leave campsite clean upon departure.
    • All speed limits strictly enforced.
    • Observe bear and fire policies (posted on bulletin boards).
    • Quiet time is from midnight to 9:00am. At any other time, a good rule of thumb is “if conversation, music, etc., can be clearly heard from the road, it is too loud!!”

Bear Policy & Regulations

A bear will visit out of curiosity (the smell of cooking, etc.) but will only return if it is getting food to eat. Do not feed the bears!

    • Campers must keep their campsite clean. Put garbage in plastic bags and bring to the dumpsters daily. No garbage cans allowed on campsites.
    • Park staff will ensure garbage cans at beaches and picnic areas are emptied daily. Lids or covers should be used where possible.
    • Ensure barbecue is kept clean and grease free. After cooking, leave it on for a few minutes to burn off any grease. Do not leave grease collectors under the barbecue. Bring grease, deep fry oil, into trailer or dispose with daily trash.
    • Do not leave dog food in dog dish outside once dog is finished eating. Store dog food bags in trunk of car or trailer and not in shed easily accessed by bears.
    • Compost for gardening is an attractant but if tasty fruit such as apples, fruit with pits, bananas, etc. are not composted, there should not be a problem. Never put meat or animal products in the compost.
    • The use of any animal feeders: bird, squirrel, hummingbirds, etc. is prohibited.
    • Empty pop cans, beer cans/bottles, coolers. Pop, etc. must be stored in trailer or storage shed. Shed must be emptied frequently.
    • Park staff will confiscate any garbage cans or coolers left outside on campsites. Fee to recover confiscated coolers or garbage cans is $5.00 – payable at office.
    • Campers considered repeat offenders will be assessed strikes towards the “3-strikes and you’re out” policy.

If in spite of our best efforts, a bear visits the park, the following steps should be followed: 

    • Notify everyone in the imminent vicinity of its presence and get word to park staff as soon as possible. Let staff deal with the bear!
    • Do not attempt to scare or chase the bear away. Give the bear room. Keep children and pets away.
    • Get everyone to tell their neighbors that there is a bear in the park and to be vigilant. Park staff will erect “Bear in the Park” signs until the bear is gone.
    • If a bear is not aggressive or causing damage, stay in your trailer or safe place and wait until it goes away. Use your cell phone to notify park staff and other campers of its presence.
    • Park staff will notify MNR of a bear in the park.
    • Once all campers are aware of the situation, park staff will determine if bear can be sent away safely of if MNR assistance is required.
    • If bear is aggressive, MNR will remove it or authorize park staff to trap it.
    • Once bear is gone, park staff will give the all-clear notice to campers and the “Bear in the Park” signs will come down.
    • Keep a bear-banger or pepper spray handy at your campsite in case you or your family is threatened by an aggressive bear.

Inviting a Guest

All seasonal campers are allowed guests. Guests must always register at the main entrance  and pay the appropriate camping  fees as indicated on the rates page  prior to entering the park. Guests must follow all campground rules and regulations. Campers assume full responsibility for their visitors.

Complete Rules & Regulations

All seasonal campers must read the complete rules & regulations document, be comfortable with the understandings and what is expected from each and every visitor to Big Water Campgrounds. 

Park Administration:

Big Water Campgrounds Inc. (the Park) is a privately owned facility managed by the owner. The owner may authorize the establishment of committees comprised of seasonal campers to organize various camper functions/activities and to provide security and fire protection. The owner must be notified of all such committee meetings and he, or his representative, may attend at his discretion. Park staff have the authority to enforce all park regulations. Committee members may be asked to assist staff where issues of safety and security arise. These rules and regulations form part of the License of Occupation which is the legal contract between the camper and the park and which seasonal campers must read and sign at the start of each season. Office/store hours of operation are posted at the office and vary with demand, etc.

