The Village of South River
Welcome to the Village of South River, a vibrant Northern Ontario community where outdoor adventure, small-town charm, tourism, and economic opportunity come together.
Located along Highway 11, approximately 30 minutes south of North Bay and 2.5 hours north of Toronto, South River is home to a permanent population of approximately 1,100 residents, which nearly doubles during the summer season.
Known as one of the primary paddling gateways to Algonquin Provincial Park, South River serves as a major access point for visitors exploring Northern Ontario’s natural beauty. The community is ideally situated between two provincial parks- Algonquin Provincial Park to the east and Mikisew Provincial Park to the west.
South River offers year-round recreational opportunities including canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking, snowmobiling, ATV activities, and nature exploration. Whether visitors are looking for outdoor adventure or peaceful small-town experiences, South River provides something for all ages throughout every season.
Tom Thomson Park is one of the community’s most active and celebrated public spaces. Recognized as a Dark Sky Park, it provides exceptional opportunities for stargazing and outdoor gatherings. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year including the annual Car Show, Canada Day celebrations, disc golf events, seasonal festivals, family activities, and community gatherings. Tom Thomson Park continues to be a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors year-round.
South River is also home to a beautifully renovated historic train station, which continues to serve as an important part of the community’s heritage and future growth. With the return of Ontario Northland passenger rail service, South River will become the only train stop in the Almaguin Highlands region between North Bay and Huntsville.
This unique transportation connection is expected to strengthen regional accessibility, support tourism growth, improve mobility for residents, and create new economic development opportunities for local businesses and visitors. The historic station represents both the rich history of South River and the community’s vision for future connectivity and regional growth.
The village offers a wide variety of community facilities and services including an arena with year-round ice, curling club, tennis courts, baseball fields, library, daycare, Royal Canadian Legion, Women’s Own Resource Centre, and seniors drop-in centre. These amenities help support a strong sense of community and an exceptional quality of life for residents and families.
South River is also home to several successful businesses and attractions including Swift Canoe & Kayak, Bear Chair Company and The Hockey Opportunity Camp. These businesses contribute to the region’s growing tourism economy, entrepreneurship, and local employment opportunities.
As a regional hub within the Almaguin Highlands, South River continues to support tourism development, business growth, transportation connectivity, recreation, and community partnerships. The community offers an ideal balance of natural beauty, economic opportunity, and small-town living.
Whether you are looking to visit, invest, relocate, retire, or grow your business, South River welcomes you to experience everything Northern Ontario has to offer.
Follow us on Facebook and YouTube to stay connected with the latest events, community celebrations, local stories, tourism highlights, and everything happening in the Village of South River throughout the year. Discover upcoming activities, seasonal attractions, and exciting community moments as they happen.
View the Village of South River's Strategic Plan here or a Physical copy is located in our office.
Use this Interactive Map of the Village as a zoning guide.
For Newcomers to the Village of South River see our New Welcome Newsletter!
Read the latest edition of 'Ripples', our Municipal newsletter for an assortment of useful information.
Visit Explore South River to Experience history, culture, arts, recreation, learning and entertainment in South River, Ontario. Follow for upcoming events and project updates!
