Algonquin Provincial Park, with its rugged hills, beautiful lakes, and wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities occupies a very special place in the hearts and minds of so many people. The value of the Park is even further enhanced by the variety of its exceptional educational and interpretive programs which have become a standard of excellence throughout North America since the 1940s. With Algonquin enriching the lives of thousands of visitors, it is not surprising that they wanted to give something back to the Park.

As a result, The Friends of Algonquin Park was established in 1983 as a registered, non-profit organization. The Friends operate as a cooperating association under an agreement with the Ontario Parks to enhance the educational and interpretive programs in Algonquin Park. This is accomplished by developing and reprinting Park-related publications, and funding Park projects through the proceeds from sales at The Friends' two bookstores in the Park, private donations, and various fundraising efforts. The activities of The Friends of Algonquin are coordinated by a volunteer Board of Directors who reside in different parts of Ontario. Since its establishment, The Friends has grown to a membership of over 3000 people, and continues to attract support from around the world as the organization becomes better known.