Camper Behavior:

Campers are expected to follow campground rules and regulations for reasons of safety, health, respect for the campers and respect for campground property. Registered campers are responsible for the behavior of the people on their site and to insure visitors follow these rules and regulations. Registered campers can be evicted by park staff at any time for violations of campground rules and regulations by themselves or their guests. Unless otherwise agreed to by affected parties and management, quiet hours are from 12:00AM to 9:00AM. Music must be turned down and voices held to normal conversation level; no yelling, loud laughing, etc. Normally generators should also be shut off. Campers under the age of 18 years of age should be under adult supervision at their respective campsites after 12:00 midnight.  No campers under 18 years of age should move from one site to another after 12:00 midnight without adult supervision. Campers walking from one site to another after dark should show respect for other campers by being quiet. Any problems should be brought to the staff’s attention immediately. See “Useful Contact Information” sheet attached. Sheet is posted at all park bulletin boards. If a camper feels a neighboring campsite is excessively loud or obnoxious in any way, they are within their rights to request politely that the noisy camper quiet down. If this fails to achieve desired results or if they are too shy to confront noisy neighbors, a phone call to the office will get an immediate response. Any camper phoning for a legitimate reason should have no fear of retribution from other campers. The campground is not being managed to protect noisy campers, quite the opposite. Campers who must be warned by park staff three times for breaking any park rules can be evicted immediately. 

Identification:

Any person failing to provide photo I.D. (ie. driver’s license) upon request can be requested to leave the park and be reported to the Ontario Provincial Police.

Reservations:

Information pertaining to lot rental rates and camping reservations can be obtained on the rates page of the website. The office staff can also be contacted at (705) 360-3100. Our camping season is from May 15th – October 15th each year.

Full Season Camping (Seasonal):

Most sites at Big Water Campgrounds are booked for the entire summer season. Only trailers less than fifteen (15) years old will be considered for seasonal occupancy. Seasonal campers wishing to move to another lot should place their name on a waiting list that is maintained by park staff. Lot assignments will be made for campers using the following order of precedence:

  • Campers who had a site last year
  • Campers on the “wish to move” list
  • General public on a first come first serve basis

Seasonal campers must declare their intention to retain the use of their site by March 1st of each year. Final date for registration and payment in full for the season will be April 30th of each year. Failure to do this will result in forfeiture of their lot. Extensions may be granted for exceptional circumstances by application in writing to park management. Campers may exchange lots with management’s approval. Both campers must submit their intentions in writing to park staff before an exchange can occur. 

Short Stay Camping (Overnight, Weekly, Monthly):

A variety of sites are available for shorter stay or overnight campers. As availability of these sites changes daily, current information must be obtained from the website or from office staff. There are no restrictions on trailer type for short stays. All campground facilities and functions are available to overnight campers. No sheds, decks, gazebos, etc. are allowed to be built on overnight sites. The site must be left clean and empty when camper leaves. All other campground rules and regulations apply. Short term campers are not allowed any free guests. 

Visitors:

All seasonal campers are allowed guests. Guests must pay the appropriate camping or day use fees as indicated at the office or on the campground website and follow all campground rules and regulations. Seasonal lot owners are permitted some free visitors described here as registered guests. Seasonal campers are issued 25 free passes per site to be used annually. Please see chart below for guest rates. 

Free Passes Registered Guest Additional Guest
Day Use Only(until midnight)

 1

 1 Adult

(children under the age of 16 free)

 $4.00/adult

$2.00/child (under 16 years of age)

Overnight in Lot Owner’s Trailer(2 days)

2

 1 Adult

(children under the age of 16 free)

$8.00/adult

$4.00/child (under 16 years of age)

*one day use fee refunded if guest leaves before noon the next day

Overnight in Guest’s Tent/Trailer on Lot Owner’s Lot

Not applicable

1/2 Overnight Fee

1/2 Overnight Fee

 Camper/Visitor/Campground Liability:

For the most part, the camping facility is unsupervised. The owner and its staff accept no legal liability for personal injury to the users of the park, nor property damage, theft of and/or vandalism to the property of the users of the park. All users of the park hereby agree to assume all risks of personal injury, property damage, theft of and/or vandalism to property and hereby release the park owner and its staff from any and all liability associated with the use of the park. Campers assume full responsibility for their visitors. All campers are encouraged to ensure that they have obtained adequate insurance coverage.

Campground Security:

Security is provided by park staff and campground committee security volunteers. Additional security may be hired as required.

A-Frame Use:

The A-Frame is intended for day user activity and for special events at a cost. Reservations for special events must be coordinated through the park attendant. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in this area without special permission.

