This 'crown jewel' Ontario park has 'sapphire blue' lakes and crystal rivers to swim in

Ontario is home to so many beautiful parks to explore. From popular destinations to dreamy hidden gems, each one offers its own unique slice of paradise.

This destination is known as the "crown jewel" of Ontario parks, and with its shimmering lakes, breathtaking mountains and scenic trails, it's no surprise.

Killarney Provincial Park, located on the northern shore of Georgian Bay, is a majestic spot to explore. The park is known for its rugged wilderness, white quartzite mountain peaks and crystal-clear lakes so beautiful, they even inspired the Group of Seven painters.

The park offers campgrounds, hiking trails, swimming, canoeing and more to enjoy, making it an idyllic place for a summer escape.

You can discover more than 50 "exceptionally clear, sapphire lakes" dotted around Jack Pine hills, according to the website. There are two beaches located in the campground, but visitors can swim at any of the park's interior lakes and rivers.

Topaz Lake is a gorgeous spot for a dip. With mountain views and turquoise water, it feels like it was plucked from the front of a postcard.

You can also canoe or kayak your way around the lakes, soaking up the incredible scenery from the water. If you're feeling adventurous, you can embark on multi-day canoe routes, making your way across a chain of glassy lakes and camping beneath the starry sky.

The park is home to several breathtaking hiking trails, which range from moderate to strenuous. The most iconic trail is The Crack — a 4-hour, difficult hike that leads to an "absolutely stunning" view from the top of Killarney Ridge. You can enjoy panoramic vistas and gaze over the white cliffs of the La Cloche Mountains.

If you're looking for a less strenuous adventure, you can explore the 4-kilometre Cranberry Bog Trail, which leads through some of the "park's loveliest scenery."

It's worth booking an overnight stay, because Killarney is Ontario's first provincial park to be designated as a Dark Sky Preserve. You can glimpse the Northern Lights, meteor showers, planets, the Milky Way, and constellations in the clear, black skies.

With its sapphire-blue waters, pink granite coast, stunning trails, and majestic mountains, Killarney is a true "crown jewel" worth exploring.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.