LONG SAULT — The Ontario government is investing more than $82 million over four years to support the St. Lawrence Parks Commission’s (SLPC) multi-year revitalization project, including the construction of upgraded, environmentally friendly facilities at Mille Roches Beach and Campground. The funding will help improve and maintain the corridor’s numerous parks, beaches and attractions, protecting one of eastern Ontario’s premier tourism destinations and ensuring they are ready to welcome visitors of all ages for years to come.
“Every summer, Ontario’s lakes, rivers, beaches, and parkland attract millions of domestic and international tourists," said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. "Our investment will help ensure the St. Lawrence Parks Commission has the modern infrastructure it needs to improve its visitor experience and continue welcoming locals and guests from near and far for generations to come. Now more than ever, we need to protect Ontario by supporting the places and experiences that boost our economy and celebrate our heritage, culture, and natural beauty.”
Ontario’s investment will support the second stage of the SLPC’s Septic, Washrooms and Drinking Water Revitalization Project, including the first septic upgrades in 60 years. The project includes:
- construction of drinking water and wastewater connections to the neighbouring townships of South Stormont and South Dundas
- decommissioning of associated septic systems and wells
- construction of a new canteen, change rooms and washroom buildings at Mille Roches Beach and Campground
Once complete, the upgrades will provide SLPC with the necessary infrastructure and facilities to enhance environmental stewardship, reduce operational costs, create jobs, and save taxpayer dollars.
“The Ontario government’s investment is crucial to our promise to modernize the essential infrastructure within our parks,” said Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “With the support of the province, we’re improving our parks, attractions and facilities that have long been gathering places for families and communities, ensuring they remain accessible, welcoming and sustainable for future generations.”
All SLPC historic sites, parks and outdoor recreation facilities are open for the 2025 summer season. More information to help you plan your visit is available on the SLPC website.
Quick Facts
- SLPC is an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and one of the largest tourism destinations in eastern Ontario. Their facilities include thousands of hectares of park land and attractions that provide a major source of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- This funding builds on a nearly $10.5 million capital investment announced in 2021, including $3.1 million for the revitalization of Brown’s Bay.
- Along with Brown’s Bay, Mille Roches is one of three campgrounds within the beautiful Long Sault Parkway. It boasts the largest sand beach on the St. Lawrence River corridor and is comprised of two islands surrounded by a dense forest, mature trees and active wildlife.
Quotes
"I’m proud that our government continues to make these significant investments to ensure the St. Lawrence Parks Commission can provide residents and visitors to eastern Ontario with a world-class experience at its attractions. The Parks Commission plays a tremendous role in our region’s tourism economy, and I commend the board and staff for their work to ensure its parks, campgrounds and other amenities remain destinations for families to continue creating lasting memories for generations to come."
- Steve Clark
MPP for Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes
"Whether it's the beach, Upper Canada Village or the campgrounds, St. Lawrence Parks are a treasured part of our community. Through this vital investment, our government is ensuring that the St. Lawrence Parks Commission can enhance its facilities, allowing both Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry residents and visitors from outside the region to continue enjoying these world-class destinations, right in the heart of our community."
- Nolan Quinn
MPP for Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry
"This is a landmark investment in the future of our region’s tourism and environment. The provincial government’s $82.2 million commitment will not only enhance visitor experiences at Upper Canada Village, our beaches and campgrounds, but it will also strengthen vital infrastructure for communities like South Dundas. Connecting park facilities to municipal water and wastewater systems is a forward-thinking move that supports public health, environmental stewardship and long-term economic sustainability. We thank the province and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission for recognizing the value of our natural spaces and ensuring they remain accessible, safe and welcoming for generations to come."
- Jason Broad
Mayor, Municipality of South Dundas
"This major provincial investment marks a turning point for tourism, environmental infrastructure and contributes to long-term economic growth across SDG Counties. Attractions along the St. Lawrence River, like popular beaches and campgrounds, will see improvements to critical infrastructure. We are excited to see these improvements deliver lasting benefits to local communities and visitors alike. I wish to personally thank Minister Stan Cho for all his work in helping to solidify this grant. On behalf of SDG Counties, I once again extend our sincere thanks to the Province and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission for their commitment to preserving and improving the natural and cultural assets that define our region."
- Martin Lang
Warden, Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry United Counties
"The announcement by the Ontario government about the substantial $82.2 million investment will bring significant improvements to the overall visitor and camper experience on the Long Sault Parkway. The campgrounds and the beach front will be enhanced by the improvements. The Parks Commission’s sustainability through the operational improvements ensures our shared partnership will continue. The Township of South Stormont values our partnership with the St Lawrence Parks Commission, and we applaud everyone’s efforts to continue developing tourism opportunities in our Township."
- Bryan McGillis
Mayor, South Stormont