Beach Facilities:

These facilities do not require a reservation. However, use of the facility is at the user’s risk.  Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in these areas. All children under the age of twelve (12) years must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

Motorized Vehicles:

Vehicles licensed for highway driving must enter and leave the park only from the main entrance at Highway 655. Camper’s authorized off-highway motorized vehicles may use the trail between Lots 28 and 29 in the Blueberry Hill section as a second means of accessing/leaving the park. The gravel pit adjacent to the south side of the park is private property and trespassing is not allowed. Any camper caught trespassing in the pit area with a motorized vehicle hereby agrees to have his camping privileges revoked and risks being charged with trespassing. The gravel pit owner has graciously allowed ATV users access to the trails on the property as long as no trespassing into the pit areas occur. Campers will be allowed to use their ATV’s within the park grounds. All campers bringing an ATV to the campground must supply a copy of proof of insurance to the office on an annual basis. They will be required to tag their vehicle with their lot number. This will be provided by the office staff. This rule will also apply to any guests bringing an ATV onto the park grounds. Recreational vehicle users must have a driver’s license. Any exceptions must be authorized by park staff. A licensed driver must accompany any driver with a “beginner’s license”. Any type of vehicle including watercraft, must be operated in accordance with ALL regulations and laws enforced by the Ontario Provincial Police or any other authority (examples include vehicle registration, insurance, driver’s license, wearing of helmets, alcohol, etc.). Motorized personal watercraft are not permitted in the park. Children using/riding motorized toys, miniature atv’s, etc. must be accompanied by and under the control of a responsible adult at all times unless on their own lot. Use of any other motorized vehicles in the park must be approved by staff and restrictions may be imposed. Operators of all motorized vehicles must obey all park signs, speed limits and conform to all pertinent regulations. Maximum speed limits as posted in the park will be strictly enforced by park staff. Generally maximum speed allowed is 10km/h in all campsite areas. From the main entrance gate to the start of Lakeside, max. speed limit is posted as 20km/h but extreme caution must be exercised at all times due to presence of children, pedestrians and other traffic. Drivers must be prepared to stop at any time. Drivers should reduce speed out of consideration for fellow campers during dusty conditions. Staff will be using a radar gun to control speeders and the radar reading will be final.

Penalties for speeding: 
  • First Offence
    • Verbal warning – no penalty
    • Warning recorded by staff
  • Second Offence
    • One week loss of vehicle card access to park for all users of that lot and their loss of all driving privileges in park.
  • Third Offence
    • One month loss of vehicle card access to park for all users of that lot and their loss of all driving privileges in park.
  • Fourth Offence
    • Loss of vehicle access to park for the remainder of season for all users of that lot and their loss of all driving privileges in park.

Any vehicle which is deemed by park staff to be excessively noisy or otherwise not conforming to the regulations is not allowed to be operated in the park. Use of ATV’s in the park after dark should be kept to a minimum for necessities only and not for recreational purposes. Pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles have the right of way but must yield to motorized traffic as soon as possible to facilitate optimum traffic flow.

Docks at Camper’s Boat Launch:

Use by children only when under adult supervision. Follow regulations posted at dock. Docking fees are as per rates listed annually. Only a limited number of shoreline boat parking spots are available for rent at $25.00/month or $100.00/season. Car topper size boats less than 14’ in length will not be allowed on the shoreline. These boats can be stored in the storage boat rack on site at the same rates or stored at no charge on camper’s lots or on trailers at the boat launch, Beaver Creek or Blueberry Hill parking areas. Boats occupying a rented spot must be identified by a numbered tag matching their spot provided by park staff. Non-motorized watercraft are no longer to be parked at the camper’s boat launch area. They must be parked at your lot, on a trailer at the trailer parking areas specified, or along the shoreline west of the camper’s beach. These include: kayaks, canoes, paddleboats. All boat operators require an operator card on board.

Bicycles:

Use of bicycles within the park after dark is discouraged. If bicycles are required after dark, bicycle lights must be in operation. Bicycle operators should exercise caution, due diligence and respect with regard to fellow cyclists, pedestrians, motorized vehicles and right to privacy of campers. Lot owners will be held responsible for the behavior of cyclists from their lot.

Drinking Water:

The water station at the entrance of the park is set up to pump on demand. This water is posted as NOT POTABLE and must not be used for consumption purposes. Nevertheless, do not wash vehicles or equipment of any sort in or around the water station.  Campers now have the choice of chlorine treated or non-treated well water.

Noise Regulations: 

All campers have the right to enjoy their campsite in relative peace and quiet without interference from excessive noise, yelling or loud music from neighbors. Music, TV, voice or other socializing sounds should be kept to the minimum volume level possible for a camper’s enjoyment so that neighboring campers can do the same. A rule of thumb is, “if at any time, campers’ voices or music can clearly be heard from the road, it is too loud.” During quiet time from midnight to 9:00am, socializing is allowed but music must be kept very low so as not to be heard from neighboring lots and voices kept to quiet conversation tones. No yelling or loud laughing that could keep the neighbors or their kids awake.

Electrical Generators:

Only inverter-type or generators deemed sufficiently quiet may be used in the park.  Generators rated at less than 35 decibels (DB) generally meet the requirements. Electrical generators may be used in the park according to the following schedule:

  • Opening day of the camping season to the weekend prior to the July 1st weekend
  • July 1st weekend to the last day of the Labor Day weekend
  • First day after Labor Day weekend
  • Campers with new quiet-style generators will be allowed to run their generator twenty-four (24) hours per day.  If a complaint is raised, you must turn your generator off by midnight

Note: Generators must have a proper muffler for noise and spark control. Hours outside of the schedule are “quiet hours” and will be strictly enforced. Excessive generator noise at any time will not be tolerated. Please exercise consideration for your neighbors when using generators. Normally generators are used to charge batteries which supply all the trailers needs. This usually involves a generator running less than 4 hours per 24 hour period. Generators should not be run unnecessarily.

Use of Chainsaws or Other Noisy Tools:

Unless otherwise authorized, chainsaws or noisy tools may only be used at campsites from May 15th to the last Friday in June and after the Labor Day weekend in September. During the months of July and August, chainsaw and other noisy tool use at campsites is restricted to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between the hours of 12:00 (noon) to 4:00pm. Excessive stockpiling of firewood at your campsite is discouraged.

Dogs:

Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, in picnic areas or in playground areas. Dogs must be kept under control and on a leash when walking through the campground. Dogs may be kept loose on camper’s lot providing they can be controlled. If a dog wanders off his lot, the camper will be required to keep the dog tied up on the lot at all times. Dogs are permitted at both boat launch areas. Owners are responsible for picking up and disposing of dog droppings. Proper disposal of pet droppings in garbage bins. Pit bull varieties are not allowed in the park. Instances of dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior while off their lot or biting campers will not be tolerated. Excessive barking will not be tolerated.

Camp Fires/Garbage:

Campfires must be attended at all times. Fires are allowed in camp-provided or approved fireplaces only. A fireplace cannot be moved to another location. The height of a fire must not exceed twelve (12) inches above the grill. Campers should keep water at hand on their campsite for fire-fighting purposes. Ministry of Natural Resources and Ontario Fire Code rules and regulations will be observed at all times. NO BURNING OF GARBAGE IN CAMP FIRES AT ANY TIME. BRING ALL GARBAGE TO BINS AT PARK ENTRANCE. No outside garbage cans at campsites.  Keep in trailer or shed until ready to bring to bins.

Emergency Fire Fighting Equipment:

Campers must not tamper with emergency fire-fighting equipment. All emergency equipment is color- coded red. In case of a fire, campers should immediately notify park staff. If not during regular staff hours, inform a fire crew member and call park owner. “What to do” signs are posted on bulletin boards and at all washroom locations. Water barrels provided throughout the park for camper protection must not be tampered with or used for other purposes.

Fire Safety Plan:

The Big Water Campgrounds fire safety plan attached forms part of these regulations.

Trailer Dumping Station:

Please respect others when flushing tanks or dumping honey wagons. The dumping station water tank is to be used for flushing only – not for washing vehicles. It may also be used for fires if a need should arise. Use a hose connected to your honey wagon to dump directly into the dump station inlet to avoid spillage and associated clean up.  Two honey wagons are kept at the dumping station for campers’ use along with a hose to facilitate dumping.  Please advise staff if any problems with this equipment is observed.

Firearms:

The use or discharge of any type of gun or firearm is not allowed in the park. This includes rifles, handguns, shotguns, bb guns, pellet guns, paint ball guns, archery or cross bows, etc. Any camper who wishes to store any of the above on their lot must obtain permission from park management and complete the Firearm Declaration.

Respect For Nature:

Management wishes to maintain the Big Water Campgrounds as natural as possible. In order to meet this objective, user cooperation is required. These are some simple guidelines to follow:

  • Do not damage the trees; removal of bark, axe cuts or nails shortens their life. Do not tie rope, wire, string or cord of any kind to trees. See park staff if some attachment procedure is desired.
  • Dead or dangerous trees may only be cut by or with the approval of park staff.
  • Do not feed or attempt to feed wild animals.
  • Remove garbage daily from campsites to the container in the main parking lot as wild animals are attracted to garbage.
  • When in doubt, speak to park staff.
  • Make every effort to maintain a clean campsite.
Bear Policy:

The Big Water Campgrounds bear policy attached forms part of these regulations.

Trailer Sales:

Big Water Campground management must be notified prior to any trailer being advertised for sale.

Trailer to be Sold Off Site:
  • Trailer owner may sell their trailer privately off-site at any time with no restrictions.
  • Once sold, trailer must be removed immediately to make lot available to rent as soon as possible by Big Water management.
  • Site must be left clean and in a rentable condition by trailer owner.
  • Campers on the campground waiting list will be offered the opportunity to rent the site for the remainder of the season.
  • If site can not be rented then seller forfeits remainder of seasonal lot rental.
Trailer to be Sold Off Site:

Where trailer is to be sold on site and new owner wishes to rent the site as a seasonal, then:

  • Trailer must be less than fifteen (15) years old.
  • The new owner must be approved by park management to become a seasonal lot holder.
  • In consideration of improvements made to the site and moving to the head of the waiting list, the new owner must pay a Lot Transfer Fee of 10% of total trailer sale price (based on fair market value) to Big Water Campgrounds in addition to regular seasonal lot rental fees.
  • A Lot Transfer Agreement outlining the specifics of the transaction is signed by all concerned parties.
Lot Improvements:

See Lot Improvement Standards attached.

Any addition, gazebo, deck, shed, etc. must be approved by park staff.  Factors taken into consideration will include lot size, appearance and dimensions, location in lot, permanence, ease of removal, etc.  Restrictions may vary from lot to lot.

Lot occupier is responsible for any tax assessment implication arising from improvements.

Improvements must be made so as not to prevent removal of the occupant’s property.

Unless agreed otherwise, the occupant must leave the lot in its original clean vacant state upon termination of lot lease.

Temporary privacy fence construction my be allowed under special circumstances with management’s approval.  Normally no fence or gate construction by campers is allowed in the park.

License of Occupation Agreement

All seasonal campers must fill out a license of occupation agreement before every camping season. It is the act of a contractual agreement between Big Water Campground and the camper.

The Occupant agrees to abide by the campground rules attached hereto as “Schedule A” and the eligible family members and registered guests also agree to abide by the campground rules. The Occupant and eligible family members and registered guests agree to abide by the terms of the within contract, specifically but not limited to Sections 1 through 4.

  • It is agreed between the parties that the intended use for the specified site is for recreational vacation purposes in a campground or trailer park. The campground or trailer park is designed for seasonal or temporary use only and as such cannot be used as a permanent home address.
  • It is agreed and understood between the parties that the actual use that is made of the site is to be for seasonal or temporary periods of time only. As well during any use of the specified site by the Occupants, the Occupants shall maintain another permanent residential premise elsewhere than at the Park, that the Occupants have unlimited access to.
  • It is agreed and understood between the Owner and the Occupant that the word “trailer” as set out in paragraph 1 above, shall include Park Model Trailers as defined by the C.S.A. Standards Z.241. But shall not include Mobile Homes as defined by the C.S.A. Standards Z.240.
  • It is agreed and understood between the parties that the words “seasonal or temporary periods of time” as set out in paragraph 2 above shall include periodical or recurrent use pertaining to the seasons of the year. But shall not include accommodation that is occupied for 12 months in any given year.
  • This licence is for the occupation of the site specified only and the Occupant acknowledges that he is a licensee with respect to any facilities assigned to him and is deemed to have willingly assumed, without restriction, all risks arising out of his use of the site and the campground.
  • All charges for a deposit, storage, rent, services, etc., are due and payable when invoiced.
  • All deposits are non-refundable and are held against the final balance owing in any year. The deposit is forfeited as liquidated damages and not as a penalty upon breach of any term of this agreement.
  • In addition to the specified site, the Occupant shall have the use in common with others so entitled to all common areas provided without additional charge. This licence shall be automatically renewed solely at the discretion of the Operator from year to year save and except any adjustment in the fees charged, unless terminated by either party, in writing, on or before March 1st of each calendar year.
  • In addition to the foregoing, the Occupant shall pay in addition any taxes, assessments, levies, or licence fees imposed by any authority on or as a result of any equipment, fixtures, improvements, furnishings or vehicles erected, placed or left on the site by or on behalf of the Occupant which additional charges shall be payable immediately upon receipt of any notice or demand for payment received by the Owner and conveyed to the Occupant.
  • The Occupant hereby acknowledges receipt of and agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions of the rules of the campground as presently in existence, being Schedule A hereto, or as may be reasonably established or at the discretion of the Owner modified from time to time. Amendments to this licence, at the sole discretion of the Owner, may be instituted with written notice to the licensee. Said amendment will allow the licensee to terminate the licence and leave the campground with no penalty upon written notice to the licensor within seven (7) days of receipt of such amendment.
  • The Occupant hereby undertakes and agrees that he will inform any family members specified in this licence or otherwise, as well as guests, visitors or other persons attending at the Occupant’s site as to the campground rules, from time to time. The Occupant is responsible for the observance of the campground rules personally or by his immediate family members, guests, visitors or other persons attending at the Occupant’s site or in the campground with the occupant’s permission or knowledge.
  • Any failure to remit any payments required under the terms of this agreement and any breach of any of the rules of the campground by the Occupant, his immediate family members, guests, visitors or other persons attending at the Occupant’s site, shall be deemed to be a breach of this licence and this licence may be immediately terminated at the option of the Owner.
  • The Occupant hereby authorizes and directs the Owner, upon termination of this licence for any reason, to act as the Occupant’s agent for the securing and/or removal of any of the Occupant’s property from the above site, or elsewhere in the campground, and the Owners shall not be liable for any damages thereby occasioned.
  • The Owner assumes no responsibility for any loss through fire, theft, collision or otherwise to trailers, additions, improvements or cars or their contents, regardless of cause. The Occupant agrees that the use of the campground or its facilities is solely at the risk of himself, his family and guests. The Occupant, his family and his guests, for themselves, their heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns HEREBY RELEASE, WAIVE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE the Owner, his agents, servants, successors and assigns OF AND FROM ALL CLAIMS, demands, damages, costs, expenses, actions and causes of action, whether in law or equity, in respect of death, injury, loss or damages to himself, his family or guests or their property HOWSOEVER CAUSED, arising or to arise by reason of occupation of the above mentioned site and use of the campground or otherwise, whether prior to, during or subsequent to this AND NOTWITHSTANDING that the same may have been contributed to or occasioned by the negligence of any of the aforesaid. The Occupant further undertakes on his own behalf and on behalf of his family and guests to indemnify all the aforesaid from and against any and all liability incurred by any or all of them arising as a result of or in any way connected with the licence.
  • The Occupant hereby undertakes and agrees to abide by all the terms and conditions of any applicable municipal, provincial or federal laws and regulations and any failure to do so may be deemed to be by the Occupant, his immediate family, guests, visitors or others attending at the Occupant’s site with the Occupant’s permission, a breach of this licence.
  • The address for notification under the term of this licence, or otherwise, shall be at the permanent home address as set out above, unless written notice of a change has been given by regular first class mail. Any notification pursuant to the terms of this licence shall be deemed to have been received five working days after it was posted.
  • In the event of any default of any of the terms and conditions of this agreement, the Owner shall have the following rights:

a) On fourteen days prior written notice delivered, or deemed received under the terms of this licence to reenter upon the above site and repossess the site terminating the contract.

b) To sue for any overdue payments or damages arising out of a breach of this licence together with interest, (at the Courts of Justice Act Rate), Legal Costs together with any other costs of any nature or kind which may be incurred in repossessing the site and collecting overdue payments or damages.

c) To seize any goods or property on the site subject to any applicable provisions of the law and to sell the same to recover any monies or damages owing.

d) To bar the occupant, his immediate family, guests, visitors or other persons attending at the occupant’s sites with the occupant’s permission from:

i) staying past 8:00 p.m. on any night of the aforementioned fourteen (14) days;

ii) attending or participating in any common activities as may be held in the campground.

  • The Occupant acknowledges and agrees that no sales shall be advertised or conducted on any site and the Owner strictly reserves the right to act as the exclusive sales agent within the campground or as per campground rules and regulations.
  • This licence is personal to the Occupant or immediate family and is not assignable.
  • In the event that this site shall be repossessed under the terms of this licence, any goods including any trailer that the Occupant has left on the site shall be deemed to be an article as defined by the Repair and Storage Liens Act of Ontario, (hereinafter referred to as “the Act”), may be removed by the Owner, who shall be deemed to be a lien claimant and storer under the Act, to whatever location the Owner deems appropriate and the Owner in such removal and storage will not be responsible for any loss or damage to such goods. The Occupant will be responsible for any storage costs and moving costs incurred, together with any outstanding rent or charges or any other monies due under this agreement and the Owner may recover costs and/or monies owing in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
  • Notice is hereby given that entry to the campground is permitted only for activities conducted in accordance with this licence and the rules and regulations as they exist from time to time and all other activities are prohibited in accordance with the provisions of The Trespass To Property Act, R.S.O., 1990 c. T.21, as amended from time to time. Any person violating this notice or failing to leave the premises immediately when directed to do so shall be in violation of the said Act and may be prosecuted in accordance with its provisions.
  • The Occupier of a site shall exercise such care as is reasonable in the maintenance of the site during his occupancy to see that persons entering on the site and the property brought on the site by those persons are reasonably safe while on the site and shall save the Owner harmless from any claims as a result of the failure of the Occupant to do so. No add-ons, additions or site improvements shall be incorporated without prior written approval. If such approval is granted, such add-ons, additions or improvements must be incorporated so as not to impede the expeditious vacating of the site and removal of the Occupants property.
  • A waiver of any one or more of the terms or conditions herein contained shall not be deemed to be a waiver of any of the other terms and conditions of this other than those specifically waived and in no event shall any waiver be deemed to be a continuing waiver.
  • By his/her signing of this licence the Occupant hereby represents and warrants that he/she has the responsibility and/or authority to sign on behalf of family members, guests, visitors or other persons attending at the site from time to time.
  • This licence, including the schedules hereto, shall constitute the entire arrangement between the parties. There is no representation, warranty, condition or collateral agreement affecting this document other than as expressed herein in writing. This licence shall be read with all changes of agenda and number required by the text.
  • This form was prepared for the exclusive use by members of The Ontario Private Campground Association and is the subject matter of copyright. Any unauthorized use is prohibited.

Lot Improvement Standards

Design and location of improvements must be approved prior to construction by Big Water Campground management.  Lot improvements are only permitted on seasonal lots.  All items constructed by campers are to remain portable and removable at all times. Download a copy of the improvement standards sheet.

 A drawing of the project must be submitted and approved before start of construction.

 Any items found to be beyond set limits will result in request to dismantle. 

PALLETS ARE NOT TO BE USED FOR ANY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.

 Extensions:

As of May 2009, homemade trailer sunrooms can no longer be built in the park.

  • New prefabricated manufactured extensions may be purchased and installed through Big Water Campground and conform to park size restrictions. Various styles and sizes are available.  This does not affect extensions already existing.
  • Other manufactured extensions must be constructed in such a way as to be removable and allow easy trailer removal.
  • Extensions must not have a roof that extends over the original trailer in any way.
  • Untreated lumber must not contact the ground.

Gazebos:

  • With management approval and where space permits, campers may construct a freestanding gazebo which must not exceed 12’x16’ x 10’ high in size (10’ to the peak).
  • These structures are meant for summer use and are not to be insulated for year round use.
  • Untreated lumber must not contact the ground.

Sheds:

Each lot is permitted one (1) lockable storage shed to protect seasonal campers’ personal property.

  • The size must not exceed 10’x10’ x 8’ high (8’ to the peak).
  • Untreated lumber must not contact the ground.

Decks:

Must be easily removable from trailer and not exceeding two (2) feet high.

  • Untreated lumber must not contact the ground.
  • Total deck area must not exceed trailer square footage.
  • Floating sections of less than or equal to 108 square feet must be used (ie. 12’x8’).
  • The sections must be joined together as sections by bolting and not nailing.
  • Must be able to be taken apart easily.
  • If all parties agree and deck is in good condition, it may remain as a lot improvement when camper leaves.

Docks:

Wood exposed to the elements must be pressure-treated or kept painted.

  • Untreated lumber must not contact the ground or water.
  • Unless otherwise agreed, docks remain as a lot improvement once trailer is rem

Fire Safety Plan

A fire safety plan has been developed to help protect the campground and our hundreds of seasonal campers safety. Please think of your camping neighbors when you are playing with fire. Continue to be fire safe.

Purpose:
    • To ensure the safety of everyone in the park in case of fire.
    • To set out procedures to be followed by staff, campers and visitors in case of a fire emergency.
    • To minimize damage to park and private owner assets in case of fire.
Park Rules & Regulations:
    • Specify what type, what size, where, and when fires are allowed in the park.
    • The park staff obtains burning permits as required from the City of Timmins and follows all regulations issued by the City and Ministry of Natural Resources pertaining to open fires.
Fire Types (possible in the park):
    • Structural fires occur in buildings or trailers on site.
    • Forest fires occur in grass, bush, and trees.
    • Gasoline fires possible where gasoline is used: vehicles, boat motors, generators, chainsaws, etc.
    • Gas under pressure: ie. propane, propane leaks, etc., trailers, barbecues.
Fire Preparedness by Fire Type:
    • Structural Fires:
        • All trailers must have the equivalent of a 2 lb. ABC fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location.
        • Occupants must know how to use the fire extinguisher.
        • The Timmins Fire Dept. may inspect trailers to ensure this condition is met.
        • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are highly recommended for trailers.
    • Forest, Brush Fires:
        • 45-gallon water drums with pails are placed close to all campsites. Water and sand is effective against wood fires.
        • Camper fire crew members are trained to use park firefighting equipment and have keys to all fire equipment storage containers and gates.
        • A trailer with 200 gallons of water and attached wajax pumps and hose has a 2-inch ball and is always ready to go.
        • The park has a fire truck with a 200-gallon tank and wajax pumps at staff disposal at all times.
        • Other tanks and pumps are strategically located for firefighting purposes.
    • Gasoline Fires:
        • ABC extinguishers in trailers.
        • ABC extinguishers on park fire truck and equipment can be used as required.
    • Procedures Should a Fire Occur:
        • Properly identify type of fire.
        • Notify people near you of the fire and its type and take immediate proper steps to extinguish it. If you are experiencing any difficulty putting it out, send for help immediately. Park staff or a fire crew member should be notified at this time. If the fire appears to have potential of spreading or causing structural damage, call 9-1-1 and give details of fire type and location and any other information requested.
        • Staff and committee members trained in use of park firefighting equipment will conduct initial attack on any threatening fire until relieved by the fire department or the MNR fire crews.
        • Where fire has potential to spread i.e: small bush fire in dry conditions, trailer on fire, car or other vehicle close to dry bush, etc., start Big Water Campgrounds Evacuation Procedure attached.
        • Fire department will be met at park entrance and guided in.
    • Campground Fire Crew:
        • Names and lot numbers are listed on all bulletin boards.
        • Fire crew members have red ID cards on their campsite lot number posts and are available to help campers in any fire emergency. Campers should familiarize themselves with the location of fire crew members closest to them.
        • Crewmen have a list of emergency phone numbers: park office, MNR, police, fire dept. etc.
        • Crewmen have keys for all fire equipment and gates and are trained in use of equipment.
Camp Fires:

Follow rules and regulations in Big Water Campgrounds rules and regulations package. Heavy fines for fires sparked during fire bans. Please be careful and inform yourself.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

When the fire alarm sounds in the park, the following procedures will be in effect:

  1. All campers will leave the park by the nearest exit at a safe pace
  2. Park staff or committee members on site will call 9-1-1 (fire department) at main gate using cell phone
  3. Park staff on duty or fire crew members on site will ensure that egress locations are open and fire protection equipment is unlocked
  4. Park staff on duty or volunteers on site will arrange to have someone meet the Timmins Fire Department at the park gate to escort them to the fire location
  5. If campers unable to leave due to congested roadways, campers advised to head towards the lake, enter the water and walk towards the highway

Fire Evacuation Steps

1. Notify Your Family and Neighbors:
  • Use car horn (3 short – 3 long – 3 short blasts), shout, knock, etc.
  • Cell phones work in the park
  • Equipment locations as per printed map
2. Go to Best Safe Assembly Area on Foot, ATV, or Bicycle: 
    • Refer to map areas A and B
    • Leave Your Cars at Your Lot
3. Conduct a Roll Call at Assembly Area:
    • Ensure all park occupants have been able to safely leave the park
Call 9-1-1 (As soon as safely possible):
  • Identify the location of the fire
  • Park office: (705) 360-3100